Experience the raw, untamed beauty of the Gippsland coastline at C18 Campground, a secluded and free camping area nestled within the magnificent Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park. Located along the scenic Shoreline Drive in the quiet hamlet of The Honeysuckles, this campground offers an authentic back-to-basics bush experience for the truly self-sufficient traveller. The sites are tucked away in the dense coastal scrub, providing excellent shelter and privacy, with the thunderous sound of the Southern Ocean as a constant companion. A short walk through the dunes is all that separates you from the vast, wild expanse of the Ninety Mile Beach, a world-renowned stretch of sand perfect for surf fishing, beachcombing, and long, soul-stirring walks.
This is a primitive campground designed for those who come fully prepared to leave no trace. There are no facilities at Campsite 18—no toilets, no water, and no bins—which helps to preserve its pristine, natural state. Campers must bring everything they need, including a portable toilet and drinking water, and are required to take all rubbish with them upon departure. The sandy access tracks make this site best suited for 4WDs and high-clearance off-road camper trailers. It is crucial for visitors to know that Campsite 18 is situated within a **pet-free zone** of the park to protect the delicate coastal ecosystem and its native inhabitants. For the adventurous camper seeking solitude and a genuine connection with one of Victoria’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, Campsite 18 offers an unparalleled and unforgettable free camping experience.
C18 Campground – VIC Location Map
C18 Campground
Features & Rules
- Location: Secluded bush setting behind the dunes of the Ninety Mile Beach.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and off-road camper trailers.
- Road Access: Access via sealed Shoreline Drive, then sandy tracks into the campground. 4WD or high-clearance vehicle recommended.
- Site Surface: Natural sand and earth.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping is permitted.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
- Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy, best with Telstra.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Several undesignated, unpowered sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and all supplies.
- Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted at this campground (sites 7-20 are pet-free zones).
- Fishing: Excellent surf fishing opportunities on the Ninety Mile Beach.
- Short Walks: Direct access to the Ninety Mile Beach for endless walking.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Seaspray Sport and Community Club – approx. 12 km
- Golden Beach Community Club & Bistro – approx. 14 km
- Places to Eat:
- Seaspray General Store & Takeaway – approx. 12 km
- Golden Beach General Store & Takeaway – approx. 14 km
- Local Attractions:
- Ninety Mile Beach – at your doorstep
- Trinculo Shipwreck – approx. 4 km
- Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park – you are in it
Nearby Parks & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Seaspray Caravan Park – approx. 12 km
- Golden Beach Holiday Park – approx. 14 km
- Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
- Other designated campgrounds along Shoreline Drive (C17, C19 etc.) – within a few kms.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Sale Showgrounds Public Dump Point – approx. 48 km
- Nearest Petrol Station: Seaspray General Store – approx. 12 km or Golden Beach General Store – approx. 14 km (may have limited hours).
- Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Seaspray or Golden Beach.
- Nearest Public Toilets: Seaspray Foreshore – approx. 12 km or Golden Beach Community Centre Reserve – approx. 14 km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot with strong coastal breezes. Average maximum temperatures are around 25°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights, perfect for fishing and walking. Average maximums range from 18°C to 24°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often windy, with a higher chance of rain. Average maximums are around 15°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with coastal wildflowers in bloom. Average maximums range from 18°C to 22°C.
