Glenlyon Recreation Reserve – Affordable Camping Near Daylesford

Discover the perfect blend of country charm and convenience at the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve, an idyllic, low-cost campground nestled in the heart of Victoria’s spa country. Located in the quaint village of Glenlyon, this reserve is just a stone’s throw from the bustling tourist hub of Daylesford, offering a peaceful and affordable alternative for exploring the region. The reserve boasts a large, shady, and picturesque setting alongside the Loddon River, with plenty of level, grassy sites suitable for everything from tents to large caravans. It’s a place where you can relax under magnificent old oak trees, listen to the gentle flow of the river, and enjoy the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

For a low-cost campground, the facilities at Glenlyon are exceptional. Campers have access to an amenities block with toilets and hot showers, and a number of powered sites are available, all for a very reasonable nightly fee collected by a local volunteer. This makes it an incredibly comfortable and practical base. The reserve’s location is a major drawcard. The famous Glenlyon General Store is a short walk away for great coffee and local produce, and the historic Glenlyon Mineral Spring is perfect for a picnic. The main attractions of Daylesford, including its renowned spas, restaurants, and galleries, are just a 10-minute drive away. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing weekend by the river, a base for exploring the Macedon Ranges, or an affordable stay during a busy local festival, the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve offers an unbeatable combination of location, amenity, and tranquil charm.

Site Information

• Name: Glenlyon Recreation Reserve
• Address: Racecourse and Recreation Reserve, Glenlyon VIC 3461, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -37.298214, 144.251878

• Website: Community managed.

Campground Details

• Location: In the village of Glenlyon, 10 minutes from Daylesford in the Macedon Ranges.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed road access.
• Site Surface: Mostly flat grass, with many shady spots.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, low-cost camping with fees collected by a caretaker.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with the caretaker, but generally suitable for stays up to a week.
• Facilities: Powered sites, toilets, hot showers.
• Potable Water: Yes, available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra; can be patchy for other carriers.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits only, subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days.
• Generator Use: Permitted with consideration for others, though powered sites are available.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area. Can be busy on long weekends.
• Essentials to Bring: Cash for fees, walking shoes, picnic basket for the mineral spring.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Possible in the adjacent Loddon River for trout and redfin.
• Short Walks: Beautiful walks along the river, to the mineral spring, and through the village.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • The Farmers Arms Hotel, Daylesford: Approx. 10 km
  • Radio Springs Hotel, Lyonville: Approx. 12 km
  • The Royal Hotel, Daylesford: Approx. 10 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Glenlyon General Store (cafe): Approx. 1 km
  • Extensive range of cafes, bakeries, and fine dining restaurants in Daylesford: Approx. 10 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Glenlyon Mineral Spring: Approx. 1.5 km
  • Daylesford Lake and Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens: Approx. 10 km
  • Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa: Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Daylesford Holiday Park: Approx. 10 km
  • Jubilee Lake Holiday Park, Daylesford: Approx. 12 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Mount Franklin Reserve (basic, check Parks Vic): Approx. 20 km
  • Vaughan Mineral Springs Reserve (basic): Approx. 25 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Daylesford Railway Station Public Dump Point: Approx. 10 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Daylesford: Approx. 10 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available on-site.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located at the Glenlyon Mineral Spring.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, but generally milder than northern Victoria. Evenings are pleasant. Temperatures average 12°C to 26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Famous for its stunning autumn colours. Days are crisp, clear, and sunny, with cool nights. Temperatures average 7°C to 19°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frequent frosts, fog, and occasional light snow. Perfect for cozying up by a fire. Average temperatures range from 2°C to 11°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and beautiful, with gardens in full bloom. Weather can be changeable. Temperatures average 6°C to 17°C.