The best camping in The Lakes National Park, VIC

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92% (31)

Discover the serene beauty of The Lakes National Park and its abundant wildlife.  

The best camping in The Lakes National Park, VIC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Wattle Point Farm

1. Wattle Point Farm

98%
(339)
8.6km from The Lakes National Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Forge Creek, VIC
Located close to Paynesville, Bairnsdale & Sale, Wattle Point Farm is a secluded, spacious and tranquil property with Lake frontage, wildlife & lush green natives, many walking tracks surround the property, a great fit for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, peace & quiet, relaxing by the water. Close to Blond Bay Wildlife Reserve (2000 ha) with many tracks for walking, cycling or driving. Give yourself some time away from the crowded popular destinations and discover our gem of a campsite. There are designated fire pits and shady green areas to relax and unwind, just a few steps to the water's edge. No facilities, so please only book if you are self-contained, and you must take all waste with you. Dogs welcome to join in the fun too! Markets- Bairnsdale farmers market 1st Saturday Paynesville Community market 2nd Sunday Paynesville farmers market 4th Saturday Bairnsdale Howitt Park market 4th Sunday
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$61
 / night
Sunset over Nigel's house

3. Forge Creek Farm Stay

97%
(147)
15km from The Lakes National Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bairnsdale, VIC
Come and Enjoy country life with beautiful views of Macleod Morass Wetlands. Lots of animals to enjoy, including cows, sheep, chickens and kangaroos and bird life. 7 Sites available for tents, caravans and camper trailers on a flat grassy area with great views. Campers are required to be self sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must remove all rubbish. FIRES MUST BE IN FIRE PITS ONLY. ****Must abide by the current fire restrictions**** Fire pits and firewood available on request at extra Cost Please advise prior to arrival if required. Farm Fresh Chicken Eggs available. Can provide a IBC water tank to your site with Tap outlet to connect to your van. Pets welcome, dogs must be kept on a lead. Only 5 minutes from town Centre, 15 min to Paynesville and 30 min to Lakes Entrance. Lakes Entrance is located on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach where the Gippsland Lakes meets the Southern Ocean. Camping Rules 1. Please abide by current fire restrictions. 2. Please do not leave fire untendered. 3. Please be Courteous to other Campers and keep noise to a minimum after 10pm.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$55
 / night
Blackwood Arm Camping

7. Blackwood Arm Camping

95%
(32)
26km from The Lakes National Park · 7 sites · RVs · Lakes Entrance, VIC
Blackwood Arm is now offering camping within the property to fully self contained campers. With camping locations situated within 100m of the naturally beautiful North Arm and access to the water for your kayaking, fishing and swimming activities, these locations will suit all who enjoy camping in the natural surrounds of Lakes Entrance whilst having easy access to the town center and surrounding amenities. The property is the perfect getaway for campers wanting to feel like they are far enough away from the busy town and yet can easily access all that Lakes Entrance has to offer. Please note camping is only offered to fully self contained campers as there is no power, water or waste disposal available onsite. Unfortunately sites are not available for tents and camping is only offered to RVs, caravans, camper trailers and roof top tents. When booking please provide confirmation that you are fully self contained and what type of camper you have, ie RV, caravan, etc. Unfortunately we do not allow personal fires at your van. We have a shared fire pit close to the water for safety.
from 
AU$61
 / night
Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

8. Mt Alfred Camping and Horse Riding

100%
(59)
32km from The Lakes National Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Flaggy Creek, VIC
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
Looking south from behind the campsite area

9. Grassvale Farm Retreat EST. 1900

100%
(27)
32km from The Lakes National Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Wuk Wuk, VIC
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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$31
 / night
River's Edge Retreat

10. River's Edge Retreat

90%
(140)
34km from The Lakes National Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Toorloo Arm, VIC
We're located just 8 mins inland from Lakes Entrance, near Lake Tyers. Our campsites offer secluded lush lawns surrounded by trees on the edge of the river. The immediate vicinity offers bush walking, canoeing/kayaking and fishing. For those keen on adventures further afield there is a boat ramp 8 mins drive away, the nearest beach is a 10 min drive away, and the township of Lakes Entrance is just 8 mins drive too. Plenty of water sports options, hospitality venues including waterfront cafes, and scenic spots to visit in the area. There are no amenities so please ensure you are fully self-sufficient. The campsite has a tap with drinking water (BYO hose), and dogs on leashes are welcome. Being on the river's edge, the property has a gradient toward the river, so ensure you are equipped with levelling ramps for caravans / camper trailers. Lakes Entrance is a coastal town in eastern Victoria. It's known for the Gippsland Lakes, a vast system of inland waterways. There is a pedestrian bridge to Ninety Mile Beach, which stretches along the town's Tasman Sea shoreline. Wildlife around the beach and lakes includes kangaroos, pelicans and dolphins so bring your camera!
Pets
Campfires
Water Hookup
from 
AU$49
 / night
Take the time to live a little.

11. Tranquillity Central

95%
(20)
35km from The Lakes National Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Paradise Beach, VIC
Guests will receive access instructions and gate code via HipCamp automated messaging 48 hours prior to arrival. All communications should be conducted via the HipCamp messaging service as per HipCamp rules. Tranquility Central can be reached from both Rosedale (coming from Melbourne), or Sale coming from the East or North. WARNING! if traveling either of these roads at sunset, after dark, or early morning, you WILL encounter wildlife (especially kangaroos) on the road, it is best to avoid these times if possible, if not please travel slowly with great care. e have 1/4 of an acre of slightly undulating coastal land with level sections for tents, and self contained caravans or campervans. Please read the full property description and adhere to the rules as stated. MUST be self contained, no toilets available on property There are two very large farm gates allowing drive through access for single axle caravans and camper trailers, large vans can back in the West side gate allowing awnings to be opened on the East (beach) side. Room for two vans in various configurations depending on sizes. Both gates should be opened inwards by lifting slightly. The fences are rural 4 strand barbed wire on star pickets, (cow fencing), please consider this if you have dogs. (To be replaced with plain wire in the future). NOTE! ticks are found all along the East coast of Australia and can be very harmful for dogs in particular, you can find all the information you need regarding ticks and dogs here: https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com.au/resources/australian-tick-identification-chart Personally we never had a tick on our dog (or ourselves in over thirty five years of camping at Paradise Beach, but we would recommend restraining dogs from from wandering through heavy bush etc. Please keep the gates closed at all times, the East gate has a pedestrian "Knob and Chain" access latch. Property is close enough to the beach to hear the surf. Plenty of shade trees. Limited potable tank water available for cooking, drinking, washing up etc. The key to tap on tall tank is attached to gate keys. The onsite caravan and amenities are not for public use. Unfortunately with all the bookings it is difficult to keep up with chopped and split firewood, (usually available in the tank halves), please do not burn any treated pine you may come across.. There is a large pile of unsplit firewood under the trees in the middle of the block for your use, please do not burn more wood than you really require. Campfires must ONLY be lit in the fire place provided, nowhere else on the property, (see pics). NOTE. Fires for cooking or warmth are allowed in Victoria even in Fire ban areas, but NOT on days of Total Fire Ban. CFA Fire check: Can I light a campfire? NOT unless: The wind is less than 10 km/h. This means that leaves are moving around in the wind. A properly built fireplace of stone, metal or concrete. (provided). Never leave the fire alone. The campfire must be put out completely using water before you leave. Fishing: Good surf fishing for salmon, gummy sharks, whiting and flathead. Pippies can be gathered in shallow water. Tip: Using corks on leader rigs stops sand crabs stealing bait. It is a short walk to the beach, or you can drive if you really need to, (see map pic). A pleasant longer walk can be had by walking to the "Pines", in the National park, you can then either return the same way, or you can locate a track leading to the beach and return via the beach, (keep a sharp lookout for the track leading off the beach at the end), (see map pic with RED track). You can also walk the Veronica Maybury Memorial Reserve, shipwreck of the Trinculo. The Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park is at the end of 7th. avenue, large numbers of kangaroos can be seen there in the morning and evening, as well as at the end of Thirteenth Street on the edge of lake Reeve. Plenty of birdlife can be seen on the property including Blue robins, King parrots, Crimson Rosellas, and Yellow tailed Gang Gang parrots. 5 minutes drive from Golden Beach shops with fuel food, liquor & bait etc. There is a dump point at Golden Beach. There are coin in the slot hot showers at Golden beach. There is a bowling club at Golden Beach and a nine hole golf course, visitors welcome. The VMMR Licensed Bar & Bistro at Golden Beach is operated by volunteers in the Community Clubrooms Saturday nights. Please take your rubbish with you and enjoy your stay What3Words location is: outing eliminate turfs
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$37
 / night
Nowa Nowa Lakeside Farmlet.

12. Nowa Nowa Lakeside Farmlet.

99%
(219)
42km from The Lakes National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Nowa Nowa, VIC
Located on the picturesque Nowa Nowa arm of Lake Tyers. Our hobby farm offers 3 beautiful large campsites (1 van per site) only 20 metres from the waters edge. OUR CAMPSITES DO NOT HAVE TOILET OR SHOWER FACILITIES. ALL WASTE AND RUBBISH MUST BE TAKEN WITH YOU ON DEPARTURE. Pets are welcome but we have chickens and alpacas on the property so please ensure your pets are restrained and don't upset the other animals. We have a fire pits for campers to relax around in the evenings. We can provide firewood for first night ($15) and additional firewood can be purchased from the general store (fundraiser for local CFA). Generators are allowed but only for limited time to charge essential equipment. No generators are allowed to run non stop and not between 9pm and 9am. if you are going to use a generator please inform other campers. Only a 5 minute walk to the NOWA NOWA GENERAL STORE/Post Office. You can get local fishing information from the friendly staff, stock up on fuel, great coffee and groceries, wine/beer, fishing tackle, bait, fire wood and more without having to drive! Only a 5 minute walk to Mingling Waters which has transformed its cafe into a rustic bar housing Jack Ramsdells iconic wooden sculptures and showcasing the history of Nowa Nowa in wall murals. Hearty meals and tap beer with indoor and outdoor dining options. Live music on weekends. Offering lunch from Thursdays to Sundays and Dinner Thursday through to Saturdays. We are within easy reach of the EAST GIPPSLAND RAIL TRAIL which is popular for both bike riders and walkers. There are plenty of other great bushwalking tracks nearby as well. It's just a short drive to the beautiful seaside town of LAKES ENTRANCE where they have supermarkets, shops, cafes, restaurants, great fresh seafood and lovely beaches. BRUTHEN is only a 20 minute drive. BRUTHEN HOTEL, Cafes. The BUCHAN CAVES RESERVE is another short drive. Picnic spots, camping ground, walking tracks and a variety of flora and fauna, including koalas, over forty species of birds, kangaroos and currawongs. While in Buchan check out the famous BUCHAN PUB for a meal and a beer. 25 minute drive East and you are in ORBOST, a small East Gippsland town surrounded by national parks, forests and beaches.
Pets
Campfires
Water Hookup
from 
AU$37
 / night
Pete's Paradise

13. Pete's Paradise

93%
(20)
54km from The Lakes National Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Sale, VIC
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
Briagalong Bush Getaway

14. Briagalong Bush Getaway

99%
(217)
55km from The Lakes National Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Briagolong, VIC
Briagolong Bush Getaways is 40 acres of peaceful bush land. Many, many moons ago the property use to be a tobacco farm. The original house use to be at the top camp site but was burnt down in the 1960's. A small cottage was then built and lived in for the next 10 years, while the original owner made mud bricks by hand and built the house, that is currently our home. All built by hand more than 42 years ago! Here, you have several fantastic camp areas to choose from, some with access to amenities, some for self-contained campers. We've also recently started offering the mudbrick house for rent! A great option for a warmer stay in the Victorian winter, or if you are a large group and some want to camp whereas others want more comfort.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$14
 / night
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY

18. Linga Longa

94%
(17)
66km from The Lakes National Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Boisdale, VIC
A 16 acre property, situated at the gateway to the Victorian high country, overlooks farmland and offers views of the mountains with some untouched bushland aswell as cleared grassy areas.No amenities so campers need to BYO everything they need including camping toilet and leave no trace. Grey water disposal accepted.Campsites are located at the bottom of the property in vicinity to the irrigation channel where the best views of the mountains are kept. Please refer to the property rules for information about the water way. The sites lie about 150m from the property houses so there will be no disturbance for guests or ourselves. Firewood is available and for sale. Please purchase firewood when booking site. Campfires in fire pits, conditions permitting. A car club runs races nearby on certain weekends. Noise may be heard. Check the event calendar in photos.We welcome vaccinated dogs to the property. Rivers, fishing, wineries, the high country and more are all close by. An information pack for guests will be sent after booking on how to access the property and camp sites!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night
Snowy River Station

19. Snowy River Station

92%
(230)
69km from The Lakes National Park · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · Corringle, VIC
Enjoy open spaces and deserted beach, using our farm as base camp to explore the amazing Snowy River Region on the Wilderness Coast. We offer sites for self-contained campers only and there is no services, pets are welcome. Please note - All the area that has been slashed in the front paddocks you can camp in and spread out.Beach access is straight over the road from the front gate. You can lite fires and firewood is for sale at the farm gate store honesty box further down the road from the gate you enter if you don't bring your own.Escape the modern tourist world and in a pristine, undeveloped old country farming area right on the coast near the mouth of the famous Snowy River. Amazing fishing in both the River and Corringle Beach, with many different species caught at different times of the year. Enjoy the 40-kilometre deserted beach, sun baking (even nude if that's your thing), and swimming, but care must be taken (unpatrolled surf beach). Romantic sunsets with no one but the odd seal and sounds of the waves to disturb you. Beach fire at night is something special to do. The beach track is across from the front gate, there is no beach sign from the road because the public will then use the track which is only for Hipcampers and you wont enjoy the deserted beach. Call me if you cant find the track, but most people have not had a problem. This walking access is steep, easier tracks can be driven to down the road.Or take a dip in the river further down the road, and explore the waterways, with many birds; black swans in the lakes next to camp, plus kangaroos, wombats, emu and deer. There is a boat ramp just down the road to explore the river system. Perfect for water sports, and with fish cleaning tables at the wharf.  Go by boat to the Marlo Hotel from the wharf straight over the river.Orbost is 15 minutes drive and has a supermarket, hotel, bottle shop and other conveniences. We are open to accepting larger group bookings, but please discuss this with us first. Other things you can do in the area: - Driving trips to High Country Scenic Route and exploring the High Country (4-5 hour round trip).- Visit the Buchan Caves about an hour into the High Country - they are amazing.- Explore Cape Conran & you can even Dive for Abalone and Crayfish.- Visit Lakes Entrance and buy Seafood from the Trawlers.- Drive to Mt Hotham ski resort and explore the Omeo High Country (3 hours)- Visit Gordon at the Opal & Gemstone House in Orbost and find out about the gold, geology and gemstones of the area, hearing first-hand stories about how the area was many years ago from a great local old-timer who loves to share his knowledge and the old ways things were done.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$54
 / night
92% (31)

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The best camping in The Lakes National Park, VIC guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at The Lakes National Park, a serene haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Here, you can immerse yourself in activities like birdwatching, kayaking, and scenic walks along the shores of Lake Victoria. For those seeking an overnight stay, the park offers peaceful campgrounds nestled amid the bushland, providing a perfect escape into nature.

Notable campgrounds

  • Emu Bight Campground: A family-friendly retreat offering unpowered sites amid native vegetation by Lake Victoria.
  • Rotamah Island Homestead Picnic Area: Accessible only by boat, this secluded spot is ideal for a tranquil picnic and wildlife spotting.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred campsite.
  • Consider staying mid-week for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your desired campground is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit The Lakes National Park is during the milder seasons of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer can be quite warm, making it less ideal for strenuous activities. Winter brings cooler temperatures, which may affect some park facilities and activities.

Know before you go

  • Check for any park closures or safety advisories before your visit.
  • Be aware that some tracks and facilities may be closed due to maintenance or safety reasons.
  • Accessible accommodation options are available; inquire ahead for specific needs.
  • Remember to bring your own firewood if you plan to use the BBQ spots or fireplaces.
  • Always follow water safety advice when swimming or boating in the lakes.

92%
31 Ratings · 17 reviews