Lakeside Camping Area is a premier destination within the magnificent Lake Eildon National Park, offering a superb combination of natural beauty and quality facilities for a comfortable family holiday. As part of the popular Fraser Camping Area, this well-appointed campground sits right on the picturesque shores of Coller Bay, providing campers with direct access to the water and a stunning bushland setting. The campground features a range of designated, unpowered sites suitable for tents, camper trailers, and some caravans, all nestled amongst a serene woodland of native eucalypts. It’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to enjoy the vast recreational opportunities that Lake Eildon has to offer, from boating to wildlife watching.
As a bookable Parks Victoria campground, Lakeside requires fees and advance bookings, which ensures a well-managed and orderly environment, especially during peak season. The facilities are a significant step up from basic bush camping, with toilet blocks, picnic tables, and shared fireplaces available for use. The main drawcard is the easy access to the lake, making it a perfect spot for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and launching boats from the nearby ramps. The surrounding national park is a haven for native wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, and a vast array of birdlife, which are often seen around the campsites. In line with national park regulations, dogs and generators are not permitted, preserving the peaceful atmosphere. Campers should also bring their own firewood for use in the designated fireplaces. For a well-serviced, family-friendly, and action-packed holiday on the water, Lakeside Camping Area is one of Lake Eildon’s finest offerings.
Lakeside Camping Area – VIC Location Map
Lakeside Camping Area
Campground Information & Features
- Location: Fraser Camping Area, on the shores of Coller Bay, Lake Eildon National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and some caravans in designated unpowered sites.
- Road Access: Sealed and good quality unsealed roads, 2WD accessible.
- Site Surface: Compacted earth/gravel for each site.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, fees apply and bookings are mandatory via the Parks Victoria website.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Determined by booking.
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, shared fireplaces, and a shared picnic shelter.
- Potable Water: Untreated water is available from taps; it should be boiled before consumption.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good with Telstra, can be patchy with other providers.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated communal fireplaces only, subject to fire bans. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Prohibited in the National Park.
- Number of Sites Available: A number of designated, bookable sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Booking confirmation, firewood, drinking water (or purification method), rubbish bags.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Lake Eildon National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent opportunities for trout, redfin, and Murray cod in the lake.
- Short Walks: Yes, the campground connects to walking and cycling trails within the Fraser Camping Area.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Eildon Hotel (Eildon) – Approx. 20 km
- Golden Trout Hotel (Eildon) – Approx. 20 km
- The Corner Hotel Alexandra – Approx. 40 km
- Places to Eat:
- Eildon (Bakery, cafes, pubs, takeaway) – Approx. 20 km
- Alexandra (Wide range of options) – Approx. 40 km
- Local Attractions:
- Lake Eildon National Park lookouts (e.g., Blowhard Summit)
- Eildon Pondage and Dam Wall
- Snobs Creek Falls
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Eildon Pondage Holiday Park – Approx. 20 km
- Bluegums Riverside Holiday Park (Eildon) – Approx. 20 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Numerous sites along the Eildon-Jamieson Road (e.g., Skipworth Reserve) – Approx. 30 km
- Horseshoe Bend (near Alexandra) – Approx. 45 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- A dump point is available at the Overnight Hikers car park within the park.
- Eildon also has public dump points.
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available at the campground (untreated) and in Eildon township.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- Eildon township has several public facilities.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Lake Eildon Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and busy. The prime season for all water sports and camping. High fire danger.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant and mild weather with fewer crowds. Ideal for hiking and fishing.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet. The lake can be foggy and windswept. A quiet time to visit.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild but can be unpredictable with wind and rain. A great time for seeing the park’s wildflowers.
