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Camping at Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Womin-dji-ka (Welcome)

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park is part of the traditional lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung People whose rights were recognised through a Recognition and Settlement Agreement with the State of Victoria in March 2013. The Dja Dja Wurrung People maintain a close and continuing connection to Djandak, their traditional Country.

Camping is available at Vaughan Mineral Springs, Warburtons Bridge and Chokem Flat Campgrounds. No fees or bookings are required. All sites are unpowered and facilities are limited.

Fires are only permitted within the fireplaces provided, and may already be in use, so please bring your own camping stove or barbecue.

The campground at Vaughan Mineral Springs is located on the hill above the day visitor area. It has access to the toilets, picnic tables, shelter and electric barbecues. The giant slide and splash-pools in the Loddon River make this a popular campground for families. Dogs are prohibited.

Warburtons Bridge camping area is located in a scenic bend of the Loddon River. Fish in the river, go prospecting, take a walk through the diverse mining landscape or relax and enjoy the wildlife and wildflowers in spring. Dogs are allowed off-leash in the campground only and must be on a leash elsewhere.

The peaceful Chokem Flat camping area is located near Irishtown on the banks of Fryers Creek, close to the Goldfields Track. It offers a convenient central base from which to explore the Goldfields, including the nearby Red Hill mining landscape. The campground is suitable for large groups and popular with prospectors. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead at all times.

Things to do in the area

 
Three friends walking in Eureka Reef at Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Eureka Reef and Central Castlemaine Diggings

The central section of Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park contains Eureka Reef. A pleasant 1.8km self-guided walk takes you through 140 years of mining history.
Two women walk in front the Garfield Water Wheel near Castlemaine.

Garfield Wheel and Northern Castlemaine Diggings

For a family day out with a dose of history, head to Garfield Wheel and Northern Castlemaine Diggings. Explore the place that started the gold rush and the sites that still remain today.
A family enjoys an autumn picnic at Vaughan Springs in Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Vaughan Springs and Southern Castlemaine Diggings

In the southern section of Castlemaine Diggings Heritage Park is Vaughan Mineral Springs. Take a stroll along the Loddon River and spot the various birdlife. Make sure you stop and sample the mineral water along the way!

How to get there

Camping at Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park is about 120km north of Melbourne. Turn off the Calder Highway at Elphinstone and travel 13km through Chewton to Castlemaine. The Park can also be accessed via the Pyrenees and Midland Highways. A regular rail service runs between Melbourne and Bendigo stopping at Castlemaine.

When to go

Need to know

Camping at Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Other issues

    Vaughan Springs closed due to flood impact

    Vaughan Spring day visitor area is closed due to significant impact from the October flood event. Crews are working hard to assess and reopen flood impacted sites when it is safe to do so. 

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