Nestled on the serene shores of Tamboon Inlet within the magnificent Croajingolong National Park, Choof Choof Campground offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventurers. This secluded free campsite is a hidden gem along Victoria’s Wilderness Coast, providing an authentic bush camping experience far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The journey to the campground itself is part of the adventure, guiding you through beautiful forests and rewarding you with spectacular coastal scenery. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking peace, solitude, and a direct connection with the Australian wilderness. The campground is perfectly suited for self-sufficient campers who are well-prepared with their own supplies, including drinking water and firewood.
The main attractions here are the stunning natural surroundings and the abundant wildlife. The calm waters of Tamboon Inlet are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with anglers often trying their luck for bream, flathead, and other estuary species. The surrounding area is a haven for birdwatchers, with sea eagles, kingfishers, and a variety of parrots frequently spotted. Bushwalkers can explore nearby tracks that weave through coastal heathland and eucalypt forests, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to encounter kangaroos, wallabies, and goannas. As night falls, the remote location ensures minimal light pollution, making it a spectacular spot for stargazing. Choof Choof Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a base for exploring the raw, unspoiled beauty of one of Victoria’s most precious natural landscapes. Whether you’re launching a boat for a day on the water or simply relaxing by a crackling campfire, this spot provides a memorable and refreshing outdoor experience.
Choof Choof Campground – VIC Location Map
Choof Choof Campground
- Address: Tamboon, Victoria 3890, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.71506, 149.12856
Site Details
- Location: Located within Croajingolong National Park on the banks of Tamboon Inlet.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans. Access may be difficult for large vehicles.
- Road Access: Unsealed gravel road, suitable for 2WD in dry conditions but 4WD is recommended, especially after rain.
- Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with Parks Victoria for the latest regulations, often around 14 days.
- Number of Powered Sites: None available.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Not specified, limited number of unmarked sites.
Amenities & Facilities
- Facilities: Basic bush camping facilities.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: Not available. Bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited to none. Telstra may have intermittent service in some spots.
- TV Reception: Unlikely.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flushing toilets available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out site. Please take all rubbish with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans and regulations. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers with usage times.
- Number of Sites Available: Approximately 5-10 unmarked sites.
Activities & Features
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, insect repellent, rubbish bags, and all camping supplies.
- Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in Croajingolong National Park.
- Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing in Tamboon Inlet for bream, flathead, and other estuary species.
- Short Walks: Yes, various informal tracks around the inlet and through the surrounding bushland.
Local Amenities
Pubs
- Cann River Hotel: Approximately 45 km
- Marlo Hotel: Approximately 70 km
- Orbost Club Hotel: Approximately 80 km
Places to Eat
- Cann River Cafe & Bakery: Approximately 45 km
- Marlo Hotel (Pub Meals): Approximately 70 km
- Various cafes and restaurants in Orbost: Approximately 80 km
Local Attractions
- Tamboon Inlet: Onsite
- Point Hicks Lighthouse: Approximately 30 km (requires 4WD)
- Thurra River Dunes: Approximately 40 km
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Cann River Rainforest Caravan Park: Approximately 45 km
- Bemm River Caravan Park: Approximately 55 km
- Orbost Caravan Park: Approximately 80 km
Next Free Camps
- Thurra River Campground (Parks Victoria, fees may apply): Approximately 40 km
- Mueller River Campground (Parks Victoria, fees may apply): Approximately 50 km
Services
- Nearest Dump Points: Cann River (approx. 45 km) or Orbost (approx. 80 km)
- Nearest Petrol Station: Cann River (approx. 45 km)
- Drinking Water Resupply: Cann River (approx. 45 km) or Orbost (approx. 80 km)
- Nearest Public Toilets: Cann River (approx. 45 km) or Orbost (approx. 80 km)
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Weather in this coastal region can be variable. Always check the latest forecast before you travel.
- Summer (December – February): Warm to hot days, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C. Can be humid with a chance of thunderstorms. Excellent for water activities.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and often calm days with cooler nights. Temperatures typically range from 10°C to 22°C. A great time for bushwalking and fishing.
- Winter (June – August): Cool to cold, with temperatures between 5°C and 16°C. Expect more rainfall and overcast days. Pack warm clothing.
- Spring (September – November): Mild and pleasant, with temperatures warming up from 10°C to 20°C. Wildflowers are in bloom, and it’s a beautiful time to explore the park.