Oxley Recreation Reserve
The Oxley Recreation Reserve, located at 300-312 Oxley-Meadow Creek Road, Oxley VIC 3678, is a unique and expansive reserve situated in Victoria's picturesque High Country. Covering 47 hectares, the reserve features a blend of bushland and cleared areas and boasts frontage to the King River. It serves as a significant recreational hub, particularly well-regarded for its equestrian facilities, while also offering camping for visitors. Historically, it has been a popular spot for large gatherings and continues to be used for various recreational pursuits.
Facilities:
The Oxley Recreation Reserve provides a wide array of facilities, catering especially to those with horses, but also suitable for general campers and visitors:
- Camping Sites: Both powered and unpowered sites are available across the reserve's usable areas.
- Hot Showers: Available for campers.
- Toilets: Several toilet blocks are on site, including disabled toilet facilities.
- Dump Point: A caravan dump point is provided.
- Playground: A fully fenced playground is available for children.
- Equestrian Facilities: This is a key feature of the reserve, including:
- A large multipurpose sand arena (100m x 70m).
- A full cross-country course catering to various skill levels.
- A full-size oval.
- 36 steel horse yards.
- A four-bay horse wash area.
- Casual horse riding areas (a fee applies for casual riding).
- Tennis Court: A tennis court with a rebound wall is available.
- Pavilion with Kitchen: A pavilion with a large kitchen can be hired for events.
- King River Access: The reserve provides access to the King River for swimming and other river-based activities.
- BBQ Facilities: Barbecue facilities are available.
- Lawn/Gardens: The reserve features well-maintained grassed areas and some garden spaces.
- Car Park: Ample parking is available.
- Family Friendly: The reserve is suitable for families.
- Pets: Pets are permitted at the reserve.
It's worth noting that the lower areas of the reserve are on a flood plain, and access may be restricted depending on weather and river conditions.
Distance to Tourist Spots Nearby:
Oxley is located in a renowned gourmet and wine region, offering numerous attractions within a short drive.
- Oxley Township: The small township of Oxley is approximately 3-4 km from the Recreation Reserve, offering local cafes and businesses.
- Milawa: Famous for its gourmet produce and wineries (including Brown Brothers), Milawa is about 6-8 km from the reserve, a drive of less than 10 minutes.
- Wangaratta: A larger regional centre with a wider range of services, shopping, and attractions, Wangaratta is approximately 15-20 km from Oxley, a drive of around 15-20 minutes.
- King Valley Wineries: The Oxley area is part of the broader King Valley wine region, known for its Italian varietals. Numerous wineries are scattered throughout the King Valley, with several located within a 10-30 minute drive from the reserve (e.g., Sam Miranda Wines, John Gehrig Wines, Ciavarella Oxley Estate Wines).
- Murray to Mountains Rail Trail: This popular cycling and walking trail runs near Oxley (along the Snow Road) and provides dedicated paths to nearby towns like Milawa and onto Wangaratta and beyond. Access points are within a few kilometres of the reserve.
- Stan Allan Reserve: Situated by the King River at the western entrance to Oxley, this reserve is about 3-4 km away and offers picnic areas and river access.
The Oxley Recreation Reserve provides a well-equipped and affordable camping option with excellent equestrian facilities, ideally located for exploring the wineries, gourmet food producers, and natural beauty of the Oxley and King Valley region.