The best camping near The Lakes National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next The Lakes National Park adventure.

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near The Lakes National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near The Lakes National Park

99%
(245)

Wattle Point Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents126 acres · 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
Potable water
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from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(106)

Forge Creek Farm Stay

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Bairnsdale, VIC
Come and Enjoy country life for one night or more with beautiful views of Macleod Morass Wetlands. Lots of animals to enjoy, including cows, sheep, chickens and kangaroos. Lots of 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. Fire pits and firewood available on request at extra Cost Please advise prior to arrival if required. Farm Fresh Chicken Eggs available. Must abide by the currant fire restrictions. 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.
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from 
AU$45
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(176)

Snowy River Station

50 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · 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.
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from 
AU$44
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 1 time

Camping In Paradise

1 site · Tent1 acre · Paradise Beach, VIC
Welcome to beautiful Paradise Beach. This property is just a street away from beach access to the stunning 90 mile beach, suitable for fishing or long peaceful walks. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife and make sure to catch the wonderful sunrises and sun sets. The property is marked by a wooden sign and slopes down from the roadside to a flat clearing surrounded by trees for privacy. There is room to pitch a tent (or a few) and still have space for seating, a campfire or portable shelter. Vehicles can be parked roadside, and camping equipment carried the few metres down to the clearing. Guests will need to be fully self contained as there is no power, water, washing facilities, sewage or potable water on the site, only peace and quite and easy access to the Beach. Guests will need to take all rubbish with them including biodegradable waste, food, cigarette butts, etc. Please note that this campsite is for quiet enjoyment only with sound to be kept to a minimum in the evening. Sound can carry easily, especially at night and we don't want to upset the residents of neighbouring properties. Campfires can be lit but fire danger ratings and restrictions must be strictly adhered to. You are welcome to use any available wood that we generally stack throughout the year. Pets are allowed but are required to be on a leash and under control. Please note that there are often mosquitos in this area due to the nearby shallow lakes and therefore we highly recommend you bring adequate insect repellent. The property is located 3.5 hours east of Melbourne. A short drive down the road you'll find Golden Beach that has a general store, a takeaway shop, great picnic areas, bathrooms and shower facilities for a small fee. There are also toilets at the nearby Paradise Beach Campground. Loch Sport is 25 minutes away and the larger town of Sale is 30 minutes away so all amenities are within short access. We kindly ask that you please provide any feedback of issues identified or any maintenance needed on the property such as rubbish or fallen branches.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(169)

Nowa Nowa Lakeside Farmlet.

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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. 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, groceries, wine/beer, fishing tackle, bait, fire wood and more without having to drive! MINGLING WATERS CARAVAN PARK/Cafe is the place to go for top quality coffee, brekky, and their famous carrot cake and burgers, only a 5 minute walk (currently temporarily closed) Opposite Mingling Waters is another 'must visit' while in Nowa Nowa. THE DEPOT, HOME OF TEXTILES. Local honey and home made jams and biscuits. Espresso coffee and turmeric latte. Handcrafted textiles, jewellery and more (check Facebook for opening hours) 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. The location is ideal for people who enjoy the outdoors, lake fishing, boating, bird watching, walking and cycling. It's just a short drive to the beautiful seaside town of LAKES ENTRANCE where they have shops, cafes, restaurants, great fresh seafood and lovely beaches. BRUTHEN is only a 20 minute drive. BRUTHEN HOTEL, Cafes, Antique shops, Galleries andthe BULL-ANT BREWERY are musts to check out! 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. Recharge at the town's cafes and bakeries, then visit galleries and see the historical Slab Hut, an original 1872 pioneer hut relocated from the upper Snowy River and now home to the tourist information centre. Renowned local brewers SAILORS GRAVE can be found in an old butter factory, where they produce an exciting range of craft beer.
Pets
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from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(92)

High Country Riverside Hideaway

3 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Cowa, VIC
The property has been in our family for three generations. Surrounded by crown land and 200 acres of bush. Originally a Walnut farm , some old, large old walnut trees survive producing creamy, organic walnuts and summer shade.Both Walnut and Dargo riverside campsites have access to private river frontage and deep swimming holes. Perfect for small groups or families wanting a secluded camping spot. The Walnut campsite caters for campers/glampers looking for an easy camping adventure with amenities. Guests can BYO tents or rent either a glamping tent or Roy's hut. The Dargo Riverside paddock is suitable for experienced self campers, no amenities offered at present.Located just 11 km from the Dargo Hotel. Cowa is a small Victorian Rural Location within the local government area of Wellington, it is located approximately 201kms from the capital Melbourne. - Dogs welcome.- Campfires permitted check fire restrictions before lighting a fire.
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from 
AU$120
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(8)

Grassvale Farm Retreat EST. 1900

5 sites · RVs, Tents250 acres · 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.
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from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
91%
(129)

River's Edge Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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!
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Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

The best camping near The Lakes National Park 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.

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