The best camping in French Island National Park, VIC

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100% (9)

Discover the natural splendour of French Island National Park.  

The best camping in French Island National Park, VIC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. French Island Cottage - Camping

92%
(12)
3.3km from French Island National Park · 4 sites · Lodging
French Island is Victoria’s best kept secret. Most of the island is national park. There are lots of koalas, echidnas, birds, wildflowers, and a general store. It’s a great place to getaway… from everything. Our cottage offers sustainable luxury, with two comfy queen-bed rooms, each has a private bathroom, plus a lounge/kitchen with a cosy fire.  There's space for four more camping nearby, sharing the facilities.This is off-the-grid living; electricity and water come from the sky, heat from burning home grown timber. Take a short walk to 5 kms of deserted beach and the national park, hang out round the fire-pit, enjoy our DVD and games library, order a meal… or a cocktail… or do nothing much at all. Our property is 75 acres of diverse wooded heath land, which we are enthusiastically rejuvenating to capture carbon. There’s a lot to see and like.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$874
 / night

2. Green Gully Farmstay Camp Paddock

100%
(12)
15km from French Island National Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Paddock Camping Retreat in the Heart of Phillip Island Escape to the serene north end of our 5-acre property, offering tranquil, picturesque views of rolling farmland. You're pitching your tent or parking your caravan/RV right in the heart of Phillip Island, perfectly positioned to explore the coastal wonders! Your Island Basecamp: Convenient Access: We have three spacious, unpowered sites available in the paddock's north end. Coastal Proximity: Enjoy fast access to the island's best beaches! You're under a 5-minute drive to Smiths Surf Beach and Silverleaves Bay Beach, and only 10 minutes from Cowes Pier. Farm Brewery Perks: Our paddock sits adjacent to our working Micro Brewery, Green Gully Brewing. During our licensed hours, stop by for a refreshing, award-winning alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink! Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved pets on a leash are welcome. Please keep them leashed to protect the abundant native wildlife around the property. Campfires: Cozy campfires are welcome in your personal, contained fire pit within your campsite. Amenities & Essentials: A convenient toilet is provided on-site at the brewery for your comfort. Showers are located nearby at the local surf beach facilities. Untreated tank water is available for general use, but please bring your own drinking water for a refreshing and safe stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$79
 / night

3. Banksia Park Estate

100%
(57)
18km from French Island National Park · 4 sites · RVs
In addition to the existing small number of accommodation suites, Banksia Park Estate is now offering camping sites, scattered around the property for self-contained caravans and campervans. A great way to get amongst the gum trees and ti-trees, to sit back and relax with the amazing views. Take the time to experience Phillip Island and surrounds! Banksia Park Estate is in Newhaven, Phillip Island and is the perfect rural getaway! The property has you feeling like you are far away from civilisation, yet you are so close to all that Phillip Island has to offer. We are within walking distance to cafes, restaurants, playgrounds and The Phillip Island Chocolate Factory. A leisurely walk will take you to Newhaven on the Island, and then over the bridge to the picturesque seaside village of San Remo. We are just a short drive to popular surf and swimming beaches and all other attractions on the Island. The property is nestled on 32 acres of a natural rural landscape of trees, wetlands with Westernport Bay and Churchill Island views unique to Banksia Park’s location. There are the untouched wetlands, TiTree walks and abundant Wallabies, Cape Barren geese, Purple Hens, Pelicans and Bandicoots The chicory kiln at the entrance is known as the “Bern Denham kiln”. Bern Denham was one of the three original entrepreneurs in the 1920s who were the first to take tourists by torchlight to see the little penguins’ nightly arrival on the beach. Not to mention he was an influential contributor in getting the Phillip Island racetrack built and up and running. Please Note: Our property and all sites do not have any external power, water or toilet facilities available for campers so you will need to be completely self – contained in a caravan, campervan or roof top tent set up. We actually can not offer Tent Sites (Tents, Swags, sleeping in cars etc) Please confirm that you are fully self contained when making the booking Our check - in on the day of arrival is between 2.00pm - 5.00pm and we appreciate an estimated time of arrival. The sites are clearly sign posted so if you ae going to be very late we may not see you till the following morning. That way we can make arrangements to be on-site to check you in. If needed, late check in within daylight hours can be arranged subject to our availability.
from 
AU$37
 / night

4. Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island

96%
(14)
19km from French Island National Park · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Visit one of Victoria’s most iconic destinations and enjoy a relaxed stay at Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island in a beachside location within a natural bush setting! Located on Victoria’s Southern Coastline, only a drive from Melbourne CBD and a ferry trip, the park offers a diverse range of caravan sites, and camping grounds, at walking distance to San Remo and Newhaven. Experience the best of Phillip Island, including the world-famous penguin parade, and the Koala Conversation Centre, and even visit Nobbies to see the local fur seals in their natural habitat. Plus, enjoy local shops, cafes, and restaurants only 500 meters away… but there’s plenty of fun to be had at the park, too! Keep the kids entertained with a jumping pad, an adventure playground, a basketball hoop, and a games room – whether you are seeking relaxation, wildlife encounters, or family fun, Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island has something for everyone.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$428
 / night

8. Polly's Paddock

91%
(11)
25km from French Island National Park · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Pollys paddock is named after a beautiful palomino horse named Polly, who lived here as a loved member of our family into her early 40s. Polly's Paddock is a quiet camping area on the Mornington Peninsula. We are a couples only camping (adults only), no children, for safety reasons with a dam close by. Only 15 minutes from Mount Martha village and Mornington, restaurants, amazing wineries, weekend markets, cafes and golf courses. We are 10 minutes from swimming beaches and 20 minutes from surf beaches. This is a 5.5 acre block, consisting of the host’s residence, garden and parkland. Polly's Paddock is half of the block. We offer 2 flat caravan sites, both with drinking water , 1 with limited power , the other no power. There is a site with a glamping tent set in the garden. The 6 metre round tent sleeps 2, with a queen size bed, linen provided. It is carpeted, has a fridge, kettle and BBQ. Just pack your toothbrush, clothes, food and drinks. All 3 sites have the use of a shared composting toilet. For a refreshing experience there is an outdoor, open air hot shower overlooking the dam. Close by is a spacious shelter/shed with tables, chairs and a rustic kitchen area with sink and heater. Well behaved dogs are accepted on the caravan sites, but we ask that you please discuss with us prior to booking. Dogs are to be kept on a lead at all times, wild ducks and the properties own poultry wander here. No dogs on the glamping tent site. Campfires are allowed during the cooler months, left to the hosts discretion for safety reasons. We supply a fire pit. BYO wood. No fires apart from in the fire pits provided are to be lit. Fires are to be extinguished before going to bed or leaving. One vehicle per site Potable water available Water hookup Dump point, but no garbage disposal facilities Guests must take all rubbish home when they leave Check in after 1pm. Before 5pm Check out before 11am Minimum 1 night stay in caravan sites Minimum 2 night stay in glamping tent Maximum stay 5 nights
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$55
 / night

10. Salt Wood Glamping

98%
(30)
33km from French Island National Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Salt Wood Glamping at The Farm 191 is 36 acres of forest dense land situated on the top of the hill next to Arthur’s Seat National forest. Easily explore all of the Mornington Peninsulas coastline, wineries, hot springs and nature walks. The Vibe and Location : Surrounded by indigenous grass trees and native bushland, private and situated high up on the hill to capture filtered sunrises and sunsets. Easily accessed making it a perfect base to relax and also explore the Mornington Peninsula Region. 10 minute walk to Kings Falls, 10 minutes drive to McCrae beach, Arthur’s Seat and Red Hill and 25 minutes drive to the world famous Peninsula Hot Springs. Very close to lots of amazing cafes and restaurants. Check out my guide book for some local gems! Depending on your site you will have forest, bush or sea views. We offer the following camping and glamping situations - Bring your own tent or RV or Caravan sitch : Bring your own set up and do your own thing! We have an outdoor bathroom you are welcome to use with a shower and a toilet. Glamping Life : We provide a glamper for you complete with a double bed, fresh linen, table and lounging chairs. Extra single bed available on request. A hamper on arrival with snacks and continental breakfast sourced locally and bottles of fresh rainwater for drinking. When booking the glamping tent package you can also make use of the luxurious outdoor bathroom with open shower and private toilet.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
AU$109
 / night

12. Springview Farm

100%
(47)
44km from French Island National Park · 3 sites · Lodging
37 acre farm nestled between Cardinia Reservoir and Lysterfield Lake Park. Two luxury Bell Tents with a Queen Bed in each tent. Extra beds for Children are $25 per person. Beautiful isolated property with giant tree ferns, bushland and grassy paddocks. The campsite is next to our spring fed dam and backs onto 10acres of bushland. The dam is great for kayaking, swimming, fishing. There is plenty of room for footy, cricket, volleyball or just relaxing. Our farm is home to our 5 pet cows, 12 sheep, 3 Goats, 6 horses and chooks. Kangaroo, deer, echidna and wombats are seen roaming daily. We grow our own fruit and veggies, make preserves and also have bee hives. We are opening our farm up to share our country lifestyle. Only 45 minutes from Melbourne CBD making it a perfect location for corporate functions, brand launches, small private functions, photo shoots, film productions. Please note we are NOT a party venue for loud music and drunkeness. Totally private, secluded and surrounded by native bushland, paddocks and our spring fed dam. PLEASE NOTE, OUR FARM IS A GLASS FREE AND SMOKING FREE SITE. Our animals and native animals call this area home. Grass, animals and bare feet do not mix with broken glass. We live in a delicate beautiful area filled with native flora and fauna.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
AU$642
 / night

15. Cannavale Farm Stay

100%
(14)
48km from French Island National Park · 5 sites · RVs
‘Cannavale’ is a working beef cattle property with quiet cattle, horses and farm dogs. Situated less than 2 minutes off the Princes Freeway on a “No through Rd” our farm stay offers a safe secluded spot to park up overnight or to stay a little longer to check out local attractions. Cannavale farm stay offers a great spot to escape the ‘busy’ of city life for awhile. Go for a walk down a quiet country road, walk through the open grassy paddocks amongst the cows or sit and admire the beautiful Gippsland countryside, the options are endless! ‘Cannavale’ offers a variety of pet friendly camping, caravan/RV sites in an easy access open style camping area of approximately 2acres, with minimal levelling needed to setup for your stay. An open grassy area has been fenced off to offer what we feel is some of the most picturesque views of our property with stunning views of Mt Cannibal and across the valley to the Baw Baw ranges. Stay with us to experience our peaceful farm lifestyle while enjoying the magnificent valley views to Mount Cannibal, Bunyip State Forrest and beyond. Sit quietly with a drink while watching the sunset over the dam to the beautiful Bunyip State Forest in the distance - breathtaking! Also central to many local eateries and tourist attractions such as Gumbya World, the old Garfield Picture Theatre, Sherwood Park Orchard and Cafe, Cannibal Creek Winery, Cannibal Creek Bakery in Garfield and Soul Sisters Cafe in Longwarry to name a few. Lots to explore in this gorgeous part of West Gippsland! To top off a great time outdoors we offer 3 of Australia’s best butcher shops all within 10 minutes drive. Nothing tastes better on the BBQ than locally sourced grass fed beef. Just ask Craig the “BBQ Boss”. You’ll have everyone wanting to join you! *Horse Riding friends - Cannavale is also located within easy driving distance to Bunyip State Forrest(15mins), Nangara Reserve(15mins) and Tonimbuk Equestrian Center(5mins). Please ask for more details of places to ride if this is for you. For your convenience Bunyip IGA and Bunyip train station are also located within a short drive. Craig and myself (Shelly) look forward to seeing you soon and hope you enjoy your stay.
Pets
from 
AU$44
 / night

17. Lardner Peaceful Stopover

99%
(36)
51km from French Island National Park · 1 site · RV
A simple stopover for a night or two for just one vehicle on a designated site. Easy access on a sealed road, 10 minutes from the towns of Drouin and Warragul. Just 3 minutes drive to Lardner Park, a site for field days, markets and festivals. No water, power or dump point so fully self-sufficient vans and motorhomes only. ​(Nearest dump point is Warragul Gardens Caravan Park). Our site is best suited to caravans, motorhomes and campervans. Single slide out vans will fit, but not enough width for double slide outs. Gravel base not good for pegging tents and camper trailers. When you enter the property your site is immediately to the right. Drive in forwards or back in, whichever suits your setup best. Occasional road noise. We are in a rural area. Your site has an outlook over paddocks. Please note: you have access to your site only- not the whole property. Do not go through any gates whether they are open or closed. Thank you in advance.
from 
AU$19
 / night

19. Casa Cucina / River House / Quirky

100%
(29)
52km from French Island National Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Casa Cucina or the River House, a whimsical, quiet space to chill and enjoy the unique environment, calm and beauty. PLEASE NOTE UP FRONT, Our page says 1 site, this site can hold 4 caravans and 2 tents at any one time, in one group. Each Van/ tent allows for 2 adults. For more than one van, you add to the booking on the last page of booking. If you are unsure, please inbox me BEFORE completing your booking. We are 1 hour East of Melbourne along the M1, (and a couple of kms off the M1). Situated in West Gippsland, Casa Cucina is a feast for the senses from the alpine majesty of the Baw Baw Plateau, the Bunyip State Forest, the lush green valleys, to the rivers and streams… there is always something to do in West Gippsland for the curious. Other attractions in the area are Gumbuya World, Nangara Reserve, Noojee and Neerim South, PLUS of course the wineries. The Tarago River backs onto our small yet spacious, open yet shaded space. The river is shallow for paddling, as well as ‘swimmable’ (at your own risk), a lovely spot to cool off on our warm summer days, or a mesmerising place to sit, watch, read, contemplate, draw or write. Some large old Mountain Ash remain along the river bank, with lots of new plantings. It is not uncommon to see an echidna, a variety of stunning birdlife, and on dusk, maybe a wombat family. We also host a family of platypus if you are very quiet. Our river block can hold up to 4 caravans (under 10 metres) and a couple of tents in one group (one booking). In addition, the upper adjoining block can accommodate 2 caravans (enquire for this option). This is a single group occupancy site so you can enjoy the privacy of your group. If you wish to hook into our powered site, please add $10 per night, per van. All campers will also have access to our Casa Cucina gorgeous eclectic, quirky community space to sit in out of the weather. Please note: This is not an accommodation space. As a reminder, all campers will need to be Self Contained as we have no toilet facilities, no access to fresh water, cold showers only and no cooking facilities. Also remember if you wish to have a fire in our firepit, you MUST bring your own wood.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$55
 / night
100% (9)

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The best camping in French Island National Park, VIC guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at French Island National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Traverse the rugged bushlands, cycle through the open woodlands, and keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that calls this park home. While vehicle-based camping is not permitted, the park offers a unique camping experience at Fairhaven Campground, accessible only by foot or bike.

Notable campgrounds

  • Fairhaven Campground: Nestled by the Western Port shores, this serene spot is perfect for tent camping amid nature's tranquility.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book online in advance to secure your spot at the limited Fairhaven Campground.
  • Plan your visit outside of peak seasons for a better chance at availability.
  • Keep an eye on the Parks Victoria website for any cancellations or newly available spots.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative stays close to the park.

When to go

The best time to visit French Island National Park is during spring when wildflowers bloom and migratory birds abound. Winter offers a chance to spot whales and penguins. Be mindful of the summer heat and prepare for cooler temperatures and potential closures during the fire season.

Know before you go

  • Ross River virus is present on the island; carry insect repellent to protect yourself.
  • Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife, including snakes and lizards.
  • Access to the park is by ferry; check the timetable and weather conditions before your trip.
  • There are no open fires allowed; bring a portable gas stove for cooking.
  • First aid facilities are limited; ensure you have a well-equipped first aid kit.

100%
9 Ratings · 4 reviews