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Penzance Bushland Retreat

100%
·
170 reviews
 · Durham Lead, Victoria
15 acres hosted by Lesley H.
1 Vehicle/Tent site
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Great for groups
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for larger groups.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Lesley is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
All to yourself
99% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.
... 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.Located close to Ballarat and nestled among the beautiful gumtrees of our peaceful camping area. We currently only offer one camp site so you will have the area to yourself. You'll wake up to the sounds of the many birds that frequent the area, and perhaps a few frogs and the large dam is home to many waterbirds and our goose, Lucy. The creek runs for part of the year, and provides a great habitat for many creatures and the billabong is a pretty spot. Kangaroos, possums and echidnas are a common sight. We have built a lovely powder room, but campers must be self sufficient with their own shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure. Ride your bikes, kick the footy, go for a hike, or just relax in nature. You are welcome to enjoy a campfire in the fire pit provided, when there are no restrictions in place. There are plenty branches and twigs on the ground to get your fire started, so don't forget the marshmallows! Pets are welcome but please keep them restrained whilst on the property to protect our wildlife. Kids under 5 stay for free!
Activities
Biking
Fishing
Hiking
Off-roading (OHV)
Natural features
River, stream, or creek
Field
Farm

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Penzance Bushland Retreat

100% (215)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 24 · Vehicles under 9 m
Located close to Ballarat and nestled among the beautiful gumtrees of our peaceful camping area. We currently only offer one camp site so you will have the area to yourself. You'll wake up to the sounds of the many birds that frequent the area, and perhaps a few frogs and the large dam is home to many waterbirds and our goose, Lucy. The creek runs for part of the year, and provides a great habitat for many creatures and the billabong is a pretty spot. Kangaroos, possums and echidnas are a common sight. We have built a lovely powder room, but campers must be self sufficient with their own shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure. Ride your bikes, kick the footy, go for a hike, or just relax in nature. You are welcome to enjoy a campfire in the fire pit provided, when there are no restrictions in place. There are plenty branches and twigs on the ground to get your fire started, so don't forget the marshmallows! Pets are welcome but please keep them restrained whilst on the property to protect our wildlife. Kids under 5 stay for free!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
from
AU$65
/ night
for NaN guests

Reviews

100% Recommend217 Ratings · 170 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We had a lovely time, perfect little spot for our family. We had 2 little kids, 2 dogs and 2 adults. The table and chairs, fire place and toilet setup were awesome. Highly recommend :)
K
Kate G.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
A relaxing stay in nature with dogs
5 m pop-up camper ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We loved the serenity and being in nature. We especially loved the comfort of the powder room! And we loved the fire pit. It was our first camping experience with three dogs and the camper trailer. We had plenty of room for camping and the dogs loved exploring the property. Thank you Lesley for a relaxing stay. We would love to visit again!
I
Irene S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Such a good setup for everyone. Being able to easily cook over the fire was a standout for us and the land was just amazing. Can’t wait to come back
J
Jarryd P.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Amazing private family stay
Tent · With pets ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Lesley's camp site is just amazing. We enjoyed our one night camp stay at her place. We also saw a glimpse of a few kangaroos at around 6a.m in the morning from a little distance from where we set up our tent. The best part was big camping tables facility provided at the campsite which was really beneficial for us as we were with our toddler. Sitting around fireplace was so much fun and the toilet facility was so good. We definitely recommend the place and wish to come back and stay for more nights.
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Shriya D.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Campsite was lovely. Very well maintained space and with everything you could need for a large group. Owners were very accommodating. Will definitely be coming back next year.
J
Jesse C.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Weekend Camping Retreat
Tent · With pets ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We had an amazing time at Penzance Bushland Retreat. The place is perfect for families and friends who wanted to relax. The toilet was also a surprise bonus, very clean and well-maintained. We also loved the picnic tables and campfire pit. We'll definitely visit again and recommend this place to our friends.
L
Leah F.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Nice spot, great vibes and a good trip outside of the city definitely recommend
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Curtis M.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Bushland Retreat
5 m pop-up camper ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Had a great fire pit, plenty of wood nearby to gather for a fire. Well setup with tables and a nice sitting area. The toilet facilities were also a game changer, as my wife would not have come along without facilities and these were great.
A
Andrew P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We spent an amazing night at this property. Chris had delivered a huge pile of firewood for us on arrival and was very friendly. The campfire was great and the quiet bushlands surrounding us were a massive hit with the kids. Having a powder room next to our site was also great! We would definitely be back, thanks to Lesley and Chris for allowing us to spend our trip here!
J
Jayden B.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We had a lovely stay at Penzance. It was a great private spot and the powder room was a welcomed addition. Would recommend!
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Kimberly L.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2025
Book early to avoid disappointment.
5 m travel trailer ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
There is good reason that the reviews are universally positive about Penzance, it simply is fantastic. From the hosts, to the facilities, to the location, everything is exceptional. Cannot recommend highly enough!
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Cam B.
8 reviews
Recommends
· March 2025
5 m travel trailer ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Thankyou so much for sharing your piece of heaven with us . Lesley and Chris were so accommodating. This is a great place to stay and do absolutely nothing or explore the surrounding area of Buninyong. There is a great swimming hole within 15 minutes drive of Penzance retreat . We loved our time here camping with friends . There are so many nice touches from the firepit, toilet and table and chairs . The timber bench makes for a great massage table too . Thanks again David and Jane
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David P.
12 reviews
Recommends
· February 2025
Best secluded campsite ever
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Lesley and Chris were absolutely stellar hosts!! Their camp site is immaculate: all the features made camping a breeze; the camp fire was perfect for a camp fire roast, the powder room was spotless and well functioning! the surrounding bush was so lush and we enjoyed hiking around the property. We had an amazing time together and we can't wait to come back again!
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Bernie O.
5 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2025
Tent ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Super relaxing space to camp in and with comforts that make for a great experience - access to a toilet, access to a space to enjoy a camp fire, table to sit and eat at and the amazing pieces you find around the site that give it extra character.
V
Vittoria T.
2 reviews
Recommends
· February 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We had an amazing time camping at Lesley's land. Lesley was a superb host and the site had everything we could ask for. There was enough shade and space for 3 large and 2 medium tents. It had the best looking toilet I have seen so far camping in Australia. The site had all the amenities including a 6 seater table and chairs, full set up firepit with cooking options, and firewood was provided on request (separate payment). The site was quiet but had ample birds and occasional roos to keep us company. Definitely coming back in future.
A
Ainul F.
5 reviews
Recommends
· February 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We had a wonderful stay at Lesley’s land last night. The campsite was neat, it had amazing views and nice hike. Very peaceful and pleasant. The bathroom was very clean. Perfect place for a night with friends and family. Highly recommended.
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Sanwal M.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Peace in the bush
6 m Class A · With pets ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Such a lovely quiet campsite. Completely private with the most fantastic powder room. What a treat. Highly recommend
J
John S.
7 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
9 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Great spot for checking out Ballarat and surrounds. Plenty of space for our two caravans with the great additions of the fire pit, seating and of course the ‘powder room’. 100% would stay again when our adventure takes us through the region.
E
Emma S.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
7 m travel trailer · Group trip ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
This was the best Hipcamp we have ever stayed at! Beautiful and peaceful setting, very welcoming vibes, great site with lots of quirky things. We really enjoyed our stay here! 5 stars!
I
Inez R.
20 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Tent ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Such a beautiful campsite with so many artful and thoughtful touches. We had a wonderful time and will be back.
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Erica W.
3 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Tent ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Quiet, calming, and peaceful. The site is also immaculate and welcoming. We are seasoned campers, so Penzance was a slice of luxury for us. Loved the area and the sight of wallabies in the mornings. Will stay again.
M
Monica C.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
5 m Class B ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Lovely quiet spot; sensational fire pit, we were really relaxed here. Saw splendid fairy wrens, tree creepers, sistellas and black honeyeater. Not to mention kookaburras galore. Site was a bit dusty but that’s prob just cos it’s January , would love to go back in the winter
K
Kimina L.
2 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Tent ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We enjoyed our stay at this amazing campsite, so many things to see and do!
J
Jackson G.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Amazing camp site
5 m car · Group trip ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
This place is beautiful and perfect for a relaxing night in the bush. The toilet is also perfect
I
Isabella L.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Tent ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Beautiful peaceful location and toilet was a great touch! Will definitely be back for another stay!
T
Tiana W.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
NYE stay with friends
Tent · Group trip ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We had an excellent stay at Lesley's property everything was perfect and we couldn't appreciate it more. Would recommend!
J
Josh W.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
We had such a lovely time. Beautifully set out and lots of fun things for the kids to go and explore.
R
Rob G.
3 reviews
Recommends
· December 2024
Tent · Group trip ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Setup was well thought out and accomodating for our large group. Many highlights, most noteworthy is the campfire and the crane setup allowing us to cook a hearty pasta meal. Hosts were responsive and friendly. We hope to return here again some day.
Z
Zaki M.
3 reviews
Recommends
· November 2024
Penzance Bushland Retreat
Penzance was such a lovely spot for a relaxing weekend away. Nicely hidden away, lots of wildlife and beautiful little touches like the powder room. We would definitely go back again.
M
Maja K.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2024
Perfectly Secluded Bush Camp
3 m pop-up camper · With kids ·
Penzance Bushland Retreat
What a wonderful, secluded campsite—beautifully calm and peaceful. The toilet was conveniently located close to the campsite but far enough away to maintain the feel of bush camping. The built-in fire pit was fantastic, with all the trimmings you’d need to cook up a storm!
N
Nate E.
5 reviews

Location

Durham Lead, Victoria, AustraliaTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Lesley H.

Joined in February 2021

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