Wingan Inlet Camping: A Remote Wilderness Escape in Croajingolong, VIC

Wingan Inlet Campground is one of Victoria’s truly great escapes, offering a peaceful and secluded camping experience in the heart of the magnificent Croajingolong National Park. Nestled amongst tall Bloodwood trees on the western shores of the inlet, this campground is a sanctuary for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in one of Australia’s most pristine coastal wilderness areas. The journey to Wingan Inlet is an adventure in itself, involving a long drive on unsealed roads that transports you far from civilisation and deep into the Sandpatch Wilderness Zone. The reward is a stunningly beautiful setting, where the tranquil waters of the inlet meet lush forests and are only a short walk from the wild ocean beaches.

This is a popular spot for self-sufficient campers, particularly those who love fishing, paddling, and bushwalking. The inlet is renowned for its excellent fishing, with species like bream, tailor, and estuary perch often on the catch list. With a 20hp motor limit, the waterway is perfect for exploring by small boat, canoe, or kayak. From the campground, the Fly Cove Walk leads you through beautiful paperbark forest to a spectacular and remote stretch of the Wilderness Coast. The campground provides basic but well-maintained facilities, including non-flush toilets and shared fireplaces. As it is a remote national park site, campers must bring all their own supplies, including drinking water and firewood. Bookings are essential year-round and are highly sought after, especially during peak holiday periods. For those prepared to make the journey, Wingan Inlet offers an unforgettable camping experience in a truly special part of the world.

Campground Details

• Name: Wingan Inlet Campground
• Address: Wingan Inlet Track, Wingan River, VIC 3891, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.74073, 149.499527
• Website: Parks Victoria – Wingan Inlet

Park Facilities & Information

• Location: Croajingolong National Park, on the western shore of Wingan Inlet.
• Road Access: Via long, unsealed forest roads (Wingan Inlet Road). Access is weather-dependent and can be challenging. 4WD is often recommended.
• Site Surface: Natural earth and sand.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, paid camping in designated sites. Advanced bookings are required year-round via Parks Victoria.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with Parks Victoria for specific limits.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, shared fireplaces, picnic tables, boat ramp.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. This is a remote area with no mobile reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out park.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but with strict time limits (check with Parks Victoria).
• Number of Sites: 27 unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, fuel stove (for fire ban days), insect repellent, and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
• Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in the national park.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing in the inlet.
• Short Walks: Yes, the Fly Cove Walk (4km return) and Elusive Lake Walk (8km return) start from the campground.

Nearby Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Cann River Hotel – Approx. 60 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Cafes and takeaway in Cann River – Approx. 60 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Fly Cove Beach – 2 km walk
  • Elusive Lake – 4 km walk
  • Point Hicks Lighthouse – Approx. 40 km (via different access road)
• Nearest Alternate Caravan Parks:
  • Cann River Rainforest Caravan Park – Approx. 60 km
  • Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park – Approx. 65 km
• Alternate Free Camps:
  • There are no designated free camps in the immediate vicinity due to the national park status.
• Nearest Alternate Dump Points:
  • Mallacoota Public Dump Point – Approx. 65 km
  • Cann River Rainforest Caravan Park (check for public access/fees) – Approx. 60 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Cann River – Approx. 60 km
• Nearest Alternate Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Cann River – Approx. 60 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The weather in the remote Croajingolong National Park is mild but can be unpredictable and change quickly.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm with average maximums around 25°C. Ideal for paddling and swimming, but be prepared for strong sun and insects.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and often the calmest and clearest time of year, making it perfect for exploring the inlet and walking tracks.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often wet, with average maximums around 14-15°C. Access roads can be slippery and challenging.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and warming up, with the coastal heathlands bursting into colour with wildflowers.