Tucked away in the rich volcanic plains of Western Victoria, Lake Elingamite offers a wonderfully rustic and peaceful free camping experience. This spacious, lakeside reserve is a true gem for self-sufficient travellers, providing a tranquil escape with a classic Australian bush camp atmosphere. The campground is spread across a generous, grassy foreshore, with plenty of large, shady sites nestled amongst mature trees. It’s an ideal destination for those in caravans, motorhomes, and tents who appreciate open spaces and a direct connection to nature. The main feature is the beautiful and expansive Lake Elingamite, a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and boating, creating a serene backdrop for a relaxing stay.
The campground champions a back-to-basics approach, rewarding prepared campers with an authentic and budget-friendly holiday. The key activities revolve around the water; the lake is particularly well-regarded by anglers for its healthy populations of Redfin and Trout. A boat ramp provides easy access for those wishing to explore the lake further. For those on land, the vast reserve is perfect for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and simply unwinding under the big sky. The facilities are basic but functional, in keeping with a traditional bush camp. Its location is a significant advantage, providing a quiet, rural setting that is just a short drive from the well-serviced town of Cobden. It also serves as an excellent inland base for exploring the nearby 12 Apostles Food Artisan Trail and the iconic Great Ocean Road coastline. For a pet-friendly, peaceful, and perfectly positioned free camp that offers great fishing and a true sense of escape, Lake Elingamite is a fantastic choice.
Lake Elingamite Campground – VIC Location Map
Lake Elingamite Campground
- Address: Unnamed Road (via Oates Rd), Elingamite North VIC 3266
- GPS: -38.34825247165456, 143.0153954460668
Site Details
- Location: Lakeside reserve in a rural setting.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed gravel road, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass and dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe any local signage.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, boat ramp, picnic tables. No power or showers.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, other carriers may be patchy.
- TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
- Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with plenty of space.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, fishing gear.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a lead.
Activities
- Fishing: Known for good catches of Redfin and Trout.
- Short Walks: Enjoy walks along the lake foreshore.
- Boating & Kayaking: A boat ramp provides access to the lake.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Cobden Hotel (Cobden) – Approx. 12 km
- Thommo’s Hotel (Cobden) – Approx. 12 km
- The Timboon Hotel (Timboon) – Approx. 15 km
- Places to Eat:
- Cobden Bakery – Approx. 12 km
- Both Cobden pubs offer bistro meals – Approx. 12 km
- Timboon Railway Shed Distillery – Approx. 15 km
- Local Attractions:
- 12 Apostles Food Artisan Trail (Timboon) – Approx. 15 km
- The 12 Apostles – Approx. 45 km
- Tandarook Botanic Gardens (Cobden) – Approx. 11 km
- Lake Purrumbete – Approx. 10 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Cobden Racecourse Recreation Reserve – Approx. 10 km
- Lake Purrumbete Holiday Park – Approx. 10 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Cobden Free Camp – Approx. 10 km
- Simpson Recreation Reserve – Approx. 25 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Cobden Racecourse Recreation Reserve – Approx. 10 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available at the Cobden Racecourse Recreation Reserve.
- Public Toilets:
- Available onsite (non-flush).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and generally dry with afternoon breezes, averaging 13-26°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool nights, ideal for fishing, averaging 9-21°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug):** Cool and often damp, with lush green scenery, averaging 6-14°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov):** Cool to mild with a mix of sun and showers, averaging 8-19°C.
