Coopers Creek Campground: Historic Free Camping near Walhalla

Step into a living museum of Victoria’s rich gold and copper mining history at the Coopers Creek Campground, a spectacular free camping area nestled deep within the Walhalla and Thomson Historic Area. Situated on the banks of the mighty Thomson River, this popular campground offers a unique blend of rugged natural beauty and fascinating industrial heritage. The area is dominated by the striking remains of the Coopers Creek Copper Mine and its historic lime kilns, providing a tangible link to the region’s bustling past. The campground itself is a large, open, and grassy flat, offering dozens of dispersed sites perfect for tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.

The Thomson River is the heart of the reserve, its clear waters inviting campers for a swim, a spot of fishing, or a leisurely kayak. The area is a hub for four-wheel drive enthusiasts, with numerous challenging tracks, including the famous Bruntons Bridge track, starting nearby. As a State Forest campground, Coopers Creek is a fantastic pet-friendly destination, with plenty of space for dogs to explore on a leash. Facilities are basic but functional, including non-flush toilets and numerous informal fire pits where campers gather on cool high-country evenings. It is essential to be self-sufficient, bringing your own drinking water and taking all rubbish home to preserve the pristine environment. Given its popularity and relatively easy access for high-clearance vehicles, it can be a lively spot, especially on long weekends. For those seeking an adventurous and historic camping trip, with access to 4WDing, hiking, and a glimpse into Victoria’s pioneering spirit, Coopers Creek is an unbeatable free destination.

Campground Information

• Name: Coopers Creek Campground
• Address: Coopers Creek Track, Walhalla, VIC 3825, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.98146568057621, 146.42444667969775
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no dedicated site).

Features & Facilities

• Location: Historic area on the Thomson River, near the old Coopers Creek Copper Mine.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and high-clearance off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed road. 2WD accessible in dry weather with caution, but 4WD is recommended.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard state forest limits apply (typically up to 28 days).
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables, fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own or treat river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted in established pits, subject to local fire restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked, dispersed sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, food, rubbish bags, and a portable toilet if preferred.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, in the Thomson River.
• Short Walks: Explore the Coopers Creek Copper Mine ruins and walk along the Thomson River.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Wally Pub (Walhalla) – approx. 12 km
  • Erica Hotel – approx. 20 km
  • Rawson Stockyard Bar & Bistro – approx. 25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Walhalla General Store & Cafe – approx. 12 km
  • Erica Hotel Bistro – approx. 20 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Walhalla Historic Township – approx. 12 km
  • Walhalla Goldfields Railway
  • Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine Tour
  • Bruntons Bridge (4WD access)

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Walhalla Log Cabin Park (unpowered sites only) – approx. 12 km
  • Erica Caravan Park – approx. 20 km
  • Rawson Caravan Park – approx. 25 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Bruntons Bridge Campground (4WD only)
  • Seninis Track Campground (Moondarra State Park, 4WD)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Moe Public Dump Point – approx. 45 km
  • Traralgon Public Dump Point – approx. 60 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Erica – approx. 20 km. Rawson has fuel but may have limited hours.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Walhalla or Rawson.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite. Also in Walhalla township.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days, cool nights. Perfect for swimming. Average maximums are around 25°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and crisp nights. The autumn colours in Walhalla are famous. Average maximums range from 15°C to 22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet, with very cold nights and frost. Tracks can be slippery. Average maximums are around 12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days as the forest comes alive. Average maximums range from 15°C to 20°C.