Timbarra Central Campground | Free Camping near Buchan, East Gippsland

Escape to the serene bushland of East Gippsland at Timbarra Central Campground, a secluded free camping spot perfect for self-reliant nature lovers. Located a moderate drive from the township of Buchan, this campground offers a genuine back-to-basics experience away from the crowds. The journey in takes you through state forest on unsealed roads, making a high-clearance vehicle or 4WD the recommended mode of transport, particularly after rain. This remoteness is key to its appeal, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere where the sounds of the Australian bush take centre stage. The campground is a simple, open clearing nestled amongst the eucalypts, providing a blank canvas for you to set up your tent, swag, or off-road camper trailer.

As a primitive campsite, Timbarra Central encourages a strong ‘leave no trace’ ethic. Campers must be fully self-sufficient, carrying in all their own supplies, including ample drinking water and firewood for a cosy campfire (when restrictions permit). There are no bins, so all rubbish must be taken out with you, helping to preserve the pristine environment for future visitors. Days can be spent exploring the surrounding forest on foot, birdwatching, or simply unwinding in the tranquility of your campsite. The lack of mobile phone reception is a welcome feature for those truly wanting to disconnect and recharge. At night, the absence of light pollution reveals a spectacular canopy of stars. While it lacks the amenities of a commercial park, Timbarra Central Campground provides something far more valuable: a quiet, authentic connection to the rugged beauty of the Victorian bush, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider Timbarra and Buchan regions.

Campground Details

Timbarra Central Campground – VIC Map

• Name: Timbarra Central Campground
• Address: Off Timbarra Road, Buchan VIC 3885
• Website: Information is generally available on the Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) or Parks Victoria websites under State Forest camping.
• GPS Coordinates: -37.3649, 148.0851

• Location: Located in a clearing within the state forest, accessible via unsealed roads.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. A high-clearance 2WD may be suitable in dry conditions, but a 4WD is recommended.
• Site Surface: Dirt and natural grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with FFMV for the most current information on stay limits in state forests.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Not marked, space for several groups in an open area.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: May be available, but not guaranteed.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Unlikely. Expect little to no mobile service.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes (basic non-flush pit toilet).
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out site.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and Total Fire Bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but considerate use is requested.
• Number of Sites Available: Not individually marked.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, food, rubbish bags, first-aid kit, and vehicle recovery gear.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are generally permitted in Victorian State Forests but must be kept under direct control at all times.
• Fishing: Possible in nearby rivers and creeks, subject to local conditions (Victorian fishing licence required).
• Short Walks: Informal exploring of the surrounding bushland and forest tracks.

Local Amenities

The nearest town with comprehensive services is Buchan. Plan your fuel and supplies accordingly.

Pubs & Places to Eat

• Buchan Caves Hotel: Approximately 25-30 km drive.
• The Dargo Hotel: A longer, more adventurous 4WD trip away, approximately 70km.

Local Attractions

• Buchan Caves Reserve: Famous for its spectacular limestone caves (approx. 25 km).
• Snowy River National Park: Offers stunning lookouts and scenery a further drive away.
• Timbarra River: Opportunities for fishing and exploring.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Buchan (approx. 25-30 km).
• Next Free Camps: Other small sites are scattered throughout the state forests in the region.
• Nearest Dump Points: Bairnsdale or Lakes Entrance are the most reliable options.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Buchan.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Buchan.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Buchan Caves Reserve Visitor Centre.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Weather in this region can be variable. Always be prepared for sudden changes, especially outside of summer.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are warm to hot. Be vigilant about fire danger and Total Fire Bans.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Typically mild and sunny days with cool to cold nights. A very pleasant time for camping.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold conditions, especially overnight with heavy frosts. Tracks can become wet and slippery.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild weather. The bush comes alive with wildflowers, but be prepared for rain.