The best camping near Ballarat with showers

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Looking for camping near Ballarat, Victoria in Australia with shower facilities? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 512 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a cosy cabin or a spacious tent site, Hipcamp has got you covered. Prices start as low as $11 per night, making it affordable for every budget. Need some recommendations? Check out the top-rated campsites like Shacks at Kardella Park (328 reviews), Toolangi Heights (74 reviews), and Cooinda Burrong Scout Camp (82 reviews). Each campsite offers popular amenities including toilets, showers, and pet-friendly spaces. Plus, you'll have plenty of activities to choose from like biking, fall fun, and horseback riding. So why wait? Start planning your camping adventure with Hipcamp today!

90% (288) 99 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ballarat

3. The Irish affect

94%
(9)
18km from Ballarat · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
There are plenty of bushpaths & ample routes to take around the property and plenty of wild life & our goats, chickens and sheep strolling around which you can feed or pet, We will also have some site extras you can avail of ie learn how to do Drystone walling, we have a toilet and hot shower enmities, (from 7am - 8am and evening from 5pm - 6pm weekend times 8am - 9am and evening 4pm - 5pm ) there's a BBQ and fire pit in the common area also, for those cosy family gatherings, we can tailor an area for your visit, why not ask us via email. Fire pits & seating in each area can supply a small BBQ on request Home grown plants / veg produce for sale, (in season and on availability) Stone bird baths,dog bowls,bee baths,plant pots also for sale. (when available) Firewood & kindling for sale. Eggs for sale fresh daily. Bikes to rent for adults and children. We also have a pool trailer you can rent for those hot weekends ( large tandom with high sides & a tarp inside filled with water) For those into moto cross or there off road bikes or 4x4 off roading there are many trails OUTSIDE THE PROPERTY that you can ride/drive if you bring your own bikes or quads or 4x4s (strictly no riding of motorised bikes or quads on the property its against hipcamp policys) Learn how to build stone, dress stone among other things on offer here. We hope you enjoy your stay & thanks for choosing us. Slàncha 🇮🇪
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night

6. Lalgambook Retreat

100%
(20)
41km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is in a peaceful hidden valley on hilly acreage surrounded by native bush. It is just near the beautiful tourist town of Daylesford in central Victoria and an hour and a half by car from Melbourne. The property features a large dam that is suitable for swimming and canoeing/kayaking. The sites have great views of the water and the undulating bush. The property teems with wildlife and you can spot kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, kookaburras, parrots, eagles, waterbirds and many other bird species on a daily basis. In spring wildflower walks on the property are a highlight but it's enjoyable to explore all year round. The property is a tranquil haven for those looking to enjoy peace and privacy whilst great coffee, food, wineries, sights and shopping are only ten minutes away. We live on the property in an off grid solar house we have built ourselves.
Toilets
Wifi
from 
AU$49
 / night

7. Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park

93%
(15)
66km from Ballarat · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park is a peaceful, private oasis in the heart of the vibrant Victorian Goldfields town of Castlemaine, just 90 minutes from Melbourne. It adjoins Castlemaine’s beautiful 25-hectare Botanical Gardens and the parkland setting, trees, breezes, and birdlife provide a magical holiday backdrop. A winner of multiple tourism awards, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens offers accommodation options for a fun-filled family holiday, a perfect romantic retreat, or a leisurely getaway with friends. You’ll find luxury glamping, spacious villas, a luxury accessible villa, and comfortable cabins, as well as picturesque, pet-friendly powered and unpowered sites. The park enjoys an unsurpassed location. The Botanical Gardens and adjoining nature reserve are the perfect location for an early morning run, a summer picnic, or a visit with the children to an innovative, creative play space. Directly across the road is the popular artisan Mill Complex, with its range of gourmet food outlets, brewery, Viennese-themed coffee house, winery, vintage bazaar, artisan workshops, and much more. To top it off, a couple of friendly country pubs are also just a stroll away. Castlemaine is the perfect base from which to explore Victoria’s Goldfields region and its history, arts culture, renowned wineries (the big reds are especially noted), and spectacular landscapes. The regional city of Bendigo, with its magnificent Goldfields-era architecture, parks, events, and festivals, is an easy half-hour drive away, and towns like Maldon, Clunes, Harcourt, Creswick, Kyneton, Malmsbury, Daylesford and Hepburn are all nearby, offering a choice of wonderful day-trips on scenic back roads. If you’d like to stay closer to your home away from home, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens is a comfortable 15-minute walk from the center of town. Enjoy Castlemaine’s architecture, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and markets. Visit the iconic Theatre Royal, the oldest continually operating theatre on Australia’s mainland, and explore the various beer gardens, pubs, and galleries around the town. For lovers of the great outdoors, there is almost too much to choose from. There are extensive bushland walking and cycling tracks around Castlemaine and further afield, including the renowned Goldfields Track. There is also the 1,400-hectare Mt Alexander Regional Park for bushwalks, picnics, lookouts, and local wildlife. For kids, Castlemaine and the surrounding region is nature’s playground. Get outdoors and explore historic goldmines, rock climbing, watering holes, and family-friendly bike trails and walking tracks. There's also plenty to enjoy at BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park, including a sensory garden designed to connect our guests with the sights, sounds, and scents of nature, a school holiday activity program, and a fun-filled Games Room. Special family holiday moments can be shared around our pizza oven and BBQ, in the "Bush Hut” Camp Kitchen, or sitting around a campfire on a winter's evening. Come and stay in a magical holiday park in the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields and explore a region that truly has something for everyone to enjoy! BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation who are the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we work. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We recognize their continuous relationship to the land and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$60
 / night

8. Hut Amongst The Gum Trees

100%
(23)
51km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging
Closed for summer. Book 3 nights for a 15% discount. Optional extras: night sky astronomy and solar astronomy sessions Perfect place to stay for bird watchers and nature lovers. Also for those interested in exploring the sun through solar telescope or night skies through large Dobsonian telescope The hut has an inside wood heater and verandas this hut makes a cosy stay away. A 40 acre bush block with a Trust for Nature Covenant. This box-ironbark woodland block has 2 dams and plenty of wildlife, a great place for bird watching. A self guided nature walk on the property provides you with an introduction to the local ecosystem. There is also a bird list for the property along with photos and descriptions of some of these birds. There is a makeshift bird hide and binoculars that you can borrow. The hut has a double bed (bedding provided), undercover of the veranda is a gas stove with two burners and a grill, outside a long drop toilet, water tank (not drinkable) but drinkable water will be provided. The hut is close to one of the dams. Only one booking at a time so you won’t be sharing camping site with anyone. Owners live on the property but out of view and ear shot. A picnic set, kettle, camp stove and saucepans available for use. Solar lights inside, internal wood heater outside fire pit. An outdoor camp shower and a composting toilet is located near hut. Basic amount of wood provided for internal heater and cost $10 milk crate of wood for external fire pit, a crate should last a couple of hours. A guided 90 minute star gazing experience using 500mm diameter telescope is offered for $50/session to guests of the antechinus hut. Depending on the time of year you will see galaxies, nebulae, star clusters and planets. This is only offered when conditions allow, clear skies and minimal moon. Note this activity involves use of step ladder due to size of telescope. There is also solar astronomy, view viewing the sun through hydrogen alpha telescope. $30 for 30 minutes. There are great bike rides off and on road, close to Cairn Curran (15km) for fishing and kayaking, also plenty of bushwalks and bird watching sites nearby. Newstead 5km away whilst Daylesford, Maldon and Castlemaine are about 25km away.
Toilets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
AU$75
 / night

10. Geelong Holiday Park

100%
(1)
80km from Ballarat · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.** Just 2km from Geelong CBD and Waterfront, Geelong Holiday Park combines relaxed riverside charm, comfort and convenience— its your ideal base to explore Geelong, Ocean Grove, Torquay, and the Great Ocean Road! Nestled alongside the scenic Barwon River, this park places you right at the heart of one of Coastal Victoria’s most beautiful regions. Just minutes away, you’ll discover Geelong’s vibrant CBD and waterfront, the surf beaches of Ocean Grove, Torquay and the famous Bell's Beach, as well as family favourites like Adventure Park Geelong. With local parks, boutique wineries, and riverside trails at your doorstep, there are endless ways to explore—or simply unwind by the pool and soak up the serene surroundings. Geelong CBD – 7-minutes by car Torquay – 20-minutes by car Ocean Grove Beach – 20-minutes by car Melbourne CBD – 1-hour by car Geelong Accommodation Geelong Holiday Park has accommodation for every traveller, ranging from comfortable, fully self-contained cabins and holiday villas to shady campsites— we have something to suit every need and budget!
Toilets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
AU$59
 / night

12. Rustic Miner’s Cabin

98%
(87)
68km from Ballarat · 6 sites · Lodging
A little slice of heaven ! 11 Acres nestled in a valley in the beautiful Castlemaine goldfields. The property has a main house ,shed ,cottage, Glamping tent site and a dam, and is completely off the grid. Also very close to the popular Expedition pass reservoir and only a few minutes drive to Chewton and Castlemaine. Come and experience the beautiful sunset, Wildlife and tranquility. The cottage itself is furnished and has a cosy open fire place and barrel heater, a small kitchen with basic kitchenware, hot and cold water gas cooking and solar and gas lighting. There is a separate bedroom at the back with a Queen bed and a king single bed. Please note bedding is not provided so please bring a warm sleeping bags or bedding and pillows. There is a adjoining bathroom (accessible from outside) with toilet, vanity and HOT shower. (BYO towels). Please note the bathroom may be shared with my Glamping site guests. (just one other site) The cabin sleeps 3 and you can also bring a tent as well.. Please note this is rustic accommodation and the cabin doesn’t have 240v power only 12v LED lighting and an esky is also provided. Located just 5 mins to local reservoir which is a great place to swim, fish or paddle. Also the popular Red Hill Pub and gold prospecting areas are just up the road and only 10 minutes to historic Castlemaine. Firewood available $30per barrow load. Please message me though the site. Just 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne, 1 hour from Ballarat and 40 minutes from Bendigo.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$193
 / night

13. Shedquarters Bush Escape

100%
(1)
24km from Ballarat · 22 sites · Tents, Lodging
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. With the edge of the Lal Lal State Forest just outside the gate, your nature experience awaits. Bushwalking, mountain bike riding, horse riding are all available throughout the kilometers of bushland tracks. Make memories and bring your horses for some amazing trail rides, walk the peaceful trails immersing in nature with the many birds and animals or maybe just relax by the fires and enjoy the local wildlife and surroundings. Just 1.5 hours from West Melbourne or 50 minutes from Geelong. **Available weekly Friday - Sunday stays.** Things to Do. Bushwalking. Horse Riding - Doran Park Trail Rides is 1 km away and provides arranged horse trail rides, must book in advance. Or bring your own horses to the Shedquarters, there's heaps of room for them to safely and comfortably stay (we are a horse property). Paddocks and a large yard, places to park the float and hay deliveries on request. A homemade grassed arena with jumps available. On the wet days an indoor arena is available to book 5kms away, advanced bookings required. Walk or Ride to - The Shepards Daughters Grave located in the Lal Lal Forest. www.goldfieldsguide.com.au/explore-location/539/grave-of-the-shepherds-daughter/ Lal Lal Falls is 10 kilometers away with BBQ picnic facilities. Hunts Bridge is a free camp area providing fire camp stations for a lovely picnic. The Village of Buninyong is 15kms away. The Farm Gate Shop in Elaine is 7 kms away providing all local produce, and a great place to stock up on the local Meredith Dairy Goats Cheese - in buckets! Local Wineries within driving distance, Clyde Park Winery, Buninyong Winery. Great area for Gold Prospecting. Great place for wood collection, bring the trailer for some hard work (check to see if the forest wood collection is available) Bungal Dam picnic area. Ballan market is held on the second Saturday of the month 9-1pm Ballarat is a 30 minute drive.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$354
 / night

14. Yellow Box Hill

100%
(1)
43km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our home is atop a hill with peaceful and serene 360 degree views to die for. The property in Waterloo is a 200-acre working farm with Murray Grey cattle and Cheviot sheep, and, of course, many kangaroos. We have a campsite available near the house, under a beautiful Yellow Box tree. Power is available if required. Alternatively, one or two bedrooms are available in an independent wing of the house with a private bathroom and toilet. There are cafes and eateries in Beaufort which is only 10 kilometres away. The town also provides a supermarket, hotel, chemist, hardware store, and butcher shop, with many other spots of interest. The railway station has regular services to Ballarat and Melbourne which take 1 to 2 hours journey. The Pyrenees Wine region is also on the doorstep. A public dump point is available in Beaufort. Yellow Box Hill is backed by the State Forest so there are ample walking trails, as well as in the Mt. Cole area. Information about the region is available at the Beaufort Community Resource Centre and Library. Gold detecting is very popular as Waterloo was a gold-mining town in the 1850's. Surely, there has been some left behind! You are welcome to stay a night or a few days, or as arranged.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$129
 / night

15. Moorabool Ridge Vineyard

86%
(7)
50km from Ballarat · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Moorabool Ridge Vineyard and Olive Grove is a 70-acre property in the Moorabool Valley, just 15km from Bannockburn, 31km to Geelong CBD, and 56km to Ballarat. With 1.4km of Moorabool River frontage, rolling vineyard views, and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect escape for nature lovers. The property has a rich history, with a vineyard active for over 25 years. We’re now converting it into a luxury accommodation and wedding venue. For now, guests can enjoy camping with a tent, swag, or van, surrounded by stunning landscapes. What’s here now: 1) Spacious unpowered campsites (flat, easy access, space for 10+ vans) 2) Shower block with two toilets and a simple, clean river-fed shower, a 300 meter walk from campsites. 3) River activities: swimming spots (including one with a slide), canoes, and wading in the shallows of the weir. 4) Large communal fire pit as well as small fire pits, a BBQ and a large bench that can seat 20 people. Things to know: Children are welcome, but please take care around the river. As we’re in a valley, sound travels—please keep music at a considerate level. Unfortunately we cannot have other pets here as we have 2 very friendly golden retrievers on the property. They are likely to pop down and say hello 😊 Nearby, you’ll find some of the region’s best wineries, including Lethbridge Wines, Austins Winery, and Clyde Park—perfect for a meal and a glass of wine. Whether you’re here for a quiet riverside campfire, a swim, or to explore the surrounding vineyards, Moorabool Ridge offers a unique blend of history, nature, and country hospitality.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$91
 / night

17. Creswick Holiday Park

92%
(12)
17km from Ballarat · 65 sites · RVs, Lodging
Creswick is a historic former gold-mining town, located between Ballarat and Daylesford, approximately a 2 hour drive from Melbourne. Creswick offers a number of natural attractions and outdoor activities for visitors, set within an attractive forested area. Creswick Holiday Park is perfectly positioned as a base to explore Djuwang Baring, the newly-opened Creswick Trails mountain bike park, with 60km of trails catering to riders of all abilities. Enjoy bushwalking and scenic drives through the extensive Creswick Regional Park. Visit Calambeen Park which was the town's Chinese camp in the goldmining days and now features lakes which are suitable for fishing or swimming. Park Lake Botanical Reserve, located on the Midland Highway, is a 15-hectare park that was established in 1860 and features a lake, rotunda, established trees, and recreational facilities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$50
 / night

18. Golden Country Motel & Caravan Park

100%
(3)
60km from Ballarat · 36 sites · RVs, Lodging
Explore our range of Maryborough accommodation at Golden Country Motel and Caravan Park, each designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay at Golden Country. Explore our selection of well-appointed cabins, each thoughtfully tailored to meet your needs, whether you’re after a cozy retreat or a family adventure. Experience comfort at our motel, offering a variety of rooms that cater to both solo travelers and families, ensuring a restful and convenient stay. Park your caravan in our expansive, well-appointed sites, offering exceptional facilities and a welcoming community atmosphere for the perfect escape. Golden Country Motel is equipped with a variety of convenient features to enhance your stay. We provide an electric vehicle charger for eco-conscious travelers, ensuring your car is ready for your next adventure. Our pet-friendly policy means you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the trip. Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi available throughout the park. For added convenience, we have a laundry room on-site. Additionally, we are ideally located just 40 meters away from the golf club, which boasts a fantastic restaurant for your dining pleasure.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$66
 / night

19. Newstead Nook

100%
(28)
52km from Ballarat · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is lovely quiet, open bushland block, close to Newstead and Castlemaine. Cairn Curran Reservoir is only a few kilometres away. Pitch a tent or drive your van in. The amazing little shack onsite offers gas cooking facilities and a sofa so you can relax in front of the beautiful little fireplace. There are great opportunities for taking leisurely walks or rides along the gravel roads surrounding the property. What makes this property special is the awesome shack which can be used for cooking and relaxing. It also has dam and incredible variety of birds, so it is a birdwatching mecca. A shower and portable toilet is available onsite. Water safety note: A dam exists within the property and is located close to the camping area. The dam does not have exclusion fencing and may be a hazard to some. This should be considered prior to booking, particularly if you have young children.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$109
 / night

20. Hidden Valley House, Anakie

100%
(24)
51km from Ballarat · 7 sites · Lodging
Hidden Valley House is nestled in Anakie, VIC, set within the scenic Brisbane National Ranges and only a 1-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. Taking into consideration our ethos around sustainability, the cabin is “off-grid” so solar powered with a composting toilet but with all the amenities you need. The cabin has spectacular views overlooking the valley with an abundance of wildlife and has a small creek and several caves which have formed over millions of years. As well as the cabin, we offer a camping area to larger groups that need overflow accommodation if the cabin is not big enough. This makes Hidden Valley House a fantastic option for large groups wanting to have all the comfort and amenities of the cabin, but experience the back-to-basic joy of camping in nature. Set on an 18-acre property at the start of the Brisbane National Ranges, it is home to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, sugar gliders and an abundance of birds including eagles and kookaburras. Furthermore, the land is protected by Trust for Nature and Land for Wildlife offering long-term protection for many ecosystems, species and native wildlife. The property is surrounded by national parks and is only a short drive from charming, historical towns such as Meredith and Steiglitz and only 25mins to Geelong. A number of family-owned wineries are located nearby and within Victoria’s Moorabool Valley winery. AWD/4WD recommended
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$463
 / night

Looking for camping near Ballarat, Victoria in Australia with shower facilities? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 512 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a cosy cabin or a spacious tent site, Hipcamp has got you covered. Prices start as low as $11 per night, making it affordable for every budget. Need some recommendations? Check out the top-rated campsites like Shacks at Kardella Park (328 reviews), Toolangi Heights (74 reviews), and Cooinda Burrong Scout Camp (82 reviews). Each campsite offers popular amenities including toilets, showers, and pet-friendly spaces. Plus, you'll have plenty of activities to choose from like biking, fall fun, and horseback riding. So why wait? Start planning your camping adventure with Hipcamp today!

90% (288) 99 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ballarat

3. The Irish affect

94%
(9)
18km from Ballarat · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
There are plenty of bushpaths & ample routes to take around the property and plenty of wild life & our goats, chickens and sheep strolling around which you can feed or pet, We will also have some site extras you can avail of ie learn how to do Drystone walling, we have a toilet and hot shower enmities, (from 7am - 8am and evening from 5pm - 6pm weekend times 8am - 9am and evening 4pm - 5pm ) there's a BBQ and fire pit in the common area also, for those cosy family gatherings, we can tailor an area for your visit, why not ask us via email. Fire pits & seating in each area can supply a small BBQ on request Home grown plants / veg produce for sale, (in season and on availability) Stone bird baths,dog bowls,bee baths,plant pots also for sale. (when available) Firewood & kindling for sale. Eggs for sale fresh daily. Bikes to rent for adults and children. We also have a pool trailer you can rent for those hot weekends ( large tandom with high sides & a tarp inside filled with water) For those into moto cross or there off road bikes or 4x4 off roading there are many trails OUTSIDE THE PROPERTY that you can ride/drive if you bring your own bikes or quads or 4x4s (strictly no riding of motorised bikes or quads on the property its against hipcamp policys) Learn how to build stone, dress stone among other things on offer here. We hope you enjoy your stay & thanks for choosing us. Slàncha 🇮🇪
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night

6. Lalgambook Retreat

100%
(20)
41km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is in a peaceful hidden valley on hilly acreage surrounded by native bush. It is just near the beautiful tourist town of Daylesford in central Victoria and an hour and a half by car from Melbourne. The property features a large dam that is suitable for swimming and canoeing/kayaking. The sites have great views of the water and the undulating bush. The property teems with wildlife and you can spot kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, kookaburras, parrots, eagles, waterbirds and many other bird species on a daily basis. In spring wildflower walks on the property are a highlight but it's enjoyable to explore all year round. The property is a tranquil haven for those looking to enjoy peace and privacy whilst great coffee, food, wineries, sights and shopping are only ten minutes away. We live on the property in an off grid solar house we have built ourselves.
Toilets
Wifi
from 
AU$49
 / night

7. Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park

93%
(15)
66km from Ballarat · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park is a peaceful, private oasis in the heart of the vibrant Victorian Goldfields town of Castlemaine, just 90 minutes from Melbourne. It adjoins Castlemaine’s beautiful 25-hectare Botanical Gardens and the parkland setting, trees, breezes, and birdlife provide a magical holiday backdrop. A winner of multiple tourism awards, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens offers accommodation options for a fun-filled family holiday, a perfect romantic retreat, or a leisurely getaway with friends. You’ll find luxury glamping, spacious villas, a luxury accessible villa, and comfortable cabins, as well as picturesque, pet-friendly powered and unpowered sites. The park enjoys an unsurpassed location. The Botanical Gardens and adjoining nature reserve are the perfect location for an early morning run, a summer picnic, or a visit with the children to an innovative, creative play space. Directly across the road is the popular artisan Mill Complex, with its range of gourmet food outlets, brewery, Viennese-themed coffee house, winery, vintage bazaar, artisan workshops, and much more. To top it off, a couple of friendly country pubs are also just a stroll away. Castlemaine is the perfect base from which to explore Victoria’s Goldfields region and its history, arts culture, renowned wineries (the big reds are especially noted), and spectacular landscapes. The regional city of Bendigo, with its magnificent Goldfields-era architecture, parks, events, and festivals, is an easy half-hour drive away, and towns like Maldon, Clunes, Harcourt, Creswick, Kyneton, Malmsbury, Daylesford and Hepburn are all nearby, offering a choice of wonderful day-trips on scenic back roads. If you’d like to stay closer to your home away from home, BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens is a comfortable 15-minute walk from the center of town. Enjoy Castlemaine’s architecture, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and markets. Visit the iconic Theatre Royal, the oldest continually operating theatre on Australia’s mainland, and explore the various beer gardens, pubs, and galleries around the town. For lovers of the great outdoors, there is almost too much to choose from. There are extensive bushland walking and cycling tracks around Castlemaine and further afield, including the renowned Goldfields Track. There is also the 1,400-hectare Mt Alexander Regional Park for bushwalks, picnics, lookouts, and local wildlife. For kids, Castlemaine and the surrounding region is nature’s playground. Get outdoors and explore historic goldmines, rock climbing, watering holes, and family-friendly bike trails and walking tracks. There's also plenty to enjoy at BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park, including a sensory garden designed to connect our guests with the sights, sounds, and scents of nature, a school holiday activity program, and a fun-filled Games Room. Special family holiday moments can be shared around our pizza oven and BBQ, in the "Bush Hut” Camp Kitchen, or sitting around a campfire on a winter's evening. Come and stay in a magical holiday park in the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields and explore a region that truly has something for everyone to enjoy! BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation who are the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we work. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We recognize their continuous relationship to the land and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$60
 / night

8. Hut Amongst The Gum Trees

100%
(23)
51km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging
Closed for summer. Book 3 nights for a 15% discount. Optional extras: night sky astronomy and solar astronomy sessions Perfect place to stay for bird watchers and nature lovers. Also for those interested in exploring the sun through solar telescope or night skies through large Dobsonian telescope The hut has an inside wood heater and verandas this hut makes a cosy stay away. A 40 acre bush block with a Trust for Nature Covenant. This box-ironbark woodland block has 2 dams and plenty of wildlife, a great place for bird watching. A self guided nature walk on the property provides you with an introduction to the local ecosystem. There is also a bird list for the property along with photos and descriptions of some of these birds. There is a makeshift bird hide and binoculars that you can borrow. The hut has a double bed (bedding provided), undercover of the veranda is a gas stove with two burners and a grill, outside a long drop toilet, water tank (not drinkable) but drinkable water will be provided. The hut is close to one of the dams. Only one booking at a time so you won’t be sharing camping site with anyone. Owners live on the property but out of view and ear shot. A picnic set, kettle, camp stove and saucepans available for use. Solar lights inside, internal wood heater outside fire pit. An outdoor camp shower and a composting toilet is located near hut. Basic amount of wood provided for internal heater and cost $10 milk crate of wood for external fire pit, a crate should last a couple of hours. A guided 90 minute star gazing experience using 500mm diameter telescope is offered for $50/session to guests of the antechinus hut. Depending on the time of year you will see galaxies, nebulae, star clusters and planets. This is only offered when conditions allow, clear skies and minimal moon. Note this activity involves use of step ladder due to size of telescope. There is also solar astronomy, view viewing the sun through hydrogen alpha telescope. $30 for 30 minutes. There are great bike rides off and on road, close to Cairn Curran (15km) for fishing and kayaking, also plenty of bushwalks and bird watching sites nearby. Newstead 5km away whilst Daylesford, Maldon and Castlemaine are about 25km away.
Toilets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
AU$75
 / night

10. Geelong Holiday Park

100%
(1)
80km from Ballarat · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
**Please note that our office is closed on Christmas Day (25 December), and we do not accept arrivals or departures on this date. Any bookings made with a check-in or check-out on 25 December will be cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.** Just 2km from Geelong CBD and Waterfront, Geelong Holiday Park combines relaxed riverside charm, comfort and convenience— its your ideal base to explore Geelong, Ocean Grove, Torquay, and the Great Ocean Road! Nestled alongside the scenic Barwon River, this park places you right at the heart of one of Coastal Victoria’s most beautiful regions. Just minutes away, you’ll discover Geelong’s vibrant CBD and waterfront, the surf beaches of Ocean Grove, Torquay and the famous Bell's Beach, as well as family favourites like Adventure Park Geelong. With local parks, boutique wineries, and riverside trails at your doorstep, there are endless ways to explore—or simply unwind by the pool and soak up the serene surroundings. Geelong CBD – 7-minutes by car Torquay – 20-minutes by car Ocean Grove Beach – 20-minutes by car Melbourne CBD – 1-hour by car Geelong Accommodation Geelong Holiday Park has accommodation for every traveller, ranging from comfortable, fully self-contained cabins and holiday villas to shady campsites— we have something to suit every need and budget!
Toilets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
AU$59
 / night

12. Rustic Miner’s Cabin

98%
(87)
68km from Ballarat · 6 sites · Lodging
A little slice of heaven ! 11 Acres nestled in a valley in the beautiful Castlemaine goldfields. The property has a main house ,shed ,cottage, Glamping tent site and a dam, and is completely off the grid. Also very close to the popular Expedition pass reservoir and only a few minutes drive to Chewton and Castlemaine. Come and experience the beautiful sunset, Wildlife and tranquility. The cottage itself is furnished and has a cosy open fire place and barrel heater, a small kitchen with basic kitchenware, hot and cold water gas cooking and solar and gas lighting. There is a separate bedroom at the back with a Queen bed and a king single bed. Please note bedding is not provided so please bring a warm sleeping bags or bedding and pillows. There is a adjoining bathroom (accessible from outside) with toilet, vanity and HOT shower. (BYO towels). Please note the bathroom may be shared with my Glamping site guests. (just one other site) The cabin sleeps 3 and you can also bring a tent as well.. Please note this is rustic accommodation and the cabin doesn’t have 240v power only 12v LED lighting and an esky is also provided. Located just 5 mins to local reservoir which is a great place to swim, fish or paddle. Also the popular Red Hill Pub and gold prospecting areas are just up the road and only 10 minutes to historic Castlemaine. Firewood available $30per barrow load. Please message me though the site. Just 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne, 1 hour from Ballarat and 40 minutes from Bendigo.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$193
 / night

13. Shedquarters Bush Escape

100%
(1)
24km from Ballarat · 22 sites · Tents, Lodging
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. With the edge of the Lal Lal State Forest just outside the gate, your nature experience awaits. Bushwalking, mountain bike riding, horse riding are all available throughout the kilometers of bushland tracks. Make memories and bring your horses for some amazing trail rides, walk the peaceful trails immersing in nature with the many birds and animals or maybe just relax by the fires and enjoy the local wildlife and surroundings. Just 1.5 hours from West Melbourne or 50 minutes from Geelong. **Available weekly Friday - Sunday stays.** Things to Do. Bushwalking. Horse Riding - Doran Park Trail Rides is 1 km away and provides arranged horse trail rides, must book in advance. Or bring your own horses to the Shedquarters, there's heaps of room for them to safely and comfortably stay (we are a horse property). Paddocks and a large yard, places to park the float and hay deliveries on request. A homemade grassed arena with jumps available. On the wet days an indoor arena is available to book 5kms away, advanced bookings required. Walk or Ride to - The Shepards Daughters Grave located in the Lal Lal Forest. www.goldfieldsguide.com.au/explore-location/539/grave-of-the-shepherds-daughter/ Lal Lal Falls is 10 kilometers away with BBQ picnic facilities. Hunts Bridge is a free camp area providing fire camp stations for a lovely picnic. The Village of Buninyong is 15kms away. The Farm Gate Shop in Elaine is 7 kms away providing all local produce, and a great place to stock up on the local Meredith Dairy Goats Cheese - in buckets! Local Wineries within driving distance, Clyde Park Winery, Buninyong Winery. Great area for Gold Prospecting. Great place for wood collection, bring the trailer for some hard work (check to see if the forest wood collection is available) Bungal Dam picnic area. Ballan market is held on the second Saturday of the month 9-1pm Ballarat is a 30 minute drive.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$354
 / night

14. Yellow Box Hill

100%
(1)
43km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our home is atop a hill with peaceful and serene 360 degree views to die for. The property in Waterloo is a 200-acre working farm with Murray Grey cattle and Cheviot sheep, and, of course, many kangaroos. We have a campsite available near the house, under a beautiful Yellow Box tree. Power is available if required. Alternatively, one or two bedrooms are available in an independent wing of the house with a private bathroom and toilet. There are cafes and eateries in Beaufort which is only 10 kilometres away. The town also provides a supermarket, hotel, chemist, hardware store, and butcher shop, with many other spots of interest. The railway station has regular services to Ballarat and Melbourne which take 1 to 2 hours journey. The Pyrenees Wine region is also on the doorstep. A public dump point is available in Beaufort. Yellow Box Hill is backed by the State Forest so there are ample walking trails, as well as in the Mt. Cole area. Information about the region is available at the Beaufort Community Resource Centre and Library. Gold detecting is very popular as Waterloo was a gold-mining town in the 1850's. Surely, there has been some left behind! You are welcome to stay a night or a few days, or as arranged.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$129
 / night

15. Moorabool Ridge Vineyard

86%
(7)
50km from Ballarat · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Moorabool Ridge Vineyard and Olive Grove is a 70-acre property in the Moorabool Valley, just 15km from Bannockburn, 31km to Geelong CBD, and 56km to Ballarat. With 1.4km of Moorabool River frontage, rolling vineyard views, and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect escape for nature lovers. The property has a rich history, with a vineyard active for over 25 years. We’re now converting it into a luxury accommodation and wedding venue. For now, guests can enjoy camping with a tent, swag, or van, surrounded by stunning landscapes. What’s here now: 1) Spacious unpowered campsites (flat, easy access, space for 10+ vans) 2) Shower block with two toilets and a simple, clean river-fed shower, a 300 meter walk from campsites. 3) River activities: swimming spots (including one with a slide), canoes, and wading in the shallows of the weir. 4) Large communal fire pit as well as small fire pits, a BBQ and a large bench that can seat 20 people. Things to know: Children are welcome, but please take care around the river. As we’re in a valley, sound travels—please keep music at a considerate level. Unfortunately we cannot have other pets here as we have 2 very friendly golden retrievers on the property. They are likely to pop down and say hello 😊 Nearby, you’ll find some of the region’s best wineries, including Lethbridge Wines, Austins Winery, and Clyde Park—perfect for a meal and a glass of wine. Whether you’re here for a quiet riverside campfire, a swim, or to explore the surrounding vineyards, Moorabool Ridge offers a unique blend of history, nature, and country hospitality.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$91
 / night

17. Creswick Holiday Park

92%
(12)
17km from Ballarat · 65 sites · RVs, Lodging
Creswick is a historic former gold-mining town, located between Ballarat and Daylesford, approximately a 2 hour drive from Melbourne. Creswick offers a number of natural attractions and outdoor activities for visitors, set within an attractive forested area. Creswick Holiday Park is perfectly positioned as a base to explore Djuwang Baring, the newly-opened Creswick Trails mountain bike park, with 60km of trails catering to riders of all abilities. Enjoy bushwalking and scenic drives through the extensive Creswick Regional Park. Visit Calambeen Park which was the town's Chinese camp in the goldmining days and now features lakes which are suitable for fishing or swimming. Park Lake Botanical Reserve, located on the Midland Highway, is a 15-hectare park that was established in 1860 and features a lake, rotunda, established trees, and recreational facilities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$50
 / night

18. Golden Country Motel & Caravan Park

100%
(3)
60km from Ballarat · 36 sites · RVs, Lodging
Explore our range of Maryborough accommodation at Golden Country Motel and Caravan Park, each designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay at Golden Country. Explore our selection of well-appointed cabins, each thoughtfully tailored to meet your needs, whether you’re after a cozy retreat or a family adventure. Experience comfort at our motel, offering a variety of rooms that cater to both solo travelers and families, ensuring a restful and convenient stay. Park your caravan in our expansive, well-appointed sites, offering exceptional facilities and a welcoming community atmosphere for the perfect escape. Golden Country Motel is equipped with a variety of convenient features to enhance your stay. We provide an electric vehicle charger for eco-conscious travelers, ensuring your car is ready for your next adventure. Our pet-friendly policy means you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the trip. Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi available throughout the park. For added convenience, we have a laundry room on-site. Additionally, we are ideally located just 40 meters away from the golf club, which boasts a fantastic restaurant for your dining pleasure.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$66
 / night

19. Newstead Nook

100%
(28)
52km from Ballarat · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is lovely quiet, open bushland block, close to Newstead and Castlemaine. Cairn Curran Reservoir is only a few kilometres away. Pitch a tent or drive your van in. The amazing little shack onsite offers gas cooking facilities and a sofa so you can relax in front of the beautiful little fireplace. There are great opportunities for taking leisurely walks or rides along the gravel roads surrounding the property. What makes this property special is the awesome shack which can be used for cooking and relaxing. It also has dam and incredible variety of birds, so it is a birdwatching mecca. A shower and portable toilet is available onsite. Water safety note: A dam exists within the property and is located close to the camping area. The dam does not have exclusion fencing and may be a hazard to some. This should be considered prior to booking, particularly if you have young children.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$109
 / night

20. Hidden Valley House, Anakie

100%
(24)
51km from Ballarat · 7 sites · Lodging
Hidden Valley House is nestled in Anakie, VIC, set within the scenic Brisbane National Ranges and only a 1-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. Taking into consideration our ethos around sustainability, the cabin is “off-grid” so solar powered with a composting toilet but with all the amenities you need. The cabin has spectacular views overlooking the valley with an abundance of wildlife and has a small creek and several caves which have formed over millions of years. As well as the cabin, we offer a camping area to larger groups that need overflow accommodation if the cabin is not big enough. This makes Hidden Valley House a fantastic option for large groups wanting to have all the comfort and amenities of the cabin, but experience the back-to-basic joy of camping in nature. Set on an 18-acre property at the start of the Brisbane National Ranges, it is home to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, sugar gliders and an abundance of birds including eagles and kookaburras. Furthermore, the land is protected by Trust for Nature and Land for Wildlife offering long-term protection for many ecosystems, species and native wildlife. The property is surrounded by national parks and is only a short drive from charming, historical towns such as Meredith and Steiglitz and only 25mins to Geelong. A number of family-owned wineries are located nearby and within Victoria’s Moorabool Valley winery. AWD/4WD recommended
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$463
 / night

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