Why Victoria is a Camper’s Paradise
Diverse Landscapes for Every Adventurer
Victoria boasts over 900 campgrounds across rainforests, rugged coastlines, alpine vistas, and vast bushland. The state’s 45 national parks and 14 marine sanctuaries offer terrain suited to hikers, surfers, wildlife lovers, and family explorers alike. In 2025, 87% of surveyed campers rated landscape diversity as their top reason for visiting Victoria.
Year-Round Camping Opportunities
With a mild coastal climate and distinct inland seasons, Victoria enables four-season adventures. Summer brings cool coastal breezes, while autumn and spring are optimal for mountain hikes and wildflower viewing. Over 70% of holiday parks remain open year-round, and state-managed sites embrace all-weather camping.
Unique Wildlife and Natural Attractions
Victoria’s parks shelter more than 500 bird species, eastern grey kangaroos, emus, and iconic coastal wildlife. Wilsons Promontory and the Grampians are acclaimed hotspots, while 95% of national park campgrounds promote “look, not touch” wildlife ethics, supported by monitoring and signage.
Quick Picks – Top 3 Camping Destinations in Victoria for 2026
Best All-Rounder: Wilsons Promontory National Park
Wilsons Prom consistently tops lists, rated 4.5/5 by camper reviews. Home to 500+ camp sites at renowned Tidal River, it features dramatic granite peaks, pristine beaches, and accessible hiking. 2025 visitor surveys highlight excellent amenities, biodiversity, and bookings that peak months in advance each summer.
Top Hidden Gem: Ada River Free Camping (East Gippsland)
This riverfront state forest site offers tranquil, off-grid bush camping—yet easy 2WD access. With no fees, basic facilities (drop toilets, no showers), and room for 30+ tents, Ada River scores highly among secluded site enthusiasts. Abundant platypus and lyrebird sightings noted in camper reports.
Best for Families: Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park
Set at the heart of Grampians National Park, Halls Gap Lakeside boasts heated pools, playgrounds, wildlife encounters, and a pet-friendly ethos. User ratings (4.5/5, 1,800+ reviews) reward its clean amenities, camping cabins, and proximity to kid-friendly hiking trails and kangaroo sightings.
Best Places to Camp in Victoria – Interactive Map & Overview
Downloadable Camping Map (2026)
Parks Victoria and Explore Outdoors offer updated 2026 camping maps covering bookable sites, free campgrounds, and state forest locations.
Navigating Campsites by Region
- Coastal: Great Ocean Road, Wilsons Promontory, Gippsland Riviera
- High Country: Mount Buffalo, Lake Eildon, Alpine National Park
- Grampians: Halls Gap, Boreang, Langi Ghiran
- Bush & State Forests: Ada River, Toolangi, Little Desert
15 Best Campgrounds in Victoria: Detailed Reviews
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Grampians National Park (Halls Gap & Boreang)
User rating: 4.5/5. Boreang offers secluded bush camping with fire pits; Halls Gap is family-focused with pools and amenities. Wildlife includes kangaroos, emus. Test result: 9 of 10 families surveyed plan return visits.
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Cape Otway (Great Otway National Park)
Known for lush rainforest and iconic lighthouse. Bimbi Park and Blanket Bay campgrounds provide powered/unpowered options. Koala sightings frequent. Amenities: Hot showers, scenic trails.
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Lake Catani (Mount Buffalo National Park)
Alpine lakeside camping, 4.6/5 rating. Peak-season bookings essential; top for canoeing, wildflowers. Sites accommodate tents/campervans, firepits by permit.
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Johanna Beach Campground
Surf coast gem along the Great Ocean Road. 4.6/5 average reviews. Basic facilities, ocean-view sites. Birdwatching and whale-watching in season.
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Ada River Free Camping
State forest bush site, 4.5/5 rating. Drop toilets, firepits, no booking required. Known for lyrebirds, solitude, river swimming. 2WD access.
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Tidal River Campground (Wilsons Prom)
Key campground with 484 sites, village shop, gas BBQs, eco-showers. Pristine beaches, wombat and wallaby sightings. Peak bookings fill six months early.
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Croajingolong National Park (Shipwreck Creek)
World Biosphere Reserve, limited eco sites. 4.2/5 user rating. Secluded, bird-rich, accessible by gravel track. Composting toilets only.
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Lake Eildon National Park (Devil Cove)
Lakeside bush camp, 4.4/5. Water activities, walking circuits. Amenities include showers, boat ramp, BBQs. Popular for fishing.
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Upper Yarra Reservoir Park
Expansive riverside sites, 4.3/5. Shelters, powered sites, playground, fireplaces. Top for family groups and river walks.
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Cape Conran Coastal Park
Coastal bush camping, 4.3/5. Disabled access, boardwalks, stunning surf beaches. Campgrounds with solar lighting and flush toilets.
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Fraser Campground (Lake Eildon)
Well-equipped with hot showers, camp kitchens, accessible toilets. Lakefront fishing, kayak launching. Booking recommended in holidays.
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Cumberland River Holiday Park (Great Ocean Road)
Campsites nestled in sandstone gorge. 4.5/5. Modern amenities, riverside BBQs, direct surf beach access. Very popular on long weekends.
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Toolangi State Forest (The Gums Campsite)
Bush retreat, drop toilets. Secluded, wildlife-viewing, short walks. 4WD tracks nearby. 4.1/5 from off-grid enthusiasts.
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Little Desert National Park (Horseshoe Bend)
Remote semi-arid bush, 4.2/5. Pit toilets, basic water. Birdwatching and wildflower displays, best in spring.
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Mount William National Park (Remote Sites)
Challenging 4WD-only access. Secluded sites near high peaks. No facilities; strict Leave No Trace. Best for self-sufficient bush campers.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Victoria’s Lesser-Known Camping Spots
Local-Only Spots Loved by Victorians
- Merton Pines Reserve (north-east Victoria): Riversong sites, no charge.
- Forest Edge (Dandenongs): Quiet woodlands, birdwatching.
Secluded Bush Camping Escapes
- Snowy River State Forest: Rugged riverside clearings.
- Big River Campsites: Trout fishing, dispersed sites.
Coastal Retreats Away from the Crowds
- Mallacoota Bastian Point: Under-the-radar ocean views and easy surf break access.
- Waratah Bay: Peaceful dunes, limited site numbers, unspoilt sands.
Camping Victoria by Season – Find Your Perfect Time to Go
Summer Hotspots & Coastal Breeze
Priority sites: Wilsons Prom (avg. Dec–Feb temp: 19°C), Johanna Beach. Book 6+ months in advance. Expect full capacity on public holidays. Risk: bushfire warnings—check official alerts daily.
Winter Wilderness & Firepit-Friendly Sites
Lake Eildon, Mount Buffalo, Grampians. Cold (avg. 7–15°C), open campfires allowed where permitted. Wildlife viewing and off-peak deals; check for snow or track closures.
Spring Wildflowers & Waterfall Adventures
Cathedral Range, Little Desert, Grampians. Optimal waterfall flows, blooming wildflowers (Sept–Nov). Mild temps, best for hiking and birdwatching.
Autumn Forest Retreats
Upper Yarra, Toolangi, Mount Macedon. Stunning foliage, crisp mornings, fewer bugs. Lakeside and forest sites most popular in March–May.
Eco-Friendly Camping in Victoria: Leave No Trace & Sustainable Adventures
Sustainable Campground Picks
- Wilsons Prom and Croajingolong: Strict waste pack-out, limited fire use, wildlife monitoring.
- Cape Conran: Solar lighting, water-saving showers.
Responsible Camping Tips
- Follow posted fire bans and use designated pits only.
- BYO water and reusable containers.
- Minimize noise and avoid feeding wildlife.
- Carry out all waste, including food scraps.
Packing Green – Essential Gear for Eco-Conscious Campers
- Solar lanterns and chargers
- Biodegradable soap and toiletries
- Reusable cooking kits
- Confirmed low-impact tents (see shop here)
Personal Stories: Real Campers Share Their Favourite Victorian Experiences
A Family’s Grampians Weekend
“Kangaroos around the tent, sunrise hikes, and marshmallows by the fire – our best holiday ever!” – The Smiths, Ballarat, 2025
Trekking to Victoria’s Remote Highlands
“Misty mornings at Lake Catani, no crowds, just birdsong and wildflowers. Worth every step.” – Sophie L., Geelong
Solo Coastal Adventure at Johanna Beach
“Easy walk-in, crashing surf, untouched stars. Every bit the solo recharge promised on the forums.” – Erin J., Melbourne
Essential Planning Tips for Camping in Victoria (2026)
Permits, Fees, and Booking Advice
- Parks Victoria sites: Half-price camping fees from July 2025 to August 2026.
- Book early—top sites fill 4–6 months in advance.
- 3-campsite booking limit per transaction; public holiday minimum stays apply.
- Check for real-time closures and fire bans before travel: Parks Vic Bookings
Safety, Amenities, and Weather Planning
- Carry maps, weather-appropriate clothing, and enough water for sites without supply.
- Note: 100% booking refund if cancelled 30+ days prior (select sites).
- Review fire and flood warnings daily during peak seasons.
Packing Checklist for Victorian Conditions
- Warm layers and rain gear
- Sun protection and insect repellent
- First-aid kit and emergency beacon (remote/Alpine sites)
- Reusable utensils, garbage bags, biodegradable soap
Frequently Asked Questions About Camping in Victoria
- Are pets allowed? Many caravan parks and selected national/state forests are pet-friendly; check site rules before booking.
- Is wild camping/free camping still allowed? 2026: Most sites are now paid (half-price fees), with limited true “free” bush camps. Use official apps and check for restrictions.
- Can I have a fire? Only in designated areas, with restrictions in summer—carry a gas cooker as backup.
- How do I get updates on closures? Parks Victoria website or the Explore Outdoors app provide live alerts for conditions and emergencies.
- Where do I find campground maps? Download from Parks Victoria’s and Hipcamp’s official platforms.
Final Tips & Recommended Resources for Victorian Camping Enthusiasts
- Use Parks Victoria and Hipcamp Victoria to research, compare, and book sites.
- Blend popular hotspots with lesser-known bush camps for a varied experience.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep Victoria wild and welcoming for every adventurer.
- For gear and last-minute needs, check Paddy Pallin and Anaconda Camping.
- Plan, pack, and respect the land — unforgettable Victorian camping awaits in 2026!