James Reserve – Strathboggie State Forest (FC)

James Camping Reserve, Lima East, is situated in the north-east region of Victoria in the Strathbogie Ranges. The campsite is on the banks of the Moonee Moonee Creek (otherwise known as Black Charlie Creek) in the State Forest only 36.5km from Benalla.

This campsite is on the way to the Crystal Mines and Tallongalook Track (south of the campsite) which are popular tourist destinations in the area. Lima East offers various recreational opportunities in the surrounding forest including trout fishing, walking, and 4WD touring. There are many tracks that can be used, and the river is only 50m from the camping area. An information board at the campsite provides details of many other interesting spots in the area.

SITE ACCESS
Take the Midland Highway from Benalla past Reef Hills Park towards Swanpool, for 24km. Go through the shops at Swanpool, and turn right past the recreation reserve following the sign to Lima East. Turn left 1.4km on down the Lima East Road. After 7.4km this turns into gravel road. James’ campsite is a further 5km on. The continuation of this road leads to a turn-off to Barjarg.

FEES
Fees are not charged and booking is not necessary, camping is on a first-come first-served basis and no bookings are required, but early arrival may be advisable during peak periods.

FACILITIES
There are toilet facilities here. Fresh water can be obtained from the creek nearby and we suggest you boil any water for drinking.
If there are no facilities for rubbish collection please take rubbish with you when you leave and ensure the area is clean for future campers.

THINGS TO DO
Trail bike riding and touring by 4WD is popular here and there are many tracks to follow. It is also an area used for Horse Riding.

RULES:
Only camp in an existing campsite rather than create a new one and camp at least 20 meters from any stream, lake or reservoir.
Do not dig trenches around tents.
Take your rubbish home. Do not bury or dump litter in the forest.
Where drop toilets are provided, please use them for their intended purposes. Do NOT use these toilets to empty chemical waste from cassette toilets or for the disposal of general waste.
Campfires are permitted, provided the following guidelines are observed:
The fire is in a fireplace or trench 30 cm deep. Please use existing fireplaces rather than create your own.
The fire is not more than 1 square metre and 3 metres around the fire is cleared.
The fire is not left unattended and is put out before you leave.
Collect only fallen wood for fires _ Cutting down trees or damaging standing vegetation is not permitted.
Fires of all types, including portable gas and liquid fuel stoves, are prohibited on days of TOTAL FIRE BAN
It is your responsibility to know if a TOTAL FIRE BAN is declared.
For up to date information about Fire Bans refer to www.emergency.vic.gov.au
Be aware of your and your vehicle’s limitations. Most of our forest roads are dirt roads, many are four-wheel drive only (particularly after rain!) and are typically narrower than urban roads so always keep to the left.
With the exception of Murrindindi Scenic Reserve (east of Buxton) and Steavenson Falls Reserve (near Marysville), you may bring your dog into Victorian state forests, provided they are under your control at all times.

For more detailed information please visit the DELWP website via the link below.

FRC are still in the process of obtaining more information about this site and it will be updated as it comes to hand.

Data courtesy of: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning
Updated: 041217GR