The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous coastal drives, with stunning ocean views, dramatic scenery, and loads of outdoor activities. 243 km of Victoria’s southern coast isn’t just about the drive; it’s a camper’s paradise. From family-friendly holiday parks to secluded campsites surrounded by ancient forests, camping along the Great Ocean Road has something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re pitching a tent under koala trees or parking your caravan on the beach, the nights will be unforgettable.
Why Camp on the Great Ocean Road?
Camping on the Great Ocean Road means you can get up close and personal with the region’s natural wonders. Unlike hotels and resorts, camping gives you direct access to the area’s best bits. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves at Johanna Beach, walking ancient forest trails in the Otway National Park or spotting wildlife at Kennett River. It’s a budget-friendly way to experience Great Ocean Road and have memories that will last a lifetime.
Camping also means flexibility—whether you like rustic hike-in campsites or luxury holiday parks with hot shower blocks and camp kitchens, the Great Ocean Road has it all. The region’s coastal towns, like Apollo Bay and Aireys Inlet, are great for restocking supplies and trying local food, and the coastal tracks and cliff-top views offer endless options for walking.
Best Campsites
Port Campbell Recreation Reserve
In the heart of Port Campbell township, this campground is the perfect place to base yourself and explore the Great Ocean Road’s most famous landmarks, including the Twelve Apostles, London Arch, and Loch Ard Gorge. There are a range of camping options with both powered and unpowered sites to suit. Modern amenities, including clean toilets, hot showers and laundry, make for a comfortable stay, and the peaceful riverside location is perfect for relaxing.
For families or longer stays, the proximity to local shops, restaurants and cafes makes stocking up or having a meal out easy. Nature lovers can use the reserve’s central location to access walking trails, scenic views and nearby beaches. Whether solo or with a group, Port Campbell Recreation Reserve is the go-to for convenience and natural beauty.
Princetown Recreation Reserve
Located where the Gellibrand River meets the Southern Ocean, Princetown Recreation Reserve is a peaceful campground surrounded by greenery and wildlife. It is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with many native species calling the reserve home, and the river is great for fishing and kayaking.
Located near Port Campbell National Park, the reserve is a great base from which to explore the Great Ocean Road’s famous landmarks. Visitors can also take leisurely coastal walks with trails offering stunning views of the coastline. With its peaceful atmosphere and access to both natural wonders and local attractions, Princetown Recreation Reserve is a hidden gem for nature lovers.
Johanna Beach Campground
Known for its dramatic coastline and big waves, Johanna Beach Campground is a surfers and beach lovers paradise. Situated along the wild Southern Ocean, this campground has unpowered sites nestled in native bush. It’s part of the Great Otway National Park so you have direct access to some of the region’s most beautiful walking trails and lookouts.
Johanna Beach is a surfer’s paradise and a place to get up close and personal with Victoria’s coastline. Campers love spending evenings under the stars listening to the waves crashing. The area is unspoilt and close to nature, so it’s perfect for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Aire River East and West Campgrounds
Situated in the beautiful Aire Valley, these campgrounds are perfect for getting back to nature. Surrounded by coastal forest and the Aire River, the sites offer stunning views for kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing by the water. Both Aire River East and West Campgrounds have well-maintained camping areas, so you can have a comfortable stay in the bush.
Nearby, you can walk ancient rainforest trails that are home to native wildlife and bird life. The Aire Crossing Campsite is another great option if you want to get deeper into the valley. With all the activities and peacefulness of the Aire River, it’s a must-see for nature lovers.
Bimbi Park – Camping Under Koalas
Bimbi Park is the ultimate camping experience, where you can camp under the eucalyptus trees with the koalas above you. Located in Great Otway National Park, the park has something for all types of campers, from hike-in sites to deluxe cabins. Facilities include hot showers, gas cookers, and family-friendly activities like wildlife spotting and guided bushwalks.
This eco-friendly destination is full of natural beauty and offers families an educational experience about the local flora and fauna. Whether you want adventure or relaxation, Bimbi Park has it all.
Blanket Bay Campground
Accessible by a scenic drive through the Great Otway National Park, Blanket Bay Campground is a secluded spot for those who want to get away from it all. Overlooking the Southern Ocean, this peaceful spot has stunning views and a sense of connection to nature. The campground has unpowered sites, so you can really get back to nature and away from the crowds.
Popular activities include fishing in the bay, hiking along the coastline, and exploring the nearby cliffs and coves. The peacefulness and views make Blanket Bay a favourite among those looking for a break from modern life.
Stevensons Falls Campground
Located in the heart of Beech Forest Stevensons Falls Campground is a hidden treasure known for its namesake waterfall that cascades through the trees. This picturesque spot has unpowered camping sites for those who like a rustic and peaceful experience. The falls are a short walk from the campsite so you can take some great photos and go for a nature walk.
The area is full of flora and fauna, so it’s a birdwatchers’ and wildlife lovers’ paradise. With limited crowds and plenty of space, Stevensons Falls Campground is a peaceful retreat.
Jamieson Creek Campground
Jamieson Creek Campground, between Lorne and Aireys Inlet, offers a mix of coastal views and forest adventure. This basic campsite has unpowered sites for those who want to get back to nature. With its location, you can walk to nearby beaches, trek through the forest, or just chill out in the peace.
The area is full of wildlife, and whether you’re walking cliff-top trails or sitting around the campfire at night, Jamieson Creek is a must for outdoor lovers.
Marengo Holiday Park
Just outside Apollo Bay Marengo Holiday Park has everything you need. Powered sites, deluxe cabins and caravan parks, something for everyone. Families will love the park’s proximity to local attractions including beaches and mountain biking trails.
Marengo Holiday Park is also a great base from which to explore the Great Otway National Park and nearby Shelly Beach. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing break, this holiday park has it all.
BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park
Cumberland River Holiday Park
Situated under towering cliffs, Cumberland River Holiday Park is one of the most beautiful camping spots on the Great Ocean Road. Surrounded by bush and the tranquil Cumberland River, we have powered sites and cabins to choose from.
Walk the cliff tops, relax by the river or head out to Lorne and Apollo Bay. Our location and facilities make us the perfect choice for campers who want a bit of adventure and comfort.
Best Time to Camp
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are the best times to camp on the Great Ocean Road. These months have mild weather, fewer people, and the natural scenery is in full bloom – wildflowers in spring and autumn colours in autumn. Summer is beach camping season, but it’s busy, especially in tourist areas like Apollo Bay and Port Campbell. Winter is quiet but has its own charm with waterfalls, misty forests and campfire nights.
Things to Do While Camping
Stargazing
The remote locations of the Great Ocean Road are perfect for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, you can see the Milky Way, constellations and even meteor showers.
Wildlife Spotting
Kangaroos graze near Port Campbell, and koalas lounge in trees at Bimbi Park. Kennett River is a hotspot for parrots and other native birds.
Hiking
Walk ancient rainforest trails, coastal tracks, and iconic landmarks. The Great Ocean Walk offers multi-day hikes with hike-in GOW campsites or shorter day walks near Beauchamp Falls and Stevensons Falls.
Beach Time
FAQ
What do I need to bring camping on the Great Ocean Road?
Tent, sleeping bag, cooking gear, gas cookers, food and water. If camping at hike-in sites, lightweight gear is recommended.
Do I need to pay camping fees at all sites?
Most sites have fees, especially in National Parks. Some, like Johanna Beach, have free unpowered sites. Check individual sites for details.
Can I camp in winter?
Yes, winter camping is possible and quiet. Bring warm clothing, waterproof gear and extra blankets for cold nights.
Are there campgrounds with hot showers?
Yes, sites like BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park and Marengo Holiday Park have hot shower blocks and other modern facilities.
Is there mobile reception at campsites?
Mobile reception. Limited to none at Blanket Bay and Aire River.
