The best campgrounds near Bendigo, Victoria with horseback riding

Victoria’s mammoth gold boom of the mid-1800s saw Bendigo evolve from a tent city into today’s prosperous region, which proudly displays its rich heritage and cultural attractions for visiting campers. About two hours’ drive north of Melbourne, greater Bendigo National Park is a great spot to try your hand at gold panning, while Bendigo Bushland Trail, O’Keefe Rail Trail, and Bendigo Creek Trail are popular spots with hikers and mountain bikers. Further afield, campers can paddle a kayak or SUP board along the Murray River and opt for a stay at a tent or caravan park. Bendigo holiday parks are typically well equipped, some with glamping tents and luxury facilities like swimming pools and ensuite bathrooms.

98% (651)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bendigo

Victoria’s mammoth gold boom of the mid-1800s saw Bendigo evolve from a tent city into today’s prosperous region, which proudly displays its rich heritage and cultural attractions for visiting campers. About two hours’ drive north of Melbourne, greater Bendigo National Park is a great spot to try your hand at gold panning, while Bendigo Bushland Trail, O’Keefe Rail Trail, and Bendigo Creek Trail are popular spots with hikers and mountain bikers. Further afield, campers can paddle a kayak or SUP board along the Murray River and opt for a stay at a tent or caravan park. Bendigo holiday parks are typically well equipped, some with glamping tents and luxury facilities like swimming pools and ensuite bathrooms.

98% (651)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bendigo

1. Whip Stick Forest

97%

(203)

6.4km from Bendigo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

The Whip Stick Forest campsite is located on the outskirts of Bendigo. This is an ideal place to take a break away from it all. Peace and tranquility surrounded by nature. We are just far enough away from the town to offer the outdoors feel and close enough to town to enjoy sightseeing, and many outdoor activities and access to shops, fuel and most of the usual shopping needs. Here you will find a nice open space amongst the gum trees with drinking water, toilet, and outdoor shower. rubbish/recycling bins and access to wifi if needed. Relax under the stars with a warm fire in a secluded spot in the middle of open space and the fresh air. The property is fenced off, so you can feel safe and secure. You can relax and let the kids can run around knowing they are safe inside the camp ground. There are five dogs who live here. They are all friendly and love people. Especially Daz who will be your best friend while you stay here. If you don't like dogs you probably shouldn't stay here as Daz loves people. Only minutes from town where you will find supplies, close to the local swimming pool and 10 minutes from a popular watering hole. Enjoy all that Bendigo and surrounding areas have to offer, check out the historic gold mining attractions and come home to rest in a tranquil setting amongst the trees, the birds and the stars. Bendigo itself features some fantastic heritage architecture and a creative community. Be sure to check out coffee houses down little laneways and the many culinary options of the restaurants in town.

2. Kyneton Quiet Camp Out

99%

(162)

57km from Bendigo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

We welcome everyone who would like to relax whilst respecting the environment and all fellow hipcampers. We are family and dog friendly, with the space for multiple families to camp together on our spacious sites. THIS PROPERTY IS NOT SUITABLE FOR DRUNKEN AND/OR NOISY PARTYING!!! Pitch your completely self-sufficient sleeping quarters on our peaceful, flat, 7 acre property which backs onto the Bald Hill Nature Reserve and is less than five minutes drive from Kyneton’s historic Piper Street which is full of delightful restaurants and cafes. Take under an hour to drive up and explore beautiful Bendigo, experience delightful Daylesford nearby and meander around the wonderful wineries of the Macedon Ranges. Campfires are allowed subject to local fire restrictions and must be fully extinguished before you turn in for the night. Please search for the CFA website 'Fire Danger Period: Can I or Can't I?' which has all of the appropriate information. Each site has a fire pit which you can use providing it is not a total fire ban. Firewood is available at a cost to you of $50 per wheelbarrow load which will easily cover two nights. We have four separate camping locations on the property; you can easily have up to four RVs on sites 1, 2 and 4 and two on site 3. We have tried to ensure privacy for each location but you may be able to see other guests and/or the house through the many trees. Please be aware that there are two dams on the property so children should supervised at all times. My own children swim in the dam and there is a kayak available but lifejackets must be worn by children in, around and on the water to minimise risk. Pets are welcome. The kangaroos may prove quite enticing for some pets and as such we recommend dogs be kept on their leash. Site 4 has ringlock fencing and farm gates which can be helpful to contain your pets. Please be aware that the Kyneton Gun Club has their monthly clay target shoot on the 3rd Sunday of each month (2nd Sunday in December) from 11am until 5pm during which time you will hear them clay pigeon shooting. We are NOT a commercial campsite and, as such, you must be fully self-contained for power, water, showers, sewage, refuse disposal, etc. Guests under the age of 25 must be accompanied by their parents.

3. Ellesmere Park Farm Stay

97%

(167)

69km from Bendigo · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Ellesmere Park Farm Stay was inspired by our trip following the stock routes of NSW by horse drawn vehicles. Many people commented they would love to do that, which gave us the idea of sharing our amazing journey with others. Our camping area is a lot more comfortable than we endured with a well set up camp kitchen, green lawns and friendly animals all in one area. Our mascot, "Lucky lamb", is an attraction all of her own and who else can say "Kevin bacon" lives here! Our farm stay offers a large grassed camping area with camp kitchen. We are located within easy driving distance of Greens lake and the Waranga basin for fishing, boating and swimming activities and only 15km from Rushworth and the historic Whroo township. Campers are welcome to join us as we feed the animals. Fires and pets allowed (read Listing rules). There is only one toilet and one shower available, it is recommended that campers are self sufficient

4. Sunset Stargazing Private Camp

100%

(43)

35km from Bendigo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Single Camp site all to yourself on a 60 acre farm located in the heart of the Heathcote wine District. Great views to neighboring vineyards. Very quiet area without any light pollution ,Great for star gazing and taking in the country views. Lots of dirt tracks and roads for mountain bike rides. Heathcote township is only 7min drive away. Local tour operator that offers wine tours and transport pickups, please message me for details.

5. Lovely Bush Property

95%

(60)

74km from Bendigo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Surrounded by Lillicur State Forest, opportunities for walks, horse riding and bike riding abound Four mountain bikes are ready to roll and a solar panel will keep phones charged A holding yard will keep your horses happy and shaded. A nine hole mini golf course is ready to challenge you!! Only one booking is taken for any night. As soon as you book, the property becomes yours and is unavailable to anybody else 10 minutes down the road you'll find the quaint village of Talbot. The town retains a number of historic buildings from its prosperous gold mining days. Some of the old shops which line this street are now home to speciality businesses, including a clothing boutique, bookshop and homewares store. The restored London House building in Scandinavian Crescent operates as a cafe and visitor information centre and is surrounded by an attractive community garden. At the corner of Scandinavian Crescent and Fyfe Street is the Talbot Pioneers Memorial Playground with BBQ and picnic shelters. A farmers market operates in the town streets every 3rd Sunday of the month. The pool is great in summer months and the general store is well managed by Prue and open 8am to 7pm every day 2 hours from Melbourne, 1 hours from Ballarat.

6. Smith x Willow

100%

(21)

80km from Bendigo · 2 sites · RVs

Smith x Willow is a 40 acre property located 10km from the country town of Murchison Victoria. The property is set within bushland and open farm paddocks on slightly undulating land. A small lake is on the property. A shearing shed is available that sleeps 5, plus we offer a number of campsites, with lots of clear space available for camping/caravans/motor homes to park up in quiet bushland surrounds. Lots of wildlife and bird life. Peaceful as minimal neighbours and no traffic. Bush roads for miles of bushwalking/bike riding. Waterways within 20 minutes drive. Sunsets are amazing and stargazing opportunities are incredible, right under the Milky Way!

7. Top of The Hill

97%

(18)

66km from Bendigo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy the privacy of 50 acres of natural surroundings backing onto Rushworth state forest. You are free to explore the entire property, find a quiet spot under the old gum trees or discover the adjoining state forest with its abundance of wildlife and the valley of the giant grass trees. Catch a few yabbies in the large dam but please remember to return as many as possible for the next adventurers. Unless you’re a dog, swimming is not permitted in the dam! Discover rustic old town of Nagambie only 15 minutes by car, and the famous Mitchelton winery or the older style Tahbilk are both close to the property. The Nagambie brewery is a newcomer in town. The Nagambie Lake Hosts fishing and water sports all year round.

8. Granite Springs

98%

(341)

60km from Bendigo · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

300 acres of stunning views nestled amongst the granite hills of Nulla Vale, situated halfway between Lancefield and Tooborac. Granite Springs is a working farm running various farm animals and working horses. You are welcome to walk the property and visit the farm animals during your stay(as long as you stay on the outside of paddocks/yards) There are dams and a seasonal creek running through the property, providing many options for campsites and also fishing(catch and release) (Please note creek is seasonal and not suitable for swimming). Dogs permitted but must be well behaved and not chase livestock. Campfires permitted in designated areas when restrictions aren't in place. Drinking water available. We are now processing our own meat so if you are wanting some farm grown produce for your stay or something to take home then please let us know and we will let you know what we have available. We can also cater for groups wanting somewhere to camp with their horses, with use of an arena and roundyard. Please contact us if interested.

9. Kickback Corral

89%

(9)

36km from Bendigo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

You can expect to see plenty of kangaroos and native birdlife when you visit us at Kickback Corrimal Camping. With great views and a tranquil setting where you can enjoy the serenity of nature. Enjoy a bush walk on the property or take a longer walk to the goldfields town of Castlemaine, where you can stroll around & enjoy this diverse town. The Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park has many scenic walks that reveal mines and other interesting artifacts from our gold mining past. For those looking for more adventure there are plenty cycling and walking tracks to explore within the National park. If you are into Mountain biking there is a trail 15 min away (by car) that leads all the way to Harcourt. We are also within easy reach of the Castlemaine to Maldon Trail which runs parallel to the Victorian Goldfields Tourist Train railway. Campers must have their own camping toilet and take all waste and rubbish with them on departure. Campfires are allowed outside of restrictions. Pets are welcome.

10. YELLOW FLATS

100%

(7)

58km from Bendigo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

15 acres with seasonal creek thru middle of property bordering state forest with close access to great divide walking track mines and old working in the state forest old water race dug in the 1800 hundreds to bring water to the miner through out the state forest mainly follow by the walking track all the way to Vaughan springs

11. The Stables On Knox

100%

(17)

77km from Bendigo · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to our family and friends of our first listing - Book A Paddock, and to our new gang with The Stables on Knox. The Stables was a functioning stable, dairy and horse and cart garaging area in the properties heyday many decades ago. The cattle would be walked up a lane, be held in the cobblestone yards you have exclusive use of, be walked into the stalls, where your pizza oven now stands, manually milked, and then turned out to what is now your BBQ area. Its now your next luxe rural getaway. Leave the tent and van behind for this little slice of the good life. Bring your bestie - even your neighbours and your fur baby for a sit back and relax experience. The paddocks to the back of the property are yours to walk to take in the peace and the wildlife. They are abundant with kangaroos and their joeys in the spring so we ask you go quietly and slowly so they can move away slowly. The birdsong is a great way to relax with your book, listening to the sounds of nature.

Camper favorites near Bendigo

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top of The Hill

97%

(18)

66km from Bendigo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy the privacy of 50 acres of natural surroundings backing onto Rushworth state forest. You are free to explore the entire property, find a quiet spot under the old gum trees or discover the adjoining state forest with its abundance of wildlife and the valley of the giant grass trees. Catch a few yabbies in the large dam but please remember to return as many as possible for the next adventurers. Unless you’re a dog, swimming is not permitted in the dam! Discover rustic old town of Nagambie only 15 minutes by car, and the famous Mitchelton winery or the older style Tahbilk are both close to the property. The Nagambie brewery is a newcomer in town. The Nagambie Lake Hosts fishing and water sports all year round.

Granite Springs

98%

(341)

60km from Bendigo · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

300 acres of stunning views nestled amongst the granite hills of Nulla Vale, situated halfway between Lancefield and Tooborac. Granite Springs is a working farm running various farm animals and working horses. You are welcome to walk the property and visit the farm animals during your stay(as long as you stay on the outside of paddocks/yards) There are dams and a seasonal creek running through the property, providing many options for campsites and also fishing(catch and release) (Please note creek is seasonal and not suitable for swimming). Dogs permitted but must be well behaved and not chase livestock. Campfires permitted in designated areas when restrictions aren't in place. Drinking water available. We are now processing our own meat so if you are wanting some farm grown produce for your stay or something to take home then please let us know and we will let you know what we have available. We can also cater for groups wanting somewhere to camp with their horses, with use of an arena and roundyard. Please contact us if interested.

Kickback Corral

89%

(9)

36km from Bendigo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

You can expect to see plenty of kangaroos and native birdlife when you visit us at Kickback Corrimal Camping. With great views and a tranquil setting where you can enjoy the serenity of nature. Enjoy a bush walk on the property or take a longer walk to the goldfields town of Castlemaine, where you can stroll around & enjoy this diverse town. The Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park has many scenic walks that reveal mines and other interesting artifacts from our gold mining past. For those looking for more adventure there are plenty cycling and walking tracks to explore within the National park. If you are into Mountain biking there is a trail 15 min away (by car) that leads all the way to Harcourt. We are also within easy reach of the Castlemaine to Maldon Trail which runs parallel to the Victorian Goldfields Tourist Train railway. Campers must have their own camping toilet and take all waste and rubbish with them on departure. Campfires are allowed outside of restrictions. Pets are welcome.

YELLOW FLATS

100%

(7)

58km from Bendigo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

15 acres with seasonal creek thru middle of property bordering state forest with close access to great divide walking track mines and old working in the state forest old water race dug in the 1800 hundreds to bring water to the miner through out the state forest mainly follow by the walking track all the way to Vaughan springs

The Stables On Knox

100%

(17)

77km from Bendigo · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to our family and friends of our first listing - Book A Paddock, and to our new gang with The Stables on Knox. The Stables was a functioning stable, dairy and horse and cart garaging area in the properties heyday many decades ago. The cattle would be walked up a lane, be held in the cobblestone yards you have exclusive use of, be walked into the stalls, where your pizza oven now stands, manually milked, and then turned out to what is now your BBQ area. Its now your next luxe rural getaway. Leave the tent and van behind for this little slice of the good life. Bring your bestie - even your neighbours and your fur baby for a sit back and relax experience. The paddocks to the back of the property are yours to walk to take in the peace and the wildlife. They are abundant with kangaroos and their joeys in the spring so we ask you go quietly and slowly so they can move away slowly. The birdsong is a great way to relax with your book, listening to the sounds of nature.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Alex

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Whip Stick Forest

I only stayed for one night but I had a peaceful time. Enjoyed the outdoor shower and getting to say hello to a few of the dogs! Thanks Chrissy!

The plum tree at the back is another site.

Y

November 2025

Tent

4 nights at Whip Stick Forest

Lovely safe flat mowed grass area with a central communal shed for shade and some trees. A great place for children. The power was great with extra long leads to borrow so you can take advantage of most areas on the property. Taps for drinking water. Nicely tucked away from the roads and private from the house but very convenient with the shops less than 3 KMs away. So nice to be next to the State park too with a private gate so you can explore the old gold mining area very easily. The shower and toilet were clean and a definite bonus. The many friendly dogs, cats and birds would delight children. A lovely spot. Recommended.

Z

Zee

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kyneton Quiet Camp Out

The paddock was open and tidy, easy for big or small setup. Catherine provided easy instructions to access the site. Fencing around the paddock keep the dog in which gave us a peace of mind as my dog has bad recall.

K

Kushal

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Whip Stick Forest

fantastic amazing friendly near bendigo city wow love it

M

Mark

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Top of The Hill

Great camp site easily accessible for caravans/camper trailers. We camped down on the flat area near the dam and loved it. No one in site, good views, not too far from the closest town. Definitely recommend, would come back.

L

Leigh

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Kyneton Quiet Camp Out

Perfect quiet spot to recharge, firewood available for a cost, donate your cans if you can, saw a good amount of kangaroos and birds who also call this place home. Communication with Catherine was great, we felt comfortable before, during and after our stay! Would recommend if you’re looking for somewhere to base or recharge after a visit to the city.

R

Rowmhar

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Whip Stick Forest

We loved tent camping here. Lots of space, hot shower and toilet and cute dogs.

T

Tricia

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

3 nights at Whip Stick Forest

The camp had a lovely outlook but just around the corner from Bendigo. Perfect if you want to see the town and rest quietly at night.

J

Jessica

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sunset Stargazing Private Camp

Lovely private campsite with beautiful views! Really well maintained & great amenities. We enjoyed our stay despite the weather, and will be back again when it’s less windy. The dog enjoyed herself too!

The beautiful night sky, looking through the gum trees

H

Hannah

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Whip Stick Forest

Quiet, plenty of space. Cute site it was a lovely stay. Thank you :)

M

Marcus

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Kyneton Quiet Camp Out

Amazing place for a quick getaway only 1 hr from Melbourne. Brilliant host and a lovely property. Backs onto a nature reserve which is great for walks and the kids loved the little dam to have a splash in!

A

Anoop

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Whip Stick Forest

Chrissy is nice and accomodating. The place had grass and power. Near to city.

Gavin

November 2025

7 m pop-up camper

With kids

4 nights at Top of The Hill

Top of the Hill is an excellent location. Spacious, private, and has lots to explore. Perfect for a couple of families to come stay, spread out, and enjoy sitting around a camp fire together. I highly recommend coming and staying on Chris’ property and hope to come back again in the future!

Carolina

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Lovely Bush Property

Brilliant campsite for a group get-together of people and dogs. Lovely host, lovely spot and overall very well equipped too! Highly recommend and will definitely return. Thanks for everything.

C

Catherine

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Granite Springs

We loved our stay at Granite Springs. From the campsite to the communication - everything was perfect. The site itself was green, protected and very flat for our tents. Tarsha was very quick to reply to my many queries and the directions/check in instructions were very easy to follow. Thanks Tarsha!

P

Pier

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to YELLOW FLATS

This is a beautiful spot to camp - highly recommend. John is an excellent host and went out of his way for us, even taking me and the kids on a little mission to feed his sheep. A weekend to remember - thanks John!

T

Tino

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Whip Stick Forest

We had a great time camping on Chrissy’s property, beautiful large open space, not far from town or nice walks. Thanks!

Kate

November 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Kyneton Quiet Camp Out

Sites are well spread out giving you a sense of bush camping. Lovely area to walk around with my pup and quiet. Catherine was very welcoming talking me through the site, options and ensuring I had what I needed to set up

S

Sallyann

November 2025

1 m pop-up camper

With kids

3 nights at Kyneton Quiet Camp Out

Large private paddock. Great spot to visit hanging rock. Kyneton is a lovely little town.

S

Sunil

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ellesmere Park Farm Stay

Excellent camp site with great vibes, amenities, and plenty of space! Belinda was very welcoming and friendly as well!! Highly recommend

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Bendigo with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Castlemaine

Castlemaine is a small city with an eclectic arts scene, which attracts creatives from around the globe. A thriving food scene is supported by an artisan precinct, home to vintage collectables and vintage markets where makers produce cheeses, small goods, clothing, furniture, art, and more. Campers are welcome at nearby Hipcamps and holiday parks that offer easy access to the town’s fun.

Maldon

Maldon proudly displays its heritage with grand historical architecture from the mid-19th-century gold rush era, a Vintage Machinery Museum, and a steam train ride on the Victorian Goldfields Railway. Shop for local produce, antiques, and handcrafted souvenirs at Maldon Market, then escape town for an overnight stay in the bush or on the Loddon River.

Axedale

Midway between Bendigo and Heathcote, enjoy the BBQ area and shady picnic spots in riverside parklands at Axedale, where you might see the river’s famed platypus. Axedale is a popular stopping point for cyclists or walkers on the O’Keefe Rail Trail, while lunch at the Axedale Tavern, a family-friendly country style pub, is a must do.

When to go

Summer is peak season in Victoria with campsites, caravan parks, and holiday parks best booked far in advance—Christmas and Easter holidays are particularly in demand. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, visit after the Australia Day long weekend in January, which marks the end of the summer school holidays, and before Easter, which is generally when nights start to get cool. Vineyards harvest vines from February to April, making it a good time to book a wine tour around Bendigo.

Know before you go

Free camping sites are dotted throughout the region, many with toilets, fire pits, BBQ areas, and picnic tables.
More than 60 cellar doors and vineyards dot the Bendigo and Heathcote wine region, some offering wine tours and meals.
Castlemaine State Festival is held each April as Australia’s flagship regional arts event, attracting international and local talent over almost three weeks of events.
For travellers driving north toward NSW, Lions Park Rest Area at Huntly is a popular stop on the Midland Highway, while the bushcamp-style Notley Campground is an overnight campsite and parking area managed by Parks Victoria.