The best camping near Lara with hiking

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In Lara, hiking enthusiasts have over 110 camping options, each set up for easy access to rugged tracks and trails. Expect unfussy sites where you can roll out a swag or pitch a tent just steps from bushland and river walks. Prices start at $20 a night, with the average hovering around $65. Favourites like Olive Farm (198 reviews), Penzance Bushland Retreat (168 reviews), and Little River Camp (94 reviews) get high marks for reliable facilities and direct trail access. Most sites allow campfires and offer basics like toilets and showers. Between hikes, you can cool off with a swim, spot kangaroos, or try horseback riding. Lara’s campsites keep things simple and practical—just what you need after a day on the trail.

96% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Olive Farm

1. Olive Farm

99%
(328)
67km from Lara · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · Murroon, VIC
Welcome to the Olive Farm! We are a working olive farm situated on the edge of the Otway Ranges, between Deans Marsh and Birregurra, 25 minutes to Lorne and the Great Ocean Road, and only a few kilometers from the famous Brae Restaurant. We are in a beautiful part of the world, so please remember and take all your rubbish with you when you leave. Dogs are welcome, but please be aware that we are full of kangaroos, sheep, and other wildlife, so they may need to be placed on a leash for the safety of fellow campers and wildlife. Fires are permitted in fire pits, and wood is available to purchase on-site. during the cooler months. We have a fragile ecosystem here, so we ask not to bring in wood and to purchase it off the farm. Olive oil is available, and table olives harvested this year are in brine, ready to jar up. The table olives we have are Kalamata, Spanish Queens, and Jumbo Kalamata.
Pets
Toilets
from 
AU$79
 / night
Little River Camp

2. Little River Camp

84%
(134)
13km from Lara · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Little River, VIC
The property features 150 acres of open flat grass with trees peppered around boundaries, and peaceful views of the mountains close by. We are located close to the township of Little River, made famous for movies that were produced here including Mad Max and The Dress Maker. We offer several campsites suited to self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water supply. Not too far from here you will find the You Yangs, which are the geological signature to Melbourne's western horizon. This low-lying mound of hills is a truly ancient upwelling of granite, having formed more than 350 million years ago. There are some great places here to explore, with options for mountain bike trails, horse-riding trails, orienteering areas, picnic grounds and even a nearby paint ball place! Your dog is welcome. Campfires permitted (when not in fireban season). Farm on left side ( entering gifkins rd) with double gate with Digital Lock System, so you need New code every time ( entering and leaving farm) digital code change every 5 mint. sorry for any inconvenience.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Enjoy a relaxing bevvy by the fire pit

5. Penzance Bushland Retreat

99%
(241)
56km from Lara · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$73
 / night
Seahorse stud

8. Seahorse stud

100%
(1)
55km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fairhaven, VIC
We live here in Aireys inlet, it’s a unique tiny town with so much to do. The local beach is iconic for surfing and swimming, the local creek is a favourite at the inlet for young kids to swim or for canoeists to have somewhere quiet to paddle. Mountain biking is a must in the area, with thousands of tracks available right outside the back door. If you have your own horse you can bring it along on holiday with you, we have paddocks available and there are so many gorgeous tracks around to ride on and beach riding at low tide and the right times is a bucket list item! The location itself is 17 acres and is next to the Painkallac creek in a peaceful bush setting. This location used to be a horse riding school which is now not running but has been converted to offer camping, caravan and RV parking. It’s only 1.5 km from the beach and the Otway national park is right on your doorstep. If you have bikes, horses or love to hike or run, or just laze on the beach, it’s a perfect location, be ready to be spoilt as there are so many tracks on offer in our stunning local beach and bush land. The local town of aireys inlet has plenty to offer, a general store for all your essentials, loads of places to eat out for breakfast, lunch or dinner and only 1 3/4hrs from Melbourne. No need to stress if you don’t want to be near anyone else, this is a small setting so it’s very private and only able to fit a few visitors at a time. You can also pay more if you want the site to yourself, just get in touch if that’s something you’d like. Look forward to seeing you at our cosy country/coastal retreta
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
AU$73
 / night
Sunny Lake Farm

9. Sunny Lake Farm

100%
(5)
43km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Gherang, VIC
Lakeside Escape with Space for Caravans, Campers & Tents Located on the edge of the lake, our gorgeous lake house can accommodate a caravan or motorhome on a designated parking pad. There’s also plenty of room to pitch a tent or swag on flat, grassy areas. A huge deck provides the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The lake house includes a small kitchenette and a separate toilet and shower. Bring a fishing rod to try your luck catching silver perch, or nets for yabbies — there are plenty! There’s an abundance of birdlife, including cockatoos, rosellas, king parrots, kookaburras, and tawny frogmouths. Kangaroos and echidnas often pay us a visit, too. A grassed area with a fire pit is situated a few metres from the lake house, and firewood is available for purchase. Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. A grassy dog enclosure is available for guests who wish to explore the area while leaving their pet in a safe space. If you would like to bring your pet, please add the pet fee which is listed as an Extra during the booking process. A wood-fired pizza oven, located in a separate undercover area, is available for use. Lovely bushwalks, motorbike, and horse tracks are located close to the property. World-class surf breaks are within a half-hour drive, with Bells Beach being the most iconic. Torquay is home to surf shops and eateries — Rip Curl, Billabong, Roxy, and Rojo are all within walking distance of each other. You’ll also find great local breweries such as Four Pines and Bells Beach Brewery. Torquay and Anglesea both have vibrant arts scenes — the Ashmore Arts hub is located in Torquay, and Anglesea is home to the Arts Shed. The Eagles Nest Gallery in Aireys Inlet also hosts exhibitions by local artists. Markets are held regularly on the foreshore in Torquay and Anglesea, and there’s a weekly Farmers Market in Torquay.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$85
 / night
Camping with Anakie Gorge & Brisbane Ranges in background.

12. Anakie Gorge Getaway

97%
(47)
22km from Lara · 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

13. Book A Paddock

100%
(77)
79km from Lara · 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
Weemalah Cabin & Camping

14. Weemalah Cabin & Camping

94%
(62)
77km from Lara · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Monegeetta, VIC
This beautiful property is located on 600 acres in the Macedon Ranges area. You will be surrounded by extraordinary views and plenty of horses, cattle and chickens. The property has access to stunning walking trails where you can see an abundance of wildlife and provides views to Melbourne and Mount Macedon. All located only 50 minutes from Melbourne CBD.The property is pet friendly (see rules) and offers a fire pit with firewood provided. Children under 12 can stay for free. Please notify host if you are brining children under 12.Please note- some sites require 4WD access if you don't have a 4WD the host can drive you to campsite as well (please speak to host to arrange this beforehand) & sites are dispersed and not always by the water this depends on availability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$146
 / night
Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

15. Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

100%
(44)
65km from Lara · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$847
 / night
Secluded Otways Forest Camp

16. Secluded Otways Forest Camp

97%
(125)
61km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Deans Marsh, VIC
Our property is surrounded by the Otways forest and native Australian bush. Under 2 hours from Melbourne, and only 10-15minutes drive from the Otway Harvest Trail. Find a spot to park your van, tent, camper trailer or caravan on our beautiful natural piece of secluded bush, and you won't see or hear another soul. You may spot lots of birds and wildlife, or enjoy the beautiful view from the road. Please note: this is a spot for people such as hikers who appreciate nature and understand the concept of ‘leave no trace’. It’s not for parties or big groups. There are limited facilities (there is a basic composting toilet to use on site, but it’s not suitable as a caravan dump point) so you need to be totally self-sufficient and take all your waste and rubbish with you. BYO water.We are happy to accommodate up to 8 ppl, but please take everything with you, and leave our beautiful wilderness spot exactly as you left it, don't destroy the native vegetation and don't feed the wildlife. Fires only in the fire-pit please and must be totally extinguished (with water, so bring extra) before you leave, and not on fire ban days. You must BYO firewood and take all your rubbish away with you. Extra charges will apply for any rubbish, food scraps etc left on site.Enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night
Hidden Valley House, Anakie

18. Hidden Valley House, Anakie

100%
(24)
19km from Lara · 7 sites · Lodging · Anakie, VIC
Hidden Valley House is nestled in Anakie, VIC, set within the scenic Brisbane National Ranges and only a 1-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. Taking into consideration our ethos around sustainability, the cabin is “off-grid” so solar powered with a composting toilet but with all the amenities you need. The cabin has spectacular views overlooking the valley with an abundance of wildlife and has a small creek and several caves which have formed over millions of years. As well as the cabin, we offer a camping area to larger groups that need overflow accommodation if the cabin is not big enough. This makes Hidden Valley House a fantastic option for large groups wanting to have all the comfort and amenities of the cabin, but experience the back-to-basic joy of camping in nature. Set on an 18-acre property at the start of the Brisbane National Ranges, it is home to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, sugar gliders and an abundance of birds including eagles and kookaburras. Furthermore, the land is protected by Trust for Nature and Land for Wildlife offering long-term protection for many ecosystems, species and native wildlife. The property is surrounded by national parks and is only a short drive from charming, historical towns such as Meredith and Steiglitz and only 25mins to Geelong. A number of family-owned wineries are located nearby and within Victoria’s Moorabool Valley winery. AWD/4WD recommended
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
AU$463
 / night
Beautiful kitchen and dining

19. The Stables On Knox

100%
(17)
79km from Lara · 1 site · Lodging · Romsey, VIC
Welcome to our family and friends of our first listing - Book A Paddock, and to our new gang with The Stables on Knox. The Stables was a functioning stable, dairy and horse and cart garaging area in the properties heyday many decades ago. The cattle would be walked up a lane, be held in the cobblestone yards you have exclusive use of, be walked into the stalls, where your pizza oven now stands, manually milked, and then turned out to what is now your BBQ area. Its now your next luxe rural getaway. Leave the tent and van behind for this little slice of the good life. Bring your bestie - even your neighbours and your fur baby for a sit back and relax experience. The paddocks to the back of the property are yours to walk to take in the peace and the wildlife. They are abundant with kangaroos and their joeys in the spring so we ask you go quietly and slowly so they can move away slowly. The birdsong is a great way to relax with your book, listening to the sounds of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$431
 / night
Shedquarters Bush Escape

20. Shedquarters Bush Escape

100%
(1)
46km from Lara · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$354
 / night

In Lara, hiking enthusiasts have over 110 camping options, each set up for easy access to rugged tracks and trails. Expect unfussy sites where you can roll out a swag or pitch a tent just steps from bushland and river walks. Prices start at $20 a night, with the average hovering around $65. Favourites like Olive Farm (198 reviews), Penzance Bushland Retreat (168 reviews), and Little River Camp (94 reviews) get high marks for reliable facilities and direct trail access. Most sites allow campfires and offer basics like toilets and showers. Between hikes, you can cool off with a swim, spot kangaroos, or try horseback riding. Lara’s campsites keep things simple and practical—just what you need after a day on the trail.

96% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Olive Farm

1. Olive Farm

99%
(328)
67km from Lara · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · Murroon, VIC
Welcome to the Olive Farm! We are a working olive farm situated on the edge of the Otway Ranges, between Deans Marsh and Birregurra, 25 minutes to Lorne and the Great Ocean Road, and only a few kilometers from the famous Brae Restaurant. We are in a beautiful part of the world, so please remember and take all your rubbish with you when you leave. Dogs are welcome, but please be aware that we are full of kangaroos, sheep, and other wildlife, so they may need to be placed on a leash for the safety of fellow campers and wildlife. Fires are permitted in fire pits, and wood is available to purchase on-site. during the cooler months. We have a fragile ecosystem here, so we ask not to bring in wood and to purchase it off the farm. Olive oil is available, and table olives harvested this year are in brine, ready to jar up. The table olives we have are Kalamata, Spanish Queens, and Jumbo Kalamata.
Pets
Toilets
from 
AU$79
 / night
Little River Camp

2. Little River Camp

84%
(134)
13km from Lara · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Little River, VIC
The property features 150 acres of open flat grass with trees peppered around boundaries, and peaceful views of the mountains close by. We are located close to the township of Little River, made famous for movies that were produced here including Mad Max and The Dress Maker. We offer several campsites suited to self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water supply. Not too far from here you will find the You Yangs, which are the geological signature to Melbourne's western horizon. This low-lying mound of hills is a truly ancient upwelling of granite, having formed more than 350 million years ago. There are some great places here to explore, with options for mountain bike trails, horse-riding trails, orienteering areas, picnic grounds and even a nearby paint ball place! Your dog is welcome. Campfires permitted (when not in fireban season). Farm on left side ( entering gifkins rd) with double gate with Digital Lock System, so you need New code every time ( entering and leaving farm) digital code change every 5 mint. sorry for any inconvenience.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Enjoy a relaxing bevvy by the fire pit

5. Penzance Bushland Retreat

99%
(241)
56km from Lara · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$73
 / night
Seahorse stud

8. Seahorse stud

100%
(1)
55km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fairhaven, VIC
We live here in Aireys inlet, it’s a unique tiny town with so much to do. The local beach is iconic for surfing and swimming, the local creek is a favourite at the inlet for young kids to swim or for canoeists to have somewhere quiet to paddle. Mountain biking is a must in the area, with thousands of tracks available right outside the back door. If you have your own horse you can bring it along on holiday with you, we have paddocks available and there are so many gorgeous tracks around to ride on and beach riding at low tide and the right times is a bucket list item! The location itself is 17 acres and is next to the Painkallac creek in a peaceful bush setting. This location used to be a horse riding school which is now not running but has been converted to offer camping, caravan and RV parking. It’s only 1.5 km from the beach and the Otway national park is right on your doorstep. If you have bikes, horses or love to hike or run, or just laze on the beach, it’s a perfect location, be ready to be spoilt as there are so many tracks on offer in our stunning local beach and bush land. The local town of aireys inlet has plenty to offer, a general store for all your essentials, loads of places to eat out for breakfast, lunch or dinner and only 1 3/4hrs from Melbourne. No need to stress if you don’t want to be near anyone else, this is a small setting so it’s very private and only able to fit a few visitors at a time. You can also pay more if you want the site to yourself, just get in touch if that’s something you’d like. Look forward to seeing you at our cosy country/coastal retreta
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
AU$73
 / night
Sunny Lake Farm

9. Sunny Lake Farm

100%
(5)
43km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Gherang, VIC
Lakeside Escape with Space for Caravans, Campers & Tents Located on the edge of the lake, our gorgeous lake house can accommodate a caravan or motorhome on a designated parking pad. There’s also plenty of room to pitch a tent or swag on flat, grassy areas. A huge deck provides the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The lake house includes a small kitchenette and a separate toilet and shower. Bring a fishing rod to try your luck catching silver perch, or nets for yabbies — there are plenty! There’s an abundance of birdlife, including cockatoos, rosellas, king parrots, kookaburras, and tawny frogmouths. Kangaroos and echidnas often pay us a visit, too. A grassed area with a fire pit is situated a few metres from the lake house, and firewood is available for purchase. Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. A grassy dog enclosure is available for guests who wish to explore the area while leaving their pet in a safe space. If you would like to bring your pet, please add the pet fee which is listed as an Extra during the booking process. A wood-fired pizza oven, located in a separate undercover area, is available for use. Lovely bushwalks, motorbike, and horse tracks are located close to the property. World-class surf breaks are within a half-hour drive, with Bells Beach being the most iconic. Torquay is home to surf shops and eateries — Rip Curl, Billabong, Roxy, and Rojo are all within walking distance of each other. You’ll also find great local breweries such as Four Pines and Bells Beach Brewery. Torquay and Anglesea both have vibrant arts scenes — the Ashmore Arts hub is located in Torquay, and Anglesea is home to the Arts Shed. The Eagles Nest Gallery in Aireys Inlet also hosts exhibitions by local artists. Markets are held regularly on the foreshore in Torquay and Anglesea, and there’s a weekly Farmers Market in Torquay.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$85
 / night
Camping with Anakie Gorge & Brisbane Ranges in background.

12. Anakie Gorge Getaway

97%
(47)
22km from Lara · 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

13. Book A Paddock

100%
(77)
79km from Lara · 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
Weemalah Cabin & Camping

14. Weemalah Cabin & Camping

94%
(62)
77km from Lara · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Monegeetta, VIC
This beautiful property is located on 600 acres in the Macedon Ranges area. You will be surrounded by extraordinary views and plenty of horses, cattle and chickens. The property has access to stunning walking trails where you can see an abundance of wildlife and provides views to Melbourne and Mount Macedon. All located only 50 minutes from Melbourne CBD.The property is pet friendly (see rules) and offers a fire pit with firewood provided. Children under 12 can stay for free. Please notify host if you are brining children under 12.Please note- some sites require 4WD access if you don't have a 4WD the host can drive you to campsite as well (please speak to host to arrange this beforehand) & sites are dispersed and not always by the water this depends on availability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$146
 / night
Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

15. Korweinguboora Rec Reserve & Hall

100%
(44)
65km from Lara · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$847
 / night
Secluded Otways Forest Camp

16. Secluded Otways Forest Camp

97%
(125)
61km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Deans Marsh, VIC
Our property is surrounded by the Otways forest and native Australian bush. Under 2 hours from Melbourne, and only 10-15minutes drive from the Otway Harvest Trail. Find a spot to park your van, tent, camper trailer or caravan on our beautiful natural piece of secluded bush, and you won't see or hear another soul. You may spot lots of birds and wildlife, or enjoy the beautiful view from the road. Please note: this is a spot for people such as hikers who appreciate nature and understand the concept of ‘leave no trace’. It’s not for parties or big groups. There are limited facilities (there is a basic composting toilet to use on site, but it’s not suitable as a caravan dump point) so you need to be totally self-sufficient and take all your waste and rubbish with you. BYO water.We are happy to accommodate up to 8 ppl, but please take everything with you, and leave our beautiful wilderness spot exactly as you left it, don't destroy the native vegetation and don't feed the wildlife. Fires only in the fire-pit please and must be totally extinguished (with water, so bring extra) before you leave, and not on fire ban days. You must BYO firewood and take all your rubbish away with you. Extra charges will apply for any rubbish, food scraps etc left on site.Enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$61
 / night
Hidden Valley House, Anakie

18. Hidden Valley House, Anakie

100%
(24)
19km from Lara · 7 sites · Lodging · Anakie, VIC
Hidden Valley House is nestled in Anakie, VIC, set within the scenic Brisbane National Ranges and only a 1-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. Taking into consideration our ethos around sustainability, the cabin is “off-grid” so solar powered with a composting toilet but with all the amenities you need. The cabin has spectacular views overlooking the valley with an abundance of wildlife and has a small creek and several caves which have formed over millions of years. As well as the cabin, we offer a camping area to larger groups that need overflow accommodation if the cabin is not big enough. This makes Hidden Valley House a fantastic option for large groups wanting to have all the comfort and amenities of the cabin, but experience the back-to-basic joy of camping in nature. Set on an 18-acre property at the start of the Brisbane National Ranges, it is home to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, sugar gliders and an abundance of birds including eagles and kookaburras. Furthermore, the land is protected by Trust for Nature and Land for Wildlife offering long-term protection for many ecosystems, species and native wildlife. The property is surrounded by national parks and is only a short drive from charming, historical towns such as Meredith and Steiglitz and only 25mins to Geelong. A number of family-owned wineries are located nearby and within Victoria’s Moorabool Valley winery. AWD/4WD recommended
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
AU$463
 / night
Beautiful kitchen and dining

19. The Stables On Knox

100%
(17)
79km from Lara · 1 site · Lodging · Romsey, VIC
Welcome to our family and friends of our first listing - Book A Paddock, and to our new gang with The Stables on Knox. The Stables was a functioning stable, dairy and horse and cart garaging area in the properties heyday many decades ago. The cattle would be walked up a lane, be held in the cobblestone yards you have exclusive use of, be walked into the stalls, where your pizza oven now stands, manually milked, and then turned out to what is now your BBQ area. Its now your next luxe rural getaway. Leave the tent and van behind for this little slice of the good life. Bring your bestie - even your neighbours and your fur baby for a sit back and relax experience. The paddocks to the back of the property are yours to walk to take in the peace and the wildlife. They are abundant with kangaroos and their joeys in the spring so we ask you go quietly and slowly so they can move away slowly. The birdsong is a great way to relax with your book, listening to the sounds of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$431
 / night
Shedquarters Bush Escape

20. Shedquarters Bush Escape

100%
(1)
46km from Lara · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$354
 / night

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