December 9 on, 2019
First Stop – Shooters Hill Kiln
Leaving The Lea mid morning we travelled only about 45km into the Derwent Valley and through New Norfolk to a new campsite on a farming property opposite the River. Shooters Hill Kiln was originally built for drying hops but has also been used for tobacco during it’s life. Believed to have been built in the early 1900s it still stands in remarkably good condition but will be in need of some attention if it’s to remain.
The landowner has recently opened up the area around the kiln for camping and has a caretaker on site at present to try and get it established as a donation camp. New Norfolk recently closed it’s only free camp so there is nothing else low cost immediately nearby; Hamilton, our next destination, is a further 30km to the West
Unfortunately the location was subsequently closed down by Council due to traffic issues.
Second Stop – Hamilton RV Stop
Driving a further 30km brings you to the historic but small town of Hamilton. A riverside RV stop is provided by the Council for $5/night payable at a honesty box adjacent to the toilets which are opposite the campground; there are also con op showers here. There is also a Dump Point near the toilets and drinking water taps in the campground where you can fill your tanks when arriving or leaving, bins are also provided.
Adjacent to the campground is a walking trial along the Clyde River past where the old mill race used to be located when grain was being milled in the district.The main road is lined with historic buildings and the bakery is currently still in operation as a Cafe (where we had homemade pies for lunch) although it apparently has been closed at one point and is currently for sale again.
