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The Lakes National Park
The Lakes National Park is one of the jointly managed parks within Gippsland. The Joint Management agreement recognises the fact that the Gunaikurnai people hold Aboriginal Title and maintain a strong connection to Country. As custodians of the land, they are the rightful people who speak for their Country. These parks and reserves are cultural landscapes that continue to be part of Gunaikurnai living culture. For more information on Joint Management, please visit the Gunaikurnai Traditional Owner Land Management Board and the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation.
The Lakes National Park is a peaceful bushland retreat in the Gippsland Lakes, fringed by the waters of Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve.
The park includes Sperm Whale Head peninsula and Rotamah and Little Rotamah islands.
Rotamah Island, accessible only by boat, is a naturalists' bushland delight. Surrounded by Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve to the north and the dunes of the Ninety Mile Beach to the south, the island has clearly defined tracks offering exceptional views and bird watching opportunities.
Things to do in the area
Rotamah Island is a bushland delight accessible by boat via Paynesville (six kilometres) or Loch Sport (18 kilometres).
Clearly defined tracks offer exceptional views and bird watching opportunities. The tracks are generally sandy and gently undulating and are suitable for family outings. A small picnic area is set aside adjacent to the observatory only a short stroll from the jetty on Rotamah Island. A barbecue, toilets and picnic tables are available.
The camping area is restricted to educational groups who book in advance.
Walks
90 Mile Beach Walk (3.8km – 1.5 hours return)
From the jetty walk along the Causeway Track past the tree hide to the beach. Return via Fenceline Track and Lake Reeve Track.
West End Walk (4.8km – 2 hours return)
Starting at the jetty, follow the Causeway Track and West Track to the end of the island. Return via Melaleuca Track and Lake Reeve Track.
Rotamah Loop (7.6km – 3 hours return)
From the jetty and picnic area, follow East Track over the footbridge onto Little Rotamah Island. Return via Ocean Grange Track or the 90 Mile Beach to Causeway rack. Alternatively visit Ocean Grange by following the track down and back (additional 4.5km – 1.5 hour return)
East End Walk (4.6km – 2 hours return)
Follow East Track from the jetty and picnic area. This track offers some fantastic views before heading back along Forest Track
Lake Reeve Nature Trail and Lookout Tower
Lake Reeve is an important feeding and roosting habitat for waterfowl, and is one of Victoria’s most important areas for wading birds.
The lake is a significant feature of the Gippsland Lakes system and is listed under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (RAMSAR).
A short walk (30 mins return) will lead you from the Lookout Tower carpark down through a range of habitats to the shores of Lake Reeve.
Emu Bight Campground
Rotamah Island
Bird watching
Wildlife
This area is well known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for:
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
The Lakes National Park
When you're there
Camping & accommodation
Camping is permitted at Emu Bight, near the shore of Lake Victoria. A communal shelter and toilets are provided. Campers need to bring their own firewood and water supplies. Fires may only be lit in the fireplaces provided and are not permitted on individual campsites. Bookings are required.
Need to know
The Lakes National Park
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.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
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
Seasonal road closures 2020
Some roads in this park are subject to seasonal road closures. Seasonal road closures generally operate after the long weekend in June through to the end of October, but may be extended due to seasonal conditions. View the list of 2020 seasonal road closures for details and check the corresponding map numbers with the seasonal road closure 2020 index map for locations of the closures or visit the seasonal road closures page for more information.
How we keep it special
