Discover the tranquil beauty of Nelson, Victoria, with a visit to the Presbyterian Campsite. Nestled on the banks of the majestic Glenelg River, this quiet location offers a serene escape on the border of Victoria and South Australia. Nelson is a hidden gem for nature lovers, anglers, and adventurers, serving as the western gateway to the iconic Great South West Walk and the stunning Discovery Bay Coastal Park. This campsite provides a peaceful base to explore the limestone gorges of the Lower Glenelg National Park, a landscape carved over millennia by the winding river.
This region is a haven for outdoor activities. The Glenelg River is renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly for bream, estuary perch, and mulloway. Boating and kayaking are popular pastimes, offering a unique perspective of the towering cliffs and abundant birdlife. The surrounding national park is crisscrossed with walking trails, ranging from short, accessible strolls to challenging multi-day hikes. Whether you’re looking to launch a canoe, enjoy a riverside picnic, or simply relax and spot kangaroos and emus in their natural habitat, Nelson provides an authentic Australian bush and river experience.
The Presbyterian Campsite itself is situated conveniently on Wade St, offering easy access to the heart of this small, welcoming township. While facilities may be simple, the true appeal lies in its prime location and the opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. It’s an ideal spot for self-contained travellers seeking a quiet retreat. From here, you are moments away from the Nelson Hotel for a hearty meal, the boat ramp for river access, and the local kiosk. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the site and the abundant local amenities to help you plan your perfect riverside getaway in beautiful Nelson.
Presbyterian Campsite – VIC Location Map
Presbyterian Campsite
- Address: Wade St, Nelson VIC 3292
- GPS Coordinates: -38.04573, 141.01166
Site Features
- Location: Located in the township of Nelson, on the banks of the Glenelg River. Close to the Lower Glenelg National Park and Discovery Bay Coastal Park.
- Site suitable for: Enquire on-site (Likely tents, campervans. Suitability for large caravans unknown).
- Road access: Sealed road to Wade St.
- Site surface: Not specified (Likely grass).
- Camping permitted: Yes.
- Maximum overnight stays: Not specified. Please check for local signage or caretaker.
- Picnic tables: Not specified.
- Potable water: Not specified. Advised to bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile phone coverage: Telstra coverage is generally available in Nelson, but can be patchy.
- TV reception: Not specified.
- Onsite public toilets: Not specified (Public toilets are available nearby in the town).
- Ullage (Dump Point): Not available on-site.
- Drive through: Not specified.
- Rubbish bins: Not specified. Please be prepared to take your rubbish with you.
- Open fires: Not specified. Check local fire restrictions (CFA) before lighting any fire. Fires are generally not permitted on Total Fire Ban days.
- Generator use: Not specified. Please be mindful of other campers if use is permitted.
- Number of sites available: Not specified.
- Essentials to bring: Drinking water, firewood (if fires are permitted), insect repellent, rubbish bags, levelling blocks.
- Pet friendly: Not specified. Please enquire before arrival.
- Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing in the adjacent Glenelg River (Victorian fishing licence required).
- Short walks: Yes, located near the Great South West Walk and various tracks along the river and coast.
Local Amenities
- Pubs: Nelson Hotel (approx. 500m).
- Places to eat: Nelson Hotel (approx. 500m), Nelson Kiosk (approx. 600m).
- Local attractions: Glenelg River Cruises (approx. 600m), Great South West Walk (access nearby), Lower Glenelg National Park (surrounding area), Princess Margaret Rose Cave (approx. 15km).
- Nearest caravan parks: Kywong Caravan Park (approx. 1km), River Vu Park (approx. 1.5km).
- Next Free Camps: Fort O’Hare (in Dartmoor, approx. 30km).
- Nearest dump points: Nelson does not have a public dump point. The nearest public dump points are in Mount Gambier, SA (approx. 35km) or Portland, VIC (approx. 65km).
- Nearest petrol station: BP Nelson (approx. 700m).
- Drinking water resupply: Public taps may be available at local parks or the Nelson Tourist Information Centre. It is recommended to filter or boil, or bring your own.
- Nearest public toilets: Nelson Tourist Information Centre (approx. 400m on Leake St).
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Nelson
- Summer (December – February): Warm and generally dry, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, though occasional heatwaves can push temperatures higher. Evenings are mild. A great time for swimming and boating.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and pleasant, with cooling temperatures. Average days are between 15°C and 22°C. Mornings can be cool, and rainfall begins to increase towards May.
- Winter (June – August): Cool and damp, with average daytime temperatures between 10°C and 15°C. Nights are cold, and this is the wettest time of year. Bring warm, waterproof clothing.
- Spring (September – November): Mild and green, with temperatures warming from 15°C to 20°C. Wildflowers are in bloom, but weather can be changeable with showers and sunny periods.