Deep Lake Recreation Reserve

Deep Lake Recreation Reserve Camping Area, situated on the shores of Deep Lake near Derrinallum, offers a tranquil paid camping experience managed by a local volunteer committee. Nestled in a natural setting, it provides a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and is a popular spot for various water-based activities on Deep Lake. The reserve is accessible to caravans, RVs, camper trailers, and tents, and is a dog-friendly location. While offering a connection with nature, campers should be aware that facilities at individual sites are limited.

Facilities:

Deep Lake Recreation Reserve Camping Area provides several facilities, though some sources have slight variations in the details regarding water access at the campsites themselves:

• Camping Area: Suitable for tents, caravans, RVs, and camper trailers, with areas offering shade. Generators are generally allowed.
• Toilets: Toilet facilities are reported to be available.
• Showers: Showers are reported to be available.
• Drinking Water: Drinking water is reported to be available, although some information suggests no direct water hookups at individual camp sites. Campers may need to be prepared with their own water supply for use at their site.
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are permitted at the camping area.
• Public Boat Ramp: A public boat ramp provides access to Deep Lake for boating and water sports.
• Other: Bin facilities are available. The lake itself offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, water skiing, yachting, and bird watching.

Distance to Tourist Spots Nearby:

Deep Lake Recreation Reserve is located near Derrinallum in an area characterized by volcanic landscapes and lakes. It serves as a base for exploring the immediate surroundings and is within a reasonable driving distance of larger towns and natural attractions.

• Very Close (within a few km):
• Derrinallum: The nearest town, located approximately 4.5 km from the camping area. This is where camping fees are payable at a cafe. Derrinallum offers basic amenities.
• Deep Lake: The camping area is situated on the shores of Deep Lake, providing immediate access to lake-based activities.
• Within a Moderate Drive (10-50 km):
• Mount Elephant: A prominent dormant volcano near Derrinallum, offering walking opportunities and views from the summit.
• Lake Tooliorook: Another nearby lake offering camping and recreational activities.
• Lake Corangamite: Australia's largest permanent salt-water lake, part of the impressive volcanic landscape of the region.
• Red Rock Volcanic Reserve: Located near Colac, offering stunning views of volcanic craters and lakes, including Lake Corangamite and Lake Colac.
• Browns Water Hole Caravan Park (Lismore): A nearby town with alternative accommodation options.
• Elephant Bridge (Darlington): A local point of interest.
• Further Afield (requires a longer drive):
• Colac: A larger regional centre located east of Derrinallum, offering a wider range of amenities, shops, and attractions like the Colac Botanic Gardens and access to the start of the Old Beechy Rail Trail.
• Ballarat: A major regional city to the north, known for Sovereign Hill, the Ballarat Wildlife Park, and other historical and cultural attractions. Approximately 40-50 km from Derrinallum.
• The Otway Ranges and Great Otway National Park: Located south of Deep Lake, offering rainforest scenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails (requires a significant drive).
• The Great Ocean Road: The iconic coastal drive is located further south (requires a significant drive).

Deep Lake Recreation Reserve Camping Area offers a peaceful lakeside camping experience with basic facilities, ideal for those who are relatively self-sufficient and wish to enjoy water activities on Deep Lake and explore the unique volcanic landscapes and nearby towns.