Glenlyon Recreation Reserve
Glenlyon Recreation Reserve offers a picturesque camping experience set alongside the Loddon River in the charming area of Glenlyon, Victoria. Known for its tranquil riverside setting and the presence of the Glenlyon Mineral Spring, the reserve provides a relaxing spot for visitors. It caters to those with motorhomes, campervans, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs, and is also a dog-friendly location (with dogs required to be on a leash). Camping is available by donation, with contributions helping to maintain the reserve's facilities. There is typically a maximum stay limit of 72 hours (3 nights). Please note that camping may not be permitted during large events held at the reserve.
Facilities:
Glenlyon Recreation Reserve provides a range of facilities for both campers and day visitors:
- Camping Area: Designated areas within the reserve are available for camping (excluding the playground and horse areas). Suitable for various vehicle types.
- Toilets: Public toilet facilities are available within the recreation reserve.
- Drinking Water: Drinking water is available.
- BBQ Facilities: Both wood fire barbecues (check condition) and free electric barbecues (located near the mineral spring area) are available.
- Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables are scattered throughout the reserve.
- Sheltered Areas: Covered picnic shelters are available, particularly near the mineral spring.
- Playground: A fenced and shaded playground is on-site.
- Glenlyon Mineral Spring: Located within the reserve, offering the chance to taste the mineral water.
- Sports Areas: Grassed sports areas and a sports pavilion are part of the reserve, including a synthetic cricket wicket and cricket training net.
- Walking/Running Paths: Shared trails and paths are available for walking and running, including a footbridge crossing the Loddon River that connects to the Biolink Walk.
- Dog Friendly: Dogs are allowed within the reserve but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Other: The reserve also features equestrian facilities (cross-country course, arena, horse yards) and a wood chopping area. Fires are generally not permitted in the camping area.
Distance to Tourist Spots Nearby:
Glenlyon is located in the heart of the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region, famous for its natural springs, wellness retreats, and charming country towns. The recreation reserve is a short drive from several popular tourist destinations.
- Very Close (within 10 km):
- Glenlyon Mineral Spring: Located within the reserve itself.
- Glenlyon General Store: A local point of interest, often housing a cafe (approx. 2 minutes drive).
- Daylesford: Approximately 10 km from Glenlyon, a renowned spa town with mineral springs, bathhouses, the Convent Gallery, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, and a vibrant town centre with shops and restaurants.
- Hepburn Springs: Located very close to Daylesford (approx. 9-10 km from Glenlyon), also famous for its mineral springs and the historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.
- Within a Moderate Drive (15-40 km):
- Mount Franklin Reserve: Features a dormant volcano with walking tracks and a picnic area.
- Trentham Falls: A spectacular waterfall located near the town of Trentham.
- Wombat State Forest: Surrounds the Glenlyon area, offering opportunities for bushwalking, picnicking, and exploring nature trails.
- Castlemaine: A historic goldfields town with museums, galleries, and heritage architecture, located a moderate drive to the north.
- Mt Franklin Estate: A winery in Franklinford, a nearby locality.
- Sailors Falls: Another natural attraction with a waterfall located near Daylesford.
- Further Afield (requires a longer drive):
- Kyneton: A historic town with notable bluestone architecture and botanic gardens.
- Ballarat: A major regional city to the southwest (approx. 70-80 km), home to Sovereign Hill and other significant attractions.
- Macedon Ranges: The wider region offers numerous natural attractions, wineries, and charming towns.
Glenlyon Recreation Reserve offers a peaceful, donation-based camping experience in a lovely riverside setting with a range of facilities for recreation. Its prime location provides easy access to the popular spa towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, as well as the natural beauty of the surrounding forests and volcanic landscapes. Visitors should be aware that camping is by donation, has a time limit, and powered sites are not available.