Monaro/Princes Hwy Canberra - Melbourne

Hi All

I'll be travelling from Canberra to Melbourne via Cann River this coming weekend. I've done it a few times before and can recommend (for the price) the Cann River Caravan Park ($5 includes a hot shower) and the pub (where you pay for the Park) seemed friendly although I've never stayed there.
I know there's camping at Tamboon Inlet, Bemm River and Cape Conran. I'd like to know, though, what good camping/fishing/even swimming (this time of year just for a wash!) spots there are. I'm in an old car, so preferably nothing too far out of the way. Dirt roads are fine, but nothing the XF can't handle.
Any opportunity at any of these to camp on the beach (without having to walk too far from the car)? And any spots not in Croajingolong - cos I will have a dog with me this time (but not in future).
If push comes to shove can you recommend somewhere cheapish anywhere between Bambala and Bairnsdale - I notice the Orbost Pub is only $25, but sometimes you get what you pay for.
Cheers

Adam