Nestled on the serene shores of the famous Lake Tyers in East Gippsland, Trident Arm Campground is a classic bush camping destination for those looking to escape and reconnect with nature. This free campground, set within the beautiful Lake Tyers State Park, offers a peaceful retreat with direct access to one of Victoria’s premier fishing estuaries. The campground itself is a collection of dispersed, unmarked sites scattered amongst the coastal forest, providing a good degree of privacy and a genuine sense of being immersed in the bush. It’s a place where the gentle lapping of water and the call of sea eagles replace the noise of the city.
The main drawcard for Trident Arm is undoubtedly its proximity to the water. It’s an ideal base for anglers targeting the lake’s abundant bream, flathead, and tailor. Kayakers and canoeists can launch directly from the shore to explore the many quiet inlets and arms of the vast lake system. The surrounding park offers opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching, and simply relaxing under the shade of a gum tree. As a remote, basic campground, it has limited facilities, typically just a non-flush toilet. This means campers must be completely self-sufficient, bringing all their own drinking water, cooking equipment, firewood, and power supplies. Access can be via unsealed forest tracks, which may be challenging for large caravans or 2WD vehicles after rain, so checking conditions beforehand is wise. Following the ‘leave no trace’ principle is essential to preserve the pristine nature of this special spot for future visitors.
Trident Arm Campground – VIC Location Map
Trident Arm Campground
- Address: Off Burnt Bridge Track, Toorloo Arm VIC 3909
- GPS Coordinates: -37.82316, 148.13539
- Location: A bush campground on the banks of Trident Arm, part of the Lake Tyers system in East Gippsland.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans. Access may not be suitable for large rigs.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 4WD is recommended, especially in wet conditions.
- Site Surface: Dirt and natural bush floor.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check local signage or Parks Victoria guidelines.
- Number of Powered Sites: 0.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Multiple unmarked, dispersed sites.
Facilities
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited to non-existent. Best reception for Telstra on higher ground.
- TV Reception: Unlikely.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits or your own fire pit, subject to local fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the peaceful environment and other campers.
Activities & Important Information
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, insect repellent, rubbish bags, toilet paper, and a fishing rod.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Lake Tyers State Park.
- Fishing: Excellent. Lake Tyers is renowned for its bream and flathead fishing. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short Walks: Explore the informal tracks along the lake shore and through the surrounding forest.
Local Amenities
The nearest town with full services is Lakes Entrance, approximately 15-20 km away.
Pubs & Places to Eat
- Central Hotel | The Top Pub: Located in Lakes Entrance.
- Water’s Edge Restaurant & Bar: Also in Lakes Entrance, on the Esplanade.
- The Floating Dragon: A unique floating restaurant in Lakes Entrance.
Local Attractions
- Lakes Entrance Footbridge & Ninety Mile Beach: A must-do walk across to the famous ocean beach.
- Gippsland Lakes: Explore the largest inland waterway system in Australia.
- Buchan Caves Reserve: A spectacular cave system, about an hour’s drive away.
Camping & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Numerous options available in Lakes Entrance and Lake Tyers Beach.
- Next Free Camps: Log Crossing Picnic Area (inland), Pettmans Beach Campground (coastal).
- Nearest Dump Points: Bairnsdale or Lakes Entrance.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Lakes Entrance.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Lakes Entrance.
- Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in the Lakes Entrance township.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Note: The East Gippsland coast has a temperate maritime climate.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot, perfect for water activities but can be busy. High risk of bushfires.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Generally calm and mild, with sunny days. Considered an excellent time for camping and fishing.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp, with higher rainfall. The campground will be very quiet.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant, but can be windy. A great time for fishing as the water warms up.