Best Camping and Caravanning Sites in Australia

A great place to start your adventure

Welshmans Reef Caravan Park
by: Posted on:

Welshmans Reef Caravan Park – Your Lakeside Goldfields Escape

Welshmans Reef Caravan Park, Lakeside Camping VIC

Discover the tranquil shoreside escape of Welshmans Reef Caravan Park, nestled on the banks of the picturesque Cairn Curran Reservoir in Central Victoria. This park offers a classic Australian ‘bush camping’ experience with the convenience of powered and unpowered sites, making it a perfect destination for families, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Located a short drive from the historic goldfields towns of Maldon and Castlemaine, the park serves as an ideal base for exploring the region’s rich heritage. However, the main attraction is the expansive Cairn Curran Reservoir itself. It’s a popular spot for fishing, boating, water-skiing, and kayaking. The park’s direct access to the water means you can launch your boat, cast a line, or simply relax by the shore and enjoy the stunning sunsets over the water.

The park is known for its spacious, grassy sites that provide a genuine sense of being away from it all. It’s a haven for those looking to unwind, light a campfire in one of the provided pits (outside of fire ban season), and enjoy time with family and friends. While facilities are simple, they are clean and provide all the necessities for a comfortable stay, including toilets and barbecue areas. It is particularly noted for being pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure (conditions apply).

Whether you’re setting up a caravan, camper trailer, or tent, Welshmans Reef Caravan Park provides a peaceful and scenic backdrop for your next getaway. Its combination of water activities, proximity to historic sites, and relaxed, natural atmosphere makes it a hidden gem in the Victorian Goldfields.

Welshmans Reef Caravan Park – VIC Location Map

Park Information

Welshmans Reef Caravan Park

Site Details

  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, Camper Trailers, Tents, Big Rigs
  • Road Access: Good access via sealed road (Fishermans Rd)
  • Site Surface: Grass / Gravel sites

Facilities

  • Picnic Tables: Yes, available in nearby public reserve areas
  • Potable Water: NO. This is very important. Water at the park is sourced from the lake and is NOT suitable for drinking. You must bring your own drinking water.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes (Telstra 4G reported as strongest)
  • TV Reception: Not specified, reception may vary
  • BBQs: Yes (free-to-use in adjacent public reserves)
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes
  • Ullage: Not available
  • Drive Through Sites: Not specified (contact park for details)
  • Rubbish Bins: Yes
  • Open Fires: Yes (permitted in provided fire pits, seasonal restrictions apply)
  • Generator Use: Not specified (check with park for rules/hours)

On-site & Nearby Activities

  • Pet Friendly: Yes (conditions apply, must be on leash)
  • Fishing: Yes, very popular in Cairn Curran Reservoir (Victorian fishing licence required)
  • Short Walks: Yes, informal walking trails around the reservoir

Essentials to Bring

  • Drinking Water: This is essential as on-site water is not potable.
  • Firewood: If you plan to use a fire pit.
  • Fishing Gear: And a valid VIC fishing licence.
  • Water Sports Gear: Kayaks, boats, or skis.

Local Amenities

Pubs

  • Pubs available in Newstead (Approx. 10-15km)
  • Pubs available in Maldon (Approx. 15km)
  • Wide selection of pubs in Castlemaine (Approx. 15-20km)

Places to Eat

  • Panacea Estate (Winery & Cheese Boards – Welshmans Reef) (Approx. 2km)
  • Cafes and bakeries in Newstead (Approx. 10-15km)
  • Cafes and bakeries in Maldon (Approx. 15km)

Local Attractions

  • Cairn Curran Reservoir (On-site)
  • Historic Town of Maldon (Approx. 15km)
  • Historic Town of Castlemaine (Approx. 15-20km)
  • Mount Franklin Reserve (Approx. 25km)
  • Panacea Estate Winery (Approx. 2km)

Caravan & Camping Needs

  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    Maldon Caravan Park (Approx. 15km),
    Castlemaine Central Cabin & Van Park (Approx. 17km)
  • Nearest Free Camps:
    Newstead Racecourse & Recreation Reserve (Approx. 12km),
    Butts Reserve, Maldon (Approx. 15km)
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    Welshmans Reef Dump Point (public, at or near park),
    Newstead Racecourse & Recreation Reserve (Approx. 12km)
  • Nearest Petrol Stations:
    Newstead (Approx. 10-15km),
    Castlemaine (Approx. 15-20km)
  • Nearest Drinking Water Resupply:
    Newstead (Approx. 10-15km),
    Maldon (Approx. 15km)
  • Nearest Public Toilets:
    Woolshed Bay Reserve (at Cairn Curran Reservoir),
    Newstead (town centre)

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Welshmans Reef

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and generally dry. Average maximum temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C, with overnight lows around 10°C to 13°C.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days with cool, crisp nights. Average maximums cool from 25°C down to 16°C.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often damp, with frosty nights. Average maximum temperatures range from 11°C to 13°C, with overnight lows around 3°C.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild days becoming warmer, with a mix of sun and showers. Average maximums climb from 15°C to 22°C.

Leave a Reply