The best star host camping near Ballarat

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Looking for the perfect camping experience near Ballarat, Victoria in Australia? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 900 camping options available, you're sure to find the perfect spot that fits your accommodation and activity preferences. Whether you prefer a tent, caravan, or camper, Hipcamp has options for every camping style. And with popular amenities like showers, toilets, and cooking equipment, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. If you're into snow sports, wind sports, or off-roading, you'll love the activities available at these top campsites: Rodborough Vale (514 reviews), Shacks at Kardella Park (328 reviews), and Hampton Park (180 reviews). So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in beautiful Ballarat, Victoria.

100% (2.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Stunning large dam for swimming and water fun!

2. Lalgambook Retreat

100%
(17)
41km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mount Franklin, VIC
Our property is in a peaceful hidden valley on hilly acreage surrounded by native bush. It is just near the beautiful tourist town of Daylesford in central Victoria and an hour and a half by car from Melbourne. The property features a large dam that is suitable for swimming and canoeing/kayaking. The sites have great views of the water and the undulating bush. The property teems with wildlife and you can spot kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, kookaburras, parrots, eagles, waterbirds and many other bird species on a daily basis. In spring wildflower walks on the property are a highlight but it's enjoyable to explore all year round. The property is a tranquil haven for those looking to enjoy peace and privacy whilst great coffee, food, wineries, sights and shopping are only ten minutes away. We live on the property in an off grid solar house we have built ourselves.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
AU$49
 / night
Camping with Anakie Gorge & Brisbane Ranges in background.

3. Anakie Gorge Getaway

97%
(47)
49km from Ballarat · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Staughton Vale, VIC
Anakie Gorge Getaway is situated on 25-acres of serene bushland that merges with the Brisbane Ranges National Park and is directly adjacent to the entrance of Anakie Gorge Walk. This private camp is located on beautiful open grassland just 25 minutes from Geelong, 35 minutes to the Spirit of Tasmania dock in Corio Quay, and 40 minutes from Melbourne. With no camping permitted at Anakie Gorge, our property gives you a tranquil overnight stay in direct proximity for an early start to the Anakie Gorge Walk without having to drive home at the end of the day. Choose from 3 carefully selected camp sites and set up base camp to enjoy day trips exploring the local wineries, such as del Rios, walking and cycling trails of the You Yangs State Park, and Serendip Wildlife Sanctuary, or as a convenient overnight stop on your way to explore the Great Ocean Road The camping area is easily accessed from maintained roads, where guests can drive in and park on the spacious lower paddock (no reversing or 3-point-turns necessary). As this beautiful, secluded location is off-grid, guests will need to be Self Contained (BYO toilet/shower) and Leave No Trace. If you would like to enjoy our property all to yourself, simply book two of the campsites, and send us a message and we will happily reserve the 3rd campsite for your group free of charge. We are happy to consider additional guests and up to 1 extra vehicle per campsite (camping with your friends, their kids and yours is more fun!) however, ensure to contact the Host to request and arrange this at the time of booking. We expect our guests to be quiet and respectful to neighbouring farming families/properties. Parties and large groups are strictly not permitted. Please take everything with you and leave the site as you found it. Extra charges will apply for any rubbish, food scraps etc left on site. Amenities: ‘Long Drop’ toilets, BBQs and picnic tables are available a short walk away at the Anakie Gorge Picnic grounds. When visiting the Anakie Gorge Walk/Picnic Grounds (Brisbane Ranges National Park) please observe and abide by the rules of Parks Victoria. Due to our immediate proximity to farms and the Brisbane Ranges National Park the following are strictly NOT permitted: dogs, cats, pets, drones. Strictly NO fires, NO firearms, NO hunting permitted. Fire Danger Period – CURRENT to 1st of May 2024. We are currently in the Fire Danger Period, which means there are restrictions on what people legally can and can’t do with regard to outdoor fires (campfires, camp cooking, fires, BBQs, stoves) or anything that may produce a spark; campers may want to bring food/drink that doesn't require cooking or heating, or use the BBQs at the Anakie Gorge Picnic area IF conditions allow this. For specifics of what people are legally allowed to do or not do with regard to open air fires/cooking etc please read the information on the CFA Victoria website for fire warnings, fire bans ratings and restrictions and the "Can I? Can't I?" section for the Central region. Total Fire Ban Days: On total fire ban days strictly NO flames or sparks, no exceptions. For the safety of our guests, bookings falling on Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating days will be cancelled and campers will be reimbursed. Severe Weather and Bushfire: Please make yourself aware of bushfire or other severe weather warnings (e.g. ABC Emergency or Emergency Victoria) for UP-TO-DATE information, especially during the fire danger period. Safety and Hazards: You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Hazards to be aware of: snakes, uneven ground, trees or loose/falling limbs (it is your responsibility to set up your camp in an area you deem free of hazards). Flash flooding of Stony Creek (this is rare, however, please observe weather warnings at the time of camping). Please make yourself aware of bushfire or other severe weather warnings (e.g. ABC Emergency or Emergency Victoria) for UP-TO-DATE information, especially during the fire danger period. On Total Fire Ban days strictly NO flames or sparks, no exceptions. Other things to be aware of: No mobile phone reception. You might achieve some mobile phone reception if you head back up Gorge Road to Staughton Vale Road, though this is dependent on your mobile phone provider and cannot be guaranteed. Please check, temporary closures to the Anakie Gorge and/or the Brisbane Ranges and trail access requirements. Before commencing on bush walks, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Pets
from 
AU$36
 / night
campsite set-up

4. Book A Paddock

100%
(77)
81km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Romsey, VIC
We offer Book a Paddock, By the Creek and The Stables as listings for those wanting to camp or have a lux experience. Some of you have asked for parties and events. At this time we don't have the infrastructure in place to get this rolling. Thank you so so much for your support, your quiet and respectful enjoyment of our property. We are humbled you chose us to spend your heartbeats with. For now, Belinda and Robert ********************************************************************************* This acreage was historically a larger soldiers settlements property comprising a dairy, piggery and wool farming. The quality of the land hasn't changed with most of the region's farmland in use, so this is a cool place to stay in the Macedon Ranges. Currently home to our family, the property is also visited by many native Australian birdlife species, many marsupials including kangaroos, echidna, possums and even a koala. With close proximity to coffee shops and local stores of Romsey and Lancefield Providore, you have only a few minutes to drive to stock up on local produce. Walking the trails around Hanging Rock is a 10-minute drive and Mt Macedon lookout 15min. We look forward to saying hi soon!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night
Gooseberry Hill Dunolly

5. Gooseberry Hill Dunolly

99%
(58)
78km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dunolly, VIC
Gooseberry Hill is a flat safe paddock area that was once home to dozens of gold miners in canvas tents seeking their luck. It is ideal for campervans and caravans. Situated just on the outskirts of Dunolly, it is very close to town amenities. There is tap water on the site near the 150 year old apple tree near the main road. You are able to camp privately well back from the road. The site once had brick buildings of shopkeepers and even a hospital - all now long gone. The double story hotel built in 1862 as a Cobb & Co coach hotel for the Gooseberry Hill gold miners, is the only building still standing. The land had a vineyard at one time, and still has a small olive grove and quince trees. It was used in the 1870's as a sporting ground with events such as brass bands, Lantern Parades and even a formal Ball in the adjoining Cobb & Co Hotel. It was a wild and rough time in the gold mining days with a double murder at the butchers shop on the site. There was also a Chinese Camp nearby, as well as gambling dens. All the trees were removed in the 1860's for mining, but now vegetation is being restored. At the rear of the property is the quarry and old diggings. it is an interesting walk but beware of old mining shafts and deep diggings. In summer time watch out for snakes. Kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas are all around the property.
Pets
Campfires
Water Hookup
from 
AU$27
 / night

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Ballarat, Victoria in Australia? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 900 camping options available, you're sure to find the perfect spot that fits your accommodation and activity preferences. Whether you prefer a tent, caravan, or camper, Hipcamp has options for every camping style. And with popular amenities like showers, toilets, and cooking equipment, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. If you're into snow sports, wind sports, or off-roading, you'll love the activities available at these top campsites: Rodborough Vale (514 reviews), Shacks at Kardella Park (328 reviews), and Hampton Park (180 reviews). So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in beautiful Ballarat, Victoria.

100% (2.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Stunning large dam for swimming and water fun!

2. Lalgambook Retreat

100%
(17)
41km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mount Franklin, VIC
Our property is in a peaceful hidden valley on hilly acreage surrounded by native bush. It is just near the beautiful tourist town of Daylesford in central Victoria and an hour and a half by car from Melbourne. The property features a large dam that is suitable for swimming and canoeing/kayaking. The sites have great views of the water and the undulating bush. The property teems with wildlife and you can spot kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, kookaburras, parrots, eagles, waterbirds and many other bird species on a daily basis. In spring wildflower walks on the property are a highlight but it's enjoyable to explore all year round. The property is a tranquil haven for those looking to enjoy peace and privacy whilst great coffee, food, wineries, sights and shopping are only ten minutes away. We live on the property in an off grid solar house we have built ourselves.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
AU$49
 / night
Camping with Anakie Gorge & Brisbane Ranges in background.

3. Anakie Gorge Getaway

97%
(47)
49km from Ballarat · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Staughton Vale, VIC
Anakie Gorge Getaway is situated on 25-acres of serene bushland that merges with the Brisbane Ranges National Park and is directly adjacent to the entrance of Anakie Gorge Walk. This private camp is located on beautiful open grassland just 25 minutes from Geelong, 35 minutes to the Spirit of Tasmania dock in Corio Quay, and 40 minutes from Melbourne. With no camping permitted at Anakie Gorge, our property gives you a tranquil overnight stay in direct proximity for an early start to the Anakie Gorge Walk without having to drive home at the end of the day. Choose from 3 carefully selected camp sites and set up base camp to enjoy day trips exploring the local wineries, such as del Rios, walking and cycling trails of the You Yangs State Park, and Serendip Wildlife Sanctuary, or as a convenient overnight stop on your way to explore the Great Ocean Road The camping area is easily accessed from maintained roads, where guests can drive in and park on the spacious lower paddock (no reversing or 3-point-turns necessary). As this beautiful, secluded location is off-grid, guests will need to be Self Contained (BYO toilet/shower) and Leave No Trace. If you would like to enjoy our property all to yourself, simply book two of the campsites, and send us a message and we will happily reserve the 3rd campsite for your group free of charge. We are happy to consider additional guests and up to 1 extra vehicle per campsite (camping with your friends, their kids and yours is more fun!) however, ensure to contact the Host to request and arrange this at the time of booking. We expect our guests to be quiet and respectful to neighbouring farming families/properties. Parties and large groups are strictly not permitted. Please take everything with you and leave the site as you found it. Extra charges will apply for any rubbish, food scraps etc left on site. Amenities: ‘Long Drop’ toilets, BBQs and picnic tables are available a short walk away at the Anakie Gorge Picnic grounds. When visiting the Anakie Gorge Walk/Picnic Grounds (Brisbane Ranges National Park) please observe and abide by the rules of Parks Victoria. Due to our immediate proximity to farms and the Brisbane Ranges National Park the following are strictly NOT permitted: dogs, cats, pets, drones. Strictly NO fires, NO firearms, NO hunting permitted. Fire Danger Period – CURRENT to 1st of May 2024. We are currently in the Fire Danger Period, which means there are restrictions on what people legally can and can’t do with regard to outdoor fires (campfires, camp cooking, fires, BBQs, stoves) or anything that may produce a spark; campers may want to bring food/drink that doesn't require cooking or heating, or use the BBQs at the Anakie Gorge Picnic area IF conditions allow this. For specifics of what people are legally allowed to do or not do with regard to open air fires/cooking etc please read the information on the CFA Victoria website for fire warnings, fire bans ratings and restrictions and the "Can I? Can't I?" section for the Central region. Total Fire Ban Days: On total fire ban days strictly NO flames or sparks, no exceptions. For the safety of our guests, bookings falling on Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating days will be cancelled and campers will be reimbursed. Severe Weather and Bushfire: Please make yourself aware of bushfire or other severe weather warnings (e.g. ABC Emergency or Emergency Victoria) for UP-TO-DATE information, especially during the fire danger period. Safety and Hazards: You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Hazards to be aware of: snakes, uneven ground, trees or loose/falling limbs (it is your responsibility to set up your camp in an area you deem free of hazards). Flash flooding of Stony Creek (this is rare, however, please observe weather warnings at the time of camping). Please make yourself aware of bushfire or other severe weather warnings (e.g. ABC Emergency or Emergency Victoria) for UP-TO-DATE information, especially during the fire danger period. On Total Fire Ban days strictly NO flames or sparks, no exceptions. Other things to be aware of: No mobile phone reception. You might achieve some mobile phone reception if you head back up Gorge Road to Staughton Vale Road, though this is dependent on your mobile phone provider and cannot be guaranteed. Please check, temporary closures to the Anakie Gorge and/or the Brisbane Ranges and trail access requirements. Before commencing on bush walks, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Pets
from 
AU$36
 / night
campsite set-up

4. Book A Paddock

100%
(77)
81km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Romsey, VIC
We offer Book a Paddock, By the Creek and The Stables as listings for those wanting to camp or have a lux experience. Some of you have asked for parties and events. At this time we don't have the infrastructure in place to get this rolling. Thank you so so much for your support, your quiet and respectful enjoyment of our property. We are humbled you chose us to spend your heartbeats with. For now, Belinda and Robert ********************************************************************************* This acreage was historically a larger soldiers settlements property comprising a dairy, piggery and wool farming. The quality of the land hasn't changed with most of the region's farmland in use, so this is a cool place to stay in the Macedon Ranges. Currently home to our family, the property is also visited by many native Australian birdlife species, many marsupials including kangaroos, echidna, possums and even a koala. With close proximity to coffee shops and local stores of Romsey and Lancefield Providore, you have only a few minutes to drive to stock up on local produce. Walking the trails around Hanging Rock is a 10-minute drive and Mt Macedon lookout 15min. We look forward to saying hi soon!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night
Gooseberry Hill Dunolly

5. Gooseberry Hill Dunolly

99%
(58)
78km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dunolly, VIC
Gooseberry Hill is a flat safe paddock area that was once home to dozens of gold miners in canvas tents seeking their luck. It is ideal for campervans and caravans. Situated just on the outskirts of Dunolly, it is very close to town amenities. There is tap water on the site near the 150 year old apple tree near the main road. You are able to camp privately well back from the road. The site once had brick buildings of shopkeepers and even a hospital - all now long gone. The double story hotel built in 1862 as a Cobb & Co coach hotel for the Gooseberry Hill gold miners, is the only building still standing. The land had a vineyard at one time, and still has a small olive grove and quince trees. It was used in the 1870's as a sporting ground with events such as brass bands, Lantern Parades and even a formal Ball in the adjoining Cobb & Co Hotel. It was a wild and rough time in the gold mining days with a double murder at the butchers shop on the site. There was also a Chinese Camp nearby, as well as gambling dens. All the trees were removed in the 1860's for mining, but now vegetation is being restored. At the rear of the property is the quarry and old diggings. it is an interesting walk but beware of old mining shafts and deep diggings. In summer time watch out for snakes. Kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas are all around the property.
Pets
Campfires
Water Hookup
from 
AU$27
 / night

Stories from the community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field