Vaughan Springs Campground

Vaughan Springs Campground, Victoria – Free Family Camping on the Loddon River

If you’re searching for a peaceful free campground within easy reach of Melbourne, Vaughan Springs Campground is an excellent choice. Located in the historic Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, this picturesque campground sits beside the Loddon River and offers a relaxing escape surrounded by native bushland, mineral springs and fascinating gold rush history.

Whether you’re travelling with the family, exploring the Victorian Goldfields or simply looking for a quiet weekend away, Vaughan Springs Campground combines natural beauty with convenient facilities—all at no cost.

A Scenic Campground with Plenty to Explore

Vaughan Springs Campground is perched on a gentle hill overlooking the popular Vaughan Mineral Springs picnic reserve. Large grassy areas, towering river gums and easy access to the Loddon River make it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers.

The campground is perfectly positioned for exploring the surrounding Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, where you’ll find remnants of Victoria’s gold rush era, walking trails, birdlife and mineral springs. Visitors can sample the naturally carbonated mineral water, stroll along the river or simply relax beneath the shade of the trees.

## Campground Facilities

Although Vaughan Springs is a free campground, it offers several facilities that make camping comfortable:

• Free camping
• Unpowered campsites
• Public toilets
• Electric barbecues
• Picnic tables
• Shelters
• Large grassy recreation areas
• Easy access to the Loddon River
• Walking tracks
• Children’s giant slide and picnic reserve nearby

The campground is suitable for tents, camper trailers, caravans and smaller motorhomes, with good access via sealed roads. There are no powered sites or showers, so campers should arrive self-sufficient.

Is It Free?

Yes. Camping at Vaughan Springs Campground is completely **free**, with **no booking required**. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it a popular destination during weekends, school holidays and long weekends. Arriving earlier in the day gives you the best chance of securing a good campsite.

Are Pets Allowed?

Unfortunately, **dogs and other pets are not permitted** within the Vaughan Springs campground or adjacent day visitor area. This restriction helps protect the park’s wildlife and sensitive natural environment. Assistance dogs are permitted where applicable under Parks Victoria regulations.

Things to Do Nearby

One of the biggest attractions of staying at Vaughan Springs is the variety of nearby activities:

• Sample the famous natural mineral springs
• Explore the rich gold mining history of Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park.
• Walk sections of the Goldfields Track.
• Go birdwatching along the Loddon River.
• Enjoy a picnic beside the river.
• Visit nearby Castlemaine, Maldon or Hepburn Springs for cafés, galleries and local history.
• Try recreational gold prospecting in designated areas (with the appropriate Victorian Miner’s Right).

Getting There

Vaughan Springs Campground is located approximately **120 km north-west of Melbourne** near the township of Vaughan, between Castlemaine and Daylesford. Access is straightforward via the Calder Freeway before following local sealed roads into Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park. The campground is easily accessible for conventional two-wheel-drive vehicles.

Final Thoughts

Vaughan Springs Campground is one of central Victoria’s hidden gems. Its combination of free camping, excellent family facilities, riverside setting and fascinating goldfields history makes it a fantastic destination for campers of all ages. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or exploring the Goldfields region, Vaughan Springs offers a relaxing and affordable camping experience surrounded by nature.

Just remember to arrive early during busy periods, bring everything you’ll need for an unpowered stay, and help preserve this beautiful location by leaving no trace.