Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Delatite Arm, Dumbells Campground is a quintessential Lake Eildon boat-in camping experience, offering peace, seclusion, and direct access to the water. As a key part of the Lake Eildon National Park’s network of waterside camps, Dumbells is tailored for the self-sufficient camper who arrives by boat, ready to unwind and connect with nature. This charming spot is perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo adventurers looking to stake out their own piece of lakeside paradise, far from the noise and crowds of road-accessible holiday parks.
The campground is set on a picturesque grassy flat that slopes gently to the lake, making it easy to moor your boat close to your campsite. This immediate water access is the highlight of a stay here; you can wake up and go for a swim, cast a fishing line from the bank, or launch a kayak to explore the nearby coves. The surrounding area is a haven for water sports, with the wide, open waters of the Delatite Arm providing ample space for water skiing and wakeboarding. When you’re not on the water, the campsite itself is a beautiful place to relax, read a book, and watch for local wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, and a wide variety of birds.
Like all the dedicated boat-in sites within the national park, Dumbells has minimal facilities to ensure a low-impact, natural experience. A basic non-flush toilet is provided, but campers must bring everything else they need, including drinking water and firewood, and are strictly required to take all rubbish with them when they leave. This approach preserves the pristine beauty of the area for everyone to enjoy. For those with a vessel, Dumbells Campground offers a rewarding escape, combining the thrill of boating with the simple joys of camping in a magnificent natural setting.
Dumbells Campground – VIC Location Map
Dumbells Campground
- Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon, VIC 3713
- GPS Coordinates: -37.1350, 146.1664
- Website: Parks Victoria – Lake Eildon National Park
Campsite Information
- Location: On the northern shore of the Delatite Arm, Lake Eildon.
- Site Suitable For: Tents and swags.
- Road Access: Not recommended. This is a boat-access only campsite for all practical purposes. Nearest public boat ramps are at Goughs Bay and Jamieson.
- Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are mandatory and can be made via the Parks Victoria website.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: As per your booking.
- Facilities: A basic, non-flush toilet is provided.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. Do not rely on it.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a single long-drop style toilet.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only and subject to all fire restrictions, including Total Fire Bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but hours of use are restricted. Be respectful of other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: A limited number of designated unpowered sites. Book in advance.
- Essentials to Bring: All drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, first-aid kit, insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted within Lake Eildon National Park.
Local Area & Amenities (Distances from nearest towns/ramps)
- Fishing: Prime location for freshwater fishing. Murray cod, golden perch, and redfin are common catches. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the shoreline and through the surrounding bushland.
- Nearest Town for Supplies: Mansfield (~35-40 km from Goughs Bay ramp).
- Local Pubs:
- Goughs Bay Boat Club (seasonal): ~10-15 km by water.
- Jamieson Brewery and Grill (Jamieson): ~20 km from Jamieson ramp.
- The Commercial Hotel (Mansfield): ~35 km from Goughs Bay ramp.
- Places to Eat:
- Goughs Bay General Store (basic takeaway).
- Mansfield offers a comprehensive range of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
- Local Attractions:
- Lake Eildon for boating, fishing, and water sports.
- The charming town of Jamieson.
- The regional hub of Mansfield, gateway to the High Country.
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Goughs Bay Holiday Park.
- Many other options are available in and around Mansfield.
- Next Free Camps: Other boat-in campsites on the lake (fees apply). Free camping in nearby state forests requires returning to the mainland.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Mansfield Showgrounds.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Mansfield. Check with local marinas for boat fuel availability.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Fill up all water containers in Mansfield before launching.
- Public Toilets: Available at major public boat ramps like Goughs Bay.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot days and mild nights, ideal for water activities. High fire danger season. Average temperatures: 15°C to 32°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, clear days and cool nights. Excellent boating and camping weather. Average temperatures: 8°C to 24°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet. Water levels are typically high. Suitable for hardy campers. Average temperatures: 2°C to 13°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and mild, but can be windy. Water levels rise with snowmelt. A good time for fishing. Average temperatures: 6°C to 20°C.
