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 Central Gippsland consisting of the peninsula of Sperm Whale Head, Rotamah and Little Rotamah Islands. Fringed by the tranquil waters of Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve, the National Park provides a quintessential paradise for lovers of nature. Swim in the pristine lakes, walk through the remote bushland trails and camp in comfort at the secluded, family-friendly Emu Bight Campground - where local kangaroos, echidnas, wombats and koalas eagerly await meeting you.

On Sperm Whale Head you will find countless chances to immerse yourself in the Australian bush – from lakeside walking tracks, to elevated viewing platforms which allow you to cast your eyes across the captivating and picturesque vista that is Lake Reeve. This very lake is part of a system of wetlands of international significance for migratory birds - so be sure to pack your binoculars and field guides! For those more botanically inclined, The Lakes National Park is also known to be home to a variety of rare orchids and coastal flora.

Further along the Peninsula you will discover secluded picnic areas, idealistic fishing spots and jetties to set sail into the blissful waters of Lake Reeve and Lake Victoria. From here, you can sail over to Rotamah Island, where you will be taken by a tranquil and peaceful seascape. The Island itself is another attraction entirely - being only accessible by boat, it is a naturalists’ bushland delight. Surrounded by Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve to the north, and the sand dunes of 90 Mile Beach to the south, it offers incredibly secluded beaches where you can unwind as you feel the sand between your toes. Neighboured by pristine coastal habitat, there is no shortage of native wildlife to admire. On a clear day you may even see the rare Burrunan Dolphins leaping for joy in the sparkling lakes.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your hiking boots, bring a kayak and set sail for an adventure of a lifetime in The Gippsland Lakes National Park.

As beaches and coasts are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at The Lakes National Park is a safe and enjoyable one.