Red Gum Landing offers a peaceful, vehicle-accessible camping experience right on the banks of the iconic Glenelg River within Victoria’s Lower Glenelg National Park. Unlike the dedicated canoe camps, Red Gum Landing allows visitors to drive directly to their site, making it suitable for tents, camper trailers, and small caravans looking for a riverside escape near Drik Drik and Nelson. Surrounded by towering gums and tranquil river views, it’s an excellent base for fishing, kayaking, bushwalking, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of this unique park.
The campsite provides basic but well-maintained facilities for campers. Each designated site typically includes a picnic table and a shared fireplace, ideal for evening relaxation (subject to fire restrictions). Non-flush (drop) toilets are centrally located within the campground. While there is a rainwater tank, the water is untreated and not guaranteed, so campers must bring their own sufficient supply of drinking water or have means to treat the tank water. Direct river access makes launching a canoe or kayak straightforward, and fishing from the bank is popular.
**Bookings are essential** for Red Gum Landing and must be made via the Parks Victoria website, with fees applicable per site per night. As it’s located within a National Park, specific rules apply: **dogs and other pets are strictly prohibited**, generators are not permitted, and fires can only be lit in the provided fireplaces (BYO firewood). All rubbish must be taken out by campers as no bins are provided – adhering to Leave No Trace principles is crucial. Access is via unsealed park roads (River Fire Line E Track), generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, though conditions can deteriorate after rain. Mobile phone reception is typically poor or non-existent.
Red Gum Landing is perfect for families and groups wanting a riverside camping experience with easier access than the canoe-only sites, while still being immersed in the natural environment of the Lower Glenelg National Park. Its proximity to Nelson allows for convenient resupply or day trips to explore the nearby caves and coastal areas. Remember to book well in advance, especially during peak season, and come fully prepared for a self-sufficient stay.
Red Gum Landing – VIC Location Map
Red Gum Landing Campsite
- Address: River Fire Line E Track, Lower Glenelg National Park, Drik Drik VIC 3304
- GPS Coordinates: -38.03522, 141.15473
- 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.
- Road access: Yes, via unsealed park tracks (River Fire Line E Track). Generally 2WD accessible in dry conditions, can become slippery/boggy when wet.
- 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, at most sites.
- Potable water: **No.** Untreated rainwater tank may be onsite (boil/treat before use). Bring your own water.
- Mobile phone coverage: **Poor / 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.
- Pet friendly: **NO. Dogs and pets are not permitted** in the Lower Glenelg National Park.
- Fishing: Yes (Victorian fishing licence required).
- Short walks: Yes, informal walks along the riverbank and access to Great South West Walk nearby.
Local Amenities (Nearest town: Nelson)
Distances are approximate by road from Nelson.
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: Accessible nearby.
- Discovery Bay Coastal Park: Ocean beaches near Nelson.
- Sapling Creek Trail: Walking track within the park.
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 (Vehicle Accessible / Note Rules)
- *Note: Most nearby free camps are basic roadside stops or require 4WD. Check WikiCamps or similar apps for options outside the national park.*
- *Campsites within Cobboboonee Forest Park (nearby) allow dogs, unlike Lower Glenelg NP.*
Next Camps (Canoe Access Only)
- Georges Rest Canoe Camp: Downstream (closer to Nelson).
- Battersbys Canoe Camp: Further downstream.
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.