Get to Know the Great Outdoors in East Gippsland

If you’re looking for an authentic experience of the wild Australian terrain, East Gippsland is the perfect choice. This incredible region covers about 14 percent of the land in Victoria and has a population of 80,114 residents. The area includes major towns like Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, Mallacoota and Paynesville in addition to a number of national parks and wildlife reserves.

East Gippsland is a popular tourist destination with Australians and international visitors who enjoy nature and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing and exploring. Though some parts of East Gippsland are best suited to seasoned visitors who are comfortable surviving on their own, there are also plenty of regions where casual tourists can enjoy themselves. During your next trip to Victoria, get to know the great Australian outdoors by visiting some of these incredible parks, drives and walks.

1. Alpine National Park
Located between the New South Wales border and central Gippsland, Alpine National Park is one of the most popular areas for Australian visitors. Hike some of Victoria’s highest mountains or see the summer wildflowers along the Great Alpine Road. Visitors can also go canoeing, four-wheel driving or cross-country skiing in the area.

2. Croajingolong National Park
Croajingolong runs along Victoria’s eastern coastline and is home to a number of Australia’s most beautiful camping spots. Walk through a shaded eucalypt forest or go fishing on the Mallacoota Lakes. You can also take tours and stay at Point Hicks Lightstation or Gabo Island Lightstation.

3. Errinundra National Park
One of the most popular parks in East Gippsland, Errinundra National Park is Victoria’s largest rainforest. The area is only accessible during the summer. Learn about the park’s history at the Errinundra Rainforest Boardwalk, enjoy the amazing scenery at the Ellery View Lookout or camp at Frosty Hollow.

4. Snowy River National Park
Snowy River National Park is more rugged than some other regions in East Gippsland and offers one of the area’s best rafting and canoeing spots. You can also take a four-wheel drive vehicle through one of the region’s designated tracks during the summer and see deep gorges, lush forests and spectacular waterfalls.

5. Ninety Mile Beach Marine National Park
This gorgeous marine park runs along the coastline of the Gippsland Lakes. You’ll find one of the most diverse marine populations in the world with more than 860 different species. Get close to exciting creatures like octopuses, stargazers and crabs in the waters.

6. Point Hicks Marine National Park
Surrounded by the Point Hicks granite cliffs, this marine park features one of the deepest areas in Victoria. Visitors explore the incredible underwater scenery by snorkelling, diving and swimming. Surfing and kayaking are also extremely popular at Point Hicks.

7. Wood Point Camping Ground
Located along the Snowy River, Wood Point Camping Ground is one of the only nearby areas where visitors can camp. The grounds include horse yards, picnic areas and toilets. During your stay, enjoy a rafting trip or relax on the Snowy River’s peaceful beaches.

8. Murrungowar Forest Drive
The 34 kilometre drive through the Murrungowar Forest is a wonderful way to explore the area’s rich natural landscape. You’ll visit the old Murrungowar Township, a site where early settlers used to live. Pull over during your drive to walk to the Falls Creek waterfall or to enjoy a picnic at Little Cabbage Tree Creek.

9. Drummer Rainforest Walk
The Drummer Rainforest Walk is just one kilometre long and is a great option for visitors of all fitness levels. The warm rainforest region includes a variety of Australian species and some of East Gippsland’s most beautiful flora and fauna.