The best ranch campgrounds near Lakes Entrance, Victoria

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Lakes Entrance

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Lakes Entrance

1. Coos & Ewes

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(14)

25km from Lakes Entrance · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Great Gippsland lake views Plenty space Many animals Highlands, Donkeys, peacocks, Valise black nose sheep encounters and plenty more Shower and toilet facilities Close to Nicholsin River boat ramp Bike walking trail

2. Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

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(59)

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.

3. Grassvale Farm Retreat EST. 1900

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(27)

51km from Lakes Entrance · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

We border the Mitchell river with the farm so there are about 1 km of secluded banks to sit or swim from if you want to just stay put. For those wanting pure relaxation, meditation, and soul grounding. We can personally show you some tremendous places on the farm to go within. Pure solace is something that many take for granted. Use our pyramid to draw in Quantum/etheric energy, go to the top of our crystal hill and feel the energies. There is so much to be thankful for when you can release in these spaces. Alternatively sit amongst the cows and feel their energy surround you as their curious nature brings them in closer and closer until they relax around you. Alternatively if you want to chill with a beer on the river bank and try for some bass, or watch the eastern water dragons play in the sun and water, then that’s a great way to unwind, or soak up the sun rays as it drops below the horizon on the crystal hill or rolling flood plains. A personal favourite of a campfire and a few drinks with the stars is a great way to unwind when you have so much space and privacy. The sites are located next to our rental lodge where we sometimes do retreats, or holiday let it as well. The privacy is wonderful if that's what you are looking for. A walk each morning from one end of the farm where you will stay to the other and back is a leisurely 2kms so maybe that is your morning start, but walk the lanes and check the fences and cows while you're at it please 🙂, ticks a job for us while your relaxing. Want to learn about the history of the area? Well a session with us will teach you everything didn't know about the Dargo High Plains, the mountain cattlemen of the high country and much more. Take advantage of your time to enjoy the history of the area and the wonderful past times enjoyed. What is available off farm? Number one, the pub with great counter meals is across the river, 5kms away. Lindenow Farmers Hotel is iconic in its design and history, the reputed Lindenow Long Paddock Cafe is also a few hundred metres from the pub, and the Post Office and Store have all your essentials. Need a few more things? Bairnsdale is 24kms away from the farm and offers all you need. Lakes Entrance is about 40 mins for a day out on the beach. Paynesville around 30 mins. If you want to venture up into the mountains then why not go through Dargo just 45 mins and up onto Mt Hotham (Summer only) via the Dargo High Plains. It’s a great track and on occasions I take people up for a guided tour and secret camp spots on my yearly run up there for my own relax time. East Gippsland in general is a wonderful region to stop and relax during all seasons but especially summer with the water activities available, the camping in the high country, and the markets that abound the area. How do I get to be on this great farm? Well I am glad you asked! Just contact us through this website! Looking forward to meeting you and welcoming you onto our family farm of 124 years.

4. Lake Corringle Camp Park

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(4)

43km from Lakes Entrance · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Secluded acreage surrounded by natural bush land. Large camping sites are situated on flat grass land nestled amongst the trees with ample room for vans and boats Property contains several dams. 5kms to boat ramp on the Snowy River. 5km to pristine Beaches. Great quiet and relaxing location situated nearby to towns, waterways, beaches and mountains.

5. Ridge Park

58km from Lakes Entrance · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

The property is located between Marlo and Cape Conran in Far East Gippsland. Orbost is 25km’s away if you need groceries and services. We are a working Beef property, we have 2 working cattle dogs. The sites have ocean views. We are 10 kilometres to the mouth of the Snowy River and the township of Marlo where there is a 2 great coffee shops and the Marlo Hotel where you can watch the sunset over the Snowy Estuary. To the east 8kms is Cape Conran with swimming beaches and a boat ramp to the ocean. The site setting is a cow paddock, there are NO facilities available you must be fully self sufficient. This venue will suit RV ‘s that have their own toilets.

6. Rules Point

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(2)

13km from Lakes Entrance · 1 site · Tent, RV

Escape to Rules Point - your private Lake Tyers getaway! Discover a holiday stay like no other at Rules Point, nestled right on the water of Lake Tyers. Perfect for group bookings, this exclusive spot combines the beauty of the outdoors and private camping. Wake up to birdsong, spot roaming wildlife, or spend your days fishing, boating, or kayaking on the lake. Whether you're after adventure on the water or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, Rules Point is the perfect setting for a group escape.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Anne

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

1 night at Coos & Ewes

Great spot, beautiful views, so many birds and totally private.

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Bronya

November 2025

5 m Class A

1 night at Coos & Ewes

We loved our stay at Leanne’s. The views over the wetlands were unreal, our spot was tucked away so it felt really private and Leanne was really welcoming and brought us everything we would need to get the fire pit going. It was great seeing her beautiful cows grazing and kangaroos on the horizon. There is a block with a toilet and shower in which is a bit of a walk away from the camping spot. It didn’t matter to us that it was a bit of a walk but something to bear in mind if anyone has accessibility concerns. It was one of the highlights of our trip and we would definitely recommend!

C

Carolynn

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

2 nights at Coos & Ewes

Lovely secluded spot with views over the water and some Highland cow visits😍. Good fire pit as well! Leanna was very accommodating and we had a great time giving the cows some treats and a brush. Would definitely recommend.

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Chris

November 2025

8 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rules Point

Rules point is nothing short of a dreamland for any camper, nature lover, fisherman or those who love water activities! Upon arrival we were greeted by the owners Stu and Sarah with a carton of freshly (delicious) laid eggs, a warm welcome and an in depth run down of their amazing property, its history, and all the info to help us settle into our camp. Once they sent us off to the camp set up, we did not see, nor hear, another human soul our entire cup long weekend stay (yes, rare, we know!!) We stayed with a group of 4 small families in a mix of small campervans and also usage of their 2 cosy log cabins. The central camp kitchen completely blew us away with how well they have it set up with all cooking items covered for. The boys were just us amazed as the girls were at how great it was to have a warm shower when required. We made use of their canoe on the river and also lauched our small tinny from the private beach. Don't forget to bring your own life jackets! We found rules point extremely safe for our young children and they loved interacting with gumnutt the extra friendly goat. The local general store at Nowa Nowa is a short 10 minute drive away if you require a top up of ice, or small grocery items while Lakes entrance was around 20 minutes. We highly recommend a lunch at the water wheel tavern in town at Lake Tyers, you won't be disappointed. Each family we stayed with have all vowed to return to our new found love of rules point.

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Tim

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Grassvale Farm Retreat EST. 1900

Great location and well laid out with power and water connections. The property was very easy to access towing my 25ft van. Close to Bairnsdale and the lakes around East Gippsland. Peter was a great communicator and everything was as described. Highly recommend.

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Suzi

November 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Coos & Ewes

Camping at The Pines on Coos and Ewes Farm was beautiful. We weee able to pick a beautiful spot on the hill overlooking the lakes. Sensational views and sunsets by a crackling fire. The host Leanne was very responsive to any questions and the shower and toilet was clean and nice located inside a shed. We participated in the cow experience (at a cost) which included being driven around on the UTV feeding the higlamders meeting the donkeys and chickens. Peacocks, ducks, and Turkey. Would visit again. Very relaxing and the campsite was far away from other guests.

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Henry

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Coos & Ewes

Great camp spot and amazing views. Farm animals were also cool. And great hosts!

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Paul

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Coos & Ewes

Coos & Ewes Leanna , made us feel welcome with no stress arriving late evening and left the shed light on , for a hot shower and the toilet , shower is fantastic hot , we did the feed the animals tour and they are so cute ‘ and friendly u will enjoy your stay 😀

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Scott

November 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

Tony’s farm is absolutely beautiful! When we arrived, Tony was very welcoming, and once we’d settled in, we had plenty of privacy. There was loads of space for our boys to kick the footy and ride their quad bike. I highly recommend Tony’s farm — it’s flat, completely grassed, and perfect for relaxing. You can light a fire (when restrictions allow) and unwind under the stars. The facilities are great too — there’s a drop toilet, a shelter with running water, and even a hot shower! The site is so accommodating, and we enjoyed every moment of our stay. Thank you, Tony, for welcoming us and introducing us to your beautiful horses, sheep, and of course, the friendly doggos!

U have to meet these girls!! Totally worth doing the feeding time tour.

P

Paul

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Coos & Ewes

Beautiful spot views are magnificent overlooking the back of the lake

P

Philip

October 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Grassvale Farm Retreat EST. 1900

Well laid out site. Neat, tidy, simple, rural, tranalquil camping bliss.

V

Vincent

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

We had a wonderful time at this location. Great site and amenities. Tony was a great host. Very peaceful with bird sounds and frogs croaking through the night. Would recommend to anyone looking for a getaway.

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Connie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Coos & Ewes

We stayed only one night, but wished we could have stayed more! Such a beautiful site overlooking the lake, surrounded by Highland Cows and their babies. We opted for the Highland Cow experience in the morning, where we got to feed the 5 adult cows and get close to their babies, meet the younger cows and even brush them. We met all the farm animals and had the most incredible time. We spent 3 weeks travelling around camping in nsw and vic and this is the first story we tell everyone. The hosts were so so lovely and super communicative which made the stay so easy, they made us feel right at home in their beautiful home. The Bathroom was a short walk from camp and was super clean with a hot shower and a flushing toilet. When we find ourselves down in Victoria again we will absolutely stay again

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Kate

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Coos & Ewes

Thanks for having us stay, lovely spot. We stayed at the Peppercorn site, very relaxing. Signs to camp site was great; had to search a bit for the toilet & shower but once we found- great set up! Love the animals & the view.

L

Louis

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rules Point

We spent our Grand Final long weekend at Rules Point and have to say it was absolutely amazing in every way. Sensational. The site is a combination of several outhouses, within a tidy clearing in the bush, perched right above the upper reaches of Lake Tyers, at the end of a track from the main house. It is secluded, embedded, and natural. The amenities available on site allow for luxuries well beyond those usually associated with camping. There are two cabins to sleep in with fireplaces, a bathroom with a hot shower, and a very well equipped gas kitchen with a generous fireplace enough for the coldest of winter nights. The adjoining deck to the kitchen is a highlight: with hammocks, a sensational long bench, and bar chairs provided, it overlooks a painterly view which will sweeten cold beers tenfold. Fishing as a past time around Lake Tyers is brought to a new level at Rules Point, especially for amateurish fishermen like ourselves. Sarah and Stu have canoes/kayaks that allow you to venture out onto the lake (bring your own life jackets). And there is a pontooned platform right below the kitchen. The sandy banks, simply put, are extremely conducive to flathead. Finally the best and fairest of Rules Point are Sarah and Stu themselves - two of the nicest, most generous people you would ever meet. We were greeted with eggs and firewood on arrival, and their gregariousness and willingness to share their beautiful pocket of the world with us is unreal. Thank you so much!

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Brenna

September 2025

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Coos & Ewes

MOOS AND EWES …Thank you What an educational, hospitable, relaxing place to stay Leanna and Pete are amazing hosts , and welcomed us on to their amazing property From the farm feed , calf brushing!, chooks And every thing in between Make sure you take “ cash” as there is fresh eggs and more to buy ! Will def be back - thank you Bren and Stu 🩷

R

Ruby

September 2025

5 m car

1 night at Coos & Ewes

We loved staying at pepper tree farm. Pitch black nights mean you can see all of the stars. Leanna was amazingly responsive and friendly, we arrived late and she left a light on for us to find the toilets and left fire wood for us to use which was amazing. Woke up surrounded by animals who were super friendly. We would definitely stay here again. Wish we’d have been staying longer than one night! Definitely stay here if you have the chance.

I

Irene

September 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

3 nights at Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

We loved camper trailer camping at Tony’s farm. It was so peaceful being next to the State Forest. The views were stunning, the facilities (shelter, bbq, picnic table, fire pit, hot shower and toilet) was amazing! Tony is super friendly and gave us great tips on what to see on the area. Our three pups were very welcomed and even met Tony’s horse. We look forward to staying again.

U

Unice&Kretch

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Coos & Ewes

We opted the add on of brushing the highland cows, Leanna was so kind and hospitable that she let us ride with her on her tractor and tour around her farm. We met and fed a lot of highland cows, lambs, donkeys, peacocks, ducks, geese, chicken and silk chickens with their chicks, turkeys, got to hold baby sheeps. All her barn animals were very friendly. The campsite has also an amazing view of the Gippsland lake and we saw some kangaroos. Felt very safe as well. She also gave us firewood. The bathroom was clean and has hot shower. Leanna is very generous and passionate with what she's doing. Thanks for the great experience!

A small portion of the fenced field. There is more behind the caravan

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Suzanne

June 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

Gorgeous spot that backs on to a State forest where you can walk for days. Camp kitchen with running water and gas bbq, composting drop toilet that doesn’t smell at all, gas shower with view of the large pond. Tony and Sarah were great hosts and gave us a run down of everything and things to do in the area when we first got there. 😊 Our dog was very welcomed aswell. We spent time walking and catching up with friends in a nearby town and unwinding. Utter perfection. Highly recommended and would definitely visit again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Lakes Entrance 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.