The best campgrounds near Lakes Entrance, Victoria with horseback riding

Set near Australia's largest inland network of waterways, Lakes Entrance has long been popular among families and boaters from East Gippsland and beyond. Lakes Entrance is on the doorstep of one of Victoria’s best beaches: the Ninety Mile Beach, a spectacular and unspoiled 90-mile long stretch of sand that separates the Southern Ocean from the Gippsland Lakes. Given this location, boat cruises, fishing, and whale watching are a big focus. But there’s also excellent biking and great seafood cuisine. Lakes Entrance has a wide range of camping grounds, including campsites nestled within lake inlets and along the foreshore of Ninety Mile Beach.

One of Gippsland’s neatest and prettiest towns, Metung attracts a stylish, artistic crowd. Given its location on an inlet, this is the place to go boating and waterskiing. There’s boat and fishing equipment for hire and great places to dine. Legend Rock, an important indigenous site, is accessible along the town boardwalk. A Big4 Caravan Park is the in-town option, but the coastal and wilderness areas have oodles of excellent camping options.Situated on the Snowy River, one of Australia's most important landmarks, sits the pretty Alpine town of Orbost. This is the place to grab a craft beer or a treat (or three) from the many cafes and bakeries before heading off into neighboring national parks, forests and beaches. Campers can stay at Orbost’s own caravan park whose lovely setting is on the banks of the Snowy River. Orbost is a good jumping off point to the nearby township of Marlo, and inland to national parks, such as the Snowy River National Park which offers bush camping and some beautiful hikes.Lakes Entrance and the Gippsland Lakes are enveloped by an array of national parks. Most have wilderness camping options on the coast, in temperate rainforests, and by lakes or river gorges. These include The Snowy River National Park and Mitchell River. The closest is The Lakes National Park, which has bush camping at Emu Bight Camping Area. The World Biosphere Reserve Croajingolong National Park offers basic but lovely campgrounds that are dotted along the many inlets. (These are great for Australian wildlife: Long-nosed Bandicoots, Brush-tailed Possums, and the Yellow-Bellied Glider). Bush and coastal walks, indigenous sites, and boating and fishing are on the adventure menus here.

97% (281) • 9 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lakes Entrance

Grandview Sanctuary

1. Grandview Sanctuary

99%

(172)

42km from Lakes Entrance · 51 sites

Grandview is located on 8 acres in the township of Buchan. The campsites have beautiful mountain views and the property is close to the Buchan River. The property is a great place to base yourself, within walking distance to the Buchan Caves Hotel, Roadhouse, General Store and the world acclaimed Buchan Caves. Take a 1/2 day or full day trip into the mountains and see the mighty Snowy River and Little River Gorge. Buchan is also a 45 minute drive to the ocean and the 90 mile beach. Grandview is one of the original homesteads of Buchan, which we are in the process of lovingly restoring. We have the belief that this place is to be shared. We love where we live and this is our way of sharing the beauty of the Buchan and surrounding valleys.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

AU$49

/ night

Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

2. Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

100%

(71)

47km from Lakes Entrance · 1 site · Tent, RV

The farm backs onto the Mt Alfred State Forest and is close to the beautiful Mitchell River National park. Mt Alfred is a fantastic forest with many great tracks to explore on horse back, mountain bike or on foot. Horses and dogs are welcome. There is plenty of space on a large, grassy flat area for camping and parking. There are paddocks for horses and a guide is available. The farm and surrounding bush is an Owl habitat and the property has an amazing abundance of bird life. It is just 25 minutes from Bairnsdale and the Gippsland lakes where you can explore the beautiful beaches and walking tracks. There are shops available for basic supplies within 10 minutes. We have a fire pit for you to light a campfire. There is a drop toilet and shower. Please take all rubbish with you on departure.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$55

/ night

SIBA Retreat Centre

3. SIBA Retreat Centre

99%

(76)

63km from Lakes Entrance · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

SIBA Retreat Centre is a beautiful and friendly Buddhist retreat centre in the Snowy River country of East Gippsland, Victoria. Formerly ONTOS, it was founded by Lama Choedak Rinpoche and formally opened and consecrated by His Eminence Chogye Trichen Rinpoche in 2006. During this time His Eminence gave the centre the dharma name 'Tsarchen Choeling'. SIBA has all the conditions for the perfect retreat. Simply being at SIBA calms the senses and heals the mind. SIBA is a welcoming and peaceful refuge and its unique atmosphere is well known to visitors.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$31

/ night

Pete's Paradise

4. Pete's Paradise

92%

(24)

79km from Lakes Entrance · 1 site · Tent, RV

We are a working farm with cattle. The property features dense forest, sparse forest and open paddocks. The farm has calves which are hand fed, lots of birdlife, a dam for canoeing, and a pontoon on the dam for sunbaking. Our property is located close to Mt Baw Baw, 1.5 hours from Mt Hotham, and 40 mins to beach. Sit around the campfire in the evenings and enjoy a little star gazing. This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower. There is access to a drinking water supply. There is a shelter with a basic kitchen including an oven, cooktop burner and a dishwashing station. The kitchen has a pot belly fireplace to keep warm. We ask that you leave no trace and take all rubbish and belongings with you. During wet weather our paddocks do get a bit boggy so please send me a message to discuss, if you're unsure about your vehicle. We're located close to the snowies for all your mountain and snow adventures. Mountain bike riding and National Parks nearby, enjoy a quiet weekend or as busy as you like. Well behaved pets welcome.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

from

AU$25

/ night

Set near Australia's largest inland network of waterways, Lakes Entrance has long been popular among families and boaters from East Gippsland and beyond. Lakes Entrance is on the doorstep of one of Victoria’s best beaches: the Ninety Mile Beach, a spectacular and unspoiled 90-mile long stretch of sand that separates the Southern Ocean from the Gippsland Lakes. Given this location, boat cruises, fishing, and whale watching are a big focus. But there’s also excellent biking and great seafood cuisine. Lakes Entrance has a wide range of camping grounds, including campsites nestled within lake inlets and along the foreshore of Ninety Mile Beach.

One of Gippsland’s neatest and prettiest towns, Metung attracts a stylish, artistic crowd. Given its location on an inlet, this is the place to go boating and waterskiing. There’s boat and fishing equipment for hire and great places to dine. Legend Rock, an important indigenous site, is accessible along the town boardwalk. A Big4 Caravan Park is the in-town option, but the coastal and wilderness areas have oodles of excellent camping options.Situated on the Snowy River, one of Australia's most important landmarks, sits the pretty Alpine town of Orbost. This is the place to grab a craft beer or a treat (or three) from the many cafes and bakeries before heading off into neighboring national parks, forests and beaches. Campers can stay at Orbost’s own caravan park whose lovely setting is on the banks of the Snowy River. Orbost is a good jumping off point to the nearby township of Marlo, and inland to national parks, such as the Snowy River National Park which offers bush camping and some beautiful hikes.Lakes Entrance and the Gippsland Lakes are enveloped by an array of national parks. Most have wilderness camping options on the coast, in temperate rainforests, and by lakes or river gorges. These include The Snowy River National Park and Mitchell River. The closest is The Lakes National Park, which has bush camping at Emu Bight Camping Area. The World Biosphere Reserve Croajingolong National Park offers basic but lovely campgrounds that are dotted along the many inlets. (These are great for Australian wildlife: Long-nosed Bandicoots, Brush-tailed Possums, and the Yellow-Bellied Glider). Bush and coastal walks, indigenous sites, and boating and fishing are on the adventure menus here.

97% (281) • 9 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lakes Entrance

Grandview Sanctuary

1. Grandview Sanctuary

99%

(172)

42km from Lakes Entrance · 51 sites

Grandview is located on 8 acres in the township of Buchan. The campsites have beautiful mountain views and the property is close to the Buchan River. The property is a great place to base yourself, within walking distance to the Buchan Caves Hotel, Roadhouse, General Store and the world acclaimed Buchan Caves. Take a 1/2 day or full day trip into the mountains and see the mighty Snowy River and Little River Gorge. Buchan is also a 45 minute drive to the ocean and the 90 mile beach. Grandview is one of the original homesteads of Buchan, which we are in the process of lovingly restoring. We have the belief that this place is to be shared. We love where we live and this is our way of sharing the beauty of the Buchan and surrounding valleys.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

AU$49

/ night

Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

2. Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

100%

(71)

47km from Lakes Entrance · 1 site · Tent, RV

The farm backs onto the Mt Alfred State Forest and is close to the beautiful Mitchell River National park. Mt Alfred is a fantastic forest with many great tracks to explore on horse back, mountain bike or on foot. Horses and dogs are welcome. There is plenty of space on a large, grassy flat area for camping and parking. There are paddocks for horses and a guide is available. The farm and surrounding bush is an Owl habitat and the property has an amazing abundance of bird life. It is just 25 minutes from Bairnsdale and the Gippsland lakes where you can explore the beautiful beaches and walking tracks. There are shops available for basic supplies within 10 minutes. We have a fire pit for you to light a campfire. There is a drop toilet and shower. Please take all rubbish with you on departure.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$55

/ night

SIBA Retreat Centre

3. SIBA Retreat Centre

99%

(76)

63km from Lakes Entrance · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

SIBA Retreat Centre is a beautiful and friendly Buddhist retreat centre in the Snowy River country of East Gippsland, Victoria. Formerly ONTOS, it was founded by Lama Choedak Rinpoche and formally opened and consecrated by His Eminence Chogye Trichen Rinpoche in 2006. During this time His Eminence gave the centre the dharma name 'Tsarchen Choeling'. SIBA has all the conditions for the perfect retreat. Simply being at SIBA calms the senses and heals the mind. SIBA is a welcoming and peaceful refuge and its unique atmosphere is well known to visitors.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

AU$31

/ night

Pete's Paradise

4. Pete's Paradise

92%

(24)

79km from Lakes Entrance · 1 site · Tent, RV

We are a working farm with cattle. The property features dense forest, sparse forest and open paddocks. The farm has calves which are hand fed, lots of birdlife, a dam for canoeing, and a pontoon on the dam for sunbaking. Our property is located close to Mt Baw Baw, 1.5 hours from Mt Hotham, and 40 mins to beach. Sit around the campfire in the evenings and enjoy a little star gazing. This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower. There is access to a drinking water supply. There is a shelter with a basic kitchen including an oven, cooktop burner and a dishwashing station. The kitchen has a pot belly fireplace to keep warm. We ask that you leave no trace and take all rubbish and belongings with you. During wet weather our paddocks do get a bit boggy so please send me a message to discuss, if you're unsure about your vehicle. We're located close to the snowies for all your mountain and snow adventures. Mountain bike riding and National Parks nearby, enjoy a quiet weekend or as busy as you like. Well behaved pets welcome.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

from

AU$25

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Madison

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

1 night at SIBA Retreat Centre

This lovely retreat centre exceeded all of our expectations. The host George was friendly and accommodating, the kitchen and dining areas were incredibly well stocked and spacious, not to mention beautifully designed. And to top it all off there was an abundance of wildlife within the camp that made our stay so memorable. Thank you so much George!

S

Stephanie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

A truly memorable stay. Thank you Tony and Sarah for a wonderful time, I enjoyed every minute of it. Very comfortable stay with all the amenities. Beautiful sunsets from the spot See you next time :)

B

Belinda

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

3 nights at Grandview Sanctuary

Friendly owners our 3rd time staying there for Buchan races. Close to everything in town

D

Dean

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Grandview Sanctuary

Great spot close to everything Great grassy area

We parked right here and this was our vista. We woke up to the view of cows. We just angled our car beside our van to give us privacy from the main house.

M

Megan

3 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Grandview Sanctuary

Clear instructions to find their property. The property was very well looked after. The grass was freshly mown and so lovely and green. The outlook into the rolling hills was stunning. The property was right next to town and the Buchan caves which suited us perfectly. Highly recommended.

Peaceful rural outlook, freshly mowed grass and just a short stroll to town.

T

Toni

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grandview Sanctuary

We loved camping at Grandview Sanctuary. Peaceful, scenic and just a short stroll to public toilets, hotel and Buchan Caves. Hosts Paul and Kirstie were wonderful, sending directions before we arrived and responding to queries. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting a pet friendly camp site at Buchan.

Jacob

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

Fantastic spot! Amenities aplenty, with a very kind and knowledgeable host. So many cute sheep, horses, dogs, and birds everywhere. We’ll definitely be back for another amazing camping experience.

C

Caroline

January 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pete's Paradise

Great spot! Pete is a wonderful host. Would definitely stay here again!

Tama

January 2026

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

A beautiful, peaceful place to camp. The host is friendly and helpful. Plenty of trails right next to the camping site. Highly recommend.

m

megan

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

Despite arriving on a cold, wet evening, Tony was a warm and welcomed sight on arrival! He went above and beyond to ensure our stay was perfect! The running water and shelter was a perfect escape for the rain! And wow! The hot shower was such a special treat! Lots of animals to see right on our doorstep- the perfect stay, really!

N

Nannan

January 2026

8 m Class A

With pets

1 night at Grandview Sanctuary

Amazing spot with beautiful views of farm and hills. Highly recommend it!

B

Belle

January 2026

Tent

2 nights at Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

We loved staying here! Tony was welcoming and gave us recommendations on local spots to visit but also gave us privacy during the stay. Beautiful farm with animals around. Hot water shower and isolated drop toilet which doesn’t smell. Gravel road leading up to the property but all flat land, we were able to drive our 2wd onto the campsite. Outdoor sink with drinkable water under a sheltered area. Will definitely be back!

x

xudong

January 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to SIBA Retreat Centre

Great place to stay and very comfortable. Would recommend for sure.

D

DANIEL

January 2026

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

Thank you Tony and Sarah for a great week. Our kids enjoyed everything associated with the farm, horses, sheep and your friendlyness. We will definiltely visit again.

C

Cassie h

January 2026

7 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Grandview Sanctuary

This camp is amazing! The walk to town or even the caves is so short. The site is nice and secluded with beautiful views. We will absolutely be back xx

L

Lauren

January 2026

10 m pop-up camper

With kids

2 nights at Grandview Sanctuary

What a magical spot! Grandview Sanctuary was so well maintained and tidy with an incredible view at any time of day or night. Great location with a playground and public toilet at the end of the driveway. Plenty of things to do in Buchan and the surrounding areas - the cave tour was great! This place is a hidden gem and worth the stop in for a reset and escape.

A

Adam

January 2026

Tent

1 night at Pete's Paradise

Everything was fine. You have to bring drinking water. Adam

Caz

January 2026

10 m pop-up camper

With pets

6 nights at Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

Absolutely loved our stay at Tony's Mt Alfred property. Tony was friendly, helpful and great communication. Highly recommend a stay here. Telstra and Optus reception. Drop toilet, shower, camp kitchen with the use of a BBQ. Dogs enjoyed it and being able to be off leash in the fully fenced area was fantastic. Thanks again Tony, we will definitely be back.

J

Jemima

December 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pete's Paradise

Thanks for hosting us, Pete! It was a road off the beaten track, but instructions on finding the campsite were easy to follow. The paddock is mostly trees, with ideal camp sites adjacent to the entrance or the far side of the paddock. There’s an unused shack at the end with tank water (possibly with tannins or rust), the shack door was wide open and the shack is covered with a light dusting. Looks to be unused for quite some time, with a shed/car port, and a caravan parked in the driveway paddock beyond. We woke to cows mooing and birdsong. There’s a firepit with cooktop and a wooden picnic table, a trampoline and two tonka tip trucks on site. Our kids loved this part of the adventure and we’d come back again.

J

Jörg

December 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

A wonderful stay with a wonderful host. Tony even helped with a car issue we had and accommodated us until it was fixed. Great tips for local trips near by. Thanks Tony!!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Lakes Entrance with horseback riding guide

When to go

Summer months bring excellent fishing, but it also brings bushfires. Summer holidays (end of December and January) are busy so be sure to reserve ahead.

Know before you go

It’s best to have your own transport to explore this region. Although East Gippsland appears as a small area on the Victorian map, be aware that distances are still large.
Bairnsdale, the region’s main hub, is a good place to stock up on supplies for camping.
Wildlife is prolific: bring binoculars, insect repellant and covered shoes, even if you’re sticking to the coast.
Heed all bushfire warnings; only one main arterial road serves this area and it’s surrounded by bush.