Waterside forest camping this summer

When the temperature heats up, having a creek, river, beach or lake within easy reach can make all the difference for a relaxed camping trip.

Here’s our list of state forest campgrounds that keep the summer fun close at hand. Some are right by the water, while others are just a short drive away, perfect for a quick dip, a day of paddling or an opportunity to spend a relaxing day fishing.

Remember to stay safe around the water. Visit water and flood safety for more information.

South-western Victoria

If you’re heading to the west of the state, add these sites to your shortlist.

Annya Campground in the Annya State Forest is a spacious, flat site located a 28-minute drive from beautiful Narrawong Beach in Portland. Camp among the shade of the messmate, swamp gum, manna gum and western peppermint trees. Up until the 1950s it was used as a camp for logging workers.

Alternatively, pack your bathers, canoe and fishing line and head to Fort O’Hare in Dartmoor. It’s on the Glenelg River, 30 minutes from Nelson Ocean Beach near the South Australian border.

Wimmera camping

If you’re looking for a no-frills bush camp by the water, then Rocklands Reservoir west of Gariwerd (Grampians) is a great choice. Built in the 1950s, it’s the second largest reservoir in Victoria.

With 6 spacious sites dotted around the reservoir, it’s a great base from which to cast a line, launch your boat, canoe or cool down with a swim.

Sites include:

• Glendinning
• Fergusons Campsite
• Henry's Campsite
• Brodies Campground
• Turkey Neck
• Mountain Dam

There are also several campgrounds surrounded by river redgum forest and native bush dotted along the Wimmera River just south of Dimboola. Big Bend and the Wail Campgrounds are located in Wail State Forest and are a 25-minute drive north of Horsham, bordering the Little Desert National Park.

North-east

Big River camping, Big River State Forest

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to camping along the Big River.

Located about 180 km northeast of Melbourne and running into Lake Eildon from the Yarra Ranges, choose from 31 campgrounds over the 2 camping precincts—the Lower Big River and Upper Big River.

The Lower Big River sites are located south of Lake Eildon scattered along Eildon-Jamieson Road and Big River Road. They include sites like Taponga, flanked by both the Big and Taponga Rivers. Jim Bullock and Horseshoe Bend are both about 500 metres away and further south, Chaffe Creek.

The Upper Big River sites are located off Big River Road stretching from Married Men Camp to 25 Mile Creek Camp at the other end, offering a range of riverside camping options.

Beyond camping, the area is perfect for fishing, trail bike riding, hunting and 4WD adventures.

Upper Goulburn River camping, Upper Goulburn State Forest

Cool off to the east of Big River along the Goulburn River, popular with campers, anglers, paddlers and visitors keen to relax and unwind. There are more than 12 state forest sites along the river from Jamieson south of Lake Eildon, all of which have direct river access.

Like Doctors Creek Reserve, just out of Jamieson, or further south Skipworth Reserve, Flour Bag Reserve, Tunnel Bend, Twelve Mile, Blue Hole Reserve, Picnic Point, Snakes Reserve and Gaffneys Creek Reserve.

If you’re keen to see more of the forest, check out the Upper Goulburn 4WD Tour which runs from Jamieson south of Mansfield and finishes at the historic Kevington Hotel.

Gippsland camping

If you’re thinking of heading to South Gippsland, White Womans Waterhole in Won Wron State Forest is a great spot for short stays while exploring the area. It’s just a 17 minute drive from the beautiful sandy expanse of Woodside Beach at the southern end of Ninety Mile Beach.

Heading further east to Paynesville is Mount Taylor campsite, just next door to the Mount Taylor Mountain Bike Trails. It’s also under 30 minutes to Paynesville, the gateway to the Gippsland Lakes.

Or camp on a beautiful sandy stretch of the Snowy River. You’ll be surrounded by warm temperate rainforest, just 30 minutes inland from Marlo. Choose from Hectors Campground, Woods Point or Long Point. It’s an ideal spot to paddle the river, take a refreshing dip, or fish for Australian Bass.

Stay safe around water

When spending time near waterways, it's important to plan ahead, check the weather forecast and be aware of the latest flood information.

To improve your safety around beaches, rivers and lakes, remember to:

• be aware of the local water environment and weather conditions before entering the water
• obey all water safety signs
• don’t drink alcohol while recreating around water, or when supervising children
• and make sure there’s someone looking out for you.

Visit our page on staying safe in state forests for more information.

Page last updated: 19/12/25