Croajingolong National Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Croajingolong National Park with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn a list of places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, how to get here, and much more.


Introduction to Croajingolong National Park

Croajingolong National Park is a scenic and natural wonderland located in East Gippsland, in Gippsland, in Victoria (state), in Australia, in Oceania. This vast national park stretches over an area of 87,500 hectares and is recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The park is a fascinating blend of rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, pristine rainforests, rugged mountains, and rare plants and wildlife. The area is an important cultural and spiritual site for the local Aboriginal people, known as the Bidwell and Gunaikurnai tribes.

List of Places to Visit in Croajingolong National Park

Visitors to Croajingolong National Park can explore a range of historical and natural attractions, each offering something unique and exciting. Here is a list of must-visit places to see:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cape Horn Lookout - offers spectacular views across Croajingolong National Park and its rugged coastline.
  • Thurra River Dunes - a natural wonder with the highest sand dunes in Victoria, offering great opportunities for sandboarding and sunset viewing.
  • Wingan Inlet - a secluded beach where visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating.
  • Shipwreck Creek - a remote beach and camping spot that offers stunning views, excellent beach fishing and excellent surfing.

Natural Attractions of Croajingolong National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Genoa Peak - offers a challenging hike and panoramic views of the national park.
  • Point Hicks Lighthouse - the first lighthouse to be built on mainland Australia, offering stunning coastal views and a historical insight.
  • Mallacoota Inlet - a scenic lagoon and estuary known for its excellent recreational activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.
  • Alfred National Park - a magnificent natural attraction known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic driving routes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Croajingolong National Park

Croajingolong National Park has a vast network of hiking and biking trails that cater to beginners and experienced trekkers alike. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • The Wilderness Coast Walk - a challenging 100 km trek that stretches from Shipwreck Creek to the Victorian border. The walk takes about 8 days to complete and offers stunning views of the national park’s wild coastline.
  • Mount Everard Circuit Walk - a 7.5 km loop track that takes walkers through rainforest to a summit offering stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding forest.
  • Mallacoota Wilderness Trail - an easy 3.5 km hike that meanders through heathland, woodland and along the coast, with stunning views of Mallacoota Inlet.
  • Wingan Inlet Coastal Walk - a scenic 4 km walk that takes visitors through diverse flora, remote beaches, and rocky headlands, with excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Croajingolong National Park: Activities and Tours

Croajingolong National Park offers visitors a range of activities and tours, whether you’re after something active or more relaxed. Here are some of the best things to do during your stay:

  • Surfing and Swimming - enjoy the pristine beaches and shallow waters of the national park’s coastline.
  • Wildlife Watching - enjoy the opportunity to spot rare species such as the long-nosed potoroo, the spotted-tail quoll, and the powerful owl.
  • Fishing and Boating - take a fishing or boating tour, and catch a variety of fish species such as bream, flathead, and salmon.
  • Camping - enjoy a night under the stars in one of the national park’s many campgrounds.

Week-Long Itinerary for Croajingolong National Park

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week’s stay at Croajingolong National Park:

Day 1: Arrive at the national park; visit Wingan Inlet; and explore Gypsy Point

Day 2: Day trip to Mallacoota Inlet; take a scenic boat tour.

Day 3: Visit Cape Conran; enjoy beach fishing, bird-watching, and swimming.

Day 4: Hike the Wilderness Coast Walk from Mallacoota to Shipwreck Creek.

Day 5: Take a guided tour of the Point Hicks Lighthouse; enjoy the panoramic coastal views.

Day 6: Day trip to Genoa Peak and nearby heritage-listed Burrowa-Pine Mountain National Park.

Day 7: Depart from the national park.

Food and Drink Scene of Croajingolong National Park

Croajingolong National Park’s food and drink scene is heavily influenced by its location near the coast and in the heart of Victoria’s farming communities. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips - enjoy some tasty fish and chips at one of the local cafes or restaurants.
  • Kangaroo Steak - try a kangaroo steak, a signature Australian dish that is lean and tasty.
  • Oysters - savor the fresh, plump, and juicy oysters straight out of the local waters.

Local Beverages

  • German-style Lagers and Ales - try some of the locally brewed, German-style beers that are distinct to the area.
  • Wines - enjoy some of Victoria’s best wines, produced from the local vineyards near the national park.

Where to Stay in Croajingolong National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Croajingolong National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit any budget or preference. Here is a list of options to consider:

  • Camping - The national park has many campsites available, ranging from simple cabins to more luxurious options.
  • Hotels and Motels - There are several options nearby such as Gipsy Point Lodge, which offers luxury accommodation with a spa and restaurant.
  • Guesthouses and Hostels - Options include The Bunker, a backpacker lodge set amid pristine forest, offering simple accommodations and a communal kitchen.

What to Buy in Croajingolong National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Croajingolong National Park offers visitors a chance to purchase some unique souvenirs and local products, including:

  • Handcrafted Local Artworks - artworks created by local artisans that reflect the culture and natural beauty of the national park.
  • Local Honey and Jams - enjoy some of the delicious products, such as honey and jams, sourced from local beekeepers and farmers.

Local Culture and Customs of Croajingolong National Park

Croajingolong National Park is a culturally significant area for the local Bidwell and Gunaikurnai tribes. Visitors are encouraged to respect their customs and traditions, such as:

  • Leave No Trace - visitors are encouraged to take their rubbish with them and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
  • Respect the Land - visitors are encouraged to respect the land and animals by keeping noise levels low and avoiding feeding any animals.

Best Time to Visit Croajingolong National Park

The best time to visit Croajingolong National Park is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Croajingolong National Park

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Croajingolong National Park:

Do:

  • Plan Your Visit - plan your visit ahead and ensure you have all the necessary permits and equipment.
  • Respect the Land and Culture - visitors should respect the park’s land, animals, and and the cultural significance of the local Aboriginal tribes.
  • Observe the Rules and Regulations - visitors should be aware of the park’s rules and regulations and abide by them.

Don’t:

  • Feed the Animals - visitors should avoid feeding any animals, including birds and kangaroos.
  • Light Fires in Restricted Areas - visitors should ensure they are aware of the park’s fire restrictions and guidelines.
  • Remove Plants or Animals - visitors should avoid removing any plants or animals from the park.

Safety and Health

Croajingolong National Park is a safe and healthy environment, though visitors should be aware of certain safety precautions and health concerns.

Safety in Croajingolong National Park

  • Sun and Dehydration - visitors should stay hydrated, avoid the sun during peak hours, and wear sunscreen and a hat.
  • Wildlife - visitors should be aware of the park’s wildlife, including snakes and spiders, and take precautions when necessary.
  • Weather - visitors should be aware of local weather conditions and take suitable precautions.

Health in Croajingolong National Park

  • Medical Facilities - visitors should be aware that there are no medical facilities in the park and should carry a basic first-aid kit.
  • Water Quality - visitors should take precautions with drinking water as it is not guaranteed safe to drink.

Getting to Croajingolong National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Croajingolong National Park is easily accessible by road or air. Here are some options to consider:

  • Airports Near Croajingolong National Park - choose between Melbourne Airport or Bairnsdale Airport, and then follow the Pacific Highway.
  • Bus Stations Near Croajingolong National Park - take a bus from major cities like Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne to nearby towns, such as Mallacoota or Gipsy Point.
  • Other Options - visitors can also hire a car or take a taxi from nearby towns to reach the national park.

How to Get Around in Croajingolong National Park

Visitors to Croajingolong National Park can get around the park by car, bike or walking. There are also guided tour options available.

Where to Go Next from Croajingolong National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Croajingolong National Park’s surrounding area has many places of interest to visit. Here are some destinations to consider:

  • Wilsons Promontory National Park - a popular destination for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching, located on the southern tip of Victoria.
  • Gippsland Lakes - a network of coastal lakes offering swimming, boating, or fishing opportunities.
  • The Great Alpine Road - a scenic route through Victoria’s Alpine region that offers stunning views, unique wildlife, and historic towns.

Conclusion

Croajingolong National Park offers an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural significance. With its stunning coastal views, ancient rainforests, and unique flora and fauna, Croajingolong National Park is sure to leave you awestruck. Plan your trip today, and discover the wonders that await you in this natural paradise.