Newbridge Recreation Reserve

Newbridge Recreation Reserve is a welcoming community space and low-cost campground situated on the banks of the Loddon River in the small town of Newbridge, Victoria. It serves as a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed riverside experience and a convenient base for exploring the Loddon Valley.

Description: The reserve is a multi-purpose area featuring sporting grounds used for football, netball, cricket, and tennis. It offers a large, open camping area primarily on a dirt surface with ample trees providing shade. The camping area is located close to the Loddon River, offering river frontage camping in some sections. Its spaciousness makes it suitable for big rigs. The reserve is managed by a volunteer Committee of Management. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash.

Camping fees and tokens for hot showers are payable at the Newbridge General Store and the Newbridge Hotel.

Facilities: The reserve provides a good range of facilities for campers:

• Toilets (new public toilets, including disabled access)
• Hot showers (token operated)
• Disabled toilet and shower
• Water (note: may not be suitable for drinking, it's advisable to bring your own drinking water)
• Rubbish bins
• Designated fire pits (allows fires when no restrictions are in place)
• Undercover children's playground
• Free electric BBQ
• Netball courts
• Tennis courts
• Football/cricket oval
• Function room available for hire
• Dump point

The presence of trees offers shade, but campers should be aware of potential falling branches. The area can become muddy in wet weather. Good mobile phone and television reception are generally available.

Distance to Tourist Spots Nearby: Newbridge Recreation Reserve is located in the heart of the Loddon Valley, offering access to nearby towns, natural attractions, and historical sites.

• Newbridge Town: The reserve is located within walking distance of the Newbridge General Store and the Newbridge Hotel, providing basic supplies and dining options. Explore local points of interest such as the Arthur Bayley Commemorative Sign, Loddon River Park and Walking Track, Newbridge Loddon River Picnic Area, and the Newbridge War Memorial.
• Loddon River: The reserve is situated on the banks of the Loddon River, providing direct access for fishing, swimming, canoeing, and picnicking.
• Bridgewater on Loddon: Located a short drive north of Newbridge (approximately 10-15 km), Bridgewater is another town on the Loddon River known for its picturesque setting and the historic Bridgewater Hotel.
• Inglewood: Situated north-west of Newbridge (approximately 30-40 km), Inglewood is a charming town with a rich gold-rush history, known for its eucalyptus distillery museum and antique shops.
• Tarnagulla: A historic goldfields town located south of Newbridge (approximately 15-20 km), offering a glimpse into the past with its old buildings and mining relics.
• Dunolly: Located west of Newbridge (approximately 30-40 km), Dunolly is another town with a strong goldfields heritage and nearby state forests.
• Bendigo: A major regional city approximately a 30-40 minute drive east of Newbridge (around 35-45 km). Bendigo offers a wide range of cultural attractions, including the Bendigo Art Gallery, historical sites from the gold rush era, shopping, and dining.
• Kooyoora State Park: Located north-west of Newbridge (distance varies), this park offers opportunities for bushwalking, rock climbing, and exploring fascinating rock formations and native vegetation.

Newbridge Recreation Reserve provides an affordable and well-equipped camping option with the added bonus of a riverside location and easy access to the historical towns and natural attractions of the Loddon Valley and the wider Goldfields region.