Nelson - Lower Glenelg National Park
Enjoy incredibly beautiful riverside camping while walking, fishing, canoeing or exploring by 4WD. This breathtaking area features 50m high limestone cliffs stretching 15km along the Glenelg River Gorge and tranquil Glenelg River Estuary. The iconic Great South West Walk links Portland and Nelson as it passes through stunning local national, state, coastal parks.
Things to see and do
Princess Margaret Rose Cave and camping complex
Princess Margaret Rose Cave is an underground wonderland set in natural bush surrounds on the clifftops of Glenelg River and Lower Glenelg National Park.
Arguably the most decorated cave per square metre in Australia, the Cave is 30 minutes from Mount Gambier or 15 minutes from Nelson.
Come on a cave tour and wonder at nature's gifts. See stalactites, stalagmites, helictites, rim stone pools, cave coral and many other amazing formations on a 45-minute guided tour with a professional interpretive officer. Booking is essential for Cave Tours and to camp or stay in on-site cabins or at the campground. Call (08) 8738 4171
Walking
Great South West Walk - 250km long-distance circuit walk
A map detailing the entire walk and its options is available from Visitor Information Centres at Portland and Nelson. The Great South West Walk (GSWW) is an internationally acclaimed walk starting and ending at Portland. The 250km route passes through forest, heathlands, coastal cliffs and beaches of the family of parks found in this area.
The Great South West Walk takes in Cobboboonee National Park, Lower Glenelg National Park, Discovery Bay Coastal Park, Mt Richmond National Park and Cape Nelson State Park and includes the stunning Glenelg River Gorge and the wild, spectacular wind-swept coast of Discovery Bay.
Choose from short and longer walks as well as the entire experience.
Camping and picnics
All Camping and Picnic areas have table/toilets/fireplaces. All campers need to pre-book and fees apply. There are nine drive-in riverside camping areas, seven canoe-only camping areas and five hiker-only Great South West Walk camping areas. All within one day's walk of each other.
Four-wheel driving, trail and cycling
Sealed, gravel and sandy roads provide two-wheel drive access to many areas and attractions within the park. Short walks lead to views at many locations along the Glenelg River. Bicycles, including mountain bikes, are not permitted on walking tracks including the Great South West Walk. Sandy tracks may need 4WD in summer.
River cruise
Relax by taking a river cruise from Nelson up to Princess Margaret Rose Cave and discover the beauty of the river gorge along the way.
River estuary and ocean beach
A short walk to the ocean beach begins at the Ocean Beach Carpark.
The Glenelg River Estuary is home to many native and migratory bird species as well as an abundance of fish species making it a great place to go bird watching, fishing, paddling and canoeing. Boat ramps are available to launch small boats, canoes and kayaks.
Swimming and surfing
Swimming is very popular in the river and at beaches along the coastline, however many beaches and inland rivers are exposed to hidden dangers such as currents, rips, reefs and submerged objects, debris, flooding and currents. Always swim with care and company. Parks Victoria recommends swimming only at beaches patrolled by lifesaving services. Discovery Bay Coastal Park does not have lifesaver patrolled beaches. Red and yellow flags are displayed when beaches are patrolled by lifesavers.
Fishing
The coastline, streams and rivers in the area provide opportunities for keen anglers. The Glenelg River is popular with anglers and most visitor areas have jetties. Fishing is not permitted in marine national parks and sanctuaries. Check separate marine visitor guides for activity/boundary limits.
Adults generally require a Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence, available from the Victorian Fisheries Authority at or your local fishing gear outlet.
Horse riding
A wide range of roads and tracks are available for horse riding in the nearby Cobboboonee National Park and the nearby, but separate Cobboboonee Forest Park.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are not permitted in Lower Glenelg National Park but are permitted nearby in Cobboboonee Forest Park. Different land managers on the coast have different dog regulations. Be sure to check signage whenever visiting other beaches and parks.
Getting there
The park is in south-west Victoria adjoining the South Australia border - about 420km from Melbourne and 490km from Adelaide. There is good access to most points by vehicle or on foot.
Note: Photos from Parks Victoria
Location
Leakes Road, Nelson 3304 Map
Web Links
→ Lower Glenelg National Park (Parks Victoria)
→ Lower Glenelg National Park - Visitor Guide (PDF)
→ Lower Glenelg National Park - Map (PDF)
→ Lower Glenelg National Park River Guide (PDF)
→ Lower Glenelg National Park, Discovery Bay Coastal Park - Visitor Guide (PDF)
