If you're a last-minute planner, here are some options for great camping getaways during your long weekend.
When the city’s hustle and bustle becomes a tad overwhelming, what could be better than a quick escape to the great outdoors?
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking to dip your toes into the camping experience, the surrounds of Melbourne has an array of camping spots that offer the perfect weekend getaway.
The best camping spots near Melbourne
From coastal escapes to tranquil forests and rugged riverfronts, there’s something for everyone in this curated list of Melbourne’s finest camping destinations, with some of the closest being just an hour’s drive away from the CBD. Happy camping!
Tidal River at Wilson’s Promontory
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- Main Rd, Wilsons Promontory
- 3 hour drive from Melbourne
Camping at Tidal River offers the whole package of outdoor experiences. Looking to hang with a wombat or two? Chances are you’ll bump into some there. Perhaps you’re keen on going on a hike? You’re in luck, because the camping grounds at Tidal River edge towards the starting point of the Great Prom Walk, an overnight trek arriving at the most southerly point on the Australian mainland by sunrise. To cap it off, Fairy Cove – one of Melbourne’s best secret beaches – is just a short walk away.
Toolangi State Forest
- Sylvia Creek Road, Toolangi
- 1 hour drive from Melbourne
In the vast forest of Toolangi, you’ll find several main camping areas scattered around to set up for the weekend. To the north, check out Murrundindi Reserve for its proximity to waterfalls and riverside camping. For more seclusion, cross the old suspension bridge and head to Two Hills for a leveled campground surrounded by reaching trees.
Wombat State Forest
- Corner Track, Ashbourne
- 1 hour drive from Melbourne
Barely an hour out of the city, Wombat State Forest is perfect for a quick and easy getaway. Skirted by The Great Dividing Range, the area is surrounded by extinct volcanoes hidden within the forest. And if the weather heats up and you’re keen to cool off, it’s not too far from Lederderg Gorge to take a dip.
Gentle Annie Reserve at Labertouche
- 98 Gentle Annie Ln, Whitfield
- 3 hour drive from Melbourne
Situated in the luscious high country, Gentle Annie is a lesser known camping ground amongst the often busier areas surrounding Labertouche. Expect ice cold rivers and easy half-a-day hikes through the expansive rainforest.
Kurth Kiln Regional Park
- Kurth Kiln Regional Park, Gembrook
- 1.5 hour drive from Melbourne
Kurth Kiln was once home to a giant chimney, used to make coal during World War II. Long out of use, it now acts a curious centrepiece to this much loved spot. If your four-legged friend is after a camping adventure too, it’s the closest camp site to the city that allows dogs. Isn’t it time your pug got to experience more of the great outdoors too?
Mount Buffalo National Park in Bright
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- Mount Buffalo National Park, Mount Buffalo Rd, Mount Buffalo
- 4 hour drive from Melbourne
Mount Buffalo sounds like the location of a shootout between Clint Eastwood and some hapless outlaw, which as far as I’m concerned only makes this hidden gem greater. A dependable campsite for all seasons, the park really shines when it blooms with countless wildflowers in the summer months. Camp down near Lake Catani for easy access swimming and hike up into the mountainside for some incredible vistas.
O’Briens Crossing at Werribee Gorge State Park
- 204 Myers Rd, Pentland Hills
- 1 hour drive away from Melbourne
For the best of both worlds, set up camp at O’Briens crossing – one of the more quiet and secluded spots around summer hotspot Werribee Gorge. During the day, you can spend a sunny afternoon trekking down to Meikles Point, or try your hand at rock climbing over at Falcons Lookout.
Johanna Beach
- Red Johanna Rd, Johanna
- 3 hour drive from Melbourne
Take a classic road trip towards the Great Ocean Road and head out to Johanna Beach. As well as some flat grassy land designated for camping, the site is a stone’s through away from one of Victoria’s best surf beaches.
Cumberland River
- Cumberland River, Victoria
- 3 hour drive from Melbourne
Another gem nestled in front of the Great Ocean Road, move on towards Cumberland River for pristine campgrounds situated alongside the river opening. Surrounded by rugged cliff face and countless walking tracks, a solid hike will also lead you to a windswept surf beach where the river opens up into the Bass Strait.
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