Vaughan
EducationalToiletsPicnic tablesBBQShadeWalking trackSwimmingBirdwatchingCyclingClimbing spot for kidsFree campingPicnic blanket spotUndercover area
Greville street, Vaughan VIC 3451
Updated 2026
One of the most popular free camping areas near Castlemaine, with swimming, BBQ facilities, and easy access for caravans.
Cost: Free camping
Location: 15 minutes from Castlemaine, 25 minutes from Daylesford
Facilities: Toilets, BBQs, picnic areas
Camping: Upper Terrace Campground (no bookings)
Best for: Families, swimming, easy-access camping
Dogs allowed: Dogs are not permitted, according to Parks Victoria's website
Spend an afternoon of relaxation at the beautiful Vaughan Springs, a scenic destination for swimming, bushwalking and picnics.
Sample the mineral water and stroll along the Loddon River, all to the peaceful sound of birds singing in the trees.
The scenic park features several free electric barbecues, picnic tables, a gazebo, a giant slide, mineral spring taps, swimming spots, scenic walks, toilets, and educational signs.
There's also a few great trees for kids to climb, and a miniature railway track (not in operation).
One of the most popular free camping spots near Castlemaine, with swimming areas, BBQ facilities, and plenty of space for caravans.
Formerly a large gold rush town called "The Junction", Vaughan Springs was once a favoured alluvial gold and market gardening area for Chinese miners.
Be sure to check out the historic Vaughan Chinese Cemetery, which is located alongside the entrance to Vaughan Springs.
Camping: Free camping available at Upper Terrace Campground
Day trip: Picnic areas, BBQs, swimming, and the famous giant slide!
Walking: Access to the Goldfields Track and nearby mineral springs
Children will have a great time playing on the giant slide!
There is a sturdy wooden stair case to reach the slide as well as tyres to climb up the hill beside it.
Please note that the slide is made of metal and can be very hot in summer, so if visiting in the hotter months be sure to bring a small blanket to sit on while sliding.
The creek is excellent for swimming and there's a concreted area with a paddle pool (subject to season/water levels).
Free camping is available at the Upper Terrace Campground, which is a short walk up the hill from the day visitor area. No booking is required, there is no charge, and caravans can access the campground easily.
Free camping at the Smythesdale Gardens camping area near Ballarat
There are several walks you can take from the day visitor area. One short walk will bring you out high up on a rocky ledge, with spectacular views of the creek below - tread carefully and take care if you are afraid of heights!
Central Springs are a 1km (30 min) walk.
Glenluce Springs are a 3km (1.5 hrs) walk.
The incredible Goldfields Track is accessible by walkers and cyclists from the front gate, and walkers only from the day visit area. Destinations are:
Also of interest are the gorgeous waterfalls throughout the Victorian Goldfields!
BBQ
