C8 Campground: Free Coastal Camping at Golden Beach, Victoria

Experience the raw beauty of the Gippsland coast with a stay at the C8 Campground, one of several designated free campsites nestled behind the dunes of the magnificent Ninety Mile Beach. Located along Shoreline Drive near the quiet township of Golden Beach, this campground offers an authentic, back-to-basics bush camping experience for self-sufficient travellers. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in a stunning natural environment, with the sound of the ocean as a constant backdrop. The sites are unmarked and tucked away amongst coastal vegetation, providing a sense of privacy and seclusion that is hard to find elsewhere. A short, sandy track from the campground leads you directly onto the vast, unspoiled expanse of Ninety Mile Beach, famous for its world-class surf fishing and endless opportunities for beachcombing and long, uninterrupted walks.

This is a campground for those who are prepared and self-contained. While basic, non-flushing toilets are provided, there is no potable water or rubbish collection service, adhering to a strict ‘leave no trace’ philosophy. Campers must bring all their own supplies, including drinking water, and be prepared to take all their rubbish with them when they leave. The campground is suitable for tents, camper trailers, and small-to-medium caravans that can handle unsealed tracks. Its popularity means that sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Being pet-friendly, it’s a fantastic option for those travelling with their four-legged friends. For anyone seeking an unforgettable coastal adventure defined by simplicity and natural splendour, the C8 Campground is an unbeatable choice.

Campground Information

• Name: C8 Campground, Ninety Mile Beach
• Address: Approx. 660 Shoreline Drive, Golden Beach, Victoria 3851, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -38.24415571126789, 147.35838056991918
• Website: No official website (Managed by Parks Victoria).

Features & Rules

• Location: Sheltered bush setting directly behind the sand dunes of Ninety Mile Beach.
• Road Access: Access via the sealed Shoreline Drive, with short, unsealed dirt tracks into the camping areas.
• Site Surface: Natural sand and dirt base.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, for tents, camper trailers, and caravans.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check local signage for any stay limits, typically up to a few weeks.
• Number of Sites Available: Several undesignated sites within the C8 area. First-come, first-served.
• Facilities: Basic, non-flushing drop toilets.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flushing toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out site. You must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, but subject to seasonal fire bans (check CFA website). Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of fellow campers regarding noise and hours of operation.
• Essentials to Bring: Ample drinking water, firewood, toilet paper, rubbish bags, and insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept under control.
• Fishing: Excellent surf fishing from Ninety Mile Beach.
• Short Walks: Direct access to the beach for walking.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Golden Beach Community Club & Bistro – approx. 5 km
  • The Star Hotel (Sale) – approx. 45 km
  • Gippsland Hotel (Sale) – approx. 45 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Golden Beach General Store & Takeaway – approx. 5 km
  • A wide variety of restaurants and cafes in Sale – approx. 45 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Ninety Mile Beach – at your doorstep
  • Trinculo Shipwreck – approx. 10 km
  • Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park – adjacent to the area

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Golden Beach Holiday Park – approx. 5 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Other designated campgrounds along Shoreline Drive (C6, C7, C9, C10 etc.) – within a few kms
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Public Dump Point at Sale Showgrounds, Sale – approx. 45 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Golden Beach General Store – approx. 5 km (may have limited hours). Major stations in Sale – approx. 45 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Sale Showgrounds or other public taps in Sale – approx. 45 km.
• Nearest Alternate Public Toilets: Public toilets available in the Golden Beach township – approx. 5 km.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot with strong coastal breezes. Average maximum temperatures range from 24°C to 26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for fishing. Average maximums range from 18°C to 24°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often windy, with a higher chance of rain. Average maximum temperatures are around 15°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, often with beautiful wildflower displays in the coastal heathland. Average maximums range from 18°C to 22°C.