Explore one of the more remote and rewarding boat-in campsites at North Maintongoon Campground, located on the far shores of Lake Eildon. This secluded destination is designed for the adventurous camper who truly wants to get away from it all. Accessible only by boat for all practical purposes, a trip to North Maintongoon promises an unparalleled sense of solitude and a deep connection with the rugged beauty of the Lake Eildon National Park. It’s an ideal spot for experienced boaties, keen anglers, and anyone looking to experience a wilder side of this iconic Victorian waterway.
The campground is a rustic, natural clearing nestled in a protected inlet, offering shelter from the wind and a safe place to moor your vessel. Unlike the more open, grassy flats of other sites, North Maintongoon has a distinct bush-camp feel, surrounded by dense forest that is teeming with native wildlife. The sense of isolation is profound, making it a perfect place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Days here are spent on the water, exploring the intricate shoreline, fishing for trophy-sized Murray cod, or simply drifting in the quiet inlet. As evening falls, the campground becomes a magical place for stargazing, with the lack of light pollution revealing the full glory of the Milky Way.
Being a remote national park campsite, self-sufficiency is not just recommended, it’s essential. There is a basic non-flush toilet, but campers must bring in every other supply, including all their drinking water, food, and firewood. A strict ‘leave no trace’ policy is enforced to protect the pristine environment. The challenging access and minimal facilities ensure that North Maintongoon remains a special place for those willing to make the effort. For the prepared adventurer, it offers a truly memorable off-grid camping experience in the heart of the Victorian high country.
North Maintongoon Campground – VIC Location Map
North Maintongoon Campground
- Address: Delatite Plantation Rd, Lake Eildon, VIC 3713
- GPS Coordinates: -37.1263, 146.1955
- Website: Parks Victoria – Lake Eildon National Park
Campsite Information
- Location: Remote inlet on the northern side of Lake Eildon.
- Site Suitable For: Tents and swags.
- Road Access: Not feasible. This is a boat-access only campground. Nearest public boat ramps are at Jamieson or Goughs Bay.
- Site Surface: Dirt and natural bush floor.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are required via Parks Victoria.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: As per booking.
- Facilities: A single, non-flush toilet. No other facilities.
- Potable Water: No. Bring all necessary drinking water with you.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device (e.g., PLB or satellite phone) is highly recommended.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a basic long-drop toilet.
- Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy is in effect.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to all fire regulations and Total Fire Bans. Bring your own clean-milled firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with restricted hours. Be considerate of the quiet environment.
- Number of Sites Available: A limited number of designated unpowered sites.
- Essentials to Bring: All drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, emergency communication device, first-aid kit, insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Lake Eildon National Park.
Local Area & Amenities (Distances from nearest towns/ramps)
- Fishing: Excellent remote fishing opportunities for Murray cod, golden perch, and redfin. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: Explore the rugged shoreline and informal bush tracks around the inlet.
- Nearest Town for Supplies: Mansfield (~40 km from Goughs Bay ramp) or Jamieson (~25 km from Jamieson ramp).
- Local Pubs:
- Jamieson Brewery and Grill (Jamieson): ~25 km from Jamieson ramp.
- The Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson): ~25 km from Jamieson ramp.
- The Mansfield Hotel (Mansfield): ~40 km from Goughs Bay ramp.
- Places to Eat:
- Jamieson has a cafe, pub, and general store.
- Mansfield offers a wide variety of dining options.
- Local Attractions:
- The vast, explorable waters of Lake Eildon.
- The historic and picturesque gold rush town of Jamieson.
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Jamieson Caravan Park.
- Goughs Bay Holiday Park.
- Next Free Camps: Other boat-in campsites on the lake (fees apply). Free camps in state forests require a significant journey back to the mainland.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Mansfield Showgrounds.
- Jamieson (check local availability).
- Nearest Petrol Station: Jamieson or Mansfield. Check local marinas for boat fuel.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Fill all containers in Jamieson or Mansfield before launching.
- Public Toilets: Located at public boat ramps in Jamieson and 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.
