The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Deer Park, Victoria

In the western outskirts of Melbourne, less than 20 kilometres from the CBD, sits the suburb of Deer Park. It's bordered to the north by Kororoit Creek and the creeks adjacent Kororoit Creek Trail, a multi-use trail for cyclists and pedestrians. Deer Park is primarily residential, with some commercial areas along with plenty of parks and nature reserves, many with playgrounds and dog parks. If you're looking for a bit of urban nature, head to Lake Chamoun, which offers a mix of footpaths and grassy parklands plus ample opportunities for birding.

92% (4.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

In the western outskirts of Melbourne, less than 20 kilometres from the CBD, sits the suburb of Deer Park. It's bordered to the north by Kororoit Creek and the creeks adjacent Kororoit Creek Trail, a multi-use trail for cyclists and pedestrians. Deer Park is primarily residential, with some commercial areas along with plenty of parks and nature reserves, many with playgrounds and dog parks. If you're looking for a bit of urban nature, head to Lake Chamoun, which offers a mix of footpaths and grassy parklands plus ample opportunities for birding.

92% (4.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Reedy Creek Camping

98%

(45)

67km from Deer Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Reedy Creek, VIC

Stunning 52 acre property only an hr from the Melbourne CBD but another world away.

2. Penzance Bushland Retreat

99%

(240)

76km from Deer Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Durham Lead, VIC

... Hi there and welcome to our home, Penzance! We fell in love with our slice of heaven in 2010 and adore every back breaking inch of it. It was an over grown mess at the time, covered in broken bricks and beer cans. We've tried to keep the bush aspect while creating a park like surround with plenty of grassy space. We have big plans for our land and hope to build a steam museum in our other area over the creek. Excitingly, we will also be establishing a blacksmiths forge in that area, which was moved piece by piece from an historic farm at Avoca. Chris is an engineer, antique restorer and artisan working from home. I am an actor and artist working in metal, clay and paint. I'm inspired by my flower garden and the bush that frames it. We offer one site so privacy is assured. Larger groups can be accommodated, please enquire if you'd like to learn more. We look forward to welcoming you to Penzance.

3. Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park

100%

(5)

69km from Deer Park · 231 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Badger Creek, VIC

Escape to the Yarra Valley and be surrounded by some of Victoria’s most stunning landscapes, native Australian wildlife, wineries, eateries, and more! Choose your style of stay from glamping pods and tents to caravanning and camping. There really is something for everyone. Relax with the local wildlife under a Gumtree or by the lake, or hit the swimming pools, bike pump track, giant jumping cushions, playgrounds, and more! We’ve got the whole family covered. We look forward to welcoming you to Park Lane Yarra Valley Holiday Park. We now welcome pets in some of our selected pet friendly cabins. Limited number of accommodation available and subject to availability.

4. Shedquarters Bush Escape

100%

(1)

63km from Deer Park · 22 sites · Tents, Lodging · Mount Doran, VIC

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. With the edge of the Lal Lal State Forest just outside the gate, your nature experience awaits. Bushwalking, mountain bike riding, horse riding are all available throughout the kilometers of bushland tracks. Make memories and bring your horses for some amazing trail rides, walk the peaceful trails immersing in nature with the many birds and animals or maybe just relax by the fires and enjoy the local wildlife and surroundings. Just 1.5 hours from West Melbourne or 50 minutes from Geelong. **Available weekly Friday - Sunday stays.** Things to Do. Bushwalking. Horse Riding - Doran Park Trail Rides is 1 km away and provides arranged horse trail rides, must book in advance. Or bring your own horses to the Shedquarters, there's heaps of room for them to safely and comfortably stay (we are a horse property). Paddocks and a large yard, places to park the float and hay deliveries on request. A homemade grassed arena with jumps available. On the wet days an indoor arena is available to book 5kms away, advanced bookings required. Walk or Ride to - The Shepards Daughters Grave located in the Lal Lal Forest. www.goldfieldsguide.com.au/explore-location/539/grave-of-the-shepherds-daughter/ Lal Lal Falls is 10 kilometers away with BBQ picnic facilities. Hunts Bridge is a free camp area providing fire camp stations for a lovely picnic. The Village of Buninyong is 15kms away. The Farm Gate Shop in Elaine is 7 kms away providing all local produce, and a great place to stock up on the local Meredith Dairy Goats Cheese - in buckets! Local Wineries within driving distance, Clyde Park Winery, Buninyong Winery. Great area for Gold Prospecting. Great place for wood collection, bring the trailer for some hard work (check to see if the forest wood collection is available) Bungal Dam picnic area. Ballan market is held on the second Saturday of the month 9-1pm Ballarat is a 30 minute drive.

5. Foxes Den

100%

(71)

57km from Deer Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallington, VIC

Quiet and secluded old farm property located on the acclaimed Bellarine Peninsula. Experience the best of both worlds, a rural setting that is centrally located should you wish to explore what the local area has to offer. Only 5km from Ocean Grove Main Beach and a gateway to numerous wineries. This is an Off-the-grid site (no power or toilets). All camp sites are visible to one another with adequate space in between to ensure privacy. Pet friendly with campfire wood provided.

Stories from the community

B

Barbara

2 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

Such a peaceful and well set up place. Tables, benches, chairs, a big fire pit and the fanciest toilet I've ever seen at a campsite. Lots of birdlife, wildflowers and many interesting things from days gone by around the property to photograph. It would have been great to stay another night! Thanks for sharing your magnificent property with us, Chris!

P

Peter

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Foxes Den

Natural bush paddock setting with lots of privacy. Hugh and i shared a drop of red and i met some hicamping neighbors. The fact there's public toilets nearby is a bonus. Planning to go back.

L

Lee

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

Had an amazing time at Chris’ site with friends and kiddies. Has everything you could ask for.

K

Kieran

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

Really nice secluded, private spot with a ripper toilet and friendly, likeable host. Chris' place is spacious and secluded with some interesting rustic metal antiques placed around the property. There's a couple of very solid tables for storing food stuff and doing your cooking & washing up so don't bother bringing a camp table like we did!

A

Ashley

November 2025

3 m pop-up camper

With kids

2 nights at Penzance Bushland Retreat

Wow! What a great little camp. We booked here to be close to Sovereign Hill for the kids. It was a lovely little camp for our group of two families. The grass was green, the sun was shining, there was plenty of shade and great facilities around the camp fire, like tables. We loved the rusty relics but a true highlight was the Powder Room. Thanks for having us Chris. We hope to be back one day. Don't hesitate in booking Penzance. One of our favourite campsites this trip.

D

Damien

November 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

7 nights at Foxes Den

Beautiful location right at the centre of the Bellarine Peninsula.

Cam

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

One of the best Hipcamps around. Instant relaxation upon arrival! Perfect!!

M

Micah

November 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Penzance Bushland Retreat

Beautiful property and a great camping area all to ourselves. We unfortunately chose a very rainy weekend to stay but would definitely go again with some sunshine.

J

Jonathan

November 2025

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Foxes Den

Excellent location remote but still close to everything you need. Great sites so spacious!

T

Temeika

November 2025

10 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Foxes Den

We spent a few nights here and loved our stay - great for adventures into Ocean Grove and the surrounding coast. Easy to access, huge sites!

J

Jemimah

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Foxes Den

We had a wonderful time camping at Foxes Den. The campsites are very well looked after and spaced out. Hugh generously provided us with plenty of firewood. Watching the sunrise behind all the trees was stunning!

C

Claire

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

Amazing campsite with lots of included bits and bobs. The toilet is almost worth a visit alone! We had a really nice time, would love to return.

H

Hanna

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Reedy Creek Camping

Great spot and very private. Nice area to explore and do walking trips, dogs loved it. Unfortunatley could stay only 1 night instead of two due to really heavy rain (our set up is not that advanced…) But would book it again.

Sarah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

Loved this camp. Very private, serene, peaceful. Can't fault it. Location was wonderful, it was close to Buninyong which has a wonderful pub, nice cafes and shops. We loved sitting by the creek and watching the Wrens, Honeyeaters, and Thornbills. We even saw a Tawny Frogmouth the last night. The sound of the frogs was lovely and we just felt so immersed in nature with how peaceful it was. We want to come back! The bathroom of course was also a very lovely perk!

k

kate

October 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Foxes Den

Amazing quiet spot close enough to a town for supplies but far enough away to feel like a real retreat. Easy communication and ste up with Hugh. Highly recommend

S

Sandra

October 2025

5 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

The best Hipcamp Bathroom ever!! Beautiful, peaceful, private and very well equipped with not only the best powder room, there tables and chairs, huge fire pit, interesting historical pieces, a creek and plenty of wildlife. Close to the Buningyong Village for cafes and great walks/drives to Mt Buninyong. We cannot wait to go back.

T

Trevor

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Foxes Den

We had a great weekend. The campground is lovely and the firewood was very generous.. we took advantage of the ballerina Peninsula rail trail played some golf and had dinner at Mona Resturant which is in the next farm. What a great place.

Julia

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

Beautiful place! Loved the single site, tranquil location to soak up nature. Highly recommended!

K

Karen

September 2025

2 nights at Penzance Bushland Retreat

The perfect place to unwind for a few days in total serenity. Fantastic powder room with plenty of interesting items.

J

Julie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Penzance Bushland Retreat

We had a great stay at Penzance Bushland Retreat. The campsite was peaceful, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the bush surroundings. The facilities were excellent – the toilet was very clean and well-maintained, which made the stay even more comfortable. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking for a quiet, nature-filled getaway!

Under $50

Polly's Paddock

89%

(9)

61km from Deer Park · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Mount Martha, VIC

Pollys paddock is named after a beautiful palomino horse named Polly, who lived here as a loved member of our family into her early 40s. Polly's Paddock is a quiet camping area on the Mornington Peninsula. We are a couples only camping (adults only), no children, for safety reasons with a dam close by. Only 15 minutes from Mount Martha village and Mornington, restaurants, amazing wineries, weekend markets, cafes and golf courses. We are 10 minutes from swimming beaches and 20 minutes from surf beaches. This is a 5.5 acre block, consisting of the host’s residence, garden and parkland. Polly's Paddock is half of the block. We offer 2 flat caravan sites, both with drinking water , 1 with limited power , the other no power. There is a site with a glamping tent set in the garden. The 6 metre round tent sleeps 2, with a queen size bed, linen provided. It is carpeted, has a fridge, kettle and BBQ. Just pack your toothbrush, clothes, food and drinks. All 3 sites have the use of a shared composting toilet. For a refreshing experience there is an outdoor, open air hot shower overlooking the dam. Close by is a spacious shelter/shed with tables, chairs and a rustic kitchen area with sink and heater. Well behaved dogs are accepted on the caravan sites, but we ask that you please discuss with us prior to booking. Dogs are to be kept on a lead at all times, wild ducks and the properties own poultry wander here. No dogs on the glamping tent site. Campfires are allowed during the cooler months, left to the hosts discretion for safety reasons. We supply a fire pit. BYO wood. No fires apart from in the fire pits provided are to be lit. Fires are to be extinguished before going to bed or leaving. One vehicle per site Potable water available Water hookup Dump point, but no garbage disposal facilities Guests must take all rubbish home when they leave Check in after 1pm. Before 5pm Check out before 11am Minimum 1 night stay in caravan sites Minimum 2 night stay in glamping tent Maximum stay 5 nights

Lara Hobby Horse Centre

75%

(4)

47km from Deer Park · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lara, VIC

A mix of unpowered & powered sites for self contained RVs Motor Homes and caravans with camp kitchen, level sites and open fires when conditions allow. Power is limited to some sites with 10 Amp outlets only (15 Amp to 10 Amp adapter will work). Smaller vehicles and campers may request to stay in the Orchard next to the main house (10 Amp power outlet) and for an extra $10 per person per night have access to the bathroom in the farmhouse. We also have a couple of nice queen bedroom options in the main farmhouse with separate entrance, shared bathroom, lounge, TV, tea/coffee, Wi-Fi, heating and air-conditioning, fridge and country kitchen. Linen and towels supplied.

The Mount

80km from Deer Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ballarat, VIC

Bush paddock with beautiful view as the sun goes down. Dams to swim in creeks nearby lovely walks around Hepburn and Daylesford. Operating cattle farm . Fire wood available.

Bushy Ridge Hideaway

98%

(84)

71km from Deer Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Flowerdale, VIC

Warm fires, starry skies, seclusion! Great for caravans, camper trailers, tents and more! Nestled in the valley of a 1000 hills and on the land of the Taungurung people, this little patch of hilly heaven is home to a small family of farm animals, dog and their two owners. With its rugged natural beauty, amazing sunsets and starry skies, it was hard not to want to share its beauty with others. The property is the gateway to Murrindindi, has power and water for campers, a dam if you enjoy yabbying and perfect for intimate, small groups. We offer a flat campsite and ridge top campsite. Low gear and 4wd preferable during very wet months. NOTE: Campfires subject to fire restrictions at over summer, please message. Our secluded, flat campsite is surrounded by unspoilt bushland and is home to a multitude of native Australian animals. Our ridge-top campsite also features beautiful bush, and some amazing views. With over 50 acres of rugged hilly bushland, no neighbours in sight and tracks to explore, this is the perfect place for those who enjoy a challenging bush walk, privacy and a sky to watch the stars. Campers are required to be fully self contained with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are welcome but must be contained and campers must respect any restrictions in place at the time of their stay. Pets are welcome.

Chain of pond hills

98%

(46)

72km from Deer Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Broadford, VIC

Pur property is 1 hour away from Melbourne. It has dorper sheep that are more than happy to share some bread pr have a pat. With outstanding views of Mt piper and broadfords township spreading over the valley. Come have a unique experience and see what broadford can offer. The sheep have free roam of the property so they may come sunrise you at night so make sure gates are shut behind you. Any questions feel free to ask away 1- Shut the gate everytime you open and close 2- Fires allowed only in a firepit provided by you(not during summer) 3- No driving the property, access is only located on the flat part near the stock yards. Anyone found driving the property will be forced to leave straight away with no refund 4- Pets allowed but on lead only, there is livestock roaming property 5- Keep the property the same condition you arrived in 6- Firewood cutting is not permitted on the property 7- Be respectful of neighbours 8- No toilets, bring your own camp toilets

from

AU$37

/ night

Available this weekend

Strath Creek Station

99%

(363)

71km from Deer Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Strath Creek, VIC

Nestled in the valley of a thousand hills, Strath Creek Station is your ideal quick getaway, being only a 1 1/2-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. Situated on 90 acres with direct access to the King Parrot Creek, we are dog-friendly and have a large secure dog park for your pooch to exercise and play, but dogs must be on lead in camping areas. Sites are large and dispersed and can have up to 12 people, tents, camper trailers, caravans and RV suitable. 2wd vehicle accessible (weather dependent). So if you have a large group make one booking for 12 people. There is a large flat camping area that can accommodate any size self contained caravan, RV, including fifth wheelers or horse goosenecks. A large rustic rotunda with BBQs is available for those lazy afternoons spent relaxing by the creek. You are welcome to contact us to discuss your needs or ask any questions.

Redbank156 camping / PITCHED cabins

99%

(291)

81km from Deer Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Metcalfe, VIC

Redbank farm has been home to five generations of Superfine Merino wool Farmers. The charming homestead is set on 1000 acres of rolling hills, lush trees, and dams that offer plentiful grazing to sheep and cattle. Metcalfe's rural landscape still remains largely untouched, giving a real country escape feeling, enjoy plenty of freedom and fresh air, filled with wildlife and scenic adventures to enjoy, like the stunning cascades just up the road or hill hike at sunset Redbank offers sites across 200 acres of camping land, SITE 1 MAINCAMP suited to campers wanting to be super close to the toilet, rustic showers, bbq hut , and farm play area . It's a major hit with the kids making it a popular spot for families. SITE 2 paddock sites still within walking distance to loo and shower but well spread out to provide guests with there own space. More Suculed gain more privacy with our secluded sites more suited to self-sufficient campers , or those who don't mind a small hike or short drive to facilities. #All sites on Redbank have access to one of our hot outdoor showers and either a flush toilet,compost toilet, porta loo #Fire pits at all sites Gas bbq hut. #We are a no trace camp ground and ask you to take all waste with you when you leave. #Dogs are permitted in camps but must be kept on a leash to protect our livestock. Redbank is a working Farm and you will likely see or hear evidence of this during your stay, but we are very considerate of our campers and have had a wonderful experience sharing our land so far and had very happy campers. BEYOND REDBANK156 Campers will find many more attractions in the area, Great spots for hiking, swimming, fishing or just straight up relaxing in the serenity. TRUPENS waterfalls are close by CASCADES and the Coliban River runs through Metcalfe AND EPPOLOCK just up the road. A short drive of 10-15min in all directions will take you to one of the funky little historic towns Kyneton, Castlemaine, Redesdale, and Malmsbury, and another 15 mins on to Daylesford and Trentham all filled with brilliant restaurants, cafes, vineyards, vibrant retail and market scene. What more could you possibly need for a great getaway?

Farm to Sea Camp

96%

(14)

77km from Deer Park · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellbrae, VIC

Discover Farm to Sea Camp, a hidden gem nestled on 50 acres of grassy, gum tree–lined tranquility in beautiful Jan Juc, Victoria. Just a short drive from Torquay and the iconic Bells Beach, this serene property offers nine spacious tent and RV sites — the perfect retreat for coastal adventures or peaceful escapes. Spend your mornings chasing waves, afternoons exploring coastal trails, and evenings gathered around the campfire beneath a canopy of gum trees. Whether you’re camping solo, with family, or planning a small group getaway, Farm to Sea Camp combines privacy, natural beauty, and convenient access to the Surf Coast’s best. Book your stay today for the ideal balance of coastal excitement and quiet renewal.

Shacks at Kardella Park

99%

(770)

42km from Deer Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Indented Head, VIC

Shacks at Kardella is a 47-acre lifestyle farm close to the beach at Indented Head on the Bellarine Peninsula. Our property has cows, goats, miniature horses and plenty of native birdlife. Walking distance to the beach and general store/post office which sells coffee, beer, wine and other essentials. The campsite is 500 metres from the Indented Head boat ramp. Come and enjoy our peaceful slice of the thriving Bellarine Peninsula! Campsites have no amenities so campers need to BYO everything (including drinking water and camping toilet) and leave no trace. Dog friendly.We offer general camping a garden glamping bell tent.

Barrm Birrm Park

38km from Deer Park · 1 site · Tent · Sunbury, VIC

Private property nestled in the Barrm Birrm Nature Reserve, this spot is ideal for hikers looking for a secluded escape that is still close to Melbourne. The site is on a 'street' disguised as a goat track, and is only accessible by foot. It's around 500m from the (drivable) dirt road. The site is close enough to town to get excellent mobile coverage (and supplies!). There is a permanent picnic table on the site and nothing else. We only hire the site out to one group at a time, so you know you'll have the whole acre to yourself. A fire can be lit only in strict accordance with local restrictions, so be sure to check the current requirements. Barrm Birrm is a special place, full of wildlife and native vegetation, so we ask that you leave the place exactly as you found it. There are no toilets or water close by, so prepare accordingly. ;) Please enjoy this gorgeous space as much as we do.

Star Hosts in Deer Park

Summerhill Vineyard

100%

(149)

75km from Deer Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Yarra Junction Wesburn, VIC

Welcome to Summerhill Vineyard! Pitch your tent or park your camper on a private, elevated position overlooking vineyards, farmland and surrounding mountain ranges. Enjoy plenty of space and peace and quiet. The campsite is located on the edge of our 32-acre vineyard, on a 120-acre property. Guests are welcome to take a walk amongst the vines, subject to vineyard operations during the season of course. All guests must be self-sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure. Campfires are welcome in the fire pit provided. Fire restrictions in place during your stay must be observed. Firewood is available for purchase from a neighbour, located opposite the entrance to Summerhill Road. 4wd accessible during the wetter months and 2wd during the drier months. You are welcome to bring your dog, just please note that the area is unfenced. We have a mob of kangaroos that visit and cattle and horses reside here also. We ask that our guests display responsible pet ownership at all times. Summerhill Vineyard is located in the Upper Yarra region of the Yarra Valley. We are a 5-minute drive from Yarra Junction township, with supermarkets, butchers and a small shopping precinct. The picturesque township of Warburton is just over 7kms away. Restaurants, cafes, and wineries are all a short drive from here. Yarra Ranges National Park is also on our door step. We are a 1hr 15mins drive from Melbourne, though Summerhill Vineyard will have you feeling a world away. The Yarra Valley offers quality local food and wine, breathtaking scenery, walks, cycling tracks, and tourist destinations like Healesville Sanctuary, Lotus Water Gardens, Warburton Rail Trail and much more. Or.....you can chill out and just enjoy the serenity and views from your campsite. My family live on the property, close to 1/2km from the campsite, far enough away for your complete privacy, or close enough if you need us! Mobile network coverage at Summerhill Vineyard, in all areas, is good. Please note you have up to 3 days or 72 hours before the start of your booking to "CHANGE DATES or CANCEL" your booking for a full refund minus Hipcamp fees.

Wildcroft an Escape to the Country

99%

(91)

77km from Deer Park · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · Yea, VIC

Welcome to Wildcroft Estate, a little piece of heaven nestled in the beautiful valley of Yea hills of Victoria. Where every moment feels like a slice of paradise. Our serene sanctuary offers an opportunity for profound inner rejuvenation, stirring dormant hearts awake. Spread across six hundred acres of pristine natural splendor, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the embrace of nature, camping beneath starlit skies and relishing the serene spectacle of sunrise and sunset. Venture into the wilderness to witness the dance of local wildlife in their native habitat, serenaded by the enchanting melodies of birdsong and the majestic call of stag deer roaring to a doe for mating. Our friendly equine companions are eager to share a carrot treat (under the careful supervision of our staff, of course). Wildcroft Estate is perfect for people who love hiking and anyone just looking for a getaway during the long weekends. You can escape here and catch sight of varied species of wildlife as the sun rises or sets. There are fire/grill pits on the campsites and man/woman toilets and showers. A rotonda for our guests as a communal area where you can enjoy a firepit while having a drink and a yarn. Dog-friendly dogs are allowed but on leashes. Horse riding, visitors who enjoy horseback riding are invited to explore the rolling hills and scenic trails of our property on their own horses. yards are available at an extra cost and a nice and early countryman breakfast can be arranged as well. Groups are welcome.

Eden Pines Farm

97%

(124)

78km from Deer Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Tallarook, VIC

Eden Pines is our home on 45 acres of undulating pastures with views of the Tallarook State Forest. Take in the beautiful views as you relax from your campsite or take a stroll around the property and say hello to the many different animals/wildlife nearby. We are not a commercial campground and instead want to share the slower farm and country experience with our guests. We are easy to find just off the Hume FWY and are located nearby to many wineries, the Goulburn River, the Great Victorian Rail Trail and the townships of Seymour, Trawool and Broadford. Come along to unwind and relax from the big smoke and feel free to bring your beloved fur babies, paddle board, kayak or bike. For those with horses - we have a secure paddock with a dam and 20m round yard for horses to be secured overnight. The rail trail is a short 5 min drive where you can float your horses to and enjoy a scenic ride with your companion followed by a meal at the Trawool Estate or Tallarook Pub! Instagram: @eden.pines

By the Creek

100%

(1)

46km from Deer Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Romsey, VIC

Unwind beside our gentle, shallow creek, where the soothing sounds of flowing water create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful off-grid camping experience. This is true nature camping at its best — no crowds, no noise, just you and the serene Australian bush. Our creek is ideal for sitting creekside with a good book, surrounded by the sounds of nature. The slow-moving water attracts local wildlife, offering wonderful opportunities for birdwatching and connecting with the landscape. All types of camping are welcome — pitch your tent under the trees, park your campervan, or set up your swag under the stars. This is free camping as it should be: off-grid, unspoiled, and surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a quiet weekend retreat, a base for exploring the region, or simply a place to disconnect and recharge, our creekside site offers the tranquility you’ve been looking for. Perfect for: solo travelers, couples, families, and anyone seeking a genuine off-grid camping experience in a peaceful natural setting.

Silver Creek Escape

99%

(158)

62km from Deer Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hazeldene, VIC

If you’re looking for a place to set up camp while enjoying a hike through Kinglake National Park then our little space is just made for you. There are plenty of day walks starting right next to your camp or you can go for a swim in the nearby King Parrot Creek. With just 40min drive to Yarra Valley Wineries you are in a perfect location to set up camp and explore the region. Our pet friendly property is located in a quiet neighbourhood, easily accessible from the road (no 4WD needed) and ideal for swags, tents or campers. Power, tank water, bins and compost toilet are included! The space is part of our front yard and our property is located at the end of a quiet no through road. Your camp site is tucked in between the trees away from our family house with plenty of flat space. Sit at the picnic table or around the fire pit (season permitting) and take in the piece and quiet with plenty of wildlife to enjoy.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly camping near Deer Park guide

Where to go

Lerderderg State Park

A short drive from Deer Park, this state park protects the Lerderderg River Gorge and the areas around it. Here you'll find a campground, and a couple of picnic areas, one with electric barbecues and picnic tables. The park is particularly popular for hiking, and there are multiple trails, including the challenging East Walk and Cowan Track Loop Walk, which rewards hikers with fantastic views of the area.

Long Forest Flora and Fauna Reserve

The 600-hectare Long Forest Flora and Fauna Reserve protects hundreds of species of native plants, much of which are shrubs, as well as all sorts of birds and mammals. Bring your binoculars and you may see owls, robins, and warblers along with kangaroos, black-tailed wallabies, koalas, and echidnas. It’s a great place for walking, and multiple family-friendly walking tracks weave through the reserve.

You Yangs Regional Park

Equestrians, walkers, birders, and mountain bike enthusiasts flock to this regional park near Deer Park, which has over 50 kilometres of mountain bike trails for riders of various experience levels. It's also easy to explore by car via the park's Great Circle Drive. Head up to Flinders Peak, the highest point in the park, for views out over Geelong and Melbourne.

When to go

The best time to visit Deer Park is between November and March, when the weather is at its warmest, though do expect to see more people out and about around Christmas. Autumn and winter here can get chilly, with plenty of rain, especially in July and August. That said, temperatures rarely get anywhere close to freezing, so if you don’t mind cooler weather, you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds, particularly in Melbourne and in area parks.