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Croajingolong National Park
Croajingolong National Park follows the remote coast of far-east Victoria and is home to ancient forests, pristine inlets, giant sand dunes and abundant wildlife. Canoe, kayak or boat to explore Tamboon, Mallacoota and Wingan Inlet. Camp at Thurra River, walk the Wilderness Coast or step back in time at Point Hicks Lightstation.
Croajingolong is all about wilderness and escaping civilisation. Basic but picturesque campgrounds can be found scattered along the many inlets of the coast along this part of Victoria. These sheltered water bodies are also perfect for fishing. Get back to nature and camp at the remote and peaceful Wingan Inlet, Shipwreck Creek, Mueller Inlet or Peachtree Creek Campgrounds. Spot Brush-tailed Possums, Long-nosed Bandicoots and Lace Monitors. At night, listen out for the cackling sound of the Yellow-Bellied Glider.
Make the most of the other pristine waterways of Croajingolong. Go canoeing and kayaking at Tamboon, Mueller, Wingan or Mallacoota Inlet. Bemm River and Mallacoota Inlet are amazing places to go fishing. Catch bream, perch, tailor, mullet and flathead, among other species.
Explore the diverse nature of Croajingolong and set out on one of the shorter walks within the park - from Mount Everard to the Wingan Rapids and Lake Elusive, The Narrows and Heathland Walks. Follow the Fly Cove Walk from Wingan Inlet Campground to see fur seals basking on rocky islets.
Experienced hikers might fancy the ultimate challenge of the Wilderness Coast Walk. Far from civilisation, this multi-day hike takes in isolated stretches of coastline, pristine river estuaries and untouched landscapes.
Near Thurra River, you can see the historic lighthouse of Point Hicks. Take in ocean views and see whales on their annual migration from October to May. People looking for a little more comfort can also stay at the old lighthouse keeper’s residence.
The birdwatching here is phenomenal. Of particular interest are birds such as the Glossy Black Cockatoo, Scarlet Honeyeater and Topknot Pigeon, which are more commonly associated with New South Wales or Queensland. Keep your eyes out for the majestic White-bellied Sea Eagle and your ears open for the mimicking calls of the Superb Lyrebird.
As beaches and coasts are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Croajingolong National Park is a safe and enjoyable one.
Top places in the area
Shipwreck Creek Campground
Shipwreck Creek Campground offers a secluded camping experience among tall eucalypt trees. A great escape from nearby Mallacoota, this small cosy campground is a short walk away from the secluded Shipwreck Beach named after the wreck of The Schah (1837), one of Victoria's oldest shipwrecks.
Mueller Inlet Campground
Base yourself at Mueller Inlet Camp on your Croajingolong adventure. Camp under starry skies at night and lose yourself in birdsong and wilderness by day. Explore the expansive inlet by kayak or canoe. Or check out nearby Thurra River Dunes and historic Point Hicks Lighthouse.
Peachtree Creek Campground
This campground is on the eastern shore of Tamboon Inlet, good for both fishing and bird watching. There is neither vehicle nor walking access to the coast so boats are an excellent way to explore the area.
Point Hicks Lighthouse
The secluded and pristine Croajingolong National Park is home to the historic Point Hicks Lightstation, claimed to be Captain James Cook’s first sighting of mainland Australia. Steeped in rich Aboriginal and European history, explore the reserve on foot, join a tour of the lighthouse or stay a night in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage.
Thurra River Campground
Perfectly positioned to explore nearby Point Hicks and the Thurra River Dunes, the large Thurra River Campground sits in the surrounds of stately eucalypt trees. Explore the seemingly endless stretch of pristine coastline, walk to the nearby dunes and discover the rich history of Point Hicks Lightstation.
Wingan Inlet Campground
Nestled on the western shores of Wingan Inlet, among tall Bloodwood trees, Wingan Inlet Campground offers a peaceful camping experience in one of the most secluded corners of Victoria. Jump in a canoe or kayak, or follow Fly Cove Walk to access the pristine sandy beaches of Croajingolong National Park.
Gabo Island Lighthouse Reserve
Just off the pristine coast of Croajingolong National Park, you'll discover Gabo Island. Wild and remote, this island is surrounded by magnificent views and offers a unique day trip or stay.
When you're there
Croajingolong offers a selection of great day trips. If you're camping at Thurra River, explore the unique landscape of the Thurra River Dunes, towering 30 metres over the coast below. These are the biggest sand dunes in Victoria.
Download the Visitor Guide for more information.
Camping & accommodation
Croajingolong National Park follows the remote coast of far-east Victoria and is home to ancient forests, pristine inlets, giant sand dunes and abundant wildlife. Canoe, kayak or boat to explore Tamboon, Mallacoota and Wingan Inlet. Camp at Thurra River, walk the Wilderness Coast or step back in time at Point Hicks Lightstation.
Need to know
Croajingolong National Park
Accessibility
The camping area and picnic facilities at Shipwreck Creek are reasonably accessible. They are located on flat ground and free of obstacles. The path out to the centrally located toilets is clear and accessible, however the toilet block itself lacks accessible features.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Point Hicks Lighthouse
The Point Hicks Lightstation and surrounding area is currently closed as a result of the 2019/2020 bushfires and coastal erosion. Visitors are unable to access the Point Hicks Lighthouse, Sledge Track, West Beach Track, Dunes Track, Saros Track or the Monument. Parks Victoria continue to maintain surveillance and security of the site. Accommodation is not expected to be re-opened until 2024. Please continue to monitor this site for updates and change of conditions.Areas of Croajingolong National Park Closed due to Fire Damage
The following areas of Croajingolong National Park remain closed:
Mallacoota Inlet Day Visitor Areas:· Gravelly Point, including Jetty.· Kingfisher Point, Including Jetty.
Other affected Sites and Facilties - Croajingolong:
· Wilderness Coast Walk (between Shipwreck Creek and Bemm River)· Thurra River Campground· Point Hicks Road (South of Bald Hills Track)· Cicada Trail· Wingan Inlet Rapids Walk· Gale Hill Track· Rame Head Track
The Parks Victoria Team apologise for the inconvenience and thank-you for your patience and understanding as recovery works progress.Closures due to flood impacts
Croajingolong National Park was impacted by flooding in early April and several sites are currently closed. Monitor this page for updated site closures.West Wingan Road 4WD Only
Following the recent floods in East Gippsland, the West Wingan Road is no longer suitable for 2WD vehicles. -
Thurra River (Croajingolong National Park)
Thurra Campground
The Thurra campground is currently closed pending replacement of the Thurra River bridge and safety works in the campground. Reopening is taking longer than expected due to the scale and complexity of works. Thurra campground may be reopened for summer 2023-2024, however please continue to monitor this site for updates and change of conditions. -
Mueller Camp (Croajingolong National Park)
Mueller Campground Closed
Mueller Campground has been closed due to recent flood impacts on the Point Hicks Road.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
Deer Control (ground shooting) operation underway
Deer control is being undertaken in this park from October 2021 to June 2022. Some localised access restrictions may apply. Find out more about this program.Seasonal road closures 2022
Some roads in this park are subject to seasonal road closures. Seasonal road closures generally operate from after the long weekend in June through to the end of October, but may be extended due to seasonal conditions. Visit the seasonal road closures page for maps and more information. -
Wingan Inlet Campground (Croajingolong National Park)
Wingan Water Supply Trough
Campers are advised that the water supply trough at Wingan has been impacted by recent flooding. Campers should be self-sufficient in providing for their water needs for the duration of their visit and not rely on re-supply from the trough.West Wingan Road - Post flood Make Safe Works
Parks Victoria has engage two local contractors to undertake make safe works on the West Wingan Road. The contractors will be using heavy machinery on the road, traffic management signage will be in place and short delays can be expected.Works are planned to commence on Monday 23rd May 2022 and be completed by Friday 27th May 2022.
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.
There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.
Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more.
Licensed Tour Operators know the all best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.
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