The best camping in Great Otway National Park, VIC

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99% (71)

The best camping in Great Otway National Park, VIC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Our tent and campsite

2. Clear Springs

97%
(98)
11km from Great Otway National Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lorne, VIC
Clear Springs is a very special spot, offering sweeping views over rolling hills, and across to the ocean. King Island lighthouse is visible on clear nights, and there are koalas and wallabies in abundance. Whilst we require you to BYO toilet, we do have hot shower, woodfired hot-tub, power, water and phone reception. The site is all-weather access, and is just a 7-minutes drive to the Apollo Bay township. Once you catch your breath after initially taking in the sweeping, majestic ocean views, you can find a spot to pitch your tent or park your van. You drive in through a locked farm gate into the fenced camp area. There is not an abundance of flat area, so may not suit if you need large level space. We don't accept multiple bookings, so the space is all yours. You can choose from a few different spots with near-level ground (choose grass or gravel). The site is open to the amazing ocean views to the south yet the area is nestled among mature trees to give privacy and shelter. There are very few houses dotted around the area and not a single busy road within earshot. There is 240v mains power (BYO lead and plug into switchboard). And a tank with spring water (natural and untreated, we've been drinking it for years) and a pressure pump (BYO hoses as needed). There is an outdoor gas-heated shower. We also have a woodfired hot tub available for guests, BYO firewood. Our listing is intended for people looking for a private, tranquil and well-serviced camping area with several bonuses such as firewood, power, water, telstra reception, and a hot tub. And no other guests to worry about. It's much more than a patch of grass! But please BYO toilet - this is mandatory - and leave no trace to allow other people to enjoy the beauty of our property. Sorry pets are not allowed.
Potable water
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$170
 / night
Tucker's Rest

3. Tucker's Rest

99%
(47)
26km from Great Otway National Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Carlisle River, VIC
*PLEASE NOTE: Due to high temperatures this long weekend 8th-11th March 2024, a complete fire ban at our property will be in force. Therefore, we will not be selling firewood.* Welcome to Tucker's Rest. Time to sit back and relax in the beautiful surroundings of this 6 acre property. Located within easy access of all that the western end of the Otway's has to offer, and plonked in the middle of the Otway Harvest Trail. An easy 30 minute drive from Colac along bitumen roads from the Princess highway. 20 minutes drive from Gellibrand and the midway point of the Old Beechy Rail Trail. 40 minutes - Princetown. 50 minutes - 12 Apostles. 50 minutes - Californian Redwoods and Otway Fly 1hr 20 minutes - Geelong All scenic drives throughout some of the most pristine forests and farmland this side of Melbourne!! Whether it's a basecamp for day trips or simply somewhere to sit back and be immersed in nature and it's wildlife, accompanied by the sound of the trickling creek, Tucker's Rest has you covered. Easily walk straight from camp up from the valley and find yourself surrounded by ever-changing landscapes from pasture, sandy heaths full of grass trees and banksia, right through to the temperate rainforest that weaves its way through the valleys of the Otway Ranges. Hiking, trail-running, mountain biking and four wheel driving-there are loops that start and finish from here that are just waiting for you! The neighbouring farmland surrounds the property on one side and the Otway State Parks on the other which bring an abundance of wildlife underfoot and overhead. Whether it be the resident flock of Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo or the local pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles, the Fairy Wrens or the flocks of Crimson Rosellas, Koalas, Wallabies and Blue Tongue Lizards just to name a few, there is always someone to catch your attention! Recreational climbers will also enjoy the abundance of mature eucalyptus with sweeping limb walks and natural forms scattered along the property's boundaries. We look forward to having you stay with us, Jess and Jake.
Pets
Toilets
from 
AU$67
 / night
The campsites are next to a dam fed by a mountain spring.

4. Otways Farm Hideaway

99%
(70)
29km from Great Otway National Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Kawarren, VIC
Green, tranquil and picturesque. Kangaroos, wallabies, kookaburras and koalas often emerge from the rainforest of the Great Otway National Park near the campsites. You can swim or kayak in the unfenced dam, which is fed by a mountain spring on our 200-acre property. But please be aware that the unfenced dam is a drowning hazard for children, so we don't accept bookings that include children under 10 for public liability reasons. We've limited the number of campsites to 2 in an area that could host 200! If you would like even more seclusion, then you are welcome to book both sites so you can talk, drink and play music as late as you like, without having to consider another group of campers. This is a totally different holiday experience to a crowded beach resort, caravan park or public camping ground. It's like a hideaway in the hills. Each site has a flushing toilet (septic system). Campfires are permitted outside the district-wide fire restrictions that apply from late November to early May. Fortunately, gas or electric barbecues and stoves are permitted all year round, unless specific days are declared as total fire ban days. Please note that wood-fired barbecues or burners, even if enclosed and fitted with a chimney, still present a spark/ember hazard so are not permitted across summer. When campfires are permitted, guests can cut and gather their own wood from deadwood lying near the campsites or bring their own. Or you can buy sacks of cut and split firewood from your hosts on request. BYO newspaper and matches. Camping trailers and campervans work better on the sites than large caravans or motorhomes, especially after heavy rain. The sites are on slight inclines, so levellers can be useful. No pets please due to livestock in nearby paddocks. No parties please.
Toilets
from 
AU$112
 / night
Another local who tends to hang around the main Site, must enjoy the views.

5. Dairy Countryside Camp

99%
(141)
32km from Great Otway National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Kawarren, VIC
Green grassy campsites on an Old Victorian Dairy Country Farm House site. The property is located in the Otways, the rail trail is close by for bush walks, wildlife watching or mountain biking. Two micro breweries are within 20 minutes drive (Prickly Moses, Forest Brewery). Otway Fly Treetop Adventures and waterfalls just 30 minutes away. There are many waterfalls within easy driving distance. Apollo Bay is just an hours drive. Campfire and sitting area available for guests use, public toilets that are serviced three times a week and kept hygienically clean, located just 1000mtrs down the road. If you like a hit of tennis, there are two courts near the toilets and a community centre next to the CFA. This is all about being off the grid, soaking up nature and what this region has to offer. You'll spot an abundance of native wildlife on the property - we have koalas in the trees, platypus in the dam, echidnas burrowing in the garden beds, with kangaroos and wallabies passing through the property. There is plenty of room to spread out and enjoy complete privacy, if required a 6 man tent can be supplied and erected for you.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$71
 / night
Erskine Falls Retreat

7. Erskine Falls Retreat

100%
(133)
39km from Great Otway National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Lorne, VIC
125 acre property on the fringe of the beautiful seaside town of Lorne. The bustling tourist town is home to some of Australia's finest wildlife including koala's, kangaroos, kookaburra's and wallabies... all of which are witnessed roaming around the property with undisturbed nonchalance. In addition to this wildlife, the natural landscape and scenery is one to behold, with lush green grass, waterfalls scattered around the area (including Erskine Falls just a 2 minute drive from the property) and the chance to cool off in the ocean with a short 10 minute drive into the township of Lorne. Your passage to Lorne is an extraordinary one to say the least, spoilt for choice with two incredible routes, the first is the unique and famous Great Ocean Road... exhibit beautiful waves, clear blue water and a road fit for a race-car track. The second route to Lorne is via small regional towns inland with endless rolling hills and healthy green landscapes as far as the eye can see and that's all before you hit Otway national park! This secluded property is special because it is situated in a remarkable position with the perks of both country and coastal living, not to mention unrivalled serenity... being 550m above sea level, snow isn't uncommon on the odd day during winter and surf is only 10 minutes away, so truly extraordinary. There are huge Trees approximately 200ft tall that tower over you in an area of the property we refer to as "valley of the kings" and some in excess of 300 years old. Witness small isolated gulleys (if the weather permits) and you're prepared for a little small hike into our wonderland. My family and I are situated in a modest farmhouse on the north side of the property, with our little camping spots for you scattered around the scenic high points. Water is provided on site, leave the area as you found it. Otherwise get your adventure started.
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$85
 / night
FeatherLeaf Sanctuary

8. FeatherLeaf Sanctuary

100%
(19)
40km from Great Otway National Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Simpson, VIC
Endless views of the sky. FeatherLeaf is so named because of all the trees and all the feathered friends - kookaburras, currawongs, Satin Bowerbirds, King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas, just to name a few. So many to photograph or just watch! Listen to the cacophony of kookaburras at dawn and sunset. Frogs and munching macropods (wallabies and kangaroos) at night. Bring a telescope and view the amazingly clear night sky (OK, sometimes it's cloudy)!. Just over 5 acres of former dairy farm just outside Simpson, close to the Otway Gourmet trail, Great Ocean Rd, Otways National Park and more. The Coradjil Bushland Reserve is across the road. Great regional towns such as Timboon, Port Campbell, Peterborough and more are all nearby. If you want rural peace and great pastoral views, amazing sunsets and sunrises, and love bird-watching and nature-watching, this is a great place to stay. There are currently 2 very curious and friendly dairy cows in the paddock where they are living their best life with treats and no demands on them except to allow pats occasionally! We rescue, rehabilitate and release wildlife and there are released kangaroos pottering around, so dogs are welcome but must be under control. We are a sanctuary for all. No hunting parties. Note: you must have your own enclosed toilet and shower.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
AU$43
 / night
Cumberland River Holiday Park

10. Cumberland River Holiday Park

93%
(27)
41km from Great Otway National Park · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · Lorne, VIC
Welcome to Cumberland River Holiday Park, the best camping location on the famous Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia. The perfect base to explore the coast and surrounds. Camping next to a peaceful trickling river can be a delight, and our campsites will not disappoint, from garden sites to riverfront sites all with picturesque views of the cliff face escarpment. Our cozy garden cabins sleep up-to 6 people. They feature a gas look-alike fire place, plasma television with 40 satellite channels, a fully functional kitchen with a full-size stove and refrigerator, and a peaceful and private verandah. These delightfully bright and modern 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom River View Units have a fully equipped kitchen, gas space heating, and satellite flat-screen TV. Sleeps a maximum of 6 people. Has a private balcony with views over the river and gorge.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$81
 / night
Olive Farm

13. Olive Farm

99%
(326)
47km from Great Otway National Park · 56 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
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night
Lake Colac Holiday Park

15. Lake Colac Holiday Park

100%
(11)
49km from Great Otway National Park · 46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Colac, VIC
Lake Colac Holiday Park is located on the Lake Colac foreshore beside the beautiful Colac Botanic Gardens and Barongarook Creek. Offering guests a choice of caravan and camping sites, including regular powered and unpowered sites, en-suite powered sites with drive-through. The holiday park is a short stroll from the Botanic Gardens, playground and Café, bird sanctuary and an easy walk to the Colac Township. A short drive to the Otways and Great Ocean Road makes this an ideal base to see the sights, and the perfect base alongside ferry crossings on the Spirit of Tasmania. Lake Colac Holiday Park provides a range of facilities and amenities to help make your stay more comfortable. Please find the list of amenities available to all guests: Dog friendly Powered and unpowered sites Reception Shower facilities Restroom facilities
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$44
 / night
Secluded Otways Forest Camp

17. Secluded Otways Forest Camp

97%
(125)
51km from Great Otway National Park · 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
Tiny Winch Farm

19. Tiny Winch Farm

100%
(76)
68km from Great Otway National Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Winchelsea, VIC
We are apologise but we are currently closed for visitors. Whether it is a weekend away or a stop over on your travels, we welcome you to our farm. We are the perfect spot for your trip to the Otways and great ocean road. We are only a few short minutes from Otways and short trip to coastal towns. You can enjoy a day in the Otways or great ocean road and come back to your secured camp spot on our farm. You will also get to experience farm life up close. Meet the animals or just relax and enjoy the space. We have 40 acres for you to wander around and enjoy. Collect the eggs or pat the donkeys, Meet the cows and guinea fowl, or enjoy a campfire (weather and Fire Danger period permitting). All our paddocks are treed, providing shelter to visitors and animals. We now have our gypsy van for the adventurous. Most importantly we know how important it is to provide adequate space between campers so you will not be crammed in - our promise to you. Visitors are more than welcome to bring the kids bikes to ride around on. You may like to bring the kite or outdoor games, however we do not allow motor activities that may disturb the animals. There is Barwon Park Mansion, owned by the National Trust nearby that you can take a peek through or enjoy the river walks in the town center, less than 2km away. Shops, including a supermarket, are in town if you forgot something. There are also some collectable shops you can visit. If you are trying to book and have difficulties, try instant booking. Guests must be fully self-contained with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste with them on departure.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
99% (71)

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The best camping in Great Otway National Park, VIC guide

Overview

About

Along the sea cliffs and shores of southern Victoria, Great Otway National Park boasts some of Australia’s most magnificent coastal scenery. Serious hikers tackle the 100-km Great Ocean Walk in sections, soaking up Apollo Bay, maritime history at the Cape Otway Lighthouse, and ancient grandeur at the Twelve Apostles. Surfers ride waves at Bells Beach and Johanna Beach, while families flock to the rockpools around the horn of Cape Otway. In the hinterland, waterfalls burst near Lorne, and koalas perch in the forests surrounding Lake Colac and Beauchamp Falls. Less than three hours from Melbourne—and with many free, first-come, first-served campsites—the Otways make a great last-minute getaway.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for surfers and dogs: The breaks at Johanna Beach Campground make it a great surfing stop along the Great Ocean Road. Plus, on-leash dogs are welcome.
  • Best for fishing and wildlife: The Aire River East and West Campgrounds sit on the banks of a serene estuary teeming with fish and birdlife.
  • Best for families: Bring the kids to swim in sheltered waves and snorkel around rockpools at Cape Otway’s Blanket Bay Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • The 22 campsites at Blanket Bay always fill up quickly, especially during summer and school holidays. Be ready to snag your spot by checking the peak season release dates on the Parks Victoria website.
  • If you’re planning to tackle the Great Ocean Walk, book well ahead at the seven hike-in campsites along the way, as space is limited.
  • Beauchamp Falls, Wye River, Meredith Park, Dando’s, Stevensons Falls, and Aire Crossing camping areas are first-come first-served, so plan to arrive early. There are no fees for these campsites.

When to go

Peak season begins with Melbourne Cup weekend (the last weekend in October) and runs through January. Easter and Labour Day weekends are also busy. For lighter crowds and lower fees, go mid-week or in February and March. In springtime, the heathlands around Anglesea are covered with vibrant blooms. Winter is prime whale-watching season, but be prepared for coastal wind and chilly temps.

Know before you go

  • Most campgrounds in Great Otway National Park are basic, and none have showers.
  • Bring your own drinking water.
  • Check the Parks Victoria website for any road closures and other updates.
  • Fires are banned at many camping areas, so check restrictions and plan to cook on a gas stove. Check the Parks Victoria website for Total Fire Ban days.
99%
71 Ratings · 39 reviews