Petroffs Camping Ground | Free Riverside Camping on the Goulburn River

Nestled on the tranquil banks of the iconic Goulburn River, Petroffs Camping Ground is a cherished destination for those seeking a genuine back-to-basics camping experience. This spacious, free-to-use reserve offers an idyllic setting where the river’s gentle flow and the surrounding gum trees create a peaceful atmosphere. A favourite amongst anglers, kayakers, and self-sufficient campers, Petroffs provides ample open space to find your own secluded spot. Whether you’re setting up a caravan with river views or pitching a tent closer to the water’s edge, the campground’s sprawling grassy flats cater to a variety of setups. The direct access to the river is the main attraction, making it effortless to launch a kayak for a morning paddle or cast a line in pursuit of the region’s famed trout and Murray cod.

As a primitive campsite, it embodies the spirit of self-reliance; campers must bring all their own supplies, including water, power, and toilet facilities. This “leave no trace” ethos helps preserve the natural beauty of the area for all to enjoy. The freedom to have a campfire (when restrictions permit) adds to the classic Australian bush camping experience, with evenings spent under a brilliant canopy of stars. Its strategic location places it within a short drive of the charming country towns of Yea and Alexandra, where you can easily restock supplies or enjoy a meal at a local pub. It also serves as a fantastic base for exploring the wider region, including the Great Victorian Rail Trail and the magnificent Lake Eildon National Park. For travellers wanting to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature without the structure of a formal caravan park, Petroffs Camping Ground is a perfect choice.

Name: Petroffs Camping Ground
Address: Molesworth-Dropmore Road, Ghin Ghin, Victoria, Australia

GPS Coordinates: -37.521056, 145.965234

Website: (No website available)

Location Map

Campground Information

• Location: Ghin Ghin, Victoria. On the banks of the Goulburn River.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs.
• Road Access: Dirt/gravel road, generally 2WD accessible but can become slippery after rain.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt. Can be uneven in places.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: As signposted, typically up to 14 days.
• Facilities: No facilities. You must be fully self-sufficient.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy. Telstra generally has the most reliable service in the area.
• TV Reception: Poor to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must bring your own portable toilet.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces or your own fire pit, subject to local fire bans and conditions.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers with noise.
• Number of Sites Available: Unspecified, large open area with numerous spots.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, power source, firewood, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept under control.
• Fishing: Excellent opportunities for trout, redfin, and Murray cod in the Goulburn River. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Plenty of space for leisurely walks along the riverbank.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Molesworth Hotel – approx. 10 km
  • Royal Mail Hotel (Yea) – approx. 20 km
  • The Shamrock Hotel (Alexandra) – approx. 25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Selection of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Yea – approx. 20 km
  • Various eateries and a supermarket in Alexandra – approx. 25 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Goulburn River High Country Rail Trail – access point in Molesworth – approx. 10 km
  • Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre – approx. 20 km
  • Lake Eildon National Park – approx. 30 km
  • Cathedral Range State Park – approx. 40 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Molesworth Recreation Reserve & Caravan Park – approx. 10 km
  • Yea Riverside Caravan Park – approx. 20 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Acheron River Camping Area – approx. 30 km
  • Trawool Reservoir Picnic Area – approx. 35 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Yea Showgrounds Public Dump Point – approx. 20 km
  • Alexandra Showgrounds Public Dump Point – approx. 25 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Molesworth – approx. 10 km (may have limited hours), Yea – approx. 20 km
• Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Yea (e.g., at the playground) – approx. 20 km
• Public Toilets: Molesworth Recreation Reserve – approx. 10 km, or in Yea town centre – approx. 20 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are warm to hot, with average temperatures from 15°C to 30°C. Ideal for swimming and water activities.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights, ranging from 8°C to 24°C. A perfect time for camping and fishing.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often damp, with temperatures from 3°C to 14°C. Heavy frosts are common, and warm gear is essential.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild and can be unpredictable. Temperatures range from 7°C to 21°C. The landscape is green and vibrant.