Battersbys Camp | Secluded Glenelg River Camping & Great South West Walk

For a truly immersive wilderness experience on one of Victoria’s most spectacular rivers, Battersbys Camp is a premier destination within the Lower Glenelg National Park. This beautiful and remote Parks Victoria campground offers a tranquil escape, nestled in a serene clearing on the banks of the Glenelg River, surrounded by the park’s magnificent native forest. It is a paradise for self-sufficient travellers, especially those passionate about canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The journey to the campground along unsealed forest tracks is an adventure in itself, leading to a peaceful haven where the sounds of the bush and the gentle flow of the river are the dominant soundtrack. The well-defined, individual sites offer a wonderful sense of seclusion, allowing campers to fully connect with the stunning natural environment.

The majestic Glenelg River, with its iconic limestone gorges, is the undisputed highlight. Battersbys Camp features a jetty and canoe launch, making it an ideal base for exploring the breathtaking waterway or as a key overnight stop on a multi-day paddling journey. The river is a renowned fishing hotspot, with anglers targeting the abundant populations of Bream, Mulloway, and Estuary Perch. The campground is also a crucial stop on the iconic Great South West Walk, providing a welcome and scenic resting point for hikers. While the facilities are basic, they are clean and perfectly suited to the remote setting. Bookings are essential to secure a spot in this popular yet intimate location. For prepared adventurers looking to experience the wild, untamed beauty of Victoria’s far south-west, Battersbys Camp offers an authentic and unforgettable bush camping adventure.

Campground Information

• Name: Battersbys Camp
• Address: Battersbys Track, Nelson VIC 3292

Location Coordinates

• GPS: -38.046353003693056, 141.16050502874245

Website

• Website: Parks Victoria – Battersbys Campground

Location Map

Site Details

• Location: Remote riverside camp in the Lower Glenelg National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, and small, rugged Off-road Camper Trailers. Not suitable for caravans or large motorhomes.
• Road Access: Unsealed gravel/dirt forest tracks. Can be narrow, rough, and slippery. 4WD is highly recommended.
• Site Surface: Natural dirt and gravel base.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are mandatory via the Parks Victoria website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check Parks Victoria guidelines.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, shared fire pits, picnic tables, jetty, and canoe launch. No power or showers.
• Potable Water: Non-potable rainwater may be available. It must be treated before use. Bring your own supply.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Non-existent. A personal locator beacon (PLB) is essential.
• TV Reception: Not applicable.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Not permitted.
• Number of Sites Available: 6 designated, bookable sites.
• Essentials to Bring: PLB/Sat Phone, all drinking water/water treatment, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Lower Glenelg National Park.

Activities

• Fishing: Excellent river fishing for Bream, Mulloway, and Estuary Perch.
• Short Walks: This is a key campground on the multi-day Great South West Walk.
• Kayaking & Canoeing: A premier destination for paddling the Glenelg River, with a dedicated launch.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Nelson Hotel (Nelson) – Approx. 45 km
  • Dartmoor Hotel (Dartmoor) – Approx. 55 km
  • Port Macdonnell Hotel (SA) – Approx. 70 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Nelson Hotel (Bistro) & Kiosk – Approx. 45 km
  • Dartmoor Hotel (Bistro) – Approx. 55 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Great South West Walk – Onsite
  • Princess Margaret Rose Cave – Approx. 40 km
  • Town of Nelson and Glenelg River Mouth – Approx. 45 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Kywong Caravan Park (Nelson) – Approx. 45 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Fort O’Hare (Dartmoor) – Approx. 55 km (by road)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Nelson Public Dump Point – Approx. 45 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Nelson – Approx. 45 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Nelson.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite (non-flush).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and generally dry, with moderating coastal influences, averaging 14-27°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool nights, ideal for walking and kayaking, averaging 9-22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp, with chilly days, averaging 6-15°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild with increasing sunshine, a great time to see the forest and river come to life, averaging 8-20°C.