Georges Rest Canoe Camp offers another secluded stopover point for adventurers exploring the magnificent Glenelg River within Victoria’s Lower Glenelg National Park. Like the other dedicated canoe camps along this waterway, Georges Rest is **only reachable by watercraft (canoe, kayak) or by foot** along the Great South West Walk. Located downstream from Skipworth Springs and upstream from Battersbys, it provides a crucial link in the chain of campsites for multi-day paddling or hiking expeditions through the park’s dramatic limestone gorges.
The campsite provides basic amenities suited to the self-sufficient wilderness traveller. Facilities typically include designated clearings for tents, non-flush (drop) toilets, shared picnic tables, and communal fire pits. While a rainwater tank might be present, the water is untreated and supply isn’t guaranteed; therefore, all visitors must carry adequate drinking water or reliable purification methods. The camp offers direct river access, perfect for a refreshing swim or trying your luck fishing for bream or mulloway (Victorian fishing licence needed).
Like all canoe camps in the park, **booking through Parks Victoria is mandatory** and fees are applicable. Georges Rest operates under strict National Park regulations: **dogs and pets are prohibited**, generators are not allowed, and fires are restricted to the provided fireplaces, subject to fire danger ratings and seasonal bans (bring your own firewood carried in via canoe/foot). A strict **Leave No Trace policy** applies – all rubbish must be packed out. Be aware that mobile phone reception is generally unavailable in this remote section of the park.
Georges Rest is an essential part of the Glenelg River Canoe Trail, allowing paddlers and hikers to break up their journey between Dartmoor and Nelson. Its isolation requires careful planning and preparation but rewards visitors with a peaceful night under the stars, surrounded by the unique sounds and sights of the Australian bush and the majestic Glenelg River environment. Always check weather forecasts and river conditions before setting out.
Georges Rest Canoe Camp – VIC Location Map
Georges Rest Canoe Camp
- Address: Lower Glenelg National Park, VIC 3292 (Accessible only via Glenelg River or Great South West Walk)
- GPS Coordinates: -38.04164, 141.1597
- Website: Parks Victoria Bookings
Site Features
- Location: Lower Glenelg National Park, on the banks of the Glenelg River.
- Site suitable for: Tents, swags (canoe/hike access only).
- Road access: **None.** Access via canoe/kayak or Great South West Walk only.
- Site surface: Natural earth/grass clearings/tent pads.
- Camping permitted: Yes, **bookings essential via Parks Victoria (fees apply).**
- Maximum overnight stays: Determined by booking.
- Picnic tables: Yes.
- Potable water: **No.** Untreated rainwater tank may be onsite (boil/treat before use). Bring your own water.
- Mobile phone coverage: **None / Very Unreliable.**
- TV reception: No.
- Onsite public toilets: **Yes, non-flush (drop) toilets.**
- Rubbish bins: **No.** Pack-in, pack-out essential.
- Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only. Subject to seasonal fire restrictions (Total Fire Bans). BYO firewood (must be transported via canoe/foot).
- Generator use: **Not permitted** (National Park).
- Number of sites available: Limited designated sites (check booking system).
- Essentials to bring: **Drinking water/treatment method,** all food, stove, rubbish bags, firewood (if permitted), toilet paper, first-aid kit, PLB recommended.
- Pet friendly: **NO. Dogs and pets are not permitted** in the Lower Glenelg National Park.
- Fishing: Yes (Victorian fishing licence required).
- Short walks: Yes, the site is directly on the Great South West Walk route.
Local Amenities (Nearest town: Nelson)
Distances are approximate by road from Nelson or potential launch points like Pritchards Landing.
Local Pubs
- Nelson Hotel: Approximately 15-20km away in Nelson.
Places to Eat
- Nelson Kiosk / Cafe: Approximately 15-20km away in Nelson.
Local Attractions
- Princess Margaret Rose Cave: Limestone cave tours nearby (accessible by road/boat tour).
- Glenelg River Cruises: Tours depart from Nelson.
- Great South West Walk: Passes through the campsite.
- Discovery Bay Coastal Park: Ocean beaches near Nelson.
Nearest Caravan Parks (Vehicle-based camping)
- Kywong Caravan Park: Approximately 15-20km away in Nelson.
- Nelson Riverfront Holiday Park (formerly River Vu): Approximately 15-20km away in Nelson.
Next Free Camps (Canoe Access Only)
- Skipworth Springs Canoe Camp: Upstream (further from Nelson).
- Battersbys Canoe Camp: Downstream (closer to Nelson).
- Pritchards Canoe Camp: Further upstream.
Nearest Dump Points
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Public RV dump point (approx. 15-20km).
- Mount Gambier (SA): Larger town facilities (approx. 45-55km).
Nearest Petrol Station
- Nelson Roadhouse / General Store: Approximately 15-20km away in Nelson.
Drinking Water Resupply
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Potable water taps available (approx. 15-20km).
Nearest Public Toilets (Vehicle Accessible)
- Nelson Boat Ramp / Kiosk Area: Public toilets available (approx. 15-20km).
- Pritchards Landing: Toilets available at the vehicle access point/boat ramp.
- Battersbys Landing: Toilets available at the vehicle access point/boat ramp.
Seasonal Weather Forecast (Nelson Area)
- Summer (December – February): Mild to warm days, often breezy. Average highs around 22-24°C, lows around 12-14°C.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild becoming cool. Clear days common, but cooler nights. Highs drop from 22°C to 16°C.
- Winter (June – August): Cool, damp, and often cloudy. Average highs around 13-14°C, lows around 6-7°C. Expect rain.
- Spring (September – November): Cool becoming mild. Weather can be variable with wind and showers. Highs rise from 15°C to 20°C.