The original people the aborigines have lived in this area for almost seven thousand years. To them Wilsons Promontory was a spiritually significant place and was held in high regard and protected. When George Bass arrived as the first European to see this area he saw it for what it could bring him monetarily.

For George he saw dollar signs and slaughtered the seals to sell their coats for money. He was not worried about saving the beauty of the landscape, simply of making his fortune. But now this area is sacred to many vacationers who lovingly call it The Prom. They are the ones that visit year after year and understand the draw of the land.

As the largest coastal wilderness it is a destination for many during their vacation. Many hundreds of people plan ahead to come and spend time camping. Because of the demand one must plan ahead to make sure they can have one of the coveted camping slots.

The town or hamlet of Tidal River is the only one on the promontory. A small grouping consisting of a grocery store, cafe, fish and chip store, and outdoor movie spot it caters exclusively to the almost five hundred camp grounds on site. Those spots are greatly sought after and the waiting list and lottery are highly prized. The outdoor movie has been there since the forties and people wait in long lines for the chance to be a part of this tradition.

If you come here you love to be outside hiking through the wilderness. This location is about seeing the landscape close up. One lovely hike is out to the Wilson Promontory Lighthouse to visit the building that convicts built but that affords you the chance to marvel at the Bass Strait from all angles.

Of course with all the nature you are going to have animals living there too. The charming koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and even emus can be seen as you meander through the changing landscapes. The birds and waders are in plenty and are a wonderful chance for any bird watchers visiting.

Those that know this area revisit it again and again as camping is the only way to spend time here. The rugged coastline and abundance of nature allow a real get away feeling to their stay. Wanting some perspective there is Mt. Oberon that gives a real chance to observe the changing landscape and vegetation.

The Lilly Pilly Gully Nature trail is more than just a cute name as it delivers with a sensational experience through a rain forest. Just make sure to watch where you walk as a plethora of venomous snakes make their homes here. The beaches are well known for their unspoiled sands. But maybe try the noisy and aptly named Squeaky Beach for a laugh. The quartz that makes up the sand makes noise when you walk meaning sneaking up on anyone is out of the question.

If you know nature you know Wilsons Promontory and are a repeat visitor. This location is the ultimate in outdoor adventure and sights. If you want hiking, swimming, camping and climbing to be on your vacation agenda then this is the place to come. Just make sure you take time to sit under the stars and watch a movie creating a tradition that will hold up for a lifetime.