For those seeking a truly immersive experience in the wild heart of the Lower Glenelg National Park, Wilson Hall Campground is an exceptional destination. This beautiful and secluded Parks Victoria site offers an authentic bush camping adventure on the banks of the majestic Glenelg River. It is a haven for canoers, kayakers, anglers, and hikers looking to escape the everyday and connect with one of Victoria’s most spectacular natural environments. The campground is tucked away in a serene clearing, surrounded by a magnificent forest of native trees that provides both shade and a wonderful sense of solitude. The well-spaced, designated campsites ensure privacy, allowing you to fully appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, where the only interruptions are the sounds of native wildlife and the gentle flow of the river.
The magnificent Glenelg River, with its iconic limestone gorges, is the star of the show. The campground features a dedicated canoe landing and jetty, making it an ideal launch point or overnight stop for multi-day paddling expeditions. The river is a renowned fishing paradise, teeming with Bream, Mulloway, and Estuary Perch. Wilson Hall is also a key stop on the iconic 250-kilometre Great South West Walk, providing a vital and scenic resting place for hikers. The facilities are basic but clean and well-suited to the remote, wilderness setting. Due to its popularity with paddlers and hikers, bookings are essential to secure a spot. While it requires self-sufficiency, the reward is a profound sense of tranquility and a memorable adventure in a truly special part of Australia, with other park attractions like the Princess Margaret Rose Cave just a drive away.
Wilson Hall Campground – VIC Location Map
Wilson Hall Campground
Site Details
- Location: Remote riverside camp in the Lower Glenelg National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, and small Off-road Camper Trailers. Not suitable for caravans.
- Road Access: Unsealed gravel/dirt forest tracks. Can be rough, slippery, and are subject to closure. 4WD is strongly recommended.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and leaf litter base.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are mandatory via the Parks Victoria website.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check Parks Victoria guidelines for booking limits.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, shared fire pits, picnic tables, canoe landing/jetty. No power or showers.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water (or treat river water).
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Non-existent. A personal locator beacon (PLB) is strongly recommended.
- TV Reception: Not applicable.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Not permitted.
- Number of Sites Available: 8 designated, bookable sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, insect repellent, kayak/canoe, PLB.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Lower Glenelg National Park.
Activities
- Fishing: Excellent river fishing for Bream, Mulloway, and Estuary Perch.
- Short Walks: This is a key campground on the multi-day Great South West Walk.
- Kayaking & Canoeing: A premier destination for paddling the Glenelg River.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Nelson Hotel (Nelson) – Approx. 35 km
- Dartmoor Hotel (Dartmoor) – Approx. 40 km
- Port Macdonnell Hotel (SA) – Approx. 60 km
- Places to Eat:
- Nelson Hotel (Bistro) & Kiosk – Approx. 35 km
- Dartmoor Hotel (Bistro) – Approx. 40 km
- Local Attractions:
- Great South West Walk – Onsite
- Princess Margaret Rose Cave – Approx. 30 km
- Town of Nelson and Glenelg River Mouth – Approx. 35 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Kywong Caravan Park (Nelson) – Approx. 35 km
- Fort O’Hare Free Camp (Dartmoor) – Approx. 40 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Fort O’Hare (Dartmoor) – Approx. 40 km
- Greenwald State Forest (various sites) – Approx. 45 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Nelson Public Dump Point – Approx. 35 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Nelson – Approx. 35 km
- Dartmoor – Approx. 40 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Public Toilets:
- Available onsite (non-flush).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and generally dry, with moderating coastal influences, averaging 14-27°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool nights, ideal for walking and kayaking, averaging 9-22°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp, with chilly days, averaging 6-15°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild with increasing sunshine, a great time to see the forest and river come to life, averaging 8-20°C.
