Wingan Link Free Camping: A Remote Croajingolong Bush Camp, VIC

For the adventurous camper seeking a truly remote and self-sufficient experience, the Wingan Link Camp Site offers a primitive bush camp deep in the forests of Far East Gippsland. Located along the rugged Wingan Link Road, which connects the Princes Highway to the coast near Wingan Inlet, this free campsite is for those who are well-prepared and want to get away from it all. This is not a formal, designated campground but rather an informal clearing in the state forest, providing a basic space to set up for the night. The appeal of this site lies in its isolation and the sense of being completely immersed in the wild, dense bushland that characterises the region adjacent to the magnificent Croajingolong National Park.

There are absolutely no facilities at this campsite. Visitors must be 100% self-contained and self-reliant, carrying in all their own supplies, including water, and carrying out all of their rubbish. A portable toilet is essential. The access track is unsealed and can be rough, making it best suited for 4WD vehicles, especially after rain. The campsite itself is a simple clearing, offering a raw and authentic connection to the Australian bush. While campfires may be permitted subject to fire restrictions, you must bring your own firewood. This site is a staging point for exploring the broader wilderness area, including the remote coastline and the nearby Wingan Inlet. It’s a place for seasoned campers who understand and respect leave-no-trace principles and are looking for solitude over services.

Campground Details

• Name: Wingan Link Camp Site
• Address: Wingan Link Road, Wingan River, VIC 3891, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.61850794127085, 149.4772519313446
• Website: Not applicable (Informal state forest campsite).

Park Facilities & Information

• Location: State forest, off Wingan Link Road, near Croajingolong National Park.
• Road Access: Unsealed forest track. 4WD is highly recommended.
• Site Surface: Natural earth clearing.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but intended for short stays.
• Facilities: None.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out area.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the natural quiet.
• Number of Sites: A small, undefined clearing.
• Essentials to Bring: All supplies including water, toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and emergency communication device (PLB).
• Pet Friendly: Permitted in state forest, but not in the adjacent national park. Must be under control.
• Fishing: Nearby at Wingan Inlet.
• Short Walks: Explore the surrounding forest tracks on foot.

Nearby Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Cann River Hotel – Approx. 50 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Cafes and takeaway in Cann River – Approx. 50 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Wingan Inlet Campground & Boat Ramp – Approx. 10 km
  • Croajingolong National Park – Adjacent
  • Fly Cove Beach (via Wingan Inlet) – Approx. 12 km
• Nearest Alternate Caravan Parks:
  • Cann River Rainforest Caravan Park – Approx. 50 km
  • Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park – Approx. 75 km
• Alternate Free Camps:
  • Other informal sites may exist in the state forest; check local information.
• Nearest Alternate Dump Points:
  • Cann River Rainforest Caravan Park (check for public access/fees) – Approx. 50 km
  • Mallacoota Public Dump Point – Approx. 75 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Cann River – Approx. 50 km
• Nearest Alternate Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Cann River – Approx. 50 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The weather in this remote forest area is mild but can be unpredictable and change quickly.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm with average maximums around 25°C. The forest provides good shade.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and often the calmest and clearest time of year, making it perfect for exploring the tracks.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often wet, with average maximums around 14-15°C. Access roads can become very slippery and challenging.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and warming up, with the forest and coastal heathlands coming alive with wildflowers.