Nesting Ground Camping | Free Bush Camp Near Winton Wetlands & Benalla

For a serene and authentic bush camping experience in the heart of Ned Kelly country, Nesting Ground Campground is a fantastic free destination for self-sufficient travellers. Located within the Winton North Nature Conservation Reserve, this spacious campground offers a peaceful escape surrounded by a beautiful forest of Grey Box and Red Gum trees. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a quiet base to explore the rich history and diverse landscapes of the region, including the world-class Winton Wetlands which are right on its doorstep. The campground provides a classic, back-to-basics Australian bush setting, with plenty of large, level sites suitable for everything from tents and swags to caravans and motorhomes.

The main appeal of Nesting Ground is its wonderful sense of tranquility and its incredible proximity to major regional attractions. The campground itself is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and a vast array of birdlife frequently spotted amongst the trees. As a designated free camp, it encourages a respectful, self-reliant style of camping. The facilities are simple but functional, perfectly suited to the natural environment. Its location is a huge advantage for tourists; it’s just a short drive from the historic town of Glenrowan, where you can delve into the story of the infamous Kelly Gang. The major regional hub of Benalla, famous for its vibrant street art and regional gallery, is also within easy reach. The nearby Winton Motor Raceway provides a thrill for motorsport enthusiasts, while the vast expanse of the Winton Wetlands offers incredible opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and cycling. For a budget-friendly and perfectly positioned bush camp, Nesting Ground is an excellent choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Nesting Ground Campground
• Address: Nesting Ground Track, Winton North VIC 3673

Location Coordinates

• GPS: -36.44739588427049, 146.11330312527608

Website

• Website: This is a free campground in a Nature Conservation Reserve. Information is available on the Parks Victoria website.

Location Map

Site Details

• Location: Bush setting in the Winton North Nature Conservation Reserve.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, and Motorhomes.
• Road Access: Good quality unsealed gravel road, 2WD accessible.
• Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass base.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping. No bookings required.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe Parks Victoria guidelines.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, shared fire pits, picnic tables. No power or showers.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, patchy for other carriers.
• TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with plenty of space.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a lead in this reserve.

Activities

• Fishing: Fishing for Murray Cod and Golden Perch in the nearby Winton Wetlands.
• Short Walks: Excellent bushwalking and nature trails within the reserve and the adjacent wetlands.
• Birdwatching: The area is a renowned habitat for a diverse range of birdlife.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Glenrowan Hotel (Glenrowan) – Approx. 15 km
  • The North Eastern Hotel (Benalla) – Approx. 25 km
  • The Royal Hotel (Benalla) – Approx. 25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Kate’s Cottage Cafe (Glenrowan) – Approx. 15 km
  • Winton Wetlands Cafe – Approx. 5 km
  • Extensive options in Benalla including bakeries and pubs – Approx. 25 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Winton Wetlands – Adjacent
  • Winton Motor Raceway – Approx. 10 km
  • Ned Kelly Siege Site & Animatronic Theatre (Glenrowan) – Approx. 15 km
  • Benalla Street Art & Regional Gallery – Approx. 25 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Benalla Tourist Park – Approx. 25 km
  • BP Roadhouse Glenrowan (offers some sites) – Approx. 15 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Casey’s Weir (near Benalla) – Approx. 30 km
  • Broken River Day Visitor Area (near Benalla) – Approx. 28 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Benalla Showgrounds Public Dump Point – Approx. 25 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Winton (at the Hume Hwy roadhouse) – Approx. 10 km
  • Glenrowan – Approx. 15 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at the Benalla Visitor Information Centre.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite (non-flush). Full facilities in Glenrowan and Benalla.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with average temperatures of 15-32°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights, ideal for walking and exploring, averaging 9-25°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and crisp, with frequent frosts, but often with clear, sunny days. Averaging 3-14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant, a great time to see the wetlands and wildflowers, averaging 8-23°C.