The best campgrounds near Lara, Victoria with swimming

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Lara, Victoria in Australia? Hipcamp has you covered with over 850 camping options in the area. Whether you're a hiker, swimmer, or whitewater paddler, there's something for everyone. From serene lakeside spots to rugged mountain retreats, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your style. And with prices starting as low as $10 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Check out some top campsites like Rodborough Vale (514 reviews), Shacks at Kardella Park (328 reviews), and Iron Brook Donkey Farm (381 reviews) to see what others have loved about these spots. Plus, with amenities like cooking equipment, toilets, and rubbish facilities, your camping experience will be both comfortable and convenient.

96% (965)

Top-rated campgrounds

Date: 27/01/2024
Location: Shack’s Top Paddock, Indented Head
Weather: beautiful + light breeze
Gear: Mogu Outdoors
Camera: Fujifilm X-T4

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Lara, Victoria in Australia? Hipcamp has you covered with over 850 camping options in the area. Whether you're a hiker, swimmer, or whitewater paddler, there's something for everyone. From serene lakeside spots to rugged mountain retreats, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your style. And with prices starting as low as $10 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Check out some top campsites like Rodborough Vale (514 reviews), Shacks at Kardella Park (328 reviews), and Iron Brook Donkey Farm (381 reviews) to see what others have loved about these spots. Plus, with amenities like cooking equipment, toilets, and rubbish facilities, your camping experience will be both comfortable and convenient.

96% (965)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Shacks at Kardella Park

99%

(767)

30km from Lara · 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.

2. Boulder Brook Valley

96%

(96)

54km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bulla, VIC

This 100 acre farm provides a dip into the outback with less time spent travelling for hours around victoria We live here as a family on the front half of the property and are currently using it to farm cattle and chickens, grow hay and keep bees Enjoy a campsite with complete serenity, and take a breather from the noise of the world Were located only 45 minutes from the CBD 10 minute drive to diggers rest and sunbury if you need supplies and only 5 minute drive to the nearest servo "I like that boulder, that is a nice boulder" - Donkey

3. Wurdale Waters

92%

(91)

47km from Lara · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Wurdiboluc, VIC

Views galore. Your camp spot is on the bank of your own private dam with views over the fields, dam and reservoir. Your camping spot is private with no others campers. You can swim, kayak and fish from the dams on the property and the Wurdiboluc Reservoir is only a stones throw away and is a renowned fishing spot. There are great 4WD tracks located around the area and a short 15 minute trip to Torquay or Aireys Inlet, 10 minutes to Geelong and Winchelsea amenities are close by, but you will feel a world away from it all here. There is no toilet facilities at the camp ground, but you will find a public toilet about 400 meters from the camp site located at the Wurdale Hall

4. Erskine Heath

69km from Lara · 1 site · Tent · Lorne, VIC

Nestled in the hinterlands of Lorne, a short 5 min drive to beach & shops. The campsite is in the heavily treed and hills aplenty. A short drive or walk to Erskine Falls.Campfires permitted in a designated area when restrictions aren't in place. Plenty of wood around to gather your own. Dogs are welcome but they must be well controlled at all times. Toilet available. Tank water available. Gravel road and very hard for 2WD vehicles to access. 4WD recommended as the last 200m is very steep. 4WD caravan ok, camper trailers & tents.

5. Bush horizon

97%

(32)

62km from Lara · 1 site · RV · Deans Marsh, VIC

Relax on 13 acres beside a large water hole amongst the oak trees. Our site is charged per van not per people so please only book as 2 people then book the additional vans in the extras section . The small town ship offers a local store, bmx track, playground, tennis court, oval and a skate park. The coastal town of Lorne is only a 20 min drive and you’re on the beach for fishing, surfing, swimming or dinning out at one of the many places to eat and drink. The site welcomes groups to book up to a maximum of 4 caravans or campers that must be fully self sufficient. Each van will be charged at $60 per night

6. Tall Trees Otways Camp

91%

(74)

64km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lorne, VIC

A quiet campsite to yourself amongst the tranquil Otway rainforest just a short drive from Lorne. Plenty of bird and animal life to see. Parking is on solid ground with the option of a grassy camp spot among the trees 20 metres away. There is a bus parked and container on the Southside of the camp with bush views to the East, North and West.

7. Sommerleigh

99%

(109)

28km from Lara · 2 sites · Lodging · Connewarre, VIC

Sommerleigh has two huts on a small island in-between Breamlea and Torquay. 3km from Point Impossible Beach. Very rural, very small, very quiet, very sheltered and private. It is located on the billabong just east of the winery. Gas hot water and stove plus BBQ . Supplied base sheet and pillows for double bed. Tea and Coffee. William Buckley camped here! Great restaurants, surf beaches, and golf courses all close by.

8. Seahorse stud

100%

(1)

55km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fairhaven, VIC

We live here in Aireys inlet as 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 this can be bought along and we have paddocks available. 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, 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.

9. 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.

10. Vintage Vibes

89%

(14)

28km from Lara · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Marcus Hill Bellarine Peninsula, VIC

Seaside Escape is a simple quiet property perfect for those wanting a place to park only 5 minutes drive to the beach and nestled amongst a beautiful country feel. Our family lovingly restore 1970s kombi's for people to self drive + camp in around Victoria and beyond so you get to experience a little nostalgia around your camp site. It is a colourful yet peaceful property with a gorgeous energy you will feel immediately safe and at home on your stay. There are 3 main areas we feel is perfect for a secluded site however feel free to ask us if you have any specific requirements.

11. Macedon Ranges Glamping

100%

(13)

69km from Lara · 1 site · Lodging · Sunbury, VIC

Nestled in the picturesque Macedon Ranges, an easy drive from Melbourne, our property Taloumbi is set on 10 acres of unique bushland populated with native grasses, ancient grass trees, indigenous wildflowers, wattles and eucalypts. Guests can look out for kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and echidnas, whilst relaxing in the comfort of our cosy boho bell tent. Our 5 metre bell tent has a queen bed with quality linen, electric blanket, bean bag lounge chairs, floor rugs, heater, fan, WiFi, bluetooth speaker, coffee machine, kettle with a selection of teas, mini fridge, crockery, cutlery, glassware and towels. The private bathrooom is located in our rustic house less than 50 metres away (via an independent entrance). It includes a toilet, shower (over a bath) and a vanity, with fluffy towels and essential toiletries. An à la carte vegetarian or vegan breakfast with "tent service" is included. Homecooked dinners and Devonshire teas are also available by arrangement. Guests are welcome to use our 10 metre swimming pool (in summer), chiminea and BBQ area with sweeping views of the valley below.

12. Coastal Glamp at Bellarine Estate

22km from Lara · 16 sites · Tents · Bellarine, VIC

Coastal Glamp resides on the property of Bellarine Estate, behind the Cellar Door, surrounded by vines. The beautiful space can accomodate a number of tents in different formations, allowing for couples, families or small groups to enjoy their own space. Coastal Glamp aims to give you the freedom to explore the wonders of the peninsula, whilst providing a unique, fun and welcoming experience.

13. Iluka Retreat

70km from Lara · 3 sites · Lodging · Rosebud, VIC

Our 36 acre property offers group lodge accommodation, and glamping bell tents on manicured lawns. The property is stunning with a swimming lake, wetlands, bird hides, and rolling hills. Located between the coastal town of Shoreham & Red Hill. Iluka offers a “Back to Nature” style getaway which allows guests to switch off and enjoy the great outdoors.

Camper favorites near Lara

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sommerleigh

99%

(109)

28km from Lara · 2 sites · Lodging · Connewarre, VIC

Sommerleigh has two huts on a small island in-between Breamlea and Torquay. 3km from Point Impossible Beach. Very rural, very small, very quiet, very sheltered and private. It is located on the billabong just east of the winery. Gas hot water and stove plus BBQ . Supplied base sheet and pillows for double bed. Tea and Coffee. William Buckley camped here! Great restaurants, surf beaches, and golf courses all close by.

Seahorse stud

100%

(1)

55km from Lara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fairhaven, VIC

We live here in Aireys inlet as 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 this can be bought along and we have paddocks available. 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, 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.

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.

Vintage Vibes

89%

(14)

28km from Lara · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Marcus Hill Bellarine Peninsula, VIC

Seaside Escape is a simple quiet property perfect for those wanting a place to park only 5 minutes drive to the beach and nestled amongst a beautiful country feel. Our family lovingly restore 1970s kombi's for people to self drive + camp in around Victoria and beyond so you get to experience a little nostalgia around your camp site. It is a colourful yet peaceful property with a gorgeous energy you will feel immediately safe and at home on your stay. There are 3 main areas we feel is perfect for a secluded site however feel free to ask us if you have any specific requirements.

Macedon Ranges Glamping

100%

(13)

69km from Lara · 1 site · Lodging · Sunbury, VIC

Nestled in the picturesque Macedon Ranges, an easy drive from Melbourne, our property Taloumbi is set on 10 acres of unique bushland populated with native grasses, ancient grass trees, indigenous wildflowers, wattles and eucalypts. Guests can look out for kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and echidnas, whilst relaxing in the comfort of our cosy boho bell tent. Our 5 metre bell tent has a queen bed with quality linen, electric blanket, bean bag lounge chairs, floor rugs, heater, fan, WiFi, bluetooth speaker, coffee machine, kettle with a selection of teas, mini fridge, crockery, cutlery, glassware and towels. The private bathrooom is located in our rustic house less than 50 metres away (via an independent entrance). It includes a toilet, shower (over a bath) and a vanity, with fluffy towels and essential toiletries. An à la carte vegetarian or vegan breakfast with "tent service" is included. Homecooked dinners and Devonshire teas are also available by arrangement. Guests are welcome to use our 10 metre swimming pool (in summer), chiminea and BBQ area with sweeping views of the valley below.

Coastal Glamp at Bellarine Estate

22km from Lara · 16 sites · Tents · Bellarine, VIC

Coastal Glamp resides on the property of Bellarine Estate, behind the Cellar Door, surrounded by vines. The beautiful space can accomodate a number of tents in different formations, allowing for couples, families or small groups to enjoy their own space. Coastal Glamp aims to give you the freedom to explore the wonders of the peninsula, whilst providing a unique, fun and welcoming experience.

Iluka Retreat

70km from Lara · 3 sites · Lodging · Rosebud, VIC

Our 36 acre property offers group lodge accommodation, and glamping bell tents on manicured lawns. The property is stunning with a swimming lake, wetlands, bird hides, and rolling hills. Located between the coastal town of Shoreham & Red Hill. Iluka offers a “Back to Nature” style getaway which allows guests to switch off and enjoy the great outdoors.

Stories from the community

Larissa

4 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tall Trees Otways Camp

Beautiful, private spot! We loved our stay, even though it rained!

L

Luke

1 week ago

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tall Trees Otways Camp

Beautiful property, 2 options for where to set up camp, very private spots. Host was super accomodating, and only 20 minutes from Lorne. Would definitely camp here again.

T

Tess

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Macedon Ranges Glamping

We had a fantastic time here! Jonathan and Jennifer were so lovely and welcoming, and do a mean vegan breakfast! The bell tent had everything we needed including board games, a coffee machine, and a mini fridge. There's also a table and chairs outside of the tent so we relaxed out there with a bottle of wine. We loved seeing the local wildlife that they care for too. Will be back again!

T

Tim

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Shacks at Kardella Park

Great location, walking distance to the beach with public tennis/basketball court! Large open space perfect dogs. Would highly recommend!!

N

Nick

2 weeks ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Tall Trees Otways Camp

Great spot, private and quiet location amongst the trees. Highly recommend.

B

Bren

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

1 night at Wurdale Waters

Barney was very responsive. I had a lovely quiet time at his place

D

Damien

3 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Boulder Brook Valley

Very nice secluded site. Close to Melbourne Airport and the city

Dave N Leila

3 weeks ago

8 m pop-up camper

5 nights at Wurdale Waters

Lovely quiet spot with great views out over the reservoir. Amazing fire pit. Loved the highland cows :-) Only an hour from home and we will come again!

A

Alice

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Seahorse stud

Seahorse farm is a camper’s dream. Host Caroline has a heart of gold and made us feel at home. Surrounded by bush and a short drive to the beach, the location and surrounds is as good as it gets. Caroline’s gentle horses were great neighbours, an amazing experience camping alongside them. Already planning the next trip back!!!

Doug

November 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Vintage Vibes

Lovely place, lovely people. Great to be camping among the collection of vintage kombis. Super accommodating hosts. Laid back vibe. Convenient location on the Bellarine. Looking forward to coming back!

J

Jackie

November 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Shacks at Kardella Park

Its our 6th visit to Shacks . Its peaceful and Damien is such a great host. Very welcoming.

J

Jayden

November 2025

10 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Shacks at Kardella Park

Great location, great camp and a great host, highly recommend!

R

Ruby

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Sommerleigh

Such an amazing experience! Such a cute, tranquil vibe. Jeff and his family were so lovely.

S

Suzanne

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sommerleigh

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Sommerleigh! Gorgeous location that had everything we needed, nestled in nature and surrounded by so many birds. It felt intimate and private, perfect for a romantic weekend away. The wood stove was absolutely divine and rainy weather was no problem because it was so cosy rugged up indoors by the fire watching the rain through the big windows and hearing the rain on the tin roof. Jeff was lovely and made sure we knew everything we needed to know before leaving us to it. I highly recommend this special gem of a stay!

K

Kathryn

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sommerleigh

Such a unique and restful place with beautiful views and diverse wildlife that is being fostered and restored by our hosts. Aside from going out for dinner, we stayed put until it was time to leave. Much gratitude.