Experience true riverside seclusion at Lasletts Canoe Camp, a dedicated wilderness campsite within Victoria’s Lower Glenelg National Park, near Nelson. Exclusively serving adventurers travelling by water or foot, Lasletts is **accessible only via canoe or kayak** along the majestic Glenelg River or by hiking the renowned Great South West Walk. Its position upstream from Pattersons and downstream from Bowds Landing makes it a strategic overnight point for multi-day expeditions through the park’s spectacular limestone gorges and tranquil river reaches.
Lasletts is designed for self-reliant campers seeking immersion in nature. The site provides basic, essential facilities including designated clearings for tents, shared non-flush (drop) toilets, picnic tables for meal preparation, and communal fire pits (subject to fire restrictions and regulations). A shared rainwater tank is typically available, but the water is untreated and supply is not guaranteed; therefore, campers **must carry sufficient drinking water** or possess a reliable water treatment system (boiling or filtering). The campsite boasts direct river access, perfect for a refreshing swim or trying your luck fishing for bream (Victorian fishing licence required).
As with all Lower Glenelg National Park campsites, **bookings are essential** and must be made online through Parks Victoria, with nightly fees applicable. Strict National Park rules are enforced to preserve the pristine environment: **dogs and other domestic pets are strictly forbidden**, generators are not permitted, and campfires may only be lit in the provided fireplaces (seasonal bans often apply, and campers must bring their own firewood – carried in via boat or foot). Crucially, there are **no rubbish disposal facilities**; campers must adhere to Leave No Trace principles and carry out all waste. Mobile phone reception is generally non-existent in this remote location.
Lasletts Canoe Camp offers an authentic bush camping experience, allowing visitors to disconnect from the modern world and connect with the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Glenelg River. It’s an ideal stop for paddlers and hikers prepared for a remote, self-sufficient adventure, rewarding them with tranquillity, wildlife spotting opportunities, and stunning river gorge scenery. Thorough planning regarding supplies, water safety, and emergency communication (such as carrying a PLB) is vital.
Lasletts Canoe Camp – VIC Location Map
Lasletts Canoe Camp
- Address: Lower Glenelg National Park, Nelson VIC 3304 (Accessible only via Glenelg River or Great South West Walk)
- GPS Coordinates: -37.99343, 141.01602
- Website: Parks Victoria Bookings
Site Features
- Location: Lower Glenelg National Park, on the banks of the Glenelg River.
- Site suitable for: Tents, swags (canoe/hike access only).
- Road access: **None.** Access via canoe/kayak or Great South West Walk only.
- Site surface: Natural earth/grass clearings/tent pads.
- Camping permitted: Yes, **bookings essential via Parks Victoria (fees apply).**
- Maximum overnight stays: Determined by booking.
- Picnic tables: Yes.
- Potable water: **No.** Untreated rainwater tank may be onsite (boil/treat before use). Bring your own water.
- Mobile phone coverage: **None / Very Unreliable.**
- TV reception: No.
- Onsite public toilets: **Yes, non-flush (drop) toilets.**
- Rubbish bins: **No.** Pack-in, pack-out essential.
- Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only. Subject to seasonal fire restrictions (Total Fire Bans). BYO firewood (must be transported via canoe/foot).
- Generator use: **Not permitted** (National Park).
- Number of sites available: Limited designated sites (check booking system).
- Essentials to bring: **Drinking water/treatment method,** all food, stove, rubbish bags, firewood (if permitted), toilet paper, first-aid kit, PLB recommended.
- Pet friendly: **NO. Dogs and pets are not permitted** in the Lower Glenelg National Park.
- Fishing: Yes (Victorian fishing licence required).
- Short walks: Yes, the site is directly on the Great South West Walk route.
Local Amenities (Nearest town: Nelson)
Distances are approximate by road from Nelson or potential launch points like Sapling Creek Landing (approx 35km+ from Lasletts). Access from the campsite itself is only by river or foot.
Local Pubs
- Nelson Hotel: Approximately 35-40km away in Nelson (via road from nearest vehicle access point).
Places to Eat
- Nelson Kiosk / Cafe: Approximately 35-40km away in Nelson.
Local Attractions
- Princess Margaret Rose Cave: Limestone cave tours (closer to Nelson).
- Glenelg River Cruises: Tours depart from Nelson.
- Great South West Walk: Passes through the campsite.
- Discovery Bay Coastal Park: Ocean beaches near Nelson.
Nearest Caravan Parks (Vehicle-based camping)
- Kywong Caravan Park: Approximately 35-40km away in Nelson.
- Nelson Riverfront Holiday Park: Approximately 35-40km away in Nelson.
Next Free Camps (Canoe Access Only)
- Pattersons Canoe Camp: Downstream (closer to Nelson).
- Bowds Canoe Camp: Upstream (further from Nelson).
- Hutchessons Canoe Camp: Further upstream.
Nearest Dump Points
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Public RV dump point (approx. 35-40km).
- Mount Gambier (SA): Larger town facilities (approx. 65-75km).
Nearest Petrol Station
- Nelson Roadhouse / General Store: Approximately 35-40km away in Nelson.
Drinking Water Resupply
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Potable water taps available (approx. 35-40km).
Nearest Public Toilets (Vehicle Accessible)
- Nelson Boat Ramp / Kiosk Area: Public toilets available (approx. 35-40km).
- Sapling Creek Landing: Toilets available at the vehicle access point/boat ramp.
- Battersbys Landing: Toilets available at the vehicle access point/boat ramp.
Seasonal Weather Forecast (Nelson Area)
- Summer (December – February): Mild to warm days, often breezy. Average highs around 22-24°C, lows around 12-14°C.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild becoming cool. Clear days common, but cooler nights. Highs drop from 22°C to 16°C.
- Winter (June – August): Cool, damp, and often cloudy. Average highs around 13-14°C, lows around 6-7°C. Expect rain.
- Spring (September – November): Cool becoming mild. Weather can be variable with wind and showers. Highs rise from 15°C to 20°C.
