30 October 2023
5 mins Read
The 243-kilometre stretch of road that runs between Torquay and Allansford is actually the world’s largest war memorial – it was built by return First World War servicemen and 2019 marked the centenary of commencement of construction.
Along the road you’ll discover beautiful little seaside towns with a rich maritime history and deserted beaches. Popular nature activities include bushwalking, surfing, mountain biking, canoeing and koala-spotting. There’s also excellent food and wine and shopping.
Don’t miss our Secret accommodation of the Great Ocean Road or the Secret Road Trips of the Great Ocean Road if you are looking for more Great Ocean Road tips.
The natural beauty of this area draws visitors from far and wide. To truly drink in the stunning scenery, camping is a great way to go.
Simon Williams at Great Ocean Road Adventure Tours has made a career out of introducing visitors to the best spots along this beautiful stretch of coastline. Here he shares some of his secret favourite camping sites with us.
Just a short drive beyond the popular resort town of Lorne is this truly excellent camping spot. There is great bushwalking around the beautifully grassed camp site.
Walks from here are some of the best in the area and extend up into the Great Otway National Park. The beach opposite is spectacular and the river that runs through the campground has some great areas to relax in and cool down on hot summer days.
If pitching a tent doesn’t appeal there are some well-appointed cabins onsite.
Cumberland River Holiday Park
This is a very small campsite right near the ocean. It’s also free, which adds to its appeal. Note that it is very basic (i.e. no toilets, running water or barbecues), so you’ll need to come well prepared.
This popular scout camp set in more than 300 hectares of beautiful natural bush is 35 kilometres from Geelong and two kilometres from the popular beach in Anglesea.
It’s an excellent spot if you’re into mountain biking.
The camp is set high on the cliffs and offers spectacular views of the ocean and the township of Anglesea.
As well as cabins and bunk dorms there are a couple of good bush camping sites where you can sleep under the stars.
Eumeralla is a popular scout camp by day
This is a well-maintained park with good access to the beach and lovely views back towards nearby Apollo Bay.
It’s also dog-friendly and has good facilities. The shops of Apollo Bay are reasonably close which is handy if you’re not a well organised camper and you need to be close to supplies.
Marengo Holiday Park offers as many bells and whistles as camping can
This part of the world is known as koala country, and you’re a good chance here (and at nearby Grey River) to spot a few of our furry friends. The beach at Kennett River has reasonable surf (particularly good for beginners) and the campground is set right across from the beach. There’s also a decent little cafe and store here.
If you want to get off the beaten track, Simon recommends the Great Ocean Walk, which runs between Apollo Bay and the 12 Apostles. Along the way you’ll discover some remote and rarely visited camping spots. Many of these are hike-in campsites and are fuel-stove only, you’ll also need to remember to bring your own drinking water and good hiking shoes.
You’ll need to get a camping permit at least two weeks before you start your hike here. Some of Simon’s favourite spots along this route are:
This is basic, beautiful bush camping right on the beach. It’s remote and peaceful and there’s plenty of shade. It’s a popular spot for diving.
The beach here is spectacular and is a great place for canoeing, fishing and just sitting on the bridge as the sun goes down. There’s lots of birdlife and at one end you’re able to light fires.
This location is super popular with surfers as it’s one of the country’s best breaks. As such it’s considered to be one of the best beach camping spots along the Great Ocean Road. The 25-pitch campsite is tucked away behind sand dunes and has non-flushing toilets only.
If you want to whale watch in Warrnambool: Logan’s Beach in Warrnambool is a hotspot for whale watching. Surfside Holiday Park is not far from Logan’s Beach and has powered and unpowered campsites available. There’s also a good camp kitchen and laundries (as well as cabins if you’re not up for pitching your tent).
Surfside Holiday Park is not far from Logan’s Beach
If you want to check out the world-famous Bells Beach surf break: The Jan Juc Caravan Park is about as close as you’re going to get. There are barbecues, powered and unpowered campsites and cabins available. Book early, as this spot is popular.
If you want to spend time at the 12 Apostles: Your best bet is to head to Port Campbell which is about 10 minutes away from this incredible natural wonder (and is also a good spot to stock up on supplies). The Port Campbell Recreation Reserve has some good amenities, hot showers, nice views of the Campbell Creek estuary and a decent camp kitchen.
Expect your basic camping facilities at Port Campbell Recreation Reserve
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