Chinaman’s Creek Rest Area, Your Gippsland Lakes Bush Camp

Discover one of Metung’s best-kept secrets for self-sufficient travellers at the RV 36 Public Camp Site. Located on the serene shores of Lake King, this campsite offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the magnificent Gippsland Lakes region. This popular spot, known locally as the Rosherville Reserve or Chinaman’s Creek Free Camp, provides travellers with stunning waterfront views and direct access to the water, making it a perfect base for boating, kayaking, and fishing enthusiasts.

The site itself is a beautiful, open, grassy area offering a tranquil atmosphere just a few kilometres from the charming Metung village centre. While space can be limited, with room for only a handful of caravans or motorhomes, those who secure a spot are rewarded with unparalleled scenery. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of water lapping at the shore and watching the local birdlife, including pelicans, glide by.

This location is ideally suited for fully self-contained recreational vehicles (RVs), motorhomes, and caravans, as facilities are basic but functional. The site provides essential public toilets, but travellers should plan on bringing their own drinking water and power supplies. Camping in tents is generally not permitted, ensuring the area remains a dedicated rest stop for RV travellers.

The camp’s prime location combines the best of both worlds: quiet seclusion and convenient access to local amenities. The beautiful Metung village, with its boutique shops, cafes, and the famous Metung Hotel, is just a short 2-kilometre drive or a pleasant walk away. Here, you can enjoy a quality meal, resupply on essentials, or simply stroll along the picturesque boardwalk. For those exploring the wider Gippsland region, this site serves as an excellent, cost-effective base, with Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale both within easy driving distance.

Please be aware that this is a popular site with a maximum stay limit, typically 36 hours, which is enforced to allow all travellers a chance to enjoy it. It is a place to disconnect, relax, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Gippsland Lakes.

Chinaman’s Creek Rest Area

Campsite Details

• Name: RV 36 Public Camp Site (Rosherville Reserve / Chinaman’s Creek)
• Address: 402/404 Rosherville Rd, Metung VIC 3904
• GPS Coordinates: -37.87802, 147.85764

Site Features & Rules

• Location: Lakeside grassy reserve on the shores of Lake King, 2km from Metung village.
• Site Suitable For: Self-contained RVs, motorhomes, and caravans. Not suitable for long rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed bitumen road (Rosherville Rd).
• Site Surface: Level grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, for RVs and caravans. Camping in tents is generally not permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 36 Hours (strict limit).
• Picnic Tables: Yes.
• Potable Water: No. Water taps are available at the toilet block, but it is not signposted as potable. Advise bringing your own drinking water or boiling before use.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes (Good reception for major carriers like Telstra).
• TV Reception: Yes (Good digital TV reception).
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes (flushing toilets).
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
• Open Fires: Not permitted. Check local fire ban information, especially during summer.
• Generator Use: Permitted (please be respectful of neighbours and limit use to reasonable hours, e.g., 8 am – 8 pm).
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, informal. Limited space for approximately 3-5 vans.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, power supply/batteries, food, and levelling blocks.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing in Lake King directly from the shore.
• Short Walks: Yes, pleasant walks along the lake shore and into Metung village.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Dining

• Metung Hotel: Approx. 2.2 km (Pub meals, bistro, waterfront views).
• Metung Country Club: Approx. 2.5 km (Bistro and bar).
• Aroma At Metung: Approx. 2.1 km (Cafe, coffee, light meals).
• Metung Bakery & Cafe: Approx. 2.1 km (Bakery, pies, coffee).
• Bella’s Providore Takeaway: Approx. 2.1 km (Takeaway, fish and chips).

Local Attractions

• Metung Village: Approx. 2.1 km (Boutique shops, cafes).
• Metung Boardwalk: Approx. 2.1 km (Scenic walk along the water).
• Gippsland Lakes: You are right on them!

Caravan & Camping Supplies

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Metung Municipal Caravan Park (approx. 2.5 km), Metung Holiday Villas (approx. 3 km).
• Next Free Camps: Log Crossing Picnic Area (approx. 9.5 km), Lakes Entrance Apex Park Rest Area (approx. 18 km).
• Nearest Dump Point: Lakes Entrance Public Dump Point (approx. 18 km at 23 Bullock Island Road).
• Nearest Petrol Station: Metung Village Store (BP) (approx. 2.1 km at 62 Metung Rd).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Metung Village (public taps) or Lakes Entrance.
• Nearest Public Toilets (off-site): Metung Village Public Toilets (approx. 2.1 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Metung enjoys a temperate maritime climate, making it a popular destination year-round.

• Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot days, perfect for swimming and boating. Average highs are around 24-26°C.
• Autumn (Mar – May): Mild and often very stable weather with clear sunny days. Average highs are around 19-23°C.
• Winter (Jun – Aug): Cool and damp, with occasional rainfall. It’s a quiet time to visit. Average highs are around 14-16°C.
• Spring (Sep – Nov): Mild and pleasant, though weather can be changeable. The region comes to life with wildflowers. Average highs are around 17-21°C.