Swifts Creek Caravan & Tourist Park: High Country Camping on the Tambo River

Nestled in the foothills of Victoria’s magnificent High Country, the Swifts Creek Caravan and Tourist Park offers a tranquil and well-serviced base for exploring one of Australia’s most scenic regions. Located directly on the banks of the Tambo River, this charming park provides the perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town convenience. The park is adjacent to the Swifts Creek Recreation Reserve, which includes the town’s public swimming pool and local playspace, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. With spacious, grassy sites shaded by mature trees, it’s a picturesque spot to set up your caravan, camper, or tent.

As a key stopover on the iconic Great Alpine Road between Bairnsdale and Omeo, the park is perfectly positioned for adventurers. The Tambo River, flowing gently alongside the park, is a popular spot for fishing, with anglers often trying their luck for trout. The park itself is well-equipped with clean amenities, including hot showers, toilets, and a laundry, ensuring a comfortable stay. While there isn’t a dedicated camp kitchen, the park’s central location means you’re only a short walk from local eateries and the historic Albion Hotel for a hearty pub meal. The park is proudly pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your four-legged family members along for the journey. Its quiet, friendly atmosphere, combined with its proximity to the historic goldfields of Cassilis and the alpine resorts of Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain, makes the Swifts Creek Caravan Park an exceptional choice for anyone looking to experience the authentic charm and adventure of the Victorian High Country.

Park Information

• Name: Swifts Creek Caravan and Tourist Park
• Address: 11 McLarty Rd, Swifts Creek VIC 3896, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.26134870553967, 147.72417605599526
• Phone Number: (03) 5159 4205 (Bookings via Swifts Creek General Store)
• Website: East Gippsland Shire Council – Caravan Parks

Features & Facilities

• Location: Town fringe, on the banks of the Tambo River, adjacent to the recreation reserve and town pool.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road access.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, laundry facilities.
• Number of Powered and Unpowered Sites: A mix of powered and unpowered sites are available.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra; may be limited for other carriers.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, part of the amenities block.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to local fire restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers (daylight hours).
• Essentials to Bring: While the town is close, it’s best to be self-sufficient with food supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent opportunities for trout fishing in the Tambo River.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walks along the river and into the town.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Albion Hotel (Swifts Creek) – approx. 500m
  • Golden Age Hotel (Omeo) – approx. 22 km
  • Hilltop Hotel (Omeo) – approx. 22 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Swifts Creek Bakery – approx. 400m
  • Swifts Creek General Store (takeaway) – approx. 400m
  • Albion Hotel Bistro – approx. 500m
• Local Attractions:
  • Great Alpine Road scenic drive
  • Cassilis Historical Area (gold mining ruins) – approx. 10 km
  • Omeo Historic Town – approx. 22 km

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Alternate Caravan Parks:
  • Omeo Caravan Park – approx. 22 km
  • Bruthen Caravan Park – approx. 65 km
  • BIG4 Waters Edge Holiday Park (Lakes Entrance) – approx. 90 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Tambo River Camping Area (further south)
  • Anglers Rest Campground (north of Omeo)
  • Jokers Flat Campground (north of Omeo)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Omeo Caravan Park Public Dump Point – approx. 22 km
  • Bairnsdale Public Dump Point – approx. 85 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Swifts Creek General Store – approx. 400m.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite. Additional toilets in town.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, perfect for river activities. Nights are generally mild. Average maximums are around 26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days with cool, crisp nights. The region’s autumn colours are spectacular. Average maximums range from 15°C to 23°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold days and very cold nights, with frequent frosts. Snow can fall on higher peaks nearby. Average maximums are around 12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days, with the landscape turning green and vibrant. A great time for exploring. Average maximums range from 15°C to 21°C.