The best luxury caravan campgrounds near Bendigo, Victoria

Victoria’s mammoth gold boom of the mid-1800s saw Bendigo evolve from a tent city into today’s prosperous region, which proudly displays its rich heritage and cultural attractions for visiting campers. About two hours’ drive north of Melbourne, greater Bendigo National Park is a great spot to try your hand at gold panning, while Bendigo Bushland Trail, O’Keefe Rail Trail, and Bendigo Creek Trail are popular spots with hikers and mountain bikers. Further afield, campers can paddle a kayak or SUP board along the Murray River and opt for a stay at a tent or caravan park. Bendigo holiday parks are typically well equipped, some with glamping tents and luxury facilities like swimming pools and ensuite bathrooms.

98% (157)

Top-rated campgrounds

Victoria’s mammoth gold boom of the mid-1800s saw Bendigo evolve from a tent city into today’s prosperous region, which proudly displays its rich heritage and cultural attractions for visiting campers. About two hours’ drive north of Melbourne, greater Bendigo National Park is a great spot to try your hand at gold panning, while Bendigo Bushland Trail, O’Keefe Rail Trail, and Bendigo Creek Trail are popular spots with hikers and mountain bikers. Further afield, campers can paddle a kayak or SUP board along the Murray River and opt for a stay at a tent or caravan park. Bendigo holiday parks are typically well equipped, some with glamping tents and luxury facilities like swimming pools and ensuite bathrooms.

98% (157)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Seven Hills Tallarook

97%

(416)

81km from Bendigo · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tallarook, VIC

Our property, "Seven Hills Tallarook", sits high above Tallarook with deep valleys and high peaks, just over one hour North of Melbourne's CBD. The property is 600 acres of thick Victorian bush and farmed paddocks. We have a wide range of hobby farm animals - pigs, sheep, alpacas, chickens, ponies, a donkey, along with commercial heard of South African Boer Goats. As night falls, the wildlife come out to play - kangaroos, rabbits, deer and wallabies. Internally, we have in excess of 10 kilometers of roads within the property, the majority being 2WD accessible (weather conditions apply). There are parts of the property which are only 4WD accessible. Our campsites are placed to allow you to be as isolated as possible - away from other campers (you may see others as you drive past, or they drive past you). At some of our bush sites, you will be able to see other campers, but they are not close by. Additionally, we anticipate our Fire Danger Period for the 2025/2026 Summer Season will commence in the coming weeks. We have not toggled the Fire Ban on as we do still allow campfires, however campers MUST adhere to CFA guidelines at all times. On days of Total Fire Ban (TFB), no fires, including gas stoves can be lit outdoors. In event of the TFB toggle needing to be used on Hipcamp, this will advise all guests booked on that day and to all future guests. We will toggle it off once the TFB is removed. Furthermore, we reserve the right to ask you not to light a fire regardless of TFB status if we feel weather conditions are unsafe, especially the wind element. We cannot plan the weather and the request to not light your campfires will most likely be on the day and we will advise as such. Our interest is with your safety, our neighbors and our property and our family.

2. Lalgambook Retreat

100%

(15)

60km from Bendigo · 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.

3. Eganstown

100%

(6)

68km from Bendigo · 1 site · Tent, RV · Eganstown, VIC

Close to the lovely town of Daylesford and on the edge of the Wombat Forest there is every opportunity for bush walks and peace and quiet. It is possible to walk in to town through the bush or to have a spa. The forest is great for exploring and tranquil reflection. A great place to soak up peace and quiet.

4. Golden Country Motel & Caravan Park

100%

(3)

56km from Bendigo · 36 sites · RVs, Lodging · Maryborough, VIC

Explore our range of Maryborough accommodation at Golden Country Motel and Caravan Park, each designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay at Golden Country. Explore our selection of well-appointed cabins, each thoughtfully tailored to meet your needs, whether you’re after a cozy retreat or a family adventure. Experience comfort at our motel, offering a variety of rooms that cater to both solo travelers and families, ensuring a restful and convenient stay. Park your caravan in our expansive, well-appointed sites, offering exceptional facilities and a welcoming community atmosphere for the perfect escape. Golden Country Motel is equipped with a variety of convenient features to enhance your stay. We provide an electric vehicle charger for eco-conscious travelers, ensuring your car is ready for your next adventure. Our pet-friendly policy means you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the trip. Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi available throughout the park. For added convenience, we have a laundry room on-site. Additionally, we are ideally located just 40 meters away from the golf club, which boasts a fantastic restaurant for your dining pleasure.

5. Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park

93%

(15)

33km from Bendigo · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · Castlemaine, VIC

BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park is a peaceful, private oasis in the heart of the vibrant Victorian Goldfields town of Castlemaine, just 90 minutes from Melbourne. It adjoins Castlemaine’s beautiful 25-hectare Botanical Gardens and the parkland setting, trees, breezes, and birdlife provide a magical holiday backdrop. A winner of multiple tourism awards, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens offers accommodation options for a fun-filled family holiday, a perfect romantic retreat, or a leisurely getaway with friends. You’ll find luxury glamping, spacious villas, a luxury accessible villa, and comfortable cabins, as well as picturesque, pet-friendly powered and unpowered sites. The park enjoys an unsurpassed location. The Botanical Gardens and adjoining nature reserve are the perfect location for an early morning run, a summer picnic, or a visit with the children to an innovative, creative play space. Directly across the road is the popular artisan Mill Complex, with its range of gourmet food outlets, brewery, Viennese-themed coffee house, winery, vintage bazaar, artisan workshops, and much more. To top it off, a couple of friendly country pubs are also just a stroll away. Castlemaine is the perfect base from which to explore Victoria’s Goldfields region and its history, arts culture, renowned wineries (the big reds are especially noted), and spectacular landscapes. The regional city of Bendigo, with its magnificent Goldfields-era architecture, parks, events, and festivals, is an easy half-hour drive away, and towns like Maldon, Clunes, Harcourt, Creswick, Kyneton, Malmsbury, Daylesford and Hepburn are all nearby, offering a choice of wonderful day-trips on scenic back roads. If you’d like to stay closer to your home away from home, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens is a comfortable 15-minute walk from the center of town. Enjoy Castlemaine’s architecture, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and markets. Visit the iconic Theatre Royal, the oldest continually operating theatre on Australia’s mainland, and explore the various beer gardens, pubs, and galleries around the town. For lovers of the great outdoors, there is almost too much to choose from. There are extensive bushland walking and cycling tracks around Castlemaine and further afield, including the renowned Goldfields Track. There is also the 1,400-hectare Mt Alexander Regional Park for bushwalks, picnics, lookouts, and local wildlife. For kids, Castlemaine and the surrounding region is nature’s playground. Get outdoors and explore historic goldmines, rock climbing, watering holes, and family-friendly bike trails and walking tracks. There's also plenty to enjoy at BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park, including a sensory garden designed to connect our guests with the sights, sounds, and scents of nature, a school holiday activity program, and a fun-filled Games Room. Special family holiday moments can be shared around our pizza oven and BBQ, in the "Bush Hut” Camp Kitchen, or sitting around a campfire on a winter's evening. Come and stay in a magical holiday park in the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields and explore a region that truly has something for everyone to enjoy! BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation who are the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we work. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We recognize their continuous relationship to the land and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging

6. Ellesmere Park Farm Stay

97%

(166)

69km from Bendigo · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Stanhope, VIC

Ellesmere Park Farm Stay was inspired by our trip following the stock routes of NSW by horse drawn vehicles. Many people commented they would love to do that, which gave us the idea of sharing our amazing journey with others. Our camping area is a lot more comfortable than we endured with a well set up camp kitchen, green lawns and friendly animals all in one area. Our mascot, "Lucky lamb", is an attraction all of her own and who else can say "Kevin bacon" lives here! Our farm stay offers a large grassed camping area with camp kitchen. We are located within easy driving distance of Greens lake and the Waranga basin for fishing, boating and swimming activities and only 15km from Rushworth and the historic Whroo township. Campers are welcome to join us as we feed the animals. Fires and pets allowed (read Listing rules). There is only one toilet and one shower available, it is recommended that campers are self sufficient

7. Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

100%

(43)

80km from Bendigo · 1 site · Tent, RV · Spargo Creek, VIC

The Korweingy Recreation Reserve is a wonderful country hall and oval. It is 12 minutes from Daylesford and in the heart of the Wombat State Forest. It has a huge hall, kitchen, toilets and showers, and a huge oval. It even has a little lounge area. The oval is the same dimensions AS THE MCG! The site can accommodate up to 30 campers, and you'll have full use of the hall and all facilities. An amazing place for large groups to hold events, and gatherings and only an hour from Melbourne. Enjoy all the area has to offer, and come back to your own paradise in the bush. Wake up to roos on the oval and enjoy a barbie with your group. Please note the hall has power but the camping area has no power. If you live in the Korweinguboora area please email korweinguboorarecreserve@gmail.com to obtain a discount code.

8. Clay Gully

55km from Bendigo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Intyre, VIC

Peaceful Horse Property Retreat Escape to our serene horse property and enjoy a stay surrounded by nature! We offer two booking options: Cottage + Campsites: Stay in our charming 3-bedroom cottage with a full kitchen and bathroom, plus space for up to two RVs, cars, or caravans on the property — perfect for families or groups. Campsites Only: Park your RV, caravan, or camper in our dedicated camping area. Campers must be fully self-contained, as there are no shared facilities. Please note: No pets or campfires are allowed to ensure the safety and comfort of our horses and dogs.

Camper favorites near Bendigo

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Golden Country Motel & Caravan Park

100%

(3)

56km from Bendigo · 36 sites · RVs, Lodging · Maryborough, VIC

Explore our range of Maryborough accommodation at Golden Country Motel and Caravan Park, each designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay at Golden Country. Explore our selection of well-appointed cabins, each thoughtfully tailored to meet your needs, whether you’re after a cozy retreat or a family adventure. Experience comfort at our motel, offering a variety of rooms that cater to both solo travelers and families, ensuring a restful and convenient stay. Park your caravan in our expansive, well-appointed sites, offering exceptional facilities and a welcoming community atmosphere for the perfect escape. Golden Country Motel is equipped with a variety of convenient features to enhance your stay. We provide an electric vehicle charger for eco-conscious travelers, ensuring your car is ready for your next adventure. Our pet-friendly policy means you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the trip. Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi available throughout the park. For added convenience, we have a laundry room on-site. Additionally, we are ideally located just 40 meters away from the golf club, which boasts a fantastic restaurant for your dining pleasure.

Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park

93%

(15)

33km from Bendigo · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · Castlemaine, VIC

BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park is a peaceful, private oasis in the heart of the vibrant Victorian Goldfields town of Castlemaine, just 90 minutes from Melbourne. It adjoins Castlemaine’s beautiful 25-hectare Botanical Gardens and the parkland setting, trees, breezes, and birdlife provide a magical holiday backdrop. A winner of multiple tourism awards, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens offers accommodation options for a fun-filled family holiday, a perfect romantic retreat, or a leisurely getaway with friends. You’ll find luxury glamping, spacious villas, a luxury accessible villa, and comfortable cabins, as well as picturesque, pet-friendly powered and unpowered sites. The park enjoys an unsurpassed location. The Botanical Gardens and adjoining nature reserve are the perfect location for an early morning run, a summer picnic, or a visit with the children to an innovative, creative play space. Directly across the road is the popular artisan Mill Complex, with its range of gourmet food outlets, brewery, Viennese-themed coffee house, winery, vintage bazaar, artisan workshops, and much more. To top it off, a couple of friendly country pubs are also just a stroll away. Castlemaine is the perfect base from which to explore Victoria’s Goldfields region and its history, arts culture, renowned wineries (the big reds are especially noted), and spectacular landscapes. The regional city of Bendigo, with its magnificent Goldfields-era architecture, parks, events, and festivals, is an easy half-hour drive away, and towns like Maldon, Clunes, Harcourt, Creswick, Kyneton, Malmsbury, Daylesford and Hepburn are all nearby, offering a choice of wonderful day-trips on scenic back roads. If you’d like to stay closer to your home away from home, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens is a comfortable 15-minute walk from the center of town. Enjoy Castlemaine’s architecture, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and markets. Visit the iconic Theatre Royal, the oldest continually operating theatre on Australia’s mainland, and explore the various beer gardens, pubs, and galleries around the town. For lovers of the great outdoors, there is almost too much to choose from. There are extensive bushland walking and cycling tracks around Castlemaine and further afield, including the renowned Goldfields Track. There is also the 1,400-hectare Mt Alexander Regional Park for bushwalks, picnics, lookouts, and local wildlife. For kids, Castlemaine and the surrounding region is nature’s playground. Get outdoors and explore historic goldmines, rock climbing, watering holes, and family-friendly bike trails and walking tracks. There's also plenty to enjoy at BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park, including a sensory garden designed to connect our guests with the sights, sounds, and scents of nature, a school holiday activity program, and a fun-filled Games Room. Special family holiday moments can be shared around our pizza oven and BBQ, in the "Bush Hut” Camp Kitchen, or sitting around a campfire on a winter's evening. Come and stay in a magical holiday park in the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields and explore a region that truly has something for everyone to enjoy! BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation who are the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we work. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We recognize their continuous relationship to the land and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging

Ellesmere Park Farm Stay

97%

(166)

69km from Bendigo · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Stanhope, VIC

Ellesmere Park Farm Stay was inspired by our trip following the stock routes of NSW by horse drawn vehicles. Many people commented they would love to do that, which gave us the idea of sharing our amazing journey with others. Our camping area is a lot more comfortable than we endured with a well set up camp kitchen, green lawns and friendly animals all in one area. Our mascot, "Lucky lamb", is an attraction all of her own and who else can say "Kevin bacon" lives here! Our farm stay offers a large grassed camping area with camp kitchen. We are located within easy driving distance of Greens lake and the Waranga basin for fishing, boating and swimming activities and only 15km from Rushworth and the historic Whroo township. Campers are welcome to join us as we feed the animals. Fires and pets allowed (read Listing rules). There is only one toilet and one shower available, it is recommended that campers are self sufficient

Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

100%

(43)

80km from Bendigo · 1 site · Tent, RV · Spargo Creek, VIC

The Korweingy Recreation Reserve is a wonderful country hall and oval. It is 12 minutes from Daylesford and in the heart of the Wombat State Forest. It has a huge hall, kitchen, toilets and showers, and a huge oval. It even has a little lounge area. The oval is the same dimensions AS THE MCG! The site can accommodate up to 30 campers, and you'll have full use of the hall and all facilities. An amazing place for large groups to hold events, and gatherings and only an hour from Melbourne. Enjoy all the area has to offer, and come back to your own paradise in the bush. Wake up to roos on the oval and enjoy a barbie with your group. Please note the hall has power but the camping area has no power. If you live in the Korweinguboora area please email korweinguboorarecreserve@gmail.com to obtain a discount code.

Clay Gully

55km from Bendigo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Intyre, VIC

Peaceful Horse Property Retreat Escape to our serene horse property and enjoy a stay surrounded by nature! We offer two booking options: Cottage + Campsites: Stay in our charming 3-bedroom cottage with a full kitchen and bathroom, plus space for up to two RVs, cars, or caravans on the property — perfect for families or groups. Campsites Only: Park your RV, caravan, or camper in our dedicated camping area. Campers must be fully self-contained, as there are no shared facilities. Please note: No pets or campfires are allowed to ensure the safety and comfort of our horses and dogs.

Stories from the community

Täsh

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Eganstown

Very pretty outlook- felt very peaceful and rural. Rustic, basic facilities.

M

Matthew

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lalgambook Retreat

Great spot, nice big dam right in front of the campsite, plenty of room to set up (provided no other campers on the property) and very welcoming hosts. We particularly loved seeing the kangaroos and resident kookaburras.

M

Matthew

3 weeks ago

7 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Seven Hills Tallarook

We had a great couple of days at Seven Hills. Tranquil setting and easy to follow directions. A quiet gem very close to Melbourne, we will be back

Michael

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

With kids

5 nights at Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

Our second Family camp there over Melbourne Cup weekend at Korweinguboora Reserve. It's an amazing place to stay for large groups. A big bonus having the hall for the rainy days. Fun nights around a roaring camp fire. Highly recommend.

I

Irene

November 2025

4 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Lalgambook Retreat

Loved our stay at the water front camp site, it was so peaceful. Karen and David were so welcoming and gave us clear directions to the camp site. Will definitely be back. Thanks katen

S

Simon

November 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Seven Hills Tallarook

Stunning spot so close to Melbourne to help you feel like you are a million miles from anywhere Kids loved the swimming spot and everything else was easy to organise. Highly recommend

P

Philippa

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park

We stayed at an unpowered site. Bit tight on space with our large tent setup and annex but the managers were very helpful in allowing us to park our car elsewhere. Clean and neat facilities and being next to the botanical gardens was a plus. Kids enjoyed the facilities and being a long weekend, us adults enoyed the special coffee and cocktail van. Would recommend

C

Chloe

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Seven Hills Tallarook

Excellent property well setup and spaced out for privacy. Large spots designated with fire pits. Highly enjoyable for a weekend stop. Make sure you pack A good book and pack of cards nothing else to do but relax and stargaze.

S

Sunil

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ellesmere Park Farm Stay

Excellent camp site with great vibes, amenities, and plenty of space! Belinda was very welcoming and friendly as well!! Highly recommend

L

Liz

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Lalgambook Retreat

Lovely peaceful place, in bush setting. Flushing toilet and hot shower, very clean.

D

Donny

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Seven Hills Tallarook

We had one of our finest most therapeutic camping trips ever at seven hills Tallarook. Peaceful and serene. Thank you making this possibly Rebecca ! 🙏

M

Margaret

October 2025

10 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

Fantastic setup for large groups, fully equiped kitchen, great BBQ area, interior of the hall looks freshly painted, plenty of trestle tables and chairs provided to set up however you like. Kids playground and a large oval, we kicked a footy around, had a hole in one chipping comp and a treasure hunt for the kiddies in the treed area around the oval.

E

Emma

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lalgambook Retreat

We loved the waterfront campsite at Lalgambook Retreat! The view across the water is beautiful and we loved daydreaming out on the little jetty. The bathroom facilities make the camping feel luxurious, while still secluded in nature – the best of everything. We saw lots of wallabies and had a kookaburra spend an afternoon at our campsite with us. The sounds of frogs at night and birds in the mornings made for peaceful sleeps, far away from it all. We had planned on going for walks in the local area but the property is so big and brimming with stunning bushland that we didn't need to leave the whole weekend. The artistic metalwork around the property including seating arrangement overlooking the water and fire pit are a really nice touch. David and Karen are kind and welcoming hosts. We feel very lucky to have discovered this gem near Daylesford and are grateful to them for having us stay. We would love to stay again one day and even stop by Hepburn Bathhouse, just down the road, on the way in next time.

R

Rory

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

Amazing surrounds! The hall was so good for our group as well. Will definitely be back next year

Andrew

October 2025

3 m Class B

3 nights at Seven Hills Tallarook

I’ve been to 360 several times. Can’t beat it for great views & a secluded, private spot.

S

Samantha

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Eganstown

Maureen’s retreat is the perfect escape, with a choice of camping options all with beautiful views and the only sounds the wildlife around you. Maureen is super hospitable, offering advice regarding local walking tracks and always quick to respond to any questions or queries. I would highly recommend this camp and I will be going back again soon.

V

Vishal

September 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lalgambook Retreat

Beautiful spot. Thank you for sharing it with us. We had a wonderful relaxing couple of days and kids loved exploring and tossing rocks into the lake. It was a bit cold and windy to take the canoe out. Next time for sure.

elma

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ellesmere Park Farm Stay

We had such a wonderful camping trip here. The place is spacious, really well kept, and full of life — we saw a peacock roaming around, lots of horses and other animals, and flowers everywhere you look. It felt peaceful and beautiful. The facilities were fine for what we needed, and the host was just lovely — so friendly and easy to chat with, which made the experience even better. We came with friends and we honestly had the best time. It’s the kind of spot where you can relax, enjoy nature, and just switch off for a while. I’d definitely stay again and highly recommend it to anyone who wants a memorable camping experience.

S

Simon

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Seven Hills Tallarook

We had a great, secluded spot with fantastic views. We found the site easily with the detailed directions and will definitely be coming back to explore some more. A really beautiful and well kept site.

Rebecca

September 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Seven Hills Tallarook

Beautiful countryside, lots of animals to see, friendly hosts.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best luxury caravan camping near Bendigo guide

Where to go

Castlemaine

Castlemaine is a small city with an eclectic arts scene, which attracts creatives from around the globe. A thriving food scene is supported by an artisan precinct, home to vintage collectables and vintage markets where makers produce cheeses, small goods, clothing, furniture, art, and more. Campers are welcome at nearby Hipcamps and holiday parks that offer easy access to the town’s fun.

Maldon

Maldon proudly displays its heritage with grand historical architecture from the mid-19th-century gold rush era, a Vintage Machinery Museum, and a steam train ride on the Victorian Goldfields Railway. Shop for local produce, antiques, and handcrafted souvenirs at Maldon Market, then escape town for an overnight stay in the bush or on the Loddon River.

Axedale

Midway between Bendigo and Heathcote, enjoy the BBQ area and shady picnic spots in riverside parklands at Axedale, where you might see the river’s famed platypus. Axedale is a popular stopping point for cyclists or walkers on the O’Keefe Rail Trail, while lunch at the Axedale Tavern, a family-friendly country style pub, is a must do.

When to go

Summer is peak season in Victoria with campsites, caravan parks, and holiday parks best booked far in advance—Christmas and Easter holidays are particularly in demand. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, visit after the Australia Day long weekend in January, which marks the end of the summer school holidays, and before Easter, which is generally when nights start to get cool. Vineyards harvest vines from February to April, making it a good time to book a wine tour around Bendigo.

Know before you go

Free camping sites are dotted throughout the region, many with toilets, fire pits, BBQ areas, and picnic tables.
More than 60 cellar doors and vineyards dot the Bendigo and Heathcote wine region, some offering wine tours and meals.
Castlemaine State Festival is held each April as Australia’s flagship regional arts event, attracting international and local talent over almost three weeks of events.
For travellers driving north toward NSW, Lions Park Rest Area at Huntly is a popular stop on the Midland Highway, while the bushcamp-style Notley Campground is an overnight campsite and parking area managed by Parks Victoria.