Sandy Point Campground: A Remote Beachside Escape in Croajingolong National Park
For those who dream of a truly remote coastal getaway, Sandy Point Campground in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Croajingolong National Park is a destination that promises unparalleled peace and natural beauty. This secluded campground offers a genuine wilderness experience, tucked away in a sheltered clearing just a short stroll from a magnificent and often deserted stretch of the Southern Ocean. It is the perfect spot for self-reliant campers who wish to disconnect from the hustle of daily life and immerse themselves in a pristine, wild landscape. The journey to Sandy Point is an adventure in itself, navigating the unsealed park roads that wind through coastal heathland and towering forests.
The campground provides a limited number of well-defined, unpowered sites, ensuring a low-impact and intimate camping experience suitable for tents and off-road camper trailers. The facilities are basic, in keeping with the remote nature of the park, and include a non-flush toilet and shared fireplaces. As this is a protected National Park, **pets are strictly forbidden** to safeguard the area’s diverse native fauna, which includes a rich array of birdlife, goannas, and kangaroos. Bookings through Parks Victoria are essential and must be made well in advance, especially during peak periods. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying in all their own drinking water, firewood, and supplies, and must adhere to a strict carry-in, carry-out policy for all rubbish. The reward for this preparation is immense: days spent exploring the wild beach, fishing from the shore, and walking through unique coastal ecosystems, followed by nights under a spectacular canopy of stars, far from any source of light pollution. Sandy Point is a true gem for the dedicated nature lover.
Campground Information
- Name: Sandy Point Campground
- Address: Sandy Point Track, Bete Bolong North VIC 3888, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.58935842765346, 148.34976234126688
- Website: Parks Victoria – Croajingolong National Park
Features & Facilities
- Location: Remote coastal setting in Croajingolong National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents and small off-road camper trailers.
- Road Access: Unsealed park roads, often requiring a 4WD or high-clearance 2WD.
- Site Surface: Dirt and sand.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are essential via Parks Victoria.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: As per Parks Victoria booking rules.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, shared fire pits.
- Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device is highly recommended.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to fire restrictions.
- Generator Use: Not permitted.
- Number of Sites Available: A small number of bookable sites.
- Essentials to Bring: All food, water, firewood, rubbish bags, and emergency supplies.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are strictly prohibited.
- Fishing: Excellent surf fishing from the beach.
- Short Walks: Explore the beach and coastal heathland.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Cann River Hotel – approx. 45 km
- Marlo Hotel – approx. 65 km
- Places to Eat:
- Cafes and takeaway in Cann River – approx. 45 km
- Marlo Hotel Bistro – approx. 65 km
- Local Attractions:
- Point Hicks Lightstation
- Thurra River Dunes
- The vast wilderness of Croajingolong National Park
Nearby Parks & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Cann River Rainforest Caravan Park – approx. 45 km
- Bemm River Caravan Park – approx. 50 km
- Marlo Ocean View Caravan and Camping Park – approx. 65 km
- Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
- Thurra River Rest Area (basic roadside stop)
- Camping areas in nearby State Forests, such as near Bendoc.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Cann River Public Dump Point – approx. 45 km
- Orbost Public Dump Point – approx. 85 km
- Nearest Petrol Station: Cann River – approx. 45 km. It is essential to have adequate fuel.
- Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Cann River or Orbost.
- Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm with strong sea breezes. Ideal for beach activities. Average maximums are around 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and often sunny, perfect for hiking. Average maximums range from 17°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool, windy, and often wet with large ocean swells. Average maximums are around 14°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild with clearing skies and coastal wildflowers. Average maximums range from 16°C to 20°C.