Last updated on May 26, 2023 by Wandering our World
Lake Eildon is a little slice of paradise hidden away, just two hours North-East of Melbourne. This gem of a natural wonder is home to a rich variety of plants, rolling hills, kangaroos and countless species of birds and wildlife. Imagine turquoise blue waters with trees growing right beside it and nature all around – that’s Lake Eildon!
With all of that on offer, it’s little surprise camping at Lake Eildon is becoming more and more popular every year.
No matter what type of camper you are, you’ll find your place at one of the many sites here at Lake Eildon. Head to one of the remote free camps accessible only by boat for a true off-the-grid experience, or park your campervan at the Fraser Camping Area complete with hot showers and gas barbecues.
Either way, Lake Eildon is natural beauty in abundance, and if you plan wisely, it might just become your favorite getaway in Victoria.
As we know this area well, we’ve decided to help you out. Below we look at free camping at Lake Eildon, and share everything you need to know about the free and paid campsites in the area.
So read on to begin your Lake Eildon camping adventure!
Free Camping At Lake Eildon: A Vacation To Remember For Free!
One of the best parts about camping at Lake Eildon is the fact that the lake is literally surrounded by free campsites. If one is full, no worries, hop on over to another one. Some even allow for booking, even though there are no fees.
Although free, most of the free Lake Eildon campgrounds also offer basic amenities like drop toilets and firepits.
However if you’re planning to head to one of the free campsites at Lake Eildon, do make sure you’re well prepared.
All the campsites are unpowered, and there may not be drinking water anywhere close by. It’s wise to carry all the basic items you may need like solar chargers, drinking water or water purifiers as well as plenty of food!
Don’t expect cell phone network at most of these sites either! Although there is one where you can get decent connection, as we show you below.
Something to take note of: Most free camps are part of the Delatite Arm Reserve, a protected area surrounded by forests and rich in pine plantation. Harvesting of the pines may occur anytime between November and July, and at these times the dirt roads here get even dirtier!
You’ll find massive trucks carrying logging equipment, and the dust can make it quite difficult to drive. Plan wisely!
If you’ve never been free camping at Lake Eildon before, then we’re here to help! Here’s a quick run down of the free campsites available, what makes each unique and what’s close by to each.
Free Camping At Lake Eildon: Fantastic Campsites Situated In Nature
1. Newtons Campground
Newtons is situated within the area of the Delatite Arm Reserve, known for its picturesque scenery, pine plantation and revegetated forests. It is a protected area and is quite popular for camping, hiking, fishing and boating amongst many Victorians.
Newtons comes with some amenities like toilets and an outdoor firepit that travelers can enjoy in the evenings. It’s a great place to sit and share stories about your day’s adventures.
You will be surrounded by greenery, birds, and if you’re lucky you might spot a kangaroo or two! The best part? You can take your dog as long as they’re on leash.
Newtons is a first come first served campground, so no bookings are required.
Catch some fish, make a fire, and let all your big city worries melt away!
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking
- Boating and Fishing
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Lake Eildon VIC 3713
2. Jimmy’s Bend Campground
At Jimmy’s Bend, you’ll be right on the banks of Lake Eildon, and surrounded by the Australian bush.
This free Lake Eildon camping site is also part of the Delatite Arm Reserve, offering endless options to explore the nature around the area. A ramp leads you to the water, and is ideal to sit and soak up the sun or catch some fish.
Activities range from swimming and boating to trail biking and hiking the nearby woods. So there’s plenty to do.
There are no bookings required here and camping is on first-come-first-serve basis.
It is important to keep in mind that some of the trees here are very old, and branches tend to break and fall off. So it is best to set up camp a little away from the trees in the clearing. You’ve been warned!
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking and Bushwalking
- Boating and Fishing
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon VIC 3713
3. The Orchard Campground
The Orchard is a vast, spaced-out campsite by Lake Eildon, also part of the Delatite Arm Reserve.
Although the site is by the lake, the water in this area is dried out in many places so is not ideal for swimming. However, it is still a beautiful spot to camp.
The campsite is a relatively flat area, and although you will be camping slightly away from the water, you will get a clear view of the lake. Toilets are available and mostly clean.
Need supplies or fancy a hot cuppa? You won’t be far from the township of Goughs Bay.
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking and Bushwalking
- Boating and Fishing
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Lake Eildon VIC 3713
4. Owens Hill Campground
Imagine driving down the Australian bush on a dirt road and finding yourself in an area with barren trees and a huge clearing in the forest that then reveals a blue Lake Eildon. That’s Owen’s Hill Campground for you!
It is one of the most beautiful free camps available in this area. Travelers can set up camp either on Owen’s Hill itself which offers sweeping views of the lake and is protected by the shade offered by the trees. Or go down to the lake to camp. The clearing by the lake is pretty barren, with little in the way of trees or grass, but there’s lots of space to set up camp.
If you want protection from the sun and wind, there are some inland options a little away from the lake too.
We recommend taking your boat, canoe or kayak to make the most of the lake. The waters are ideal for swimming and fishing, and there is plenty of firewood available to make a campfire at night.
The water in the lake can get low in the summer, but it’s still good for swimming and other activities. Expect to take gorgeous photos!
Things To Do
- Hiking
- Trail Biking
- Boating and Kayaking
- Fishing
- Swimming
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon VIC 3713
5. Taylor’s Creek Camping Area
Welcome to remote, untouched wilderness. Taylor’s Creek Camping Area can only be accessed on foot, or by a boat, so naturally, not every camper makes it here.
You will be surrounded by nature if you do, and be able to camp right by the water with the welcoming sounds of birds, insects, and deer.
This Lake Eildon campground can be accessed by boat from the nearest public boat ramp at Jerusalem Creek Boat Ramp.
This spot offers toilets and firepits, but you must be well prepared to camp here with supplies such as food, enough fuel for the boat, drinking water, insect repellent, firewood, and other. Pets are also welcome!
Things To Do
- Bushwalking
- Waterskiing
- Boating and Kayaking
- Fishing
- Swimming
Practical Information
- Charges – Free and Paid options are both available
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – Not for the free option
Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon VIC 3713
6. Picnic Point Campground
Picnic Point is just as the name suggests – a green, grassy spot interspersed with Alpine Ash trees, nestled right on the banks of the lake and perfect for picnics.
Expect blue water, gravel beaches and kangaroos hopping around. Amenities include firepits and a drop toilet.
This site is a 40 minute drive on a dirt road, so it is advised to have a 4WD. 2WDs may make it too, but might struggle a bit. Due to the long gravel road, the path gets very dusty, specially during the busy season.
While Picnic Point is a serene campground, it tends to get rather crowded during the summer with people riding dirt bikes and playing loud music. It is advised to plan your trip wisely.
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking
- Boating and Fishing
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon VIC 3713
7. The Island Campground
The Island isn’t much of an island but a clearing just off the main road, as part of the Delatite Arm Reserve. You will be surrounded by bushland and pine plantations and greeted by singing birds.
Amenities at this site include drop toilets, firepits, and you’ll find plenty of firewood in the area. Can’t leave work behind? You are likely to get phone network on both Optus and Telstra here.
Something to keep in mind while planning your trip. Being close to the main road, the site can get pretty dusty, especially during the Pine harvest and the busy camping season.
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking
- Boating and Fishing
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon VIC 3713
8. Ewarts Campground
As part of the Delatite Arm Reserve, Ewarts provides direct access to the road and one can drive almost all the way to the water’s edge! The waters are ideal for swimming but not fishing or boating, as the water tends to get pretty low in certain seasons, especially summer.
Compared to a lot of other free camps, Ewarts is rather barren and dry, but this is something many campers enjoy.
There is plenty of firewood available to make a fire at night and the camp comes with drop toilets.
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking
- Swimming
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon VIC 3713
9. Long Gully Campground
Get off the main road and drive or walk down a path flanked by trees opening up into a clearing by the lake.
This campsite is rather steep, so pitching a tent can sometimes be a bit challenging. The only flat surface is right by the water, which can only be accessed by 4WD. Given the road conditions and the steep surface, a 4WD is highly recommended to access this site.
There is one drop toilet right by the main road. Expect a lot of traffic from trucks and motorbikes on the road and an equal amount of dust.
The scenery by the water is picturesque, providing plenty of opportunities for a cooling swim, catching fish or spotting pelican.
The trees are close together, making it possible to tie up hammocks and enjoy the breeze from the lake.
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking
- Boating and Fishing
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Long Gully Rd, Yadboro NSW 2539
10. Mountaineer Creek Camping Area
The Mountaineer Creek Camping Area is a picturesque waterside campground surrounded by tall trees which can only be accessed by boat or a hike. It is a remote campsite and the nearest sign of civilization is 6 km away by boat at Coller Bay.
The area is very popular for its bush walks and water activities.
There is a wooden shed with a drop toilet provided, but do note that you must carry your own firewood if you wish to make a fire. There are no rubbish bins so travelers must carry everything back.
It is not advisable to take a 4WD here, as there is no defined road, and it’s easy to get lost!
Things To Do
- Hiking and Bushwalking
- Swimming and Fishing
- Boating and Canoeing
Practical Information
- Charges – Free
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – No
- Booking Required – No
Address: Lake Eildon VIC 3713
Paid Camping At Lake Eildon: A Little Extra Luxury In Nature
Looking for a few amenities while you camp at Lake Eildon? While Eildon is best known for its free campsites, it also has a few paid sites that offer comfortable camping and amenities like flushing toilets and hot showers.
These sites are situated away from the road, so you won’t be bothered by the dust as much, no matter which time of year you decide to go.
1. Jerusalem Creek Campground
If you like to be by the water surrounded by greenery, and enjoy waking up to the sound of birds, then going to bed under a canopy of a million stars, Jerusalem Creek is the place for you.
Drive through a dirt path canopied by Eucalyptus trees and arrive at the most stunning turquoise blue lake, where you will find everyone from families with children cooking barbecues to groups of travelers in the water rowing a canoe or boat.
Water activities are not all you’ll enjoy here – Jerusalem also offers excellent hiking opportunities. Nearby you’ll find The Pinnacle Hill which makes for a wonderful hike, with sweeping views of Lake Eildon.
The site has its own boat ramp, fireplaces with grills, toilets, and shaded campsites.
Things To Do
- Trail Biking
- 4WD Driving
- Hiking and Bushwalking
- Swimming and Fishing
- Boating and Canoeing
Practical Information
- Charges – AUD 15 per night
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – Yes, on leash.
- Booking Required – No
Address: Jerusalem Creek Track, Eildon VIC 3713
2. Candlebark Campground
If you’re looking for comfortable camping with plenty of amenities, Candlebark may be the spot for you.
As part of the Fraser camping area which allows for tents, caravans as well as campervans, Candlebark is extremely popular and ideal for families and large groups of intrepid campers.
Nestled between the perfectly shaded Devils Cove and the Lakeside Campgrounds, Candlebark offers visitors plenty to do from swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddling to the multiple hiking and biking trails around the campsite.
Early riser? Have your breakfast while you watch kangaroos hopping about.
Amenities include a wheelchair accessible toilet, hot showers, drinking water, gas barbecues, sheltered picnic areas and a boat ramp.
No rubbish bins are provided and travelers must carry their own firewood.
Things To Do
- Hiking and Bushwalking
- Swimming and unmotorized boating
- Canoeing, Paddling, Kayaking
- Mountain Biking
Practical Information
- Charges – AUD 26 per campsite per night.
- Toilets – Yes, with one that’s wheelchair accessible.
- Dogs Allowed – No
- Booking Required – Yes
Address: Fraser Park Rd, Devils River VIC 3714
3. Devil Cove Campground
Travel north of Candlebark and you’ll find yourself at Devil Cove, a sheltered and quiet campsite with shaded picnic areas, lakeside camping spots, firepits and plenty of opportunity to spend time in nature.
You won’t have to compromise on amenities and you’ll find flushing loos as well as hot showers, drinking water and gas barbecues here. Be prepared to make friends with kangaroos and kookaburras!
The camping area is graveled and not grassy in some places.
It is important to note that Devil Cove is a seasonal campground, only opening up during school holidays and peak camping season.
There are no rubbish bins provided and firewood must be brought with you, should you wish to make a fire.
Things To Do
- Hiking and Bushwalking
- Swimming and boating
- Canoeing, Paddling, Kayaking
- Mountain Biking
Practical Information
- Charges – Varies. Check during season.
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – No
- Booking Required – Yes
Address: Fraser Park Rd, Devils River VIC 3714
4. Lakeside Camping Area
As part of the Fraser Camping area, Lakeside is also equipped with all the modern camping amenities you need like flushing toilets, hot showers, gas barbecues and drinking water.
Park rangers will come by a couple of times a day to make sure everything is in order, and to say hello to campers. Expect plenty of greenery, rich bird life and wildlife, and many kangaroos running around.
Activities include everything from swimming, canoeing and kayaking to boating and hiking.
As with all campsites at Fraser, campgrounds are well protected from the sun by a canopy of trees, provide easy access to the lake, and unmatched amenities.
Things To Do
- Hiking and Bushwalking
- Swimming and unmotorized boating
- Canoeing, Paddling, Kayaking
- Mountain Biking
Practical Information
- Charges – AUD 26 per campsite per night.
- Toilets – Yes
- Dogs Allowed – No
- Booking Required – Yes
Address: Lakeside Rd, Devils River VIC 3714
