There's not much to get down about when camping at Riverwood Downs. Quite the opposite.
Naturally beautiful
So much so, that as soon as your tyres make that 'I'm on holidays' turn off the Bucketts Way onto the Monkerai dirt road - they should have a big burly bucket on the corner - awaiting all of the balls you've been (quietly but proficiently) juggling. No need for those here.
Riverwood Downs
After you've fast bowled those in, continue along through the persuasively pacifying countryside. Don't be alarmed if you happen upon an ever-so-quiet mumble or moan - it'll just be your lungs (or a cow), appreciatively saying "thanks" for the bountiful breaths of affluent air (when another car isn't passing that is, which, of course, is cause for windows up).
Persuasively pacifying countryside
Stunning
With the lungs all sorted and your psyche spoilt for chirping choice (nature/bird lovers would love it here), it's almost time for a no-nonsense check-in and to set up camp.
Check-in
Even setting up camp seems effortless here. The dogs even appear serene and unperturbed (and that's after being in the car for over an hour). Not that they snigger at the chance to go on a flat and friendly 'walkie' up to the fresh water, platypus occupied river. A pup's pure delight. Ours too.
A shady riverside campsite is a must for us
Mr platypus hospitably obliges and permits us to share and whet our appetites for a rejuvenating family swim.
The river - home to Mr platypus
The wheedling willow soon whispers an invitation to her grassy green embankment for an almost snooze (also the ideal spot for some picnic scones).
Grassy green embankment on the river
A warm and welcome shower eventually ensues in the spacious and clean, well-kept amenities block before an easy-cheat 'not cooking tonight' chicken burger dinner is conveniently bought from the on-site café. Perfectly prepped - mentally and physically - all one could longingly lust after now is a billy boiled cuppa, a good stick to aid in the scorching of a 'mellow (or 7), a game of constellation observation and/or possum glimpsing and some simple, uncomplicated snuggly fire stoking.
Family time
The most important time
The very best spent time of all.
Two nights camping fees per unpowered site for up to 2 people (riverside) = $80 (add an extra $5 p/night per dog). Enquire about childrens' rates, midweek deals, high season/long weekend rates and other conditions.
P.s be sure to split enough wood, marshmallows really are addictive. (Bags of wood can be purchased from the friendly staff at the kiosk for $12.50 per bag).
