Lakes Entrance Recreation & Camping Reserve

If you're planning a trip to Lakes Entrance and looking for a spot to set up camp that's right in the heart of it, the Lakes Entrance Recreation & Camping Reserve is a fair crack at it. It's a classic, no-frills sort of place, run under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act to provide affordable holidays for Victorians and other visitors. Tucked away on the sheltered North Arm of the Gippsland Lakes, it offers a pretty relaxed, waterfront vibe, making it tops for anyone keen on getting out on the water or just enjoying the view. It's a popular haunt for anglers, boaties, and kayakers, with easy access to the lake system.

Here's the run-down on what to expect:

Facilities:

The Lakes Entrance Recreation & Camping Reserve provides the essentials you need for a comfortable stay.

• Toilets and Amenities: There are toilet facilities available on site. While it's a classic reserve rather than a full-blown caravan park with all the bells and whistles, you'll find the necessary amenities for your stay.
• Site Suitability: The reserve is known for being able to handle a variety of setups, including larger motorhomes and RVs, alongside caravans and tents. Sites are a mix of powered and unpowered.
• Pet Friendly: Good news if you travel with your animal mate – the reserve is generally pet-friendly, though they'll need to be kept on a lead at all times.
• Waterfront Access: Being right on the North Arm means you have direct access to the water, which is a major drawcard for many visitors.

Distance to Tourist Spots Nearby:

The location is a real winner here, putting you within easy reach of many of Lakes Entrance's attractions.

• Lakes Entrance Town Centre: You're only a ripper little walk away – think a cruisy 3 to 5-minute stroll will have you in the main street with all the shops, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. Super convenient for grabbing supplies or a feed.
• The Footbridge and Main Beach: The famous footbridge that crosses over to the Ninety Mile Beach is right there near the town centre. It's a short walk from the reserve across the bridge to sink your toes in the sand or go for a dip (when patrolled).
• Bullock Island: This is just a short drive or a decent walk from the reserve, located nearby the town centre. It's a great spot for a look around, fishing, or visiting 'Off the Wharf' for fresh local seafood.
• Fisherman's Co-op: If you're after fresh seafood straight off the boats, the Co-op is also located in this general area, easily accessible from the reserve.
• Lakes Entrance Marina and Boat Hire: If you're looking to hire a boat or arrange a cruise on the lakes, the marina is situated in the town centre area, just a short distance away.
• The Entrance Walk: This popular walking track starts close to the footbridge and takes you towards the meeting point of the lakes and the ocean. Easily accessible on foot from the reserve.
• Buchan Caves: For a trip further afield to explore the stunning limestone caves, it's about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive inland from Lakes Entrance.
• Raymond Island (Koala Trail): To spot some koalas in their natural habitat, you'll need to drive to Paynesville (approx. 30-40 minutes) and then take the free short ferry ride across to Raymond Island.

Essentially, staying at the Lakes Entrance Recreation & Camping Reserve puts you in a top spot to explore Lakes Entrance on foot, with many of the key attractions, shops, and eateries just a short wander away. For places further out like the Buchan Caves or Raymond Island, you'll need your car.