Carisbrook Reservoir Free Camping Guide, Victorian Goldfields

Discover the tranquil appeal of Carisbrook Reservoir, a popular free camping destination nestled in the heart of Victoria’s historic Goldfields region. Located just a short drive from the towns of Carisbrook and Maryborough, this spot offers a peaceful bush setting perfect for travellers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle. The reservoir itself is the area’s main attraction, providing a serene backdrop for a range of recreational activities.

As a designated free camping area within the surrounding state forest, Carisbrook Reservoir is ideally suited for self-sufficient campers. The site is popular with those equipped with tents, swags, and off-road camper trailers. While larger caravans can access the area, the tracks can be challenging, particularly after rain, so careful assessment is recommended. The area is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, with many visitors trying their luck in the calm waters. It’s also a wonderful location for picnicking by the water’s edge, bird watching, or enjoying a leisurely walk through the surrounding bushland.

Visitors must be fully self-contained, as there are no facilities such as toilets, drinking water, or rubbish bins provided. This “leave no trace” policy ensures the area remains pristine for all to enjoy. The reservoir’s convenient location makes it an excellent base for exploring the rich history of the Goldfields, with the heritage towns of Maldon, Castlemaine, and Maryborough all within easy reach. Whether you’re setting up for a night or using it as a launchpad for regional exploration, Carisbrook Reservoir provides a genuine Australian bush camping experience.

Carisbrook Reservoir Free Camping Guide – VIC Map

Location and Details

• Name: Carisbrook Reservoir
• Address: Carisbrook Reservoir, Carisbrook, Victoria 3464, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.06867, 143.77692

Site Features and Rules

• • Location: Located in state forest near Carisbrook, Victorian Goldfields.
  • Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and off-road camper trailers. 2WD vehicles and caravans may struggle in wet conditions.
  • Road Access: Dirt tracks.
  • Site Surface: Dirt/natural ground.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted in the state forest.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 14 nights in designated areas, or 28 days in general state forest. Check local signage.
  • Picnic Tables: No.
  • Potable Water: No. Visitors must bring all drinking water.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited. Telstra 4G may be available in some spots.
  • TV Reception: Limited.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: No. Campers must be fully self-contained or dig a hole 30cm deep, at least 100m from the waterway.

• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you (“Leave No Trace”).
• Open Fires: Permitted in some areas, subject to local fire restrictions (CFA) and seasonal fire bans. Bring your own firewood; collection is prohibited.
• Generator Use: Permitted, provided the generator has a spark arrestor and is not excessively noisy.
• Number of Sites Available: Unspecified number of informal sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, toilet paper, hand sanitiser, rubbish bags, first-aid kit, insect repellent, sun protection.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in state forests but must be under control at all times.
• Fishing: Yes, popular spot.
• Short Walks: Yes, informal walks through the surrounding state forest.

Local Amenities

Local Pubs

• Britannia Hotel: ~2-3 km (29 Green St, Carisbrook)
• Bull and Mouth Hotel: ~7-8 km (119 High Street, Maryborough)
• Park Hotel: ~8-9 km (195 High St, Maryborough)

Places to Eat

• Caroline’s Colonial Restaurant: ~2-3 km (11 Bucknall St, Carisbrook)
• Daily Dose Cafe Wine Bar: ~7-8 km (102 High St, Maryborough)
• Peach Village Restaurant: ~7-8 km (169 High St, Maryborough)

Local Attractions

• Maryborough town centre: ~7-8 km
• Goldfields Reservoir Nature Play: ~10 km (Maryborough)
• Historic Town of Maldon: ~25-30 km

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Maryborough Caravan Park: ~7-8 km (7-9 Holyrood Street, Maryborough)
• Golden Country Motel & Caravan Park: ~9-10 km (134 Park Road, Maryborough)

Next Free Camps

• Maryborough Paddys Ranges State Park: ~15-20 km
• Bung Bong Hall: ~20-25 km
• Waanyarra Camp Area: ~25-30 km

Nearest Dump Points

• Clunes Public Dump Point: ~27-28 km (70 Bailey Street, Clunes)
• Creswick Holiday Park: ~40-42 km (12 Cushing Avenue, Creswick)

Nearest Petrol Station

• Carisbrook Motors: ~2-3 km (77 Simson St, Carisbrook)

Drinking Water Resupply

• Available at petrol stations or caravan parks in Maryborough.

Nearest Public Toilets (Non-Camping)

• Maryborough Adventure Playground: ~8-9 km (8 Lake Road, Maryborough)
• Maryborough Railway Station: ~7-8 km (53 Burns Street, Maryborough)

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Carisbrook