Discover the riverside charm of Pines Landing Camping Area, a versatile campsite nestled within Victoria’s stunning Lower Glenelg National Park, near Drik Drik. Offering both **vehicle and canoe access**, Pines Landing is a sought-after spot for campers seeking direct engagement with the Glenelg River’s natural beauty. It serves as an excellent launch point for canoe trips downstream towards Nelson or as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding parklands by car or foot.
The campground provides basic amenities suitable for self-sufficient campers. You’ll find designated sites set amongst native vegetation, offering some privacy and connection with the bush environment. Shared non-flush (drop) toilets are available, along with picnic tables and communal wood fire pits at many sites (always check fire restrictions before use and BYO firewood). The landing provides easy access to the river for launching kayaks, canoes, or small boats, and it’s a popular spot for fishing. An untreated rainwater tank might be present, but bringing your own drinking water or a reliable treatment method is essential.
**Bookings are mandatory** for Pines Landing and must be made online via the Parks Victoria website, with fees applying per site, per night. As this campsite is within a National Park, strict regulations are in place to protect the fragile environment. **Dogs and other pets are strictly prohibited.** Generators are not permitted, ensuring a peaceful experience for all. Adherence to Leave No Trace principles is crucial, meaning all rubbish must be taken home with you. Access is via unsealed park roads (Pines Landing Track), generally manageable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather, but conditions can vary, especially after rain. Mobile phone reception is highly unreliable or non-existent.
Pines Landing Camping Area is ideal for those wanting a blend of river access and vehicle convenience. It’s perfect for families, fishing enthusiasts, paddlers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the unique landscape of the Lower Glenelg National Park. With easy connections to the Great South West Walk and proximity to both Nelson and Dartmoor for basic supplies, it’s a well-positioned base for a memorable camping adventure. Remember to book early, especially during holidays, and prepare for a rewarding, off-grid experience.
Pines Landing Canoe Camping Area – VIC Location Map
Pines Landing Camping Area (also referred to as Pines Landing Canoe Camp)
- Address: Pines Landing Track, Lower Glenelg National Park, Drik Drik VIC 3304
- GPS Coordinates: -38.02824, 141.26709
- Website: Parks Victoria Bookings
Site Features
- Location: Lower Glenelg National Park, on the banks of the Glenelg River, near Drik Drik.
- Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, small caravans/RVs, canoes/kayaks.
- Road access: Yes, via unsealed Pines Landing Track. Generally 2WD accessible in dry conditions, caution needed when wet. Also accessible via river.
- Site surface: Natural earth/grass clearings.
- Camping permitted: Yes, **bookings essential via Parks Victoria (fees apply).**
- Maximum overnight stays: Determined by booking.
- Picnic tables: Yes, shared tables available.
- 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.
- Generator use: **Not permitted** (National Park).
- Number of sites available: 11 designated sites (check booking system).
- Essentials to bring: **Drinking water/treatment method,** all food, stove, rubbish bags, firewood, toilet paper, first-aid kit, insect repellent.
- Pet friendly: **NO. Dogs and pets are not permitted** in the Lower Glenelg National Park.
- Fishing: Yes (Victorian fishing licence required).
- Short walks: Yes, access to the Great South West Walk and riverbank exploration.
Local Amenities (Nearest town – Nelson ~25km / Dartmoor ~30km)
Distances are approximate by road.
Local Pubs
- Nelson Hotel: Approximately 25-30km away in Nelson.
- Dartmoor Hotel: Approximately 30-35km away in Dartmoor.
- *Note: Drik Drik does not have a pub.*
Places to Eat
- Nelson Kiosk / Cafe: Approximately 25-30km away in Nelson.
- Dartmoor General Store / Roadhouse: Basic supplies/takeaway (approx. 30-35km).
Local Attractions
- Princess Margaret Rose Cave: Limestone cave tours (closer to Nelson).
- Glenelg River Cruises: Tours depart from Nelson.
- Great South West Walk: Passes nearby.
- Fort O’Hare (Dartmoor): Historical site.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Kywong Caravan Park: Approximately 25-30km away in Nelson.
- Nelson Riverfront Holiday Park: Approximately 25-30km away in Nelson.
- Dartmoor Caravan Park: Approximately 30-35km away in Dartmoor.
Next Free Camps (Vehicle Accessible / Note Rules)
- *Note: Check WikiCamps or similar apps for potential basic roadside stops outside the national park. Rules vary.*
- *Campsites within Cobboboonee Forest Park (nearby) allow dogs.*
Next Camps (Canoe Access Only / Vehicle Access)
- Moleside Camping Area: Downstream (closer to Nelson, vehicle access).
- Wild Dog Bend Camping Area: Upstream (further from Nelson, vehicle access).
- Lasletts Canoe Camp: Upstream (further from Nelson, canoe only).
Nearest Dump Points
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Public RV dump point (approx. 25-30km).
- Dartmoor Caravan Park: May offer dump point access (check first, approx. 30-35km).
- Mount Gambier (SA): Larger town facilities (approx. 55-65km).
Nearest Petrol Station
- Nelson Roadhouse / General Store: Approximately 25-30km away in Nelson.
- Dartmoor Roadhouse / General Store: Approximately 30-35km away in Dartmoor.
Drinking Water Resupply
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Potable water taps available (approx. 25-30km).
- Dartmoor: Public taps may be available (check locally, approx. 30-35km).
Nearest Public Toilets (Vehicle Accessible)
- Nelson Boat Ramp / Kiosk Area: Public toilets available (approx. 25-30km).
- Dartmoor Town Centre / Recreation Reserve: Public toilets available (approx. 30-35km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast (Drik Drik / Nelson Area)
- Summer (December – February): Mild to warm days, often breezy. Average highs around 22-25°C, lows around 12-14°C.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild becoming cool. Clear days common, cooler nights. Highs drop from 23°C to 16°C.
- Winter (June – August): Cool, damp, and often cloudy. Average highs around 13-15°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 16°C to 21°C.