Chinaman’s Creek Rest Area: Your Gippsland Lakes Bush Camp
(also known as RV 36 Public Camp Site)
Campsite Information
Address: 402-404 Rosherville Road, Metung, VIC 3904, Australia
Phone Number: Not applicable (Public Rest Area)
Email Contact: Not applicable
Website URL: Not applicable
GPS Coordinates: -37.878286315263296, 147.85798527944885
Rest Area Details
Rating: (4.0 stars)
- 36 Hour Maximum Stopover
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra. Other carriers can be patchy.
- Suitable For: Camper Trailers, Caravans, and Motorhomes.
- Access: Via a good quality sealed road.
- Site Surface: Asphalt.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, this is a pet-friendly location.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing for bream, flathead, and other species in the inlet.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks are available around the foreshore and through the surrounding bushland.
Rest Area Features & Facilities
- Public Toilets (non-flushing)
- Wood BBQs
- Rubbish Bins
- Picnic Tables
- Direct water access for kayaks and small boats
Essentials to Bring
- Your own drinking water
- Firewood
- Fishing gear and a Victorian fishing licence
- Insect repellent, especially in warmer months
- Camping chairs and table
Explore the Local Area
Pubs & Places to Eat
- Metung Hotel: An iconic waterfront pub with stunning views and great food (Approx. 10 km)
- The Local Metung: A popular cafe and provedore in the heart of the village (Approx. 10 km)
- Central Hotel (Lakes Entrance): A classic pub with waterfront bistro dining (Approx. 20 km)
Local Attractions
- Metung Village: A charming waterfront village with boutique shops, galleries, and a beautiful boardwalk (Approx. 10 km)
- Gippsland Lakes: Explore Australia’s largest inland waterway system by boat, cruise, or kayak.
- Nyerimilang Heritage Park: A historic homestead with beautiful gardens and lake views (Approx. 15 km)
- Lakes Entrance: A bustling fishing port with access to the Ninety Mile Beach (Approx. 20 km)
Nearby Parks & Services
Alternate Caravan Parks
- Metung Holiday Villas & Park: (Approx. 10 km)
- NRMA Bairnsdale Riverside Holiday Park: (Approx. 25 km)
- BIG4 Waters Edge Holiday Park (Lakes Entrance): (Approx. 20 km)
Alternate Rest Areas / Free Camps
- Log Crossing Picnic Area (Colquhoun Forest): Basic bush camping with toilets (Approx. 25 km)
- Bruthen Recreation Reserve: Low-cost camping with good facilities (Approx. 35 km)
- Tambo River Rest Area (Johnsonville): Roadside stop suitable for self-contained vehicles (Approx. 20 km)
Nearest Public Toilet
- On-site (non-flushing).
- Metung Village Green: Modern public toilets available (Approx. 10 km)
Nearest Petrol Station
- Metung General Store: Offers fuel during business hours (Approx. 10 km)
- Multiple major brand stations in Lakes Entrance: (Approx. 20 km)
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- You must bring your own supply.
- Metung Foreshore: Public taps are available for filling bottles and small containers (Approx. 10 km)
Seasonal Weather Guide
Summer (Dec – Feb)
Comfortable and warm, perfect for swimming, boating, and enjoying the long evenings by the water. Average max temperature: 22-23°C.
Autumn (Mar – May)
Mild, sunny days and calm waters make this the best time for fishing and kayaking with fewer crowds. Average max temperature: 16-21°C.
Winter (Jun – Aug)
Cool and often clear, offering crisp days perfect for bushwalking and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Average max temperature: 13-14°C.
Spring (Sep – Nov)
Mild and pleasant weather as the region’s wildflowers come into bloom. A great time for exploring the national parks. Average max temperature: 16-19°C.