Log Crossing Free Camping & Picnic Area: A Guide to Colquhoun State Forest, VIC

Tucked away in the beautiful Colquhoun State Forest just a short drive from Lakes Entrance, Log Crossing Picnic Area offers a peaceful and convenient retreat for nature lovers, cyclists, and travellers seeking a simple, free overnight stop. Situated on the banks of Mississippi Creek, this spot is a key feature along the popular Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail, a scenic bicycle track that connects the East Gippsland Rail Trail to the coastal hub of Lakes Entrance. This makes it an ideal base camp or rest stop for those exploring the region on two wheels or on foot. The campground provides a genuine bush setting, surrounded by native forest that comes alive with the sounds of local birdlife.

As a basic, free campground, Log Crossing is perfect for self-sufficient campers. The site is equipped with non-flush toilets and picnic tables, but visitors must bring their own drinking water and take all rubbish with them to preserve the natural beauty of the forest. The area is accessible to a range of vehicles, including RVs, caravans, and camper trailers, with several spots suitable for setting up camp. One of its most appealing features is that it is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your four-legged companion along for the adventure, provided they are kept on a leash. With a 24-hour stay limit, it’s designed for short-term visits, encouraging travellers to enjoy the serenity without impacting the environment. Whether you’re lighting a small campfire in an existing pit, enjoying a picnic after a long bike ride, or simply looking for a quiet night under the stars, Log Crossing provides a fantastic and accessible forest experience.

Campground Details

• Name: Log Crossing Picnic Area
• Address: Log Crossing Road, Colquhoun, VIC 3909, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.826560181034026, 147.94143561904912

Campsite Information

• Road Access: Via Log Crossing Road, an unsealed forest track. Generally accessible for 2WD vehicles, RVs, and caravans, but conditions can vary.
• Site Surface: Natural earth and gravel.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted with a 24-hour stay limit.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 1 night (24-hour limit).
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets and picnic tables.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited to none. Expect poor reception in the forest.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out area. Please take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fireplaces, subject to local fire regulations and Total Fire Bans. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Several undefined sites are available.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, rubbish bags, toilet paper, firewood, and insect repellent.
• Location: Colquhoun State Forest, on the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be on a leash and under control at all times.
• Fishing: Possible in Mississippi Creek, though not a primary fishing destination.
• Short Walks: Yes, the site is on the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail, perfect for walking and cycling.

Nearby Amenities & Attractions (from Lakes Entrance)

• Local Pubs:
  • Central Hotel (Lakes Entrance) – Approx. 12 km
  • Water Wheel Beach Tavern (Lake Tyers Beach) – Approx. 18 km
  • Metung Hotel (Metung) – Approx. 28 km
• Places to Eat:
  • A wide variety of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Lakes Entrance – Approx. 12 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail – Onsite
  • Lakes Entrance Main Beach & Footbridge – Approx. 12 km
  • Griffiths’ Sea Shell Museum – Approx. 12 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Numerous caravan parks in and around Lakes Entrance – Approx. 10-15 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Other informal spots may exist within the state forest, check camping apps for details.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bullock Island, Lakes Entrance – Approx. 14 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple stations in Lakes Entrance – Approx. 10 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Lakes Entrance (public taps available at foreshore parks) – Approx. 12 km
• Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Lakes Entrance Foreshore – Approx. 12 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Colquhoun State Forest experiences a temperate climate similar to nearby Lakes Entrance.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot, with average maximums around 24-25°C. The forest provides good shade.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and pleasant, with cooling temperatures. A beautiful time for cycling and walking as the forest colours change.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp, with average maximums around 15°C. Be prepared for cold nights.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and warming up, with an increase in rainfall. The forest is vibrant with new growth.