Explore
French Island National Park
Experience wonderful walks and bike rides through a range of habitats. There are day, half day and shorter walks and rides starting at Tankerton Foreshore Reserve.
Things to do in the area
Fairhaven Campground
Beaches
Bird watching
Day trips
Wildlife and Nature
French Island supports a large population of the Long-nosed Potoroo, as well as containing the most significant population of koalas in Victoria. The koalas reproduce so successfully that they eat themselves out of house and home. Each year over 200 are transferred to reserves in other parts of Victoria.
Wetlands, mangroves and salt marshes provide spectacular habitat for water birds year round, including the soaring sea eagles. Over 230 bird species have been recorded, as well as 33 species of waders which forage along the coast at low tide.
In the mud-flats, shell-fish, crabs, worms and other small animals provide rich pickings for ibis, herons and egrets. You may also see migratory waders, such as the Eastern Curlew, feeding on Ghost Shrimps and crabs, while the tiny Red-necked Stint searches nearby for worms and small crustaceans. Some birds fly from breeding grounds in the Northern Hemisphere.
Tours in the area
Bushwalking, four-wheel driving, horse riding, kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking are just some of the many activities you can experience in Victoria's parks.
If you want to try something new or meet some like-minded people on your next visit to a park, contact a licensed tour operator.
Parks Victoria licenses tour operators who are experts in these activities and more. They will help you get the most out of your visit.
Nearby Events
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How to get there
French Island National Park
Check Western Port Ferries for the ferry timetable and weather conditions - ferry services can be cancelled at very short notice.
Visit Emergency Management Victoria for the French Island Emergency Management Plan and for a visitor information guide developed to improve safety awareness for visitors to French Island.
When you're there
Camping & accommodation
Fairhaven Campground is located on the west coast foreshore, this is an idyllic overnight place to camp within a natural setting.
Need to know
French Island National Park
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
Campground closure
As directed by the Chief Health Officer all campsites, camping grounds and caravan parks closed from midnight 25 March 2020.People can continue to live on a closed caravan park or camping ground if it is registered as their primary place of residence or if they are staying in caravan parks as interim accommodation where their primary residence is not available. For further information go to parks.vic.gov.au/COVID19
How we keep it special
