Aysons Reserve Campground – Free Camping Near Rochester, Victoria

Aysons Reserve Campground – Free Camping

Near Rochester, Victoria

Aysons Reserve is a popular free bush camping area set along the peaceful banks of the Campaspe River in regional Victoria. Spacious, scenic, and easy to access, it’s a fantastic spot for a relaxed riverside stay and a great option for travellers exploring northern Victoria.

Located approximately 185 kilometres from Melbourne, 40 kilometres from Echuca, and just 12 kilometres from Rochester, Aysons Reserve is ideal for a weekend escape or a comfortable stopover on a longer road trip.

Getting There & Campground Layout

The access road from Rochester to Aysons Reserve is fully sealed, making it suitable for all vehicles, including motorhomes, caravans, camper trailers, and tents.

Camping is spread out along the road that runs parallel to the Campaspe River, as well as across a large open grassy area behind. You can’t camp between the bollards and the river, but there are still plenty of excellent spots to choose from. This is a large campground with numerous flat sites, giving you flexibility to find full sun for solar or shaded spots under the trees.

Campsites & Our Experience

We chose a flat site overlooking the river, with fewer trees so we could make the most of our solar setup. There’s a great mix of sunny and shady campsites throughout the reserve, so it’s easy to find something that suits your setup and preferences.

We stayed here in November and found the campground quiet and uncrowded, with only a few other campers around. It felt relaxed, spacious, and peaceful — exactly what you want from a free bush camp.

Things to Do Along the Campaspe River

The Campaspe River is a real highlight of staying at Aysons Reserve. During your stay, you can enjoy:

• Swimming in the river on warm days

• Fishing along the riverbanks

• Birdwatching, with plenty of birdlife around the water

• Boating, thanks to the nearby boat ramp

It’s a lovely spot to slow down, relax, and enjoy nature.

Amenities at Aysons Reserve

Aysons Reserve is maintained by the Campaspe Shire Council.

Amenities include:

• Flushing toilets (bring your own toilet paper)

• Dump point near the toilet block

• Non-potable water

• Rubbish bins

We also had good Telstra mobile coverage during our stay.

Important Information to Know

• Cost: Free

• Length of stay: Up to 3 days / 2 nights

• Extended stays: Require a free online permit

• Dogs: Allowed, must be on a lead

• Fires: Permitted when there is no fire ban

The permit system is easy to use, free of charge, and helps manage longer stays at the reserve.

👉 Click here for our Top 10 Free Campgrounds in Victoria

Visiting Rochester

Aysons Reserve is only 12 kilometres from Rochester, making it easy to pop into town for supplies or a wander. Rochester is a charming country town set on the Campaspe River, with beautiful heritage buildings, Cafes, supermarkets, and specialty shops and colourful street art and murals throughout the town.

One of the highlights is the Rochester Silos, painted by renowned mural artist Jimmy D’Vate in 2018 and 2021. As we wandered around town, we also discovered vibrant murals tucked away in laneways and on the sides of buildings.

We stopped in at Cottams Family Butchers and picked up some fresh lamb chops — perfect for a campfire dinner.

Back at Camp

Back at Aysons Reserve, we cooked up crispy lamb chops with creamy mashed potatoes, and enjoying a relaxed evening by the river.

Is it Worth Camping at Aysons Reserve?

If you’re looking for a spacious, relaxed, and well-maintained free camping spot in Victoria, Aysons Reserve is an excellent choice. With river access, generous campsites, nearby town amenities, and easy road access, it’s ideal for caravanners, motorhome travellers, and anyone who enjoys relaxed riverside camping.

👉 Click here for our Crispy Lamb Chops with Mashed Potatoes recipe