Good to know

  • Walk-in only (300m)
  • Heavily treed area
  • No facilities provided
  • Campfires are not permitted
  • No dogs allowed
  • Mobile phone coverage is available
  • Livestock graze in this area

Activities

  • Dispersed camping
  • Fishing
  • Walking
  • Birdwatching

Camping area description

The Avoca River - Charlton Camping Area 1 provides walk-in camping and day recreation on the banks of the Avoca River, approximately 30km south of Charlton, with pedestrian access off River Road.

This camping area is on a licensed Crown water frontage that has been designated for camping. Before visiting this site, find out about access to Crown water frontages.

The camping area has uneven terrain in parts with easy access to the river. There are many trees in the camping area.

Camping is only permitted in a specifically designated area on the frontage (see map below). Other areas of Crown water frontage can be accessed for recreational activities other than camping, such as fishing, walking and picnicking.

Safety

Crown water frontages are rough and rugged bush camp areas. Before you go, it is important to consider all potential risks and hazards when accessing and camping at this location. Campers are responsible for their own safety and the safety of those in their care.

Livestock

  • This site may be part of a working farm.
  • Cattle may be present on this water frontage and access the river.
  • If cattle approach you, avoid sudden movements and loud noises.
  • Farm animals are not pets. They can be large and unpredictable and should not be approached
  • Store your food in a secure container to avoid attracting livestock and other animals.
  • Leave all gates as you find them.

Tree hazard

  • Trees and limbs may fall unexpectedly. Avoid camping under trees.
  • Stormy and windy weather increases the risk that trees and limbs may fall.

Water and flood safety

  • Play it safe by the water.
  • Hidden dangers may include submerged objects and debris and strong currents. A storm well upstream from you could cause flash flooding.
  • Check the Bureau of Meteorology for weather forecasts and flood warnings, or visit Play it Safe by the Water for more information.

Bushfires

  • Be aware of dangerous weather and bushfire conditions.
  • Check VicEmergency for information about current fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans.

Other risks that may be present include dangerous terrain, animals and adjoining farming operations.

How to get there

  1. From Charlton head south towards St Arnaud, on the Charlton-St Arnaud Road
  2. Turn west (right) onto Swanwater North Road, just south of Coonooer Bridge
  3. Turn north (right) onto River Road
  4. Parking can be made along River Road between Cemetery Road and Digger Road
  5. Walk 300 m to the camping area, along the river bank

Get directions to the camping area access point

Map - camping area

Map - Avoca River - Charlton Camping Area 1 (PDF, 1.4 MB)

Resources

Further information

Page last updated: 09/11/22