Description

The Deptford Picnic Area is located in the area that once was a small gold mining village situated on the Nicholson River. It is 34km north of Bairnsdale and approximately 300km east of Melbourne. There are opportunities for both day visitors and campers, with good access to the Nicholson River, plenty of spots for a picnic and a pleasant walk that meanders through the surrounding bush incorporating some of the local history along the way. This walk includes the site of the township cemetery, Bakers Oven and Houghtons Diversion Tunnel. All camping sites must be at least 20 metres from waterways. Picnic facilities, car parking and public toilets are available at the Deptford picnic area. There is four-wheel drive access to the Deptford Picnic Area via the Deptford Road. The Deptford Road turns off to the left of the Great Alpine Road, approximately 7.7km from the Bairnsdale Post Office on the way to Bruthen. Follow the Deptford Road for 11.7km (passing through the Clifton Creek locality) to the State forest boundary. Continue into the State forest along the winding gravel road for another 14.3km. The main camping area is located on the other side of the Nicholson River and access by vehicles involves a potentially deep river crossing. The Deptford Picnic Area can also be accessed with two-wheel drives off the Great Alpine Road. Travel north along the Great Alpine Road from Bruthen for 2.7km and turn left onto Engineers Road. Follow Engineers Road for approximately 20.5km. The Deptford Road turns off Engineers Road to the left. Follow Deptford Road for approximately 4.8km to reach the main camping areas. There is no rubbish collection service, so please take your rubbish home. If you have the misfortune to come across other peoples rubbish, do the bush a favour and take it out with you too. Dogs must be under direct control at all times and are expected to be on a leash in picnic and camping areas or when near other visitors. Take care with