Bennies Campground – Alpine National Park, Victoria

Peaceful Riverside Camping in Victoria’s High Country

Located beside the beautiful Rose River in Alpine National Park, Bennies Campground is a picturesque bush camping destination in Victoria’s magnificent High Country. Surrounded by forested hills, mountain scenery and winding country roads, this peaceful camping area is an ideal escape for travellers who enjoy relaxing beside a river and exploring the great outdoors. Situated near Whitfield and Lake Cobbler, Bennies provides a convenient base for discovering the King Valley, enjoying scenic drives, exploring High Country tracks and experiencing the natural beauty of north-east Victoria. With campsites scattered along the river, basic facilities and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, Bennies is particularly appealing to tent campers, camper trailer travellers and self-sufficient visitors looking for an authentic bush camping experience.

Bennies Campground at a Glance

Where is Bennies Campground?

Bennies Camping Area is located along the Rose River near Wabonga, in the north-western section of Alpine National Park. The campground is approximately 40–45 minutes from Whitfield and a similar driving time from Lake Cobbler, depending on road conditions. Visitors travelling from Whitfield can follow Rose River Road, then Upper Rose River Road towards Lake Cobbler Road. The route passes through attractive High Country landscapes, with forest, farmland and mountain scenery along the way. Road conditions can vary, particularly following heavy rain. Travellers towing camper trailers or caravans should check access conditions before setting out.

Camping Beside the Rose River

One of the main attractions of Bennies Campground is its beautiful riverside setting. Campsites are dispersed along the Rose River, allowing visitors to enjoy the sound of flowing water and the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding forest. The campground offers a more traditional bush camping experience than a developed holiday park. There are no powered sites, camp kitchens or hot showers, making it best suited to travellers who enjoy simple camping and are comfortable bringing their own equipment. Basic facilities include pit toilets and fireplaces, while the surrounding natural environment provides plenty of opportunities to relax, explore and enjoy time outdoors. Campers should bring sufficient drinking water, food, cooking equipment and other essentials for their stay. All rubbish must be taken away when leaving the campground.

Facilities at Bennies Campground

Things to Do Around Bennies Campground

Bennies is a wonderful destination for visitors who enjoy spending time outdoors. Whether you prefer relaxing beside the river or exploring the surrounding High Country, there is plenty to discover.

Explore Lake Cobbler

Located approximately 40–45 minutes from Bennies, Lake Cobbler is a scenic mountain lake surrounded by forest and rugged alpine landscapes. The area is popular with campers, four-wheel-drive enthusiasts and bushwalkers. Lake Cobbler is also associated with access to the impressive Dandongadale Falls area, although visitors should check current track access and walking conditions before travelling.

Four-Wheel Driving

The surrounding High Country contains numerous roads and tracks that attract four-wheel-drive enthusiasts. From easier scenic drives to more challenging mountain routes, there are opportunities for travellers with suitable vehicles and experience. Some tracks may be subject to seasonal closures, and conditions can deteriorate quickly after rain. Always check track classifications and closures before travelling.

Visit Whitfield and the King Valley

The nearby township of Whitfield provides an opportunity to explore the wider King Valley, a region well known for its wineries, local produce, attractive rural scenery and welcoming country communities. A visit to Whitfield can also be a convenient opportunity to obtain supplies before returning to camp.

Wildlife Watching and Photography

The forests and waterways around Bennies provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation and nature photography. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly rewarding times to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Campfires at Bennies Campground

Fireplaces are provided at Bennies, making campfires a popular part of the traditional bush camping experience when conditions and regulations permit. Campers must comply with all current fire restrictions, including Total Fire Bans. Fires should only be lit where permitted, kept small and completely extinguished with water before leaving camp or going to sleep. Bring suitable firewood where possible and follow Parks Victoria rules regarding firewood collection.

Horse Riding and Horse Camping

Bennies is also used by horse riders exploring the surrounding High Country. Parks Victoria permits horse riding under specified conditions, and bookings apply to horse camping arrangements. Visitors travelling with horses should consult Parks Victoria before arriving to confirm applicable booking requirements, permitted areas and horse management conditions.

Best Time to Visit Bennies

Spring, summer and autumn are generally attractive times to visit Bennies Campground. Spring brings fresh greenery and flowing waterways, while summer provides opportunities to relax outdoors and enjoy the surrounding forest. Autumn is another appealing season, with cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery throughout the King Valley. Winter conditions can be cold and wet, and some surrounding High Country roads and tracks may be subject to seasonal closures. Visitors should check current conditions regardless of the time of year.

What to Bring

Although Bennies has basic toilet and fireplace facilities, visitors should be prepared for self-sufficient bush camping.

• Drinking water and food
• Camping and cooking equipment
• Warm clothing and waterproof jackets
• First-aid supplies
• Offline maps or GPS
• Rubbish bags
• Torches or camping lights
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Appropriate vehicle equipment for local road conditions
• Emergency communication equipment when travelling remotely

Is Bennies Campground Worth Visiting?

For travellers looking for free riverside camping in Victoria’s High Country, Bennies Campground is an excellent option. Its peaceful Rose River setting, basic camping facilities and proximity to Whitfield and Lake Cobbler make it particularly appealing to campers who enjoy natural surroundings without the crowds and commercial atmosphere of larger holiday parks. Whether you are planning a relaxing weekend beside the river, a family camping adventure or a longer exploration of Alpine National Park, Bennies offers a memorable introduction to one of Victoria’s most beautiful mountain regions.