Shallow Inlet Campground – Marine & Coastal Park
Located at the northern edge of Wilsons Promontory, Shallow Inlet Marine & Coastal Park offers a unique and rustic camping experience for those looking to connect with a dynamic coastal environment. This tranquil tidal waterway is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and anglers alike. The campground itself, managed by Parks Victoria, provides a back-to-basics setting, perfect for campers who value seclusion and nature over extensive facilities. The main drawcard is the inlet itself – a vast expanse of sheltered water that is ideal for kayaking, sailing, and famously, windsurfing and kiteboarding, thanks to the reliable coastal winds. The firmly compacted sand at low tide even allows for vehicle access right to the water’s edge, making it easy to launch small boats and watercraft.
The campground operates seasonally and is one of the few in the region that welcomes dogs, making it a popular choice for pet owners. Sites are nestled amongst coastal vegetation, offering some protection from the elements. Fishing is a major pastime here, with anglers targeting King George whiting, salmon, and large flathead within the inlet’s channels. While the facilities are limited to non-flush toilets and drinking water, the trade-off is a peaceful atmosphere far from the crowds. It’s a place to watch spectacular sunsets over the water, explore the surrounding bushland, and enjoy the abundant birdlife. For a truly unplugged coastal getaway where the rhythm of the tides dictates the day’s activities, Shallow Inlet provides an authentic and memorable setting.
Location Details
- Name: Shallow Inlet Campground
- Address: Shallow Inlet Road, Yanakie, VIC 3960, Australia
- GPS Coordinates:-38.82276843768612, 146.17142152012272
Contact & Booking
- Managed By: Parks Victoria
- Phone Number: 13 1963 (Parks Victoria Information Centre)
- Email Contact: info@parks.vic.gov.au
- Website URL: parks.vic.gov.au
Campsite Features & Facilities
- Road Access: Access via unsealed road, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles.
- Site Surface: Sand and grass.
- Facilities: Basic facilities including non-flush toilets and drinking water taps. No showers.
- Number of Powered Sites: 0
- Number of Unpowered Sites: Multiple un-marked sites.
- Gas Swap Bottle: No.
- Fishing Bait: No.
- Firewood: No. Bring your own. Fires only permitted in designated fireplaces.
- Kiosk: No.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited. Telstra offers the most reliable but still patchy service.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
- Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and small caravans.
- Open Fires: Permitted only in designated communal fireplaces, subject to local fire restrictions. Check CFA website before lighting a fire.
- Pet Friendly: Yes. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Fishing: Excellent tidal fishing for whiting, flathead, and salmon.
- Short Walks: Roy Henderson Trail connects to Sandy Point township.
Essentials to Bring
- Booking confirmation (if required)
- Portable gas stove
- Insect repellent (sandflies can be present)
- Firewood and firelighters
- Warm and waterproof clothing
- Sun protection
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs: Fish Creek Hotel (approx. 14km), Foster Exchange Hotel (approx. 20km).
- Places to Eat: Cafes and shops in Sandy Point, Fish Creek, and Foster.
- Local Attractions:
- Sandy Point Beach (Surfing)
- Wilsons Promontory National Park Entrance (approx. 8km)
- Cape Liptrap Coastal Park
- Ned Neales Lookout
- Nearest Alternate Caravan Parks:
- Shallow Inlet Caravan Park (Private) (approx. 1km)
- Sandy Point Holiday Park (approx. 4km)
- Yanakie Caravan Park (approx. 8km)
- Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
- Limited options nearby. Most are rest areas further afield like Franklin River Rest Area (approx. 40km).
- Nearest Alternate Dump Points:
- Sandy Point Holiday Park (approx. 4km)
- Foster Showgrounds (approx. 20km)
- Tidal River Campground (approx. 35km, inside National Park)
- Nearest Petrol Station: Yanakie (approx. 8km) and Foster (approx. 20km).
- Nearest Alternate Drinking Water Resupply: Drinking water is available on-site, but it’s recommended to bring your own supply.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and often windy, perfect for watersports. Can be busy. Average temperatures from 14°C to 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and cool nights with generally stable weather. Ideal for fishing and walking. Average temperatures from 10°C to 21°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet. The campground is typically closed during the winter months.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and windy. A good time for birdwatching as migratory birds are active. Average temperatures from 9°C to 19°C.