There are several free camping locations spread out around Victoria that are perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life in Melbourne and recharging your batteries. This time away is priceless in and of itself, but knowing that it is completely priceless is icing on the cake.
Here's a list to get you started planning your next free camping trip, which includes plenty of beach camping, many stops along the magnificent Great Ocean Road, and free camping locations within a stone's throw away from Melbourne.
It doesn't matter what time of year it is, the wilderness of Victoria, Canada, is a great place to pitch a tent and spend some time in nature. Numerous paid and free campgrounds may be found around the state of Victoria, with many of them being within reasonable driving distance of Melbourne.
Site for Overnight Camping Near Melbourne Attractions
The beauty of the outdoors is that it can be appreciated by people of all skill levels and interests, from seasoned campers to glamping rookies to those who have never left the city. Most importantly, keep in mind that you are not in your personal backyard, but rather a common environment.
Be courteous, pack up all of your trash, and pay attention to Parks Victoria's travel advisories and closures if you plan on spending the night at any of these fantastic campsites in and around Victoria.
Meredith Park, Lake Colac
The large campground that is Meredith Park in Lake Colac is situated adjacent to a beautiful lake. The sunsets, fishing, convenience, and (although) chilly water are all free for the taking. The free campground also has restrooms, drinking water, and wood-burning barbeque pits.
Location: 175 Meredith Park Road, Ondit
Stevenson's Falls
Stevensons Falls is a free and family-friendly camping location within the Great Otway Forest, conveniently located just off the Great Ocean Road. Picnic tables, fireplaces, restrooms, and parking for RVs are just some of the amenities offered at this campground. You now have a new option for a restful outdoor excursion in Stevensons Falls. Stevenson's Falls Campground is located on the Gellibrand River. The Douglas Fir trees provide shade for around half of the campsites. The local kangaroos are responsible for keeping the campground's lawn in pristine condition.
Location: Upper Gellibrand Road, Barramunga
Plantation Campground
On Mount Zero Road, you'll discover Plantation Campground. Thirty campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the campground. Therefor, if you're going that route, you should probably pitch a tent before venturing out.
You'll need to carry your own supply of drinking water if you plan to stay at Plantation Campground. However, restrooms are conveniently located nearby. The Plantation is a free campground that brilliantly highlights the beauty of The Grampians National Park, a popular destination for Melburnians.
This is a fantastic setting, within driving distance of several scenic areas like Halls Gap. With such a vast area, the Grampians offer a wide variety of activities, from leisurely strolls to thrilling rock climbing for the more daring.
Location: Mount Zero Road, Halls Gap
Aire Crossing
Aire Crossing Campground is a tranquil oasis in Great Otway National Park, located just to the north of the waterfalls. The campsite is surrounded by a lush native forest and numerous large waterfalls, providing a tranquil and free natural refuge. You can go on a number of walks that are sure to be enjoyable, or you can simply find a peaceful location to relax and take in some wholesome air.
Location: Halls Ridge Road, Johanna
Andersons Garden
The Anderson's Garden Campground is a free facility located inside the Mount Disappointment State Forest. The campground is named after a famous gold mining family and is popular all year since it allows pets and is surrounded by great trails for motorcycles and four-wheel vehicles. It's advised that you carry your own water supply or the means to purify water.
It would be a mistake to assume that the Mount Disappointment State Forest, where the free Andersons Garden campsite is located, would be anything but pleasant. The fact that it's free is perhaps the finest part about this camping spot spot is its proximity to Melbourne, a mere hour away. However, this also means that it gets extremely crowded. Explore the area on foot, cast a line, or ride your bike through beautiful scenery.
Location: Boundary Road, Clonbinane
Aberfeldy River
Aberfeldy River, situated in the picturesque Baw Baw National Park, is arguably one of the nicest places in Australia. spots for free camping Melbourne people in the area can appreciate. Aside from the usual perks of riverside living, this location is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts because of the unspoilt path leading up Mount St. Gwinear.
The perfect city escape that isn't too far out of Melbourne. It's a long way off, though. You should get there early because there are just eight campsites available at the Aberfeldy River camping area. The campground is only accessible by 4WD vehicles and is not designed for caravans, so be sure to pack everything you need for your stay. There are fireplaces and a restroom that doesn't require water flushing.
Location: Aberfeldy River, Baw Baw
Meredith Park
Meredith Park, located on the shore of Lake Colac, is a wonderful place to relax and unwind. Depending on the time of year and the amount of rainfall, it may not be a particularly long walk to the lake. A boat launch is also accessible for anyone interested in exploring the water. There are several shady spots, and campfire grills can be lit with wood. Don't forget to bring the wood.
Location: Meredith Park Road, Ondit
Marengo Holiday Park, Apollo Bay
In fact, you don't even have to leave Marengo Holiday Park to reach one of the Great Ocean Road's whitest, shiniest beaches. Instead, you may go to a surf school, do yoga on the beach, or rent a sea kayak in the town of Apollo Bay, all of which are accessible on foot.
Location: Great Ocean Rd Apollo Bay
Cumberland River Holiday Park
Indicative of its scenic merits, a campground advertises itself as a wedding photo destination. Stunning natural scenery can be seen close to the mouth of the Cumberland River, rather than any artificial sunset backdrops. The campground is surrounded by craggy cliffs, the Great Ocean Road, and excellent walking paths. Plan ahead if you want a nice location along the river.
One of the most popular camping destinations, Cumberland River Holiday Park is set along the banks of the Cumberland River amidst verdant woodlands sites near Melbourne. The campsite is located in an area of surreal beauty, surrounded by Craggy Cliffs. The accommodations here range from tent sites and RV parks to riverfront condos, and they all come at reasonable costs and with comparable amenities. Visit some local cliffs, go on a hike in the woods, and cool off in some rock pools.
Location: 2680 Great Ocean Rd Lorne Melbourne 3232
Mount Franklin Reserve
Mount Franklin Reserve in Victoria, Australia is a free and unique camping destination in a volcanic crater. Mount Franklin is a great destination for "glampers" since it offers modern conveniences like flush toilets, fireplaces, and running water. While at Mount Franklin Reserve, camp besides a volcano crater and visit Daylesford, a charming country town with plenty of cafes, bars, and unique stores surrounded by lush deciduous trees.
The environment is stunning, but what really sets it apart is the profound peace and quiet special in the list of best camping spots near Melbourne. Spend a relaxing weekend in the woods, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Picnic tables and barbeque grills powered by wood will make your weekend that much better.
Location: 4 Powells Lane, Mount Franklin
Toolangi Recreation Reserve
Toolangi Recreation Reserve is a free campground on the Yea River that is surprisingly large for its size. It's surrounded by towering gum trees and is one of the best free camping locations in Victoria. Sculpture Trial is only one of many interesting locations in Toolangi State Forest. Bring Fido along; this is a dog-friendly establishment.
Location: Healesville- Kinglake Road, Toolangi
Acheron
Acheron, a free camping area in a beautiful setting besides the Goulburn River, is one of the best simple pleasures that Victoria has to offer. Fern, wattle, Manna Gum, and Mountain Ash populate the rich, dark forest that extends in all directions from here. If you're an angler, this campground is ideal, but there are no amenities spots for swimming or toilets.
Location: Maroondah Highway, St Fillans
Gunbower Island
Do you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for the weekend? To refresh your mind and spirit, visit Gunbower National Park. Located on the Murray River's flood plains, this area is surrounded by State Forest, including River Red Gum and Black Box forest, as well as grasslands, billabongs, streams, and swamps. It is recommended to bring all sorts of camping equipment with you, as this is a primitive campsite.
Traveling to this free campground on Gunbower Island is a bit of a trek from Melbourne, but the destination is definitely worth it. Take a break amid the Red River Gum Trees or go for a swim in the Murray River after listening to music for three hours straight. Canine companions are welcome despite the absence of human conveniences.
Location: Island Road, Gunbower
Tidal River, Wilsons Promontory
Up to three thousand campers can stay here at once, making it the largest national park campsite in the state. So, where are they all hiding out? There is still enough of quiet room to enjoy the sunset over the Tidal River, despite the throngs of people who flock to the beach and surrounding hiking trails. Enjoy a flick at the outdoor cinema Alternatively, you can catch a live performance by wombats, wallabies, and echidnas in the campground.
Tucked away in beautiful Wilsons Promontory National Park is the Tidal River Campground popular choice for camping grounds near Melbourne, Australia. Campers have their pick of a wide variety of sites, including those near water, in parks, and in forests.
Location: Wilson's Promontory National Park
Reeves Beach
Is it possible to set up a tent straight on the sand? Reeves Beach in South Gippsland is a place where this is possible. Although there is no electricity or phone service in Reeves, there are restrooms available. Try to see any whales or dolphins out in the water.
Location: Reeves Beach Road, Woodside
Kurth Kiln
Kurth Kiln is a free, dog-friendly, and secluded outdoor space that is ideal for recharging your batteries without having to travel too far. The campground's minimal facilities mean that you'll have to make the most of your time there. No hot water is available, and you'll need to bring your own firewood. Inhale the clean air, and take advantage of the neighbouring scenic walkways.
If you're looking for a camping spot that won't break the bank, pick Kurth Kiln near Melbourne. Located in the woods of Kurth Kiln Regional Park, this camping area can accommodate 40 tents. You'll need to bring your own firewood and camping gear to Kurth Kiln, as there are only limited facilities available.
One of the few campgrounds in the Melbourne area that allows pets. Beautiful birds, like as the yellow-tailed black cockatoo, echidna, swamp wallaby, and wombat, can sometimes be spotted in this area.
Location: 90 minutes west of Melbourne
Johanna Beach, Great Ocean Road
You can count on good waves. The Rip Curl Pro surfing competition, scheduled for 16–25 April, will be moved to Johanna Beach if Bells Beach is completely flat. According to the tournament's website, "Johanna will pick up any swell in the Southern Ocean." To paraphrase, "if the sandbanks are in good shape, you can get some of the best beaches in the world to break waves out there."
Back behind the beach, on the wide grassy area, is the best free camping spot along the entire Great Ocean Road. Camping at Johanna Beach is the pinnacle of beach camping. This is a great area to rest and refuel before continuing on the breathtaking Great Ocean Road. Free camping at Johanna Beach is possible at one of twenty-five sites; however, there are no flush toilets, running water, or showers. The amenities are bare bones, but the location is superb.
Location: Great Otway National Park Johanna
Mount Franklin
Would you like to spend the night in a volcanic crater? If that's the case, Mount Franklin is where you want to set up camp. Mount Franklin stands out among the cleared fields like a sore thumb; the peak is forested with pine trees, making for a pleasant, wind-free camping experience. There are lots of shaded places, as well as barbeque grills, to choose from.
Location: Mount Franklin Road, Mount Franklin
Toolangi Recreation Reserve
A great place to unwind is in the Toolangi Recreation Reserve, where you can enjoy the hills and the Yea River. On the cricket oval, surrounded by Mountain Ash trees, is a free camping. At the campground, you'll find tank water, flushing toilets, electric barbecues, and a covered picnic area with tables.
Location: Cherry Lane, Toolangi
Otway Forest Park
The Falls of Stevenson In the heart of the Great Ocean Road, Otway Forest Park is a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The stunning Stevensons Falls may be seen from here across the Gellibrand River. There's enough space for 50 tents, including wood-burning barbeque pits and picnic tables, at this camping area.
Location: Upper Gellibrand Rd, Barramunga.
Blue Pool
Blue Pool Campground is located in the beautiful Briagolong State Forest in East Gippsland. The swimming hole in Freestone Creek is famous for its crystal pure water. There are many trails that wind through the lush foliage of the tropical forest. As the only campground in the woods that offer flush toilets, you'll want to reserve your spot soon because it fills up fast.
The Briagolong State Forest is home to the tranquil Blue Pool. Make yourself at home in the shaded campground, complete with a fire pits, picnic tables and drop toilet. Blue Pool, a great place to cool off in the summer, is a short walk from the campground.
Location: 3 hours northeast of Melbourne
Butts Reserve
Butts Reserve is a collection of sites in a rocky outcrop near the base of Mount Tarrengower. In close proximity to the historic town of Maldon, this location makes for a convenient home base for a day trip. Aside from the standard fare of picnic tables and barbeque grills, campers can also take advantage of the sanitary facilities and running water. Two-wheel drive vehicles and caravans are welcome at Butts Reserve.
Location: Mount Tarrengower Road, Maldon
Lake Catani
Butts Reserve is a collection of sites in a rocky outcrop near the base of Mount Tarrengower. In close proximity to the historic town of Maldon, this location makes for a convenient home base for a day trip. Aside from the standard fare of picnic tables and barbeque grills, campers can also take advantage of the sanitary facilities and running water.
Two-wheel drive vehicles and caravans are welcome at Butts Reserve place to enjoy camping near Melbourne. You can visit the camp anytime between November and April. However, autumn is the greatest time to explore this otherworldly camping place because of the mild temperatures and refreshing air.
Snow gum trees and alpine ashes add to the beauty of this spot, which is located on the Mount Buffalo Plateau in the middle of Mount Buffalo National Park. People from the area like to come here for day trips, and many of them spend the night camping by the shore of the beautiful green lake.
Location: Mount Buffalo National Park
Camping at the Poplars
The Poplars Campground is located in the Loch Valley of western Gippsland. European poplars and Manna Gums form a natural border around the campground. The campground is conveniently located near numerous attractions, such as trout fishing, horseback riding, and 4x4 driving. The campground has 20 sites, as well as restrooms, a covered gathering area, and picnic tables.
Location: Loch Valley Road, Loch Valley
The Grampians
Plantation The Grampians is another Melbourne camping site, and it features 30 fully prepared campers, picnic spots, barbeque pits, and a bush shower. Sandstone cliffs create a bizarre backdrop for this location. As the park's largest and free camping area, Grampians National Park is a great place to spend the night under the stars. Your camping equipment is required, though.
Location: Mt Zero Rd, Halls Gap, Melbourne, VIC 3381, Australia
Marengo Holiday Park
Marengo Holiday Park is a beautiful coastal campground not far from Melbourne. Camping near the beach is an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the ocean and pristine white sand.
There are both powered and unpowered grass level sites, and some of them have ocean views that will take your breath away. This campground has it everything, including a large camp kitchen, an adventure playground, a BBQ pit, and even WiFi for the cabin renters. You may also take a leisurely stroll down to Apollo Bay to stock up on all the necessities for a memorable camping trip.
Location: Coast Rd, French Island, Melbourne
Conclusion
Get away from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne at one of the many free camping spots located throughout Victoria. If you're planning on spending the night at one of these amazing campsites, please be respectful of your neighbours, pack up all of your waste, and pay attention to any travel advisories or closures posted by Parks Victoria. The Aire Crossing Campground in Great Otway National Park is a peaceful haven. Inside the Mount Disappointment State Forest is where you'll find the Andersons Garden camping area. Camping in Baw Baw National Park is among the best you can do without breaking the bank in all of Australia.
The tranquilly of Meredith Park on the shores of Lake Colac is unparalleled. To go camping in the Melbourne area, many people choose Cumberland River Holiday Park. Mount Franklin Reserve is a special place to camp because it is located in the crater of an extinct volcano in Victoria, Australia. Taking in the sights and sounds of nature during a weekend is a great way to unwind. You can camp for free at a surprisingly spacious campground on the Yea River at the Toolangi Recreation Reserve.
Despite the lack of human comforts, canine friends are accepted on Acheron. If you're looking for a campground not too far from Melbourne, Australia, consider Tidal River Campground. One of the few local campgrounds that welcomes pets is Tidal River. Kurth Kiln and Reeves Beach, both located close to Melbourne, are great options if you're in search of some peace and quiet. Park of Great Otway, Australia.
It's easy to relax in Johanna. Location: Blue Pool Campground, Briagolong State Forest. Hikers and nature watchers alike can find safety in Otway Forest Park. This camping spot can accommodate 50 tents. Sites in Butts Reserve are located on a rocky outcrop not far from Mount Tarrengower's foot.
Set in the beautiful Loch Valley of western Gippsland lies the Poplars Campground. Located smack dab in the midst of Mount Buffalo National Park, Lake Catani sits atop the Mount Buffalo Plateau. The beachfront Marengo Holiday Park is a lovely campground not too far from Melbourne. Sunsets and sunrises at a coastal campsite are unlike anything else. There are 30 fully equipped campgrounds, picnic areas, barbeque grills, and a bush shower at Grampians National Park.
Content Summary
- When you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne and recharge your batteries, head to one of the many free camping spots located throughout Victoria.
- The woods around Victoria, Canada, is a beautiful area to set up camp and enjoy the outdoors at any time of year.
- Campgrounds, both paid and free, may be found all around Victoria, with several located within a day's drive of Melbourne.
- Ondit Stevenson's Falls, at 175 Meredith Park Road Located in the Great Otway Forest not far from the Great Ocean Road, Stevensons Falls is a free and family-friendly camping spot.
- A new tranquil outdoor activity awaits you in Stevensons Falls.
- The Gellibrand River is home to the Stevenson's Falls Campground.
- If you wish to stay at Plantation Campground, you should bring your own supply of drinking water.
- Camp for free at The Plantation, a site that does a fantastic job of showcasing the natural splendour of The Grampians National Park, a favourite destination for residents of Melbourne.
- The precise location is Halls Ridge Road, Johanna Andersons Garden. Inside the Mount Disappointment State Forest lies the no-cost Anderson's Garden Campground.
- You should either bring enough of water with you or the means to purify water.
- Don't let the name of the state forest where the free Andersons Garden campsite is located fool you; Mount Disappointment State Forest is a beautiful place.
- Aberfeldy River, Baw Baw. In the Meredith Park The tranquilly of Meredith Park on the shores of Lake Colac is unparalleled.
- Meredith Park Road, Ondit, Nigeria Park, Marengo Holiday Park, Apollo Bay You can stay at Marengo Holiday Park and still be within walking distance to one of the Great Ocean Road's finest stretches of sand.
- Great Ocean Road is the address. In the Bay of Apollo The Cumberland River Vacation Park A campground's promotion as a place to take wedding pictures is a testament to the natural beauty of the area.
- Cumberland River Holiday Park, one of the most popular camping spots, is located in the Melbourne area, on the banks of the Cumberland River, amidst lush wooded settings.
- Get out and explore the nearby cliffs, forests, and rock pools.
- The location is beautiful, but the extreme tranquilly it offers makes it stand out as one of the best camping locations in the vicinity of Melbourne.
- Taking in the sights and sounds of nature during a weekend is a great way to unwind.
- Surrounded by towering gum trees, this is one of the best free camping spots in Victoria.
- Toolangi State Forest is home to a wide variety of exciting destinations, including the Sculpture Trial.
- The precise address is Healesville- Kinglake Road, Toolangi. One of the finest simple pleasures that Victoria has to offer is Acheron Acheron, a free camping place in a picturesque setting along the Goulburn River.
- Visiting Gunbower National Park is a great way to clear your head and relax your soul.
- It's a bit of a journey from Melbourne to this free camping on Gunbower Island, but the trip is well worth it.
- The Tidal River Campground is a favourite among campers looking for a spot close to Melbourne, Australia. It is located in the scenic Wilsons Promontory National Park.
- Locale: Wilson's Promontory National Park Here on Reeves Beach, we like to relax. Can a tent be pitched directly on the beach?
- You may do this at Reeves Beach in South Gippsland.
- Woodside, near the end of Reeves Beach Road Keramik Kurth Kiln Kurth Kiln is a great place to get some fresh air without going too far from home because it is free, dog-friendly, and secluded.
- Camping in Kurth Kiln, which is located close to Melbourne, won't empty your wallet.
- In the middle of the forests in Kurth Kiln Regional Park, this camping location has space for 40 tents.
- Because to the scarcity of resources at Kurth Kiln, visitors are advised to bring their own firewood and camping equipment.
- It's one of the few campgrounds around Melbourne that's pet-friendly.
- If Bells Beach is completely flat, the Rip Curl Pro surfing tournament, originally set for April 16-25, will be shifted to Johanna Beach.
- Johanna Beach offers free camping at any of its twenty-five sites; however, the beach does not have any amenities such as restrooms or hot water.
- Where: Great Otway National Park Johanna Mountain of Franklin Do you fancy spending the night in an active volcano?
- Mount Franklin is the place to camp if this is the case.
- Camping is allowed on the cricket oval, which is surrounded by Mountain Ash trees.
- That Pool of Blue Water The East Gippsland region is home to the gorgeous Briagolong State Forest, where Blue Pool Campground may be found.
- You may find the peaceful Blue Pool in the Briagolong State Forest.
- Maldon Lake, near Mount Tarrengower Road Sites in the Catani Butts Reserve are located on a rocky outcrop not far from Mount Tarrengower's foot.
- This site is excellent as a day trip base as it is close to the mediaeval town of Maldon.
- The Butts Reserve location is a great place to camp near Melbourne, and it's accessible by both two-wheel drive vehicles and caravans.
- Between the months of November and April, the camp is open for visitors.
- This picturesque area is situated on the Mount Buffalo Plateau in the heart of Mount Buffalo National Park, and it features snow gum trees and alpine ashes.
- Locals enjoy day trips to this park, and many spend the night camping next to the lush green lake.
- Mount Buffalo National Park, Canada Staying Overnight Under the Poplars Set in the beautiful Loch Valley of western Gippsland lies the Poplars Campground.
- The address is: Loch Valley Road, Loch Valley. Plantation near the Grampians The Grampians is another Melbourne campground with facilities like bush showers, picnic areas, and enough for 30 fully equipped campers.
- Grampians National Park is a fantastic destination to spend the night beneath the stars, with its largest and free camping area.
- But you'll need to bring your own camping gear.
- Postal Address: MT 0 HALLS GAP MELBOURNE VIC 3381 AUSTRALIA Vacation Resort of Marengo The beachfront Marengo Holiday Park is a lovely campground not too far from Melbourne.
- French Island, Melbourne's Coast Road
FAQs About Camping Spot In Melbourne
The Best Things in Life are Free. Melbourne is stacked with free entertainment choices, but you can escape the crowds with a camping holiday. Campsites are found all over the Garden State. Pitch your tent at one of these best spots, each in a different national park. You don't need a 4WD, and best of all, and camping is free.
Small but full of surprises, Toolangi Recreation Reserve is a free camping spot on the banks of the Yea River. One of Victoria's best free camping spots, it is surrounded by towering gum trees. The Toolangi State Forest has many cool spots to discover, like the Sculpture Trial. Bring your dog along, as this spot is pet-friendly.
Sure, it's a minute drive out of Melbourne, but we deserve it in 2021, and it truly is some of the best camping you'll find in Victoria. Holiday Park is on the comfier side of the camping spectrum.
Choose a spot at least 200 feet away from water and the trail. You want to 1) stay out of sight (if possible) of other hikers and 2) give wildlife an unobstructed path to water. One downside of camping near a lake or slow-moving water: bugs. If mosquitoes are a problem, try to select a site where a breeze is stirring.
Camping provides a host of benefits. Simply put, camping is good for you, both in body and mind. Benefits include relationship building, opportunities to learn and develop new skills, unplugging and getting away from screens, connecting with nature, stress reduction, and increasing physical fitness.