Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve

Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve, Victoria

Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve is a spacious and picturesque camping area situated on the banks of Nariel Creek in the Nariel Valley, Victoria. Located approximately 12 kilometres south of Corryong along the Benambra-Corryong Road, it's known for its natural beauty and as the home of the annual Nariel Creek Folk Festival.

This large reserve offers a beautiful, rustic camping experience with many shaded sites along the creek. It's a popular spot for those seeking a tranquil outdoor setting and is accessible to various vehicle types, including big rigs. The reserve is managed and maintained primarily by volunteers. It's particularly busy during the Nariel Creek Folk Festival period (Boxing Day to January 2nd), when normal camping is suspended and specific festival entry fees apply. At other times, it provides a more relaxed camping environment. Dogs are permitted in designated areas and must be kept on a lead.

During the Nariel Creek Folk Festival (Boxing Day to January 2nd), normal camping is suspended, and entry for the festival is $40 per person for the 7 days, which includes camping.

No specific pricing for powered sites was found, suggesting they are generally not available at this reserve for public camping outside of potentially specific event arrangements.

Facilities: The reserve provides basic facilities for campers:

• Drop toilets (pit toilets)
• Water (noted as non-drinking water in at least one source, so bringing your own drinking water is advisable)
• Designated fire pits (fires permitted in these areas, subject to fire bans)
• Bins (visitors are encouraged to take all rubbish with them)
• Picnic area
• Communal fire pit area (mentioned as maintained by volunteers)
• Horse yards may be available (not explicitly listed as a general camping facility, but the region is horse-friendly).
• Mobile phone reception may be limited or non-existent in some areas of the reserve.

Distance to Tourist Spots Nearby: Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve is located in the stunning Upper Murray region, offering access to a range of natural attractions and the nearby town of Corryong.

• Nariel Creek: The reserve is located directly on the banks of Nariel Creek, providing opportunities for swimming in shaded spots and fishing (known for trout fishing).
• Stacey's Bridge Reserve: Another camping spot further south along the Benambra-Corryong Road (46 km south of Corryong), offering a quiet creekside setting for camping, swimming, and fishing.
• Corryong: Located approximately 12 kilometres north-east of the reserve. Corryong is the main town in the Upper Murray and offers amenities, shops, cafes, and attractions related to "The Man from Snowy River" legend, including:
  • The Man from Snowy River Museum
  • Jack Riley's grave
  • The Man from Snowy River Bush Festival (held annually in April)
• Cudgewa Bluff Falls: A natural attraction located within a reasonable driving distance from Nariel Creek.
• Nearby Reserves and State Parks: The Upper Murray region is home to various reserves and state parks offering opportunities for bushwalking, exploring, and enjoying the natural landscape. These include Burrowa-Pine Mountain National Park and Mount Mitta Mitta (Mittamatite) Regional Park, with distances varying depending on the specific access points.
• The Great River Road: Nariel Creek is located near this scenic driving route that follows the Murray River.
• High Country Tracks: The surrounding bush environment and tracks offer opportunities for 4WD adventures and motorbike riding, with access to माउंट Pinnibar and Mount Gibbo from the Nariel area.

Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve offers a back-to-basics camping experience in a beautiful natural setting, ideal for those who enjoy creek-based activities and exploring the rugged beauty of the Upper Murray, with the convenience of being a short drive from the town of Corryong.