Escape to the rugged beauty of Victoria’s High Country at Leinster Flat, a fantastic free camping area nestled deep in the scenic Buckland Valley. Situated on the banks of the crystal-clear Buckland River, this campsite offers an authentic alpine bush experience for adventurous travellers, particularly those equipped for four-wheel driving. It’s a popular base for exploring the historic region, known for its gold rush past and stunning mountain landscapes. The flat, grassy clearing provides ample space for setting up a tent or an off-road camper trailer, surrounded by towering native forest.

The gentle murmur of the river provides a constant, soothing backdrop for your stay. In the warmer months, the river is perfect for a refreshing dip, trout fishing, or simply skipping stones across its surface. The area is a gateway to numerous 4WD tracks that wind their way through the surrounding state forest and up into the alpine peaks, offering breathtaking views and challenging drives. Wildlife is abundant, with kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species frequently spotted around the campsite. As night falls, the remote location away from city lights reveals a spectacular canopy of stars, making for unforgettable evenings around the campfire.

As a primitive campsite, Leinster Flat is strictly for self-sufficient campers. There are no facilities such as toilets, bins, or drinking water, so you must bring everything you need in and take everything you carry out. The access road can be challenging, especially after rain, and a high-clearance 4WD is highly recommended to reach the site safely. For those prepared to go off-grid, Leinster Flat is a rewarding destination that offers true solitude and a direct connection with the wild, untamed nature of the Victorian High Country, all just a short drive from the charming tourist towns of Porepunkah and Bright.

Campsite Information

• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, off-road camper trailers, and small off-road caravans. Not suitable for large rigs or 2WD vehicles.
• Road Access: Dirt road, often corrugated with several river crossings. A high-clearance 4WD is strongly recommended. Tracks can be closed seasonally or after heavy rain.
• Site Surface: Grass, dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None. This is a primitive bush camp.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water or have a reliable filtration/purification system for river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. Expect no mobile service. A satellite messenger or personal locator beacon is recommended for safety.
• TV Reception: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must be fully self-contained with a portable toilet and dispose of waste responsibly.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all your rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits or self-contained fire pits, subject to fire restrictions and total fire bans. Check CFA website. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of others.
• Number of Sites Available: A large, open flat area that can accommodate multiple groups.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, rubbish bags, firewood, recovery gear, tyre deflator/inflator, first-aid kit, and emergency communication device.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash in Victorian State Forests.

Local Area & Amenities

• Fishing: Yes, the Buckland River is known for trout fishing. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
• Short Walks: Many informal walks along the river and surrounding hills.
• Local Pubs:
  • Punkah Pub (Porepunkah): ~35 km
  • Bright Brewery (Bright): ~40 km
  • Wandi Pub (Wandiligong): ~45 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Porepunkah (Pub, cafes, bakery): ~35 km
  • Bright (Extensive range of pubs, restaurants, cafes): ~40 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Mount Buffalo National Park: ~45 km (to entrance)
  • Bright Township (shopping, splash park, Rail Trail): ~40 km
  • Numerous 4WD tracks and hiking trails in the Alpine National Park.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Porepunkah Bridge Holiday Park: ~35 km
  • Multiple caravan parks in Bright: ~40 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Other informal campsites further up the Buckland Valley Road.
  • Campsites along the Ovens River near Bright.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bright (Centenary Park): ~40 km
  • Myrtleford (Showgrounds): ~60 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Porepunkah (~35 km) and Bright (~40 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps available in Porepunkah and Bright.
• Public Toilets: Located in Porepunkah and Bright town centres.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are warm to hot, but nights can be cool due to the alpine altitude. Average temperatures from 12°C to 28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp days and cold nights. The area is famous for its autumn colours. Average temperatures from 5°C to 20°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold to very cold, with severe frosts and potential snowfall. Average temperatures from 0°C to 12°C. Road access may be closed or hazardous.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable weather. The river can be high and fast-flowing due to snowmelt. Average temperatures from 4°C to 18°C.