Discover the serene beauty of the Glenelg River at Skipworth Springs Canoe Camp, a dedicated campsite nestled within the stunning Lower Glenelg National Park near Nelson, Victoria. This campsite is **exclusively accessible by canoe, kayak, or on foot** via the renowned Great South West Walk, offering a unique wilderness experience away from vehicles and crowds. It marks roughly the halfway point for paddlers travelling between Dartmoor and Nelson, providing a crucial overnight stop amidst the towering limestone cliffs and tranquil waters.
Skipworth Springs provides basic but essential facilities tailored for paddlers and hikers. You’ll find designated tent areas, non-flush toilets, picnic tables, and communal fire pits perfect for unwinding after a day on the river or trail. A rainwater tank is often available, but the water is untreated and should be boiled or purified before drinking; carrying your own sufficient water supply is highly recommended. The campsite offers direct access to the river for swimming and fishing (a Victorian fishing licence is required).
Booking is essential for all Glenelg River canoe campsites, including Skipworth Springs, and must be made through the Parks Victoria website. Fees apply. As part of the Lower Glenelg National Park, strict regulations are in place: **dogs and other pets are not permitted**, generators are prohibited, and fires may only be lit in the provided fireplaces (subject to fire restrictions – BYO firewood that you must carry in). Crucially, there are **no rubbish bins**, so campers must adhere to Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything they bring in. Mobile phone reception is non-existent.
This campsite is ideal for experienced canoeists undertaking multi-day trips or hikers tackling the river section of the Great South West Walk. Its remote nature requires thorough preparation and self-sufficiency, rewarding visitors with unparalleled peace, stunning gorge scenery, and abundant birdlife in one of Victoria’s most significant natural river systems. Remember to check river conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on your journey.
Skipworth Springs Canoe Camp – VIC Location Map
Skipworth Springs Canoe Camp
- Address: Lower Glenelg National Park, Nelson VIC 3292 (Accessible only via Glenelg River or Great South West Walk)
- GPS Coordinates: -38.05235, 141.1903
- 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 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 Pritchards Landing.
Local Pubs
- Nelson Hotel: Approximately 10-15km away in Nelson.
Places to Eat
- Nelson Kiosk / Cafe: Approximately 10-15km away in Nelson.
Local Attractions
- Princess Margaret Rose Cave: Limestone cave tours nearby (accessible by road/boat tour).
- 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 10-15km away in Nelson.
- Nelson Riverfront Holiday Park (formerly River Vu): Approximately 10-15km away in Nelson.
Next Free Camps (Canoe Access Only)
- Pritchards Canoe Camp: Upstream (further from Nelson).
- Battersbys Canoe Camp: Downstream (closer to Nelson).
- Moleside Canoe Camp: Further upstream.
Nearest Dump Points
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Public RV dump point (approx. 10-15km).
- Mount Gambier (SA): Larger town facilities (approx. 40-50km).
Nearest Petrol Station
- Nelson Roadhouse / General Store: Approximately 10-15km away in Nelson.
Drinking Water Resupply
- Nelson Kiosk / Public Toilets Area: Potable water taps available (approx. 10-15km).
Nearest Public Toilets (Vehicle Accessible)
- Nelson Boat Ramp / Kiosk Area: Public toilets available (approx. 10-15km).
- Pritchards 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.
