Tambo Upper Rd Parking – Riverside Spot
Discover the serene beauty of the Tambo Upper Rd Parking area, a hidden gem for self-sufficient campers exploring the magnificent Gippsland region of Victoria. Nestled alongside the tranquil Tambo River, this informal free camping spot offers a peaceful retreat for travellers seeking a genuine connection with nature. While the facilities are basic, the location’s natural charm and convenience more than make up for it. It serves as a perfect base camp for exploring the nearby historic towns, lush forests, and the world-renowned Gippsland Lakes.
The site is best suited for those in caravans, motorhomes, or campervans who are fully equipped for off-grid living. The level, gravelled surface provides a stable and straightforward setup, allowing you to relax and soak in the picturesque surroundings from the moment you arrive. Imagine waking to the gentle sounds of the river and the chorus of native birdlife, a truly authentic Australian bush experience. The area is a favourite for local anglers trying their luck in the Tambo River, known for its bream and other estuary species. Its proximity to major touring routes like the Princes Highway makes it an easily accessible overnight stop, breaking up a long journey between Melbourne and the Sapphire Coast. Whether you’re passing through or settling in for a couple of days of exploration, the Tambo Upper Rd Parking area provides a quiet, convenient, and cost-effective camping experience that captures the essence of adventurous travel. Remember to leave no trace to preserve its beauty for fellow travellers.
Location: Tambo Upper Rd, Tambo Upper, VIC 3885, Australia
Website: Not available
Site Information & Nearby Amenities
- Location: Tambo Upper Rd, off the Princes Highway, alongside the Tambo River.
- Site suitable for: Self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and campervans.
- Road access: Sealed road (Tambo Upper Rd).
- Site surface: Gravel and dirt.
- Camping permitted: Yes, informal overnight stays are tolerated.
- Maximum overnight stays: Unspecified, typically 1-2 nights recommended.
- Facilities: None. This is a basic parking area.
- Potable water: No. Bring your own supply.
- Mobile phone coverage: Varies. Good with Telstra, patchy with other providers.
- TV reception: Possible with a good antenna, but not guaranteed.
- Onsite public toilets: No.
- Rubbish bins: No. Please take all your rubbish with you.
- Open fires: Not permitted. Check local fire restrictions.
- Generator use: Permitted, but be considerate of others.
- Number of sites available: Approximately 5-8, depending on vehicle size.
- Essentials to bring: Drinking water, toilet facilities, rubbish bags, food, and all camping supplies.
- Pet friendly: Yes, pets are generally allowed but must be kept on a leash and controlled.
- Fishing: Yes, river fishing is popular here. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short walks: Informal walks along the river bank are possible.
- Local Pubs:
- Swan Reach Hotel: ~8 km
- Bruthen Inn Hotel: ~15 km
- Metung Hotel: ~22 km
- Places to Eat:
- Swan Reach General Store & Cafe: ~8 km
- Bullant Brewery (Bruthen): ~15 km
- Various cafes and restaurants in Lakes Entrance: ~20 km
- Local Attractions:
- Gippsland Lakes: ~15 km to nearest boat ramp.
- Buchan Caves Reserve: ~55 km
- Ninety Mile Beach: ~30 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Tambo River Tourist Park (Swan Reach): ~8 km
- Various parks in Lakes Entrance: ~20 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Log Crossing Picnic Area (Colquhoun State Forest): ~30 km
- Irene’s Block (near Orbost): ~50 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Lakes Entrance Foreshore: ~20 km
- Bairnsdale Visitor Information Centre: ~30 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Swan Reach: ~8 km
- Johnsonville: ~10 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Lakes Entrance Foreshore (Public Taps): ~20 km
- Bairnsdale Visitor Information Centre: ~30 km
- Nearest Public Toilets:
- Swan Reach Recreation Reserve: ~8 km
- Bruthen Public Toilets: ~15 km
- Seasonal Weather Forecast: Summers are typically warm to hot and dry. Autumn and Spring offer mild, pleasant weather. Winters are cool and can be wet. Always check the forecast before visiting.