Corindhap Recreation Reserve – Quiet & Free Goldfields Bush Camp

For travellers seeking a genuine bush camping experience without the fees, the Corindhap Recreation Reserve is a fantastic find in the historic Victorian Goldfields. Located in a quiet, off-the-beaten-path setting, this reserve offers a large, open, and grassy area perfect for self-sufficient campers. Surrounded by native trees and the peaceful sounds of the bush, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and explore a region rich in gold rush history and natural beauty. The spacious grounds can easily accommodate all types of vehicles, from campervans to large caravans, allowing everyone to find their own corner of tranquility.

This is a back-to-basics camp, and its charm lies in its simplicity. The main facility is a public toilet block, a significant convenience for a free site. Campers will need to bring their own drinking water, power, and cooking facilities, and strictly adhere to leave-no-trace principles by taking all rubbish with them. The reserve’s location makes it a great strategic base. It’s a short drive from the larger town of Rokewood and within easy reach of the major regional city of Ballarat, where you can find all modern conveniences and world-class attractions like Sovereign Hill. The surrounding area, including the nearby Enfield State Park, offers ample opportunities for bushwalking, prospecting, and birdwatching, allowing visitors to connect with the area’s natural heritage. The Corindhap Recreation Reserve is perfect for a weekend escape or a quiet overnight stop, offering peace, space, and a taste of authentic Australian bush camping.

Site Information

• Name: Corindhap Recreation Reserve
• Address: Corindhap VIC 3352, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -37.873427, 143.740140

• Website: Not available

Campground Details

• Location: In the rural locality of Corindhap, south of Ballarat.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles are ideal. Tents, caravans, and motorhomes are all welcome.
• Road Access: Sealed road access.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt. Can be boggy in wet conditions.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Not officially specified, but 2-3 nights is a respectful duration.
• Facilities: Public toilets (non-flushing).
• Potable Water: Not available. You must bring your own.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy. Telstra provides the best chance of service.
• TV Reception: Poor.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, open, unmarked area with plenty of space.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, all food and cooking supplies, rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must remain on a leash.
• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short Walks: Plenty of space for walks within the reserve and on quiet local roads.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Rokewood Hotel, Rokewood: Approx. 13 km
  • Linton Railway Hotel, Linton: Approx. 20 km
  • Scarsdale Hotel, Scarsdale: Approx. 25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Pub meals and a general store in Rokewood.
  • Wider selection of food options in Ballarat.
• Local Attractions:
  • Enfield State Park: Approx. 20 km
  • Historic towns of Rokewood and Linton.
  • Ballarat attractions (Sovereign Hill, Wildlife Park): Approx. 45 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Ballarat Goldfields Holiday Park: Approx. 45 km
  • BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park: Approx. 47 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Berringa Recreation Reserve: Approx. 12 km
  • Italian Gully Campground, Enfield State Park: Approx. 25 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Smythesdale Transfer Station (check opening hours): Approx. 30 km
  • Ballarat (various options): Approx. 45 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Rokewood: Approx. 13 km
  • Smythesdale: Approx. 30 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Best sourced from Ballarat or other major towns.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located in the main street of Rokewood.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Very warm to hot and typically dry. High bushfire risk. Temperatures often in the low 30s (°C).
• Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant, with mild, sunny days and cool evenings. A great time for walking. Temperatures average 8°C to 22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and can be wet, with heavy morning frosts. Average temperatures range from 2°C to 12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny but can be windy and changeable. Wildflowers are a feature in the surrounding forests. Temperatures average 6°C to 18°C.