The Glasshouse Free Camping: A Self-Sufficient Guide to Lake Tyers, VIC

For the truly self-sufficient camper seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature, The Glasshouse campground in Lake Tyers State Park is a legendary destination. This is a free, primitive camping area set on a beautifully isolated shore of Lake Tyers, offering a genuine ‘off-the-grid’ experience. The journey itself sets the tone for the adventure, involving a 15-kilometre drive down an unsealed dirt road that leads you far from the bustle of nearby towns. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by a sprawling, open grassy area with stunning, long views across the lake and its surrounding saltmarsh. The campground is a place of significant cultural importance to the Gunaikurnai people, and its history includes the ruins of an old glass factory, adding a unique element to the landscape.

It cannot be overstated that camping at The Glasshouse requires complete self-reliance. There are absolutely no facilities on site – no toilets, no drinking water, and no rubbish collection. Campers must bring everything they need, including a portable toilet, and strictly adhere to leave-no-trace principles to protect the pristine and sensitive environment. The site offers incredible opportunities for birdwatching, fishing in the lake, kayaking, and long, peaceful walks along the shore or through the dunes to the nearby Ninety Mile Beach. While accessible by 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, the track can become challenging after rain. The Glasshouse is not just a campsite; it’s an experience that rewards preparation with tranquillity, abundant wildlife, and a profound sense of isolation in one of Gippsland’s most beautiful natural settings.

Campground Details

• Name: The Glasshouse Campground
• Address: 1542 Lake Tyers House Road, Lake Tyers, VIC 3909, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.84476118190686, 148.11647918741622
• Website: Parks Victoria – The Glasshouse

Campsite Information

• Road Access: Via a 15 km unsealed road (Lake Tyers House Road). Generally 2WD accessible in dry conditions, but can be prone to flooding. 4WD recommended.
• Site Surface: Flat, grassy areas with firm sand underneath. Can be dusty in dry weather.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted. No bookings required, first-come, first-served.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified maximum, but subject to Parks Victoria regulations.
• Facilities: None. Campers must be completely self-sufficient.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited and unreliable.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted for cooking and warmth, subject to Total Fire Bans. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the natural tranquillity and other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Undefined. It is a large, open area. Can get crowded during peak periods.
• Essentials to Bring: Portable toilet, all drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, and all camping/cooking gear.
• Location: Lake Tyers State Park, on the shore of Lake Tyers.
• Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing in Lake Tyers.
• Short Walks: Yes, strolls along the lake shore and a longer walk through dunes to the Ninety Mile Beach.

Nearby Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Water Wheel Beach Tavern (Lake Tyers Beach) – Approx. 25 km (driving)
  • Central Hotel (Lakes Entrance) – Approx. 30 km
  • Bellevue on the Lakes (Lakes Entrance) – Approx. 30 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Lake Tyers Beach Tavern – Approx. 25 km
  • A wide variety of cafes and restaurants in Lakes Entrance – Approx. 30 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Lake Tyers State Park
  • Ninety Mile Beach
  • Buchan Caves – Approx. 60 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Lake Tyers Camp & Caravan Park (Lake Tyers Beach) – Approx. 25 km
  • Numerous parks in Lakes Entrance – Approx. 30 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Pettmans Beach Campground (Lake Tyers State Park) – Approx. 10-15 km (may require 4WD)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bullock Island, Lakes Entrance – Approx. 32 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Lakes Entrance – Approx. 30 km
  • Nowa Nowa – Approx. 20 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Lakes Entrance (public taps available) – Approx. 30 km
• Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Lake Tyers Beach Foreshore – Approx. 25 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Lake Tyers experiences a temperate coastal climate, with conditions often influenced by the ocean and the lakes system.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot, with average maximums around 24°C. Ideal for water activities, but can be busy.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and often calm, with clear, sunny days. Average maximums cool from 22°C to 17°C. A great time for fishing.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and crisp, with average maximums around 15°C. Nights can be cold. The area is quiet and peaceful.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild with increasing sunshine, though it can be windy. Temperatures rise from 18°C to 21°C.