Pioneer Bridges Campground - Victoria's High Country

Pioneer Bridges Campground - Victoria's High Country

Pioneer Bridges Campground is a peaceful bush campground set on the banks of the Ovens River, near Markwood in Victoria’s High Country. Located on Markwood–Everton Road, the campground is approximately 2 kilometres from Everton, 20 kilometres from Beechworth, and around 260 kilometres north-east of Melbourne.

Surrounded by river flats and open bushland, Pioneer Bridges is a popular spot for camping, swimming, fishing, kayaking and simply relaxing by the water. It’s an easy and scenic place to unwind while exploring the High Country region.

Pioneer Bridges Campground – Access & Camping

Access to Pioneer Bridges Campground is via the sealed Markwood–Everton Road. A short turn near the bridge leads down into the campground, where the camping surface is mainly hard-packed dirt with some grassy areas. The sites are generally flat and suitable for a range of camping setups.

The Ovens River flows directly through the campground, with several campsites positioned along the riverbank. There’s a sandy section of river that’s easy to access and ideal for swimming, fishing, or launching a kayak. While riverfront sites are limited, there are plenty of additional campsites set back in the surrounding bush.

We chose a lovely riverfront site that was flat and offered good solar exposure. Although the campground has plenty of trees providing shade, there are still sunny spots if you need them. We visited in early October and found the campground quiet, with just a handful of other campers and a relaxed atmosphere.

Pioneer Bridges Campground is maintained by Parks Victoria, and camping here is free.

Amenities

Facilities at Pioneer Bridges are basic but practical. There is one long-drop toilet located near the centre of the campground, along with picnic tables and fire pits scattered throughout the area. Several rubbish bins are also provided.

The campground is small and well suited to motorhomes, caravans, camper trailers and tents. During the warmer months, especially over summer, it would be wise to arrive early to secure a good riverside spot.

More Information

• Dog-friendly (dogs must be kept on a lead)

• Fires permitted when there is no fire ban

• Easy access for motorhomes

• Good Telstra mobile coverage

• Long-drop toilet (bring your own toilet paper)

• Picnic tables available

• Tent camping permitted

• Rubbish bins provided

• Swimming and fishing allowed in the river

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👉 Read our guide to our Top 10 Free Campgrounds in Victoria for more great spots.

Beechworth Stopover

On our way to Pioneer Bridges, we stopped in Beechworth and visited Beechworth Berries, where we picked up a punnet of beautiful fresh strawberries. We also popped into Last Street Brewery, which is open daily from 12.00 pm to 5.00 pm and offers a fantastic range of cordials, syrups and liqueurs to sample. We couldn’t resist taking home a bottle of their salted caramel syrup.

Back at Pioneer Bridges Campground, Brendon cooked up some thick, fluffy pancakes, which we topped with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of salted caramel syrup.

👉 You can find the recipe here: Fluffy Pancakes with Strawberries