Dog-friendly and waterside camping near Mallacoota
This East Gippsland town is the gateway to Victoria’s Wilderness Coast.
Popular camping styles for Mallacoota
Dog-friendly and waterside camping near Mallacoota guide
Overview
Sitting pretty on the shores of the Mallacoota Inlet, just a short drive from the VIC-NSW border, Mallacoota is a small town with big views. Whether you want to hike along rocky coves and sea cliffs; swim, snorkel, and paddleboard at the sandy beaches; or watch the kangaroos at Gipsy Point—you’re never far from the water in Mallacoota. Head inland to admire the views at Genoa Falls, enjoy boating and water sports at Top Lake and Bottom Lake, and go fishing and bird-watching along the inlet. Campers have a choice of holiday parks, caravan parks, and campgrounds, with a mix of powered sites and tent sites.
Where to go
Croajingolong National Park
Granite cliffs, rocky headlands, and white-sand beaches stretch along the coast at Croajingolong National Park, just a short drive south of Mallacoota. Paddle around the inlets in a kayak or canoe, hike along rugged coastal trails, and look out for wildlife, including koalas, platypuses, whales, and more than 300 species of bird. The five national park campgrounds have unpowered sites with BBQs, picnic tables, and non-flush toilets.
Gabo Island
Marooned off the coast of Mallacoota and Cape Howe, Gabo Island is known for its rocky shores, diverse wildlife, and historic lighthouse. Cruise out to the island by boat or take a short seaplane flight and spot Little Penguins, dolphins, and whales around the jetty. Glampers can even stay overnight in the old lighthouse keepers’ cottage.
Coopracambra National Park
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, Coopracambra National Park is the place. This is one of Victoria’s most remote and rugged conservation areas, where you can hike along wilderness trails or explore off-road in a 4WD. Bush camping is permitted within the park, but there are no facilities, so you’ll need to bring everything you need with you.
When to go
Blessed with cool summer breezes and the warmest winter temperatures in all of Victoria, Mallacoota is a year-round destination for outdoor adventurers. Summer is the best time to hit the beach, and the small town fills up with vacationers over the Christmas and Easter holidays. To avoid the crowds, come in late spring or early autumn instead, when it’s still warm enough to swim.
