Lions Park Rest Area, Bridgewater | Free Riverfront Camping VIC

Discover one of central Victoria’s most delightful free camping spots at the Lions Park Rest Area in Bridgewater on Loddon. Perfectly situated on the grassy banks of the serene Loddon River, this rest area is more than just a place to park; it’s a destination in itself. Ideal for travellers on the Calder Highway, it provides a scenic and convenient base to relax, unwind, and explore the charming local area. The park is renowned for its spacious, level, grassy sites that are suitable for all types of setups, from tents and campervans to large caravans and motorhomes. The beautiful riverside setting, shaded by mature gum trees, creates a peaceful atmosphere that attracts a steady stream of happy campers.

The facilities at Lions Park are excellent for a free camp, featuring a well-maintained toilet block, numerous rubbish bins, and covered picnic tables. Its prime feature, however, is the direct access to the Loddon River, making it a hotspot for fishing enthusiasts hoping to catch Murray cod or yellowbelly. The park is conveniently located right in the township of Bridgewater, meaning a short walk is all it takes to reach the local hotel for a pub meal, the famous Bridgewater Bakery for a morning treat, or the general store for supplies. This blend of natural beauty and town convenience is rare for a free site. Given its popularity, especially on weekends and during holidays, it’s wise to arrive early to secure a prime riverfront position. For a memorable and budget-friendly stopover, the Bridgewater Lions Park is an absolute gem.

Location Details

• Name: Lions Park Rest Area
• Address: Calder Highway, Bridgewater on Loddon, Victoria, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -36.670091, 144.326718

• Website: Not available

Site Information

• Location: On the banks of the Loddon River, directly off the Calder Highway within the Bridgewater township.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle sizes, tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed highway access.
• Site Surface: Mostly grass, with some gravel areas. Can be soft after rain.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 48 hours.
• Facilities: Basic, no power or showers.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available near the toilet block (recommended to boil before drinking).
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for Telstra, good for Optus/Vodafone.
• TV Reception: Strong digital TV signal.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Prohibited. Use of contained fire pits may be allowed outside of fire ban season (check local advice).
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers (restricted hours often apply).
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, large open area. Approximately 40+ spaces.
• Essentials to Bring: Levelling blocks, insect repellent (especially in summer).

Local Amenities & Services

• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are very welcome but must be on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing directly from the riverbank for Murray Cod, Yellowbelly, and Redfin.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walking track along the Loddon River.

• Local Pubs:
  • Bridgewater Hotel (approx. 200m walk)
  • Newbridge Hotel (approx. 10 km)
  • Serpentine Hotel (approx. 20 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Bridgewater Bakery (famous for its vanilla slice) (approx. 300m walk)
  • Bridgewater Hotel (pub meals) (approx. 200m walk)
• Local Attractions:
  • Bridgewater Water Skiclub area
  • Bridgewater Vineyard & Winery
  • The historic Bridgewater Mill and Flour Mill Weir
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Bridgewater Public Caravan Park (approx. 500m)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Laanecoorie Reservoir Camping Area (approx. 20 km)
  • Inglewood Reservoir Camping Area (approx. 25 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bridgewater Public Caravan Park (a fee usually applies for non-guests) (approx. 500m)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Bridgewater Service Station (approx. 400m)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Onsite tap available.
• Nearest Public Toilets:
  • Onsite

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Loddon Valley / Central Victoria

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry conditions prevail. Temperatures average 15°C to 32°C but can frequently soar above 40°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant and mild with sunny days and cool evenings. Temperatures range from 8°C to 25°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold, with frequent morning frosts and fog near the river. Temperatures range from 3°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild with sunny days, becoming warmer. Temperatures average 7°C to 23°C.