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Nicholson River Holiday Park: Your Gippsland Lakes Escape

Nestled on the tranquil banks of the picturesque Nicholson River, the Nicholson River Holiday Park is a cherished destination for families, anglers, and boaties seeking the ultimate Gippsland Lakes experience. This friendly and relaxed park offers an idyllic setting where you can launch your boat from the adjacent ramp and be exploring Australia’s largest inland waterway system within minutes. It’s a place where the gentle pace of the river sets the tone for your holiday, whether you’re casting a line for the famous local bream, enjoying a leisurely kayak, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge and watching the abundant birdlife.The park’s prime location on the Princes Highway makes it incredibly convenient, situated just 10 minutes from the major regional centre of Bairnsdale and 20 minutes from the bustling tourist hub of Lakes Entrance. This allows you to enjoy a peaceful, community-focused park atmosphere while having easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. The park itself fosters a wonderful sense of community, offering a range of comfortable cabins and spacious powered sites to suit all travellers. With the historic Nicholson Hotel and a general store right next door, everything you need is within a moment’s walk. The East Gippsland Rail Trail runs past the park, providing a fantastic, scenic route for walking or cycling over the iconic old railway trestle bridge. For a holiday that perfectly blends relaxation, adventure, and convenience, the Nicholson River Holiday Park is an unbeatable choice.

Contact & Location

Address: 915 Princes Highway, Nicholson, VIC 3882, Australia
Phone: (03) 5156 8348
Email: info@nicholsonriver.com.au
Website: nicholsonriver.com.au
GPS Coordinates: -37.8162, 147.7399

Park Information

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4 stars)

Powered & Unpowered Sites: A good number of powered sites are available. Unpowered camping may be limited; please enquire.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage from all major carriers.
Generator Use: Not typically permitted. Please check with management.
Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, and Cabin stays.
Open Fires: Permitted in guests’ own off-ground fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions.
Access: Sealed road, directly on the Princes Highway.
Site Surface: Grass.
Pet Friendly: Yes, the park is pet-friendly for site bookings. Pets are not allowed in cabins.
Fishing: Excellent bream and flathead fishing directly from the park or by boat.
Short Walks: Direct access to the East Gippsland Rail Trail and riverbank walks.

Park Features & Facilities

Direct river frontage
Adjacent to a public boat ramp
Clean amenities
Laundry facilities
Large recreation room for functions
Cabins available
Friendly on-site management

Essentials to Bring

Drinking water hose and grey water hose
15 amp power lead
Levelling blocks
Fishing gear and a Victorian fishing licence
Kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards
Bicycles to enjoy the Rail Trail

Explore the Local Area

Pubs & Places to Eat

The Nicholson Hotel: A classic pub with bistro meals right next door (Approx. 100m)
Nicholson River Winery: Offers local cheese platters at their cellar door (Approx. 3 km)
Bairnsdale: A wide variety of pubs, restaurants, and cafes (Approx. 10 km)

Local Attractions

Gippsland Lakes: Explore Australia’s largest inland waterway system by boat.
East Gippsland Rail Trail: A scenic walking and cycling path crossing the historic Nicholson River bridge.
Lakes Entrance: A bustling fishing port and tourist town with beautiful beaches (Approx. 20 km)
Paynesville & Raymond Island: Take a ferry to see a large koala colony (Approx. 25 km)

Nearby Parks & Services

Alternate Caravan Parks

Bairnsdale Holiday Park: (Approx. 10 km)
Lakes Bushland Caravan Park (Nicholson): (Approx. 5 km)
BIG4 Waters Edge Holiday Park (Lakes Entrance): (Approx. 20 km)

Alternate Free Camps

Log Crossing Picnic Area (Colquhoun Forest): Basic bush camping (Approx. 25 km)
Bruthen Recreation Reserve: Low-cost camping area in a nearby town (Approx. 25 km)
Emu Bight Campground (Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park): Free camping, 4WD access recommended (Approx. 40 km)

Nearest Dump Points

Nicholson River Reserve Boat Ramp: Public dump point right next to the park (Approx. 100m)
Bairnsdale Holiday Park: Fee may apply for non-guests (Approx. 10 km)
Lakes Entrance Visitor Information Centre: Public dump point (Approx. 20 km)

Nearest Petrol Station

Multiple options in Bairnsdale: Including major brands like Shell, BP, and Caltex (Approx. 10 km)

Nearest Alternate Drinking Water Resupply

The park provides potable town water to all sites.
Howitt Park, Bairnsdale: Public taps and drinking fountains available for filling bottles (Approx. 10 km)

Seasonal Weather Guide

Summer (Dec – Feb)

Warm to hot weather, perfect for all water sports on the river and lakes. The region is lively with holidaymakers. Average max temperature: 24-26°C.

Autumn (Mar – May)

Mild, sunny days and calm waters make this the best time for fishing and cycling the rail trail. Average max temperature: 17-23°C.

Winter (Jun – Aug)

Cool and often crisp, with calm, glassy conditions on the water. A peaceful time to visit and enjoy the scenery. Average max temperature: 13-15°C.

Spring (Sep – Nov)

Mild and pleasant weather as the countryside greens up. A great time for exploring the local wineries and markets. Average max temperature: 17-21°C.

Nicholson River Holiday Park – Your Gippsland Lakes Escape