If you’re searching for an unforgettable escape into nature — where rugged bushland meets sparkling waters, wildlife roams freely, and every day ends with a breathtaking sunset — then Lake Eildon National Park should be at the top of your travel list. Located in the northern foothills of Victoria’s Central Highlands, this magnificent park offers something for everyone: watersports and boating enthusiasts, hikers and nature lovers, history buffs, campers, fishers, and families alike.
Sprawling across more than 27,000 hectares of diverse landscapes, Lake Eildon National Park is more than just a scenic destination — it’s a gateway to adventure and tranquillity in the heart of Australia’s natural beauty.
A Brief History: From Gold Rush to National Park
Long before it became a beloved outdoor destination, the land around Lake Eildon was home to the Taungurung people, who cared for this Country for thousands of years. Their cultural connection to the land endures today, and Parks Victoria honours that legacy by working with Taungurung Traditional Owners in managing and protecting the park.
In the mid-1800s, the area became part of Victoria’s gold rush, and mining activity left behind relics that still dot the landscape — remnants of a bustling era now intertwined with nature.
Fast forward to 1997, and what was once separate state parks and heritage areas were combined to form Lake Eildon National Park, placing a renewed emphasis on conservation, recreation, and sustainable enjoyment of this extraordinary environment.
Why Visit Lake Eildon National Park
1. World-Class Watersports and Boating
Lake Eildon itself is the park’s centerpiece — a broad, beautiful waterway fed by the Goulburn River and framed by forested hills. It’s a watersports paradise, with clear waters ideal for:
- Boating and sailing
- Water skiing and wakeboarding
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Swimming and paddleboarding
Bring your own gear or hire equipment nearby — either way, the lake delivers endless aquatic fun in a breathtaking setting.
Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities here too, with species like trout, Murray cod, golden perch and redfin providing year-round angling options
2. Bushwalking and Breathtaking Views
For land-based exploration, the park has a rich network of walking and hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels. Popular hikes include:
- Candlebark Nature Walk: A gentle 2-kilometre trail that winds through forest and wildlife habitat, ideal for families.
- Cook Point Walk: A scenic 2.5-kilometre track along Coller Bay’s northern bank.
- Point Mibus Trail: A moderate path offering elevated views and a great opportunity for photos and wildlife spotting.
- Estate Spur and Nature Trails: Longer and more challenging routes for experienced hikers seeking solitude and sweeping panoramas.
These trails venture through stunning eucalypt forests, riparian woodlands, and rolling hills, where you may encounter kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and a diverse variety of birdlife.
3. Camping for All Kinds of Adventurers
Lake Eildon National Park boasts several campgrounds that put you right next to nature:
Fraser Block Campgrounds
- Lakeside Campground: Great access to water, picnic tables and fireplaces make this a favorite among campers.
- Candlebark Campground: Offers BBQ facilities and is a good base for nearby trails.
- Devil Cove Campground: Another well-maintained spot ideal for families and waterside camping.
Other Campsites
- Jerusalem Creek: A basic bush camping experience with multiple sites and natural surroundings.
- Mountaineer Creek, O’Toole Flat, Coopers Point, Taylors Creek: Quiet and often less crowded locations for those seeking a more rugged stay.
Note: Park infrastructure is currently being upgraded, with new environmentally sustainable toilet facilities being installed and some campgrounds temporarily adjusted.
Flora and Fauna: A Wildlife Lover’s Dream
Lake Eildon National Park’s diverse ecosystems support a rich array of wildlife:
- Mammals: Eastern grey kangaroos, wombats, bats, and the elusive brush-tailed phascogale.
- Birdlife: More than 80 species, including powerful owls and forest birds.
- Amphibians & Reptiles: Including significant populations of native frogs and reptiles.
Nature lovers will delight in spotting kangaroos grazing at sunrise, watching birdlife flit between trees, or catching the rare glimpse of nocturnal animals on a night walk.
Practical Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Lake Eildon is a year-round destination, but summer is ideal for watersports and camping, while autumn and spring offer pleasant conditions for hiking and wildlife watching.
Water Safety First
The lake’s depths and currents can be unpredictable. Always follow boating speed limits, supervise swimmers closely, and wear life jackets where necessary.
Plan Ahead
Many campgrounds require bookings, and facilities such as drinking water and toilets vary by site — so check ahead before you go.
Respect the Environment
Take all rubbish with you, avoid disturbing wildlife, and never enter abandoned mine shafts — they can be unstable and dangerous.
Experience Lake Eildon: More Than Just a Park
Lake Eildon National Park is more than a holiday spot — it’s a natural playground, a sanctuary for wildlife, and a place to reconnect with the wild heart of Victoria. Whether you’re launching your boat at dawn, camping under a sky full of stars, hiking along quiet forest trails, or just enjoying a peaceful picnic with panoramic views, this park delivers unforgettable experiences.
So pack your gear, gather your loved ones, and set your sights on Lake Eildon National Park — where every visit becomes a story worth telling.
Explore More Destinations in Victoria
If you enjoyed discovering Lake Eildon National Park, there are many more incredible places across Victoria waiting to be explored. Check out our guide to Lake Daylesford, Daylesford – A Complete Guide to Victoria’s Most Peaceful Lakeside Escape, for more scenic escapes, or explore our list of Dandongadale Falls: Exploring Victoria’s Tallest Waterfall for your next outdoor adventure.
Planning a short trip? Don’t miss our handpicked Top 10 Picnic Spots Across Victoria: Best Places to Relax, Eat & Enjoy Nature featuring peaceful lakes, coastal walks and mountain retreats. For walking enthusiasts, our collection of Top 10 Family-Friendly Hikes Near Melbourne is perfect for all fitness levels.
Keep exploring, keep adventuring, and let Victoria’s natural beauty inspire your next journey.
