Barmah Lakes Camping and Picnic Ground is a premier bush camping destination located deep within the internationally significant Barmah National Park. As part of the largest River Red Gum forest in the world, this site offers a truly immersive nature experience. The camping area is situated on the banks of Barmah Lake, a Ramsar-listed wetland that teems with birdlife, native fish, and wildlife. It is a place of profound cultural significance to the Yorta Yorta people, the Traditional Owners of the land.The campground features spacious, unallocated sites nestled amongst the towering gums. While it is a bush camp, it offers more amenities than the dispersed sites further downriver, including drop toilets, picnic tables, and designated fireplaces. This makes it a popular choice for families and groups who want the bush experience without sacrificing basic comforts. The nearby sandy beaches provide excellent access for launching canoes or cooling off with a swim in the lake or the Murray River.Because it is a National Park, preservation is key. There are no rubbish bins, so visitors must carry all waste out with them. Importantly, no pets are allowed in the National Park to protect the abundant native wildlife, which includes kangaroos, emus, and koalas. Access is via Moira Lakes Road, which is generally unsealed but well-maintained, though conditions can change rapidly after rain.Staying at Barmah Lakes puts you at the centre of the park's activities. You can take the self-guided Yamyabuc Discovery Trail, visit the Dharnya Centre (check opening times), or simply relax by the water and watch the Whistling Kites soar overhead. Whether you are an avid birdwatcher, a kayak enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful escape under the stars, Barmah Lakes Camping and Picnic Ground is an unforgettable destination.
Barmah Lakes Camping and Picnic Ground - VIC Location Map
Barmah Lakes Camping and Picnic Ground (Barmah National Park)
- Address: Moira Lakes Rd, Barmah VIC 3639, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping, no bookings required)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.95801, 144.95837
Park Location (Satellite View)
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the edge of Barmah Lake within the Barmah National Park, approximately 7-10km north of the Barmah township.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. The area is relatively flat and open.
- Road Access: Unsealed access via Moira Lakes Road. Generally accessible to 2WD vehicles in dry weather. Caution: Roads become slippery and boggy when wet. Some tracks may be closed during flood events.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and grassy clearings.
Available Facilities
- Basic Amenities Provided
- Toilets (Drop toilets available on-site).
- Picnic Tables.
- Fireplaces/BBQ pits (Wood must be brought in, collection prohibited).
- Boat Ramp (Nearby access for small boats/canoes).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
Essentials to Bring
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Firewood: Bring clean firewood (collection in National Parks is strictly prohibited).
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes are very active in the wetlands.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
- Recovery Gear: Recommended if rain is forecast.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: NO. This site is in the Barmah National Park. Dogs, cats, and other pets are strictly prohibited. Rangers patrol the area.
- Fishing: Excellent. Barmah Lake and the Murray River offer great fishing for Golden Perch and Murray Cod. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: The Yamyabuc Discovery Trail and Lakes Loop walk start nearby, offering insights into Yorta Yorta culture and the forest ecosystem.
- Swimming: Possible in the lake or river. Be aware of snags, currents, and variable water depths.
Local Amenities (Barmah & Nathalia)
Local Pubs
- Barmah Hotel: (Murray St, Barmah) Approx. 7km South.
- Picola Hotel: (Moran St, Picola) Approx. 18km South.
- The Middle Pub (Nathalia): (Blake St, Nathalia) Approx. 35km South.
Places to Eat
- Barmah Hotel Bistro: (Barmah) Approx. 7km South - Pub meals.
- The 1895 The Royal: (Echuca - further away) Approx. 40km West.
- Brereton's Bakery: (Blake St, Nathalia) Approx. 35km South.
- Picola General Store: (Picola) Approx. 18km South - Takeaway.
Local Attractions
- Barmah National Park: (On-site) - Wetlands, red gums, and wildlife.
- Kingfisher Cruises: (Barmah) Approx. 7km South - Eco-cruises.
- Dharnya Centre: (Sand Ridge Track) Nearby - Interpretive centre (check status).
- Barmah Forest Heritage & Education Centre: (Nathalia) Approx. 35km South.
- Ulupna Island: (East) Approx. 35km East - Koala spotting.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Barmah Caravan Park: (Murray St, Barmah) Approx. 7km South.
- Murray River Hideaway Holiday Park: (Strathmerton) Approx. 35km East.
- Riverbank Caravan Park: (Nathalia) Approx. 35km South.
Nearest Free Camps
- Ulupna Island (Carter's Beach): (East) Approx. 35km East (No dogs).
- Lupmans Camp: (Yalca) Approx. 15km East (No dogs).
- Stewarts Bridge: (East) Approx. 25km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Barmah Caravan Park: (Murray St, Barmah) Approx. 7km South (Check fees/access).
- Nathalia Public Dump Point: (Park St, Nathalia) Approx. 35km South.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Barmah Ampol Roadhouse: (Murray St, Barmah) Approx. 7km South.
- Picola General Store: (Picola) Approx. 18km South.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Barmah: Public taps near the boat ramp/park. Approx. 7km South.
- Nathalia: Public taps in town parks. Approx. 35km South.
Nearest Public Toilets
- On-site at Barmah Lakes: Drop toilets available.
- Barmah Township: Public toilets near the bridge. Approx. 7km South.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Barmah
- Summer (December - February): Hot and dry. Average highs 31°C - 35°C. The forest canopy provides essential shade. Fire danger is high.
- Autumn (March - May): Mild and pleasant. Warm days (22°C - 28°C) and cooler nights. The best time for camping.
- Winter (June - August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C - 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C - 5°C) with frost likely. Tracks can be muddy.
- Spring (September - November): Warming up. Highs 19°C - 26°C. The forest may be flooded (natural cycle), restricting access.
Address
Moira Lakes Rd, Barmah, 3639, Australia
