Newbridge Recreation Reserve | Loddon River Camping Near Bendigo & Maldon

An iconic destination on the Victorian free camping circuit, the Newbridge Recreation Reserve is a magnificent community-run campground that offers a premier riverside experience. Located on the beautiful banks of the Loddon River in the heart of the Goldfields, this vast reserve is a paradise for families, anglers, and travellers of all kinds. The campground is set on a huge, flat, and well-maintained grassy area, dotted with majestic river red gums that provide ample shade and a classic Australian bush atmosphere. Its sheer size means there is always plenty of space to find a perfect spot, whether you’re in a big rig, a caravan, or a tent, making it one of the most reliable and beloved camping spots in the state.

The appeal of Newbridge is its fantastic blend of natural beauty and excellent, community-provided amenities. For a free camp (supported by crucial donations), the facilities are outstanding, featuring clean flushing toilets and access to potable water. The Loddon River is the main attraction, offering a natural playground for all. A boat ramp provides easy access for tinnies and kayaks, and the river is a renowned fishing hotspot, teeming with Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), and Redfin. The calm waters are also perfect for a swim or a paddle on a warm day. The pet-friendly policy and wide-open spaces make it an ideal holiday location. Its location is also superb, being a short drive from the historic towns of Maldon and Tarnagulla, and within easy reach of the major regional city of Bendigo. For an unbeatable free camping experience that combines fantastic recreation, a welcoming atmosphere, and a beautiful riverside setting, the Newbridge Recreation Reserve is a true Victorian icon.

Campground Information

• Name: Newbridge Recreation Reserve
• Address: 2189 Wimmera Hwy, Newbridge VIC 3551

Location Coordinates

• GPS: -36.73930599961506, 143.90321537907815

Website

• Website: Managed by a Committee of Management. Information is available on the Loddon Shire website.

Location Map

Site Details

• Location: Riverside recreation reserve in the town of Newbridge.
• Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
• Road Access: Sealed highway access.
• Site Surface: Mostly grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, small fee required.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe local signage; a two-week limit is generally in place.
• Facilities: Flushing toilets, boat ramp, potable water, playground. No power or showers.
• Potable Water: Yes, available from a tap near the toilet block.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, available.
• Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Very large, unmarked area with room for hundreds of campers.
• Essentials to Bring: Firewood, fishing gear, kayak.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a lead.

Activities

• Fishing: Premier location for Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), and Redfin.
• Short Walks: Enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbank and through the historic Newbridge township.
• Boating & Kayaking: A boat ramp provides excellent access to the Loddon River.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Newbridge Hotel – Approx. 1 km
  • Bridgewater Hotel (Bridgewater on Loddon) – Approx. 15 km
  • Golden Triangle Hotel (Tarnagulla) – Approx. 15 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Newbridge Hotel (Bistro) – Approx. 1 km
  • Bridgewater Bakery – Approx. 15 km
  • Tarnagulla Post Office & Cafe – Approx. 15 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Historic town of Tarnagulla – Approx. 15 km
  • Bridgewater on Loddon (water skiing) – Approx. 15 km
  • Historic town of Maldon – Approx. 35 km
  • Bendigo city centre – Approx. 40 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Bridgewater Public Caravan Park – Approx. 15 km
  • Tarnagulla Recreation Reserve & Caravan Park – Approx. 15 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Laanecoorie River Reserve – Approx. 15 km
  • Butchers Flat (Tarnagulla) – Approx. 18 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bridgewater Public Caravan Park (fee may apply for non-guests) – Approx. 15 km
  • Tarnagulla Recreation Reserve – Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Newbridge (check operating hours) – Approx. 1 km
  • Bridgewater on Loddon has more options – Approx. 15 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, perfect for river activities, with average temperatures of 15-32°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights, ideal for walking and exploring, averaging 8-25°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and crisp, with frequent frosts, but often with clear, sunny days. Great for campfires. Averaging 3-15°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant, with the countryside green and lush, averaging 7-23°C.