Loch Valley Free Camping, VIC | Riverside Bush Camp

Escape to the tranquil banks of the Loch River at the Loch Valley Campground, one of Victoria’s hidden gems for free bush camping. Nestled amidst towering eucalyptus trees and lush ferns, this picturesque campground offers a genuine back-to-nature experience just a short drive from the charming town of Noojee. The gentle sound of the flowing river provides a constant, calming soundtrack for your stay, making it the perfect spot to unwind, disconnect, and recharge in the heart of the Victorian high country.

The campground is a sprawling, open area with numerous informal sites scattered along the riverbank. It’s an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travellers looking to pitch a tent, roll out a swag, or park a camper trailer. While accessible to smaller caravans, the gravel access road requires careful driving. The main attraction here is the river itself – perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day, trying your luck fishing for trout, or simply sitting by its edge with a good book. As dusk settles, the area often comes alive with local wildlife, offering fantastic opportunities for nature photography. With fire pits dotted throughout, you can enjoy the quintessential camping experience of a crackling campfire under a star-filled sky, but always remember to check local fire restrictions before you light up. Being a free site, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and requires campers to be self-sufficient and to leave no trace, ensuring this beautiful location remains pristine for everyone to enjoy.

Campground Details

• Location: Set alongside the Loch River in a forested valley.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans or motorhomes.
• Road Access: Accessible via Loch Valley Road, which is a well-maintained gravel road suitable for 2WD vehicles in good weather. Caution is advised after heavy rain.
• Site Surface: Primarily grass and natural earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a designated free camping area.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: While not strictly enforced, a general limit of 72 hours is courteous to others.
• Facilities: Basic, non-flush drop toilets. No showers or powered sites.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. Telstra may have intermittent service in some spots.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, long-drop toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out site. Please leave no trace.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to seasonal fire bans and local restrictions. Check the CFA website before your trip. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers regarding noise and operating hours (generally between 9 am and 8 pm).
• Number of Sites Available: No marked sites; approximately 20-30 informal spots available in the general area.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, insect repellent, and all necessary camping supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• Fishing: Yes, the Loch River is known for trout fishing. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Informal tracks along the river provide pleasant walking opportunities.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • The Toolshed Pub & Restaurant, Noojee (~15 km)
  • The Noojee Hotel (~16 km)
  • The Powelltown Hotel (~35 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Little Red Duck Cafe, Noojee (~16 km)
  • Outpost Restaurant, Noojee (~16 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Noojee Trestle Bridge (~18 km)
  • Toorongo Falls Reserve (~25 km)
  • Ada Tree Walk (~40 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Noojee Caravan Park (~16 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Hawthorn Bridge Camping Area (~10 km)
  • Latrobe River Camping Area (Poplars) (~45 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Neerim South Recreation Reserve Dump Point (~40 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Noojee (may have limited hours) or more reliably in Neerim South (~40 km) or Warragul (~60 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Public taps in Noojee township (~16 km).
• Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Noojee township public facilities (~16 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec – Feb): Generally warm to hot days with cooler evenings. Average temperatures range from 12°C to 26°C. Be vigilant about bushfire warnings.
• Autumn (Mar – May): Mild, clear days and cool nights. A beautiful time to visit as the leaves change colour. Average temperatures are between 8°C and 20°C.
• Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold and often wet, with frosty mornings. Higher elevations nearby may see occasional snowfall. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 12°C.
• Spring (Sep – Nov): Cool to mild weather with frequent showers. The river runs high and the surrounding forest is vibrant and green. Average temperatures are between 6°C and 18°C.