Lakes Entrance Recreation Reserve – Your Waterfront Camping Haven
The Lakes Entrance Recreation Reserve stands as one of the most iconic and versatile destinations for travellers exploring the Gippsland Lakes region of Victoria. Perfectly situated at the gateway to the Ninety Mile Beach, this reserve provides a unique combination of sporting facilities and premium holiday accommodation. Whether you are arriving with a large caravan, a modest tent, or a high-tech camper trailer, the reserve offers an unparalleled level of convenience, being just a stone’s throw from the vibrant township of Lakes Entrance while maintaining a sense of coastal tranquillity.
As a central hub for regional tourism, the Lakes Entrance Recreation Reserve is highly favoured for its proximity to the Cunninghame Arm and the expansive lake systems that define the area. Visitors often find themselves enchanted by the local marine life, with frequent sightings of Burrunan dolphins and various water birds. The reserve itself is a hive of activity, frequently hosting local sporting events, markets, and community gatherings, making it more than just a place to stay—it is an immersion into the local Gippsland lifestyle.
To help you plan your stay at this premier Victorian site, consider the following key highlights:
- Strategic central location providing walking access to the main retail strip, cafes, and the famous footbridge leading to the beach.
- Diverse accommodation options ranging from powered grass sites to ensuite sites and modern cabin stays.
- Proximity to world-class fishing spots, including the jetties and boardwalks of the North and South Arms.
- Immediate access to major sporting facilities, including football ovals, netball courts, and cricket nets for active families.
- A safe and welcoming environment for all ages, with ample space for children to play and explore in a secure coastal setting.
- Convenient access to the Princes Highway, making it an ideal base for day trips to Buchan Caves or the Metung village.
Lakes Entrance Recreation Reserve is particularly noted for its well-maintained infrastructure and high-quality amenities. The site provides a comfortable balance between the rugged beauty of East Gippsland and the practical needs of modern caravanning. From the moment you arrive at the Rowe Street entrance, you are greeted with the fresh scent of sea air and the promise of a memorable holiday. Remember to check availability in advance, especially during the peak summer and Easter periods, as this popular reserve remains a top choice for both local Victorians and interstate explorers.
Lakes Entrance Recreation Reserve
- Address: 1 Rowe Street, Lakes Entrance, VIC 3909, Australia
- Website: www.lakesrecreserve.com.au
- GPS Coordinates: -37.87788748331572, 147.9860154633711
Location & Access
- Location: Directly located at the eastern end of the Lakes Entrance town centre, adjacent to the Cunninghame Arm.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, Motorhomes, and Big Rigs.
- Road Access: Sealed bitumen road access via Rowe Street. Easy navigation for large vehicles from the Princes Highway.
- Site Surface: Level grassed sites and some hard-stand areas for heavier vehicles.
Facilities & Preparation
- Available Facilities: Powered and unpowered sites, modern amenity blocks (showers/toilets), laundry facilities, camp kitchen, BBQ areas, and sporting ovals.
- Essentials to Bring: Basic toiletries, beach gear, fishing tackle, and insect repellent for the evening breeze.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, generally pet friendly on sites (seasonal restrictions may apply, contact management to confirm).
- Fishing: Exceptional access to the Gippsland Lakes and ocean fishing. Nearby boat ramps and public jetties.
- Short Walks: Cunninghame Arm Footbridge Walk (to 90 Mile Beach), Entrance Walk, and various town boardwalks.
Local Amenities & Distance
Local Pubs
- The Central Hotel - ~0.6 km
- Waterwheel Beach Tavern - ~1.1 km
- Lakes Entrance Bowls Club (Bistro/Bar) - ~0.4 km
Places to Eat
- The Lakes Fish & Chips - ~0.3 km
- Funky Monkey Cafe - ~0.5 km
- Floating Dragon Chinese (Floating Restaurant) - ~0.8 km
Local Attractions
- Ninety Mile Beach (via Footbridge) - ~0.9 km
- Griffiths Sea Shell Museum - ~0.4 km
- Lakes Entrance Camel Rides - ~0.7 km
- Footbridge Mini Golf & Ice Creamery - ~0.5 km
- Metung Village - ~20 km
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Koolamurt Holiday Park - ~0.2 km (Adjacent)
- Lakes Entrance Tourist Park - ~1.5 km
Nearest Free Camps
- Log Crossing Camping Area - ~18 km
- Burnt Bridge Camping Area - ~22 km
Nearest Dump Points
- Lakes Entrance Recreation Reserve (On-site for guests) - 0 km
- Myer Street Public Dump Point - ~0.9 km
Nearest Petrol Stations
- BP Lakes Entrance (Princes Hwy) - ~0.8 km
- Shell Lakes Entrance - ~1.2 km
Drinking Water Resupply
- On-site via town water connection - 0 km
- Apex Park Public Taps - ~1.4 km
Public Toilets
- Reserve Amenity Block - 0 km
- Lakes Entrance Visitor Information Centre - ~1.5 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and sunny (22°C - 30°C). Perfect beach weather with refreshing afternoon sea breezes.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and stable (15°C - 24°C). Ideal for fishing and exploring the hinterland without the crowds.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and crisp (8°C - 15°C). Clear sunny days are common, though nights can be chilly. Great for whale watching nearby.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Refreshing and breezy (16°C - 22°C). Wildflower season in the surrounding national parks and very active birdlife.