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Wild Dog Bend Campground
Bring your tent or camper trailer to this quiet campground on the banks of the Glenelg River. Sit on the jetty and listen to the tranquil sounds of the river while you watch for wildlife. Set off to explore in your canoe or kayak, or go for a swim to cool down.
Book now Set among eucalypt forest on the banks of the Glenelg River, Wild Dog Bend Campground is the ideal location for a peaceful getaway.
This small campground offers two unpowered campsites, both suitable for tents and camper trailers only. Each campsite accommodates up to six people.
Campground facilities include non-flush toilets, fireplaces, picnic tables and non-potable water.
Bring your own firewood and drinking water. Advanced bookings and payment are required year-round.
Things to do in the area
Glenelg River Canoe Trail
The Glenelg River offers excellent opportunities for flat water canoeing over the 75kms from Dartmoor to its mouth near Nelson. For much of its distance the river flows through the Lower Glenelg National Park, enabling enthusiasts to observe wildlife in its natural environment.
Great South West Walk
Walk the diverse landscapes of Lower Glenelg National Park, Discovery Bay Coastal Park, Cobboboonee National Park and Cape Nelson State Park. Starting from Portland, the walk travels through majestic tall forests, meanders alongside the World Heritage Glenelg River, remote ocean beaches, past ancient lakes and culminates along rugged ocean clifftops.
Fishing
In quiet lakes and gently flowing rivers, in the pounding surf or in the depths beneath your boat – the waters of Victoria’s parks and reserves offer some prize catches.
Freshwater swimming
Take a cool, invigorating dip in fresh waterholes, streams and lakes. Be sure to observe safety signs and take caution when swimming in nature.
How to get there
Wild Dog Bend Campground
Lower Glenelg National Park is in south-west Victoria adjoining the South Australian border, about 420km from Melbourne and 490km from Adelaide.
Wild Dog Bend Campground is south of the Glenelg River. 2WD access is from the Wild Dog Bend track, off Winnap - Nelsons Road.
Wild Dog Bend Campground is south of the Glenelg River. 2WD access is from the Wild Dog Bend track, off Winnap - Nelsons Road.
When you're there
Download the Wild Dog Bend Campground map for site locations.
Download the Lower Glenelg National Park Visitor Guide for more information and things to do.
Canoeists undertaking the Glenelg River Canoe Trail, paddling consecutive sections of the trail with overnight stops, should camp at the Glenelg River Canoe Trail campsites.
Download the Lower Glenelg National Park Visitor Guide for more information and things to do.
Canoeists undertaking the Glenelg River Canoe Trail, paddling consecutive sections of the trail with overnight stops, should camp at the Glenelg River Canoe Trail campsites.
Need to know
Wild Dog Bend Campground
Accessibility
Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.
Be prepared and stay safe
Lower Glenelg National Park is in the South West fire district. Bushfires can occur during the warmer months. It is your responsibility to check current and forecast weather conditions. Campfires cannot be lit on days of Total Fire Ban, however gas cookers can be used for preparing food.
Check the Fire Danger Rating and for days of Total Fire Ban at emergency.vic.gov.au, on the Vic Emergency App or call the Vic Emergency Hotline 1800 226 226.
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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Lower Glenelg National Park
Princess Margaret Rose Cave is currently closed to the public
Princess Margaret Rose Cave is currently closed to the public. Essential safety works including new cave lighting, painting the visitor centre and electrical systems are complete. Work is continuing to upgrade toilets and the wastewater system.Glenelg River mouth artificially opened
On the 30th May 2025, the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority together with Parks Victoria manually opened the blocked mouth of the Glenelg River.The public are requested to stay well clear of the river mouth to ensure their safety. Sand ledges in the channel are unstable and can collapse without notice. River water may be moving very swiftly through the channel into the ocean.Water levels around jetties and boat ramps are expected to drop from Friday 30th May and into the weekend. Park and river users are urged to be cautious when using jetties and boat ramps, due to the likelihood of silt having settled on the previously submerged decks and ramps, potentially causing hazardous conditions. Additionally, previously submerged decking boards and ladders could be damaged or missing.Parks Victoria staff will undertake assessments as soon as possible to respond to any damage or unsafe conditions. Park visitors can report unsafe conditions by contacting 13 1963 or info@parks.vic.gov.au. -
Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
Glenelg River mouth artificially opened
On the 30th May 2025, the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority together with Parks Victoria manually opened the blocked mouth of the Glenelg River.The public are requested to stay well clear of the river mouth to ensure their safety. Sand ledges in the channel are unstable and can collapse without notice. River water may be moving very swiftly through the channel into the ocean.Water levels around jetties and boat ramps are expected to drop from Friday 30th May and into the weekend. Park and river users are urged to be cautious when using jetties and boat ramps, due to the likelihood of silt having settled on the previously submerged decks and ramps, potentially causing hazardous conditions. Additionally, previously submerged decking boards and ladders could be damaged or missing.Parks Victoria staff will undertake assessments as soon as possible to respond to any damage or unsafe conditions. Park visitors can report unsafe conditions by contacting 13 1963 or info@parks.vic.gov.au.
Similar experiences
Battersby Campground
Unwind at the cosy Battersby Campground on the banks of the river. Try your luck fishing from the jetty, or relax at camp and enjoy the company of kangaroos and other native wildlife. There are two campsites.
McLennans Punt Campground
Pitch a tent at this peaceful campground on the northern banks of the Glenelg River. Go canoeing or kayaking, or cast a line and see if you can catch bream or mulloway for dinner.
Forest South Campground
The camping area is located beside the Glenelg River amongst eucalypt forest