Camping near Bairnsdale

This small town on Victoria’s eastern coast is the gateway to the Gippsland Lakes.

93% (1162 reviews)
93% (1162 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Bairnsdale

Under $50

Star Hosts in Bairnsdale

12 top campgrounds near Bairnsdale

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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$44
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(253)

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
Campfires
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(65)

Unique Waterfront - Lake Glenmaggie

12 sites · RVs, Tents97 acres · Glenmaggie, VIC
Unique Waterfront camping on beautiful Lake Glenmaggie in Gippsland. Our 97 acres has 1.5 kms of waterfront with open spaces and bushland and you are welcome to choose which spot you wish to set up camp. Set up camp right on the water's edge or higher on the hill. You can enjoy direct access to the Lake, feel free to leave your boat/ski in the water so you can enjoy that early morning glassy water ski, canoe, SUP, swim or fish. Please note: Water level varies all year round. You might even see our kangaroos that frequent our property which is Land for Wildlife accredited. Fishing, water sports or just going for a walk around the bluff are just a snippet of what we have on offer. Such a special piece of paradise. Close to the hills, where you can enjoy motorbike riding (no motorbikes to be ridden on the property), horse riding, Blores Hill Mountain Bike Park, and more. Heyfield Township is just 8 minutes away and there are a number of local wineries close by, plus a great pump track. Lots to explore! Or, just chill and enjoy the peace and serenity of our wonderful property. # please note all children aged under 4 stay for free # Must have own camping toilet # Limited fire pits are available on request. # Firewood available for purchase. Glenmaggie is in the middle of everywhere.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(171)

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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(106)

Forge Creek Farm Stay

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · 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
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$45
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
63%
(15)

Paradise Beach Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Paradise Beach, VIC
Come and set up camp for a few days on this private site at Paradise Beach.Campers will love the short walk to the beach, an established fire pit and access to (a small amount of) water from the provided tank. Please be economical with the water so there is enough left for everyone else.There is also a shelter shed which you are welcome to use to escape with wind, rain or sun. There is a cabin on the property which is not accessible.There are no facilities here, campers will need to be self sufficient and leave no trace. A short drive down the road you'll find a general store, a takeaway shop and great picnic areas.The property is located 3.5 hours east of Melbourne.Entry to the site is from a small driveway on the lower side of the property. Please keep all tents and vans within close proximity to the cabin to ensure you are within my properties boundary and there are no overlaps.The terrain is sandy, however it's very compact and suitable for most sedans, vans and average vehicles.
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$24
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(4)

Parsons Flat River Barn & Glamping

5 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Dargo, VIC
Parsons Flat River Bar Glamping offers a River Barn and 2 Glamping tents. Experience the charm of our riverside glamping tent, a hidden oasis nestled along the Dargo River. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this secluded retreat, seamlessly blending the beauty of the great outdoors with comfort. Or relax in the luxury of our river barn, a fully self contained holiday retreat. Surrounded by a thriving wildlife sanctuary, which includes kangaroos, wallabies, deer, and a vibrant array of birds, this picturesque setting captures nature's embrace at its peak. Witness the enchantment of platypus and trout in the river, adding a magical touch to your stay. Strategically positioned near the Dargo River Inn and Dargo Pub, your evenings promise delightful dining experiences. The adjacent Dargo Store ensures your day commences with a hearty breakfast and offers tempting lunchtime delights. For the convenience and comfort of the glampers, essential amenities such as a toilet and shower are in close proximity. Furthermore, a communal camp kitchen awaits, complete with a 6-Burner BBQ, a cast-iron camp oven (fire-heated), a fridge, toaster, and kettle—bringing the joy of outdoor cooking to your fingertips. Escape to this riverside retreat, where the soothing sounds of the flowing river and the gentle breeze create the perfect backdrop for your glamping adventure. Kindly note that there is another private accommodation on-site, and our attentive owners are also present to ensure your stay is both enjoyable and personalised.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Bairnsdale guide

Overview

Bairnsdale is a small town on Victoria’s East Gippsland region on the eastern coast, around 280 kilometres (or 3.5 hours’ drive) east of Melbourne. Being on the banks of the Mitchell River and near the inland waterways of the Gippsland Lakes, it’s a popular spot for fishing, boating, surfing, and camping. Beach enthusiasts will love camping on the thin strip of land between the ocean and the lakes, parts of which are designated nature reserves and national parks, and campers seeking a forest escape can also find this at inland parks.

Where to go

Gippsland Lakes

The Gippsland Lakes are a series of lakes, backwaters, and waterways, many of which appear to be harbours except they’re separated from the sea by thin strips of land. The Lakes National Park and Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, as well as other smaller reserves, cover some of the broader lakes area, and are havens for bird and wildlife-watchers, outdoor swimmers, walkers, and campers. Family-friendly Emu Bight Campground in the Lakes National Park offers unpowered sites for tents and caravans/campervans, and many other basic campsites are strung out along Shoreline Drive, between the ocean and the lakes.

Mitchell River National Park

The inland Mitchell River National Park is about 45 minutes’ drive north-west of Bairnsdale. Here travellers can hike through rainforest gullies along the two-day Mitchell River Walking Track, or discover local First Nations culture on shorter walks. Campers have a few options: there are basic walk-in campsites along the Mitchell River Walking Track, a couple of basic campsites with four-wheel-drive access only, and a couple of basic and more accessible sites with toilets, fireplaces, and picnic tables.

Lakes Entrance

About 30 minutes’ drive east of Bairnsdale, the smaller town of Lakes Entrance is on the end of Ninety Mile Beach, where the Gippsland Lakes meet the ocean, and offers somewhat easier access to beaches than from Bairnsdale. Campers can enjoy well-equipped holiday parks in and around Lakes Entrance, right beside the beach. Lakes Entrance is an especially appealing option for campers with caravans or campervans, as you can find powered sites here with easy access and good facilities.

When to go

The whole Gippsland Lakes region is especially busy during the summer–between November and February–as it’s an accessible camping area quite near Melbourne. To stay at a popular holiday park near Bairnsdale, book your site as far in advance as possible, especially during midsummer. You can also visit outside the summer, when you can still enjoy the natural attractions, but the climate will be cooler.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, caravan parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2024 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.