The best camping near Lorne with campfires

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One of Australia’s finest beach destinations, Lorne is nestled around a bay and backed by dense bushland. Popular with surfers and holiday makers, the area has a sheltered beach, eateries for all budgets, and superb bushwalking trails (not to forget its many resident kookaburras). The town is 46 kilometres from Torquay, the official start of the Great Ocean Road, making it a perfect mid-way base to camp when taking your time along this winding coastal road. Choose a foreshore campsite with facilities, or opt for a wilderness experience in the Otway Ranges.

94% (1.1K) 94 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lorne

6. Herbs Joint

93%
(20)
63km from Lorne · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
HERBS JOINT Tucked away in a quiet, shady pocket of Moolap, Herbs Joint offers campers a peaceful escape surrounded by cypress and pine trees. The flat grassy campsite sits beside the Bellarine Rail Trail, perfect for walking, cycling, or exploring the local area at your own pace. Just minutes from Geelong’s beaches, wineries, shops and cafés, this private camp spot gives you the best of both worlds — nature and convenience. Relax by the tranquil dam, watch the sunset through the trees, and enjoy a campfire under a clear night sky. There’s plenty of open space for caravans, campervans, and tents, plus room for kids and dogs to stretch their legs (supervision required near the water). ✅ Pet friendly ✅ Campfires allowed (when permitted) ✅ Flat, easy access for vans ✅ Close to Geelong, Surf Coast & Bellarine Peninsula Whether you’re chasing a relaxed weekend away, a stopover near the coast, or simply a quiet spot to unwind, Herbs Joint offers an inviting mix of *privacy, space, and peaceful country charm.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$43
 / night

8. Camping on Coppards

98%
(132)
62km from Lorne · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE CONTACT US PRIOR TO BOOKING YOUR SITE, IF YOU ARE WANTING TO CHECK IN ON THE SAME DAY. Large 4800 square metre block. 4 camp sites all dog friendly sites. Gates are locked at night for safety. Great for kids and dogs to ride ,run and play - Water supplied with booking and power available on request - Large campfire ,great for drinks and conversations. We supply some wood always good to bring a bit to keep the fire going. - Plenty of off-street parking We encourage campers to park in the property - Close to supermarkets and shops. 5 minutes from town center by car, 25mins to Bellarine coastal beaches, 30mins to start of great ocean road, 1 hour to Lorne. - Bus stops at front every 25 minutes into town - Has a pool (conditions apply to use) - Short drive to Geelong Beach front - 20 minutes from Bellarine Coast wineries - 10 minutes to adventure park - Perfect for Spirt of Tassie travelers only a short trip to the dock - Tent available for hire - Transfers to Geelong CBD (available on request)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
AU$60
 / night

9. Cumberland River Holiday Park

93%
(35)
10km from Lorne · 88 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Cumberland River Holiday Park, the best camping location on the famous Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia. The perfect base to explore the coast and surrounds. Camping next to a peaceful trickling river can be a delight, and our campsites will not disappoint, from garden sites to riverfront sites all with picturesque views of the cliff face escarpment. Our cozy garden cabins sleep up-to 6 people. They feature a gas look-alike fire place, plasma television with 40 satellite channels, a fully functional kitchen with a full-size stove and refrigerator, and a peaceful and private verandah. These delightfully bright and modern 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom River View Units have a fully equipped kitchen, gas space heating, and satellite flat-screen TV. Sleeps a maximum of 6 people. Has a private balcony with views over the river and gorge.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
AU$81
 / night

10. Swan Bay Road Wallington

100%
(28)
65km from Lorne · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the middle of The Bellarine Peninsula. Within walking distance of Adventure Park, Flying Brick Cider House and McGlasions Winery (Farm Dog Brewery). 5 minutes Drive to Ocean Grove/Barwon Heads. 10 mins drive to Queenscliff, Pt. Lonsdale, Portalington, Geelong. Our little property is suitable for tents, caravans, RVs. We have a fully functioning toilet, can run power to your camp (no shower facility). We have an inground trampoline, half court basketball/netball court. Our small inground pool can be added extra. Our acerage can cater for small groups of up to 15 people, your van/tent/RV or ours. Pets allowed by agreement and must be on lead at all times. We have free range geese, chooks and a friendly dog There is no need for an alarm clock our Roosters have that covered.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$146
 / night

11. Twelve Apostles Motel & Country Retreat

82%
(28)
65km from Lorne · 18 sites · RVs, Lodging
Twelve Apostles Motel & Country Retreat offers fully air-conditioned rooms and pet-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. It is only 3-minute drive from the world-famous Twelve Apostles and 12 Apostles Visitor Information Centre and 4-minute drive to the Gibson Step and beach. Loch Ard Gorge is just 7 kilometers away. Please kindly note due to the pandemic the onsite restaurant has been closed. The nearest restaurants and stores are located in Port Campbell, about 15 15-minute drive. Meanwhile, self-check-in and check-out are now available. All rooms, 9 motel rooms, and 4 cottages include a fridge, microwave, heater, electric blanket, private bathroom, and car parking. A kettle and toast, coffee, tea, and milk are provided. There are some wildlife animals around the property, which guests may see in different seasons, such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and birds. The property is particularly loved by families, couples, kids, and people with pets. Amenities: - BBQ Area - Pet friendly - Non-Smoking Property - WiFi Internet - Children Play Area - Non-Smoking Rooms - Café - Air-Conditioning - Garden - Mini Fridge - Room Service - TV
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$37
 / night

12. Lakes and Craters Holiday Park

93%
(7)
71km from Lorne · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Set on a ridge between the two magnificent lakes of Lake Bullen Merri and Lake Gnotuk, Camperdown’s Lakes and Craters Holiday Park offers panoramic views of the surrounding Lakes and Craters country. The Park is located within an Arboretum and adjacent Botanic Gardens, featuring majestic heritage listed Oaks and Elms and other exotic trees from around the world, including rare and endangered specimens. The Lakes and Craters Holiday Park is located at 220 Park Rd Camperdown and features 7 cabins, 15 annual sites, 61 powered and 25 unpowered camping sites at very affordable prices. The park is also pet-friendly. There is a great camp kitchen, interactive children’s playground, laundry and amenities block. There are also additional barbecues located in the beautiful surroundings of the Guilfoyle Botanic Gardens. Facilities Camp Fire Braziers Children’s Playground Laundry Speed Queen Washers and Dryers Large Double sinks Irons and ironing boards Dishwashing area Enjoy a well-appointed Camp Kitchen featuring: Dining tables in a beautiful outdoor setting, stainless steel electric hotplates, a full size fridge, electric stove/oven, microwave, toaster and electric jug. Other features include a large plasma TV, hot and cold water, dishwashing liquid and scourers, power points for charging mobile phones etc Assisted Bathroom Amenities Block; Hot Showers with change area Clean Toilets Mirrored vanities Hand soap and dryers Outdoor Adventure Hiking, Cycling, Water and more Camperdown’s lakes and mounts offer the opportunity to indulge in a vast range of outdoor pursuits. Fishing Camperdown is a great base for taking advantage of a variety of fishing locations including Lake Bullen Merri and Lake Purrumbete. Cycling The Camperdown-Timboon Rail Trail starts at Naroghid, just near Lake Bullen Merri (Naroghid Road Camperdown). Also in the area are cycling trails in Terang and Forrest. Hiking Camperdown is the ideal base for your hiking adventures in the South West. There are many walking trails in Camperdown and close surrounds, but we’re also conveniently located to both the Great Ocean Road (53km) and Grampians (110km) regions. Water-based activities Kayaking, Boating, Canoeing, Yachting, Jet Skiing and more.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$43
 / night

13. Seahorse stud

100%
(5)
23km from Lorne · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Aireys inlet is a unique tiny town with so much to do. The local beach is iconic for surfing and swimming, the local creek is a favourite at the inlet for young kids to swim or for canoeists to have somewhere quiet to paddle. Mountain biking is a must in the area, with thousands of tracks available right outside the back door. If you have your own horse you can bring it along on holiday with you, we have paddocks available and there are so many gorgeous tracks around to ride on and beach riding at low tide and the right times is a bucket list item! The location itself is 17 acres and is next to the Painkallac creek in a peaceful bush setting. This location used to be a horse riding school which is now not running but has been converted to offer camping, caravan and RV parking. It’s only 1.5 km from the beach and the Otway national park is right on your doorstep. If you have bikes, horses or love to hike or run, or just laze on the beach, it’s a perfect location, be ready to be spoilt as there are so many tracks on offer in our stunning local beach and bush land. The local town of aireys inlet has plenty to offer, a general store for all your essentials, loads of places to eat out for breakfast, lunch or dinner and only 1 3/4hrs from Melbourne. No need to stress if you don’t want to be near anyone else, this is a small setting so it’s very private and its only got one space to rent so that you have peace and quiet. If you do have friends and want to book a double space please just message me and I can open up another space for you. I also have an option to add a pottery class for you, the cost is $50 a person for a two hour session. Look forward to seeing you at our cosy country and coastal retreat.
Pets
Potable water
from 
AU$110
 / night

15. Secluded Otways Forest Camp

97%
(125)
13km from Lorne · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our property is surrounded by the Otways forest and native Australian bush. Under 2 hours from Melbourne, and only 10-15minutes drive from the Otway Harvest Trail. Find a spot to park your van, tent, camper trailer or caravan on our beautiful natural piece of secluded bush, and you won't see or hear another soul. You may spot lots of birds and wildlife, or enjoy the beautiful view from the road. Please note: this is a spot for people such as hikers who appreciate nature and understand the concept of ‘leave no trace’. It’s not for parties or big groups. There are limited facilities (there is a basic composting toilet to use on site, but it’s not suitable as a caravan dump point) so you need to be totally self-sufficient and take all your waste and rubbish with you. BYO water.We are happy to accommodate up to 8 ppl, but please take everything with you, and leave our beautiful wilderness spot exactly as you left it, don't destroy the native vegetation and don't feed the wildlife. Fires only in the fire-pit please and must be totally extinguished (with water, so bring extra) before you leave, and not on fire ban days. You must BYO firewood and take all your rubbish away with you. Extra charges will apply for any rubbish, food scraps etc left on site.Enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
from 
AU$61
 / night

20. Clear Springs

98%
(104)
26km from Lorne · 1 site · Tent, RV
Clear Springs is a very special spot, offering sweeping views over rolling hills, and across to the ocean. King Island lighthouse is visible on clear nights, and there are koalas and wallabies in abundance. Whilst we require you to BYO toilet, we do have hot shower, woodfired hot-tub, power, water and phone reception. The site is all-weather access, and is just a 7-minutes drive to the Apollo Bay township. Once you catch your breath after initially taking in the sweeping, majestic ocean views, you can find a spot to pitch your tent or park your van. You drive in through a locked farm gate into the fenced camp area. There is not an abundance of flat area, so may not suit if you need large level space. We don't accept multiple bookings, so the space is all yours. You can choose from a few different spots with near-level ground (choose grass or gravel). The site is open to the amazing ocean views to the south yet the area is nestled among mature trees to give privacy and shelter. There are very few houses dotted around the area and not a single busy road within earshot. There is 240v mains power (BYO lead and plug into switchboard). And a tank with spring water (natural and untreated, we've been drinking it for years) and a pressure pump (BYO hoses as needed). There is an outdoor gas-heated shower. We also have a woodfired hot tub available for guests, BYO firewood. Our listing is intended for people looking for a private, tranquil and well-serviced camping area with several bonuses such as power, water, telstra reception, and a hot tub (BYO firewood). And no other guests to worry about. It's much more than a patch of grass! But please BYO toilet - this is mandatory - and leave no trace to allow other people to enjoy the beauty of our property. Sorry pets are not allowed.
Electrical hookup
Showers
Water hookup
from 
AU$170
 / night

One of Australia’s finest beach destinations, Lorne is nestled around a bay and backed by dense bushland. Popular with surfers and holiday makers, the area has a sheltered beach, eateries for all budgets, and superb bushwalking trails (not to forget its many resident kookaburras). The town is 46 kilometres from Torquay, the official start of the Great Ocean Road, making it a perfect mid-way base to camp when taking your time along this winding coastal road. Choose a foreshore campsite with facilities, or opt for a wilderness experience in the Otway Ranges.

94% (1.1K) 94 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lorne

6. Herbs Joint

93%
(20)
63km from Lorne · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
HERBS JOINT Tucked away in a quiet, shady pocket of Moolap, Herbs Joint offers campers a peaceful escape surrounded by cypress and pine trees. The flat grassy campsite sits beside the Bellarine Rail Trail, perfect for walking, cycling, or exploring the local area at your own pace. Just minutes from Geelong’s beaches, wineries, shops and cafés, this private camp spot gives you the best of both worlds — nature and convenience. Relax by the tranquil dam, watch the sunset through the trees, and enjoy a campfire under a clear night sky. There’s plenty of open space for caravans, campervans, and tents, plus room for kids and dogs to stretch their legs (supervision required near the water). ✅ Pet friendly ✅ Campfires allowed (when permitted) ✅ Flat, easy access for vans ✅ Close to Geelong, Surf Coast & Bellarine Peninsula Whether you’re chasing a relaxed weekend away, a stopover near the coast, or simply a quiet spot to unwind, Herbs Joint offers an inviting mix of *privacy, space, and peaceful country charm.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
AU$43
 / night

8. Camping on Coppards

98%
(132)
62km from Lorne · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE CONTACT US PRIOR TO BOOKING YOUR SITE, IF YOU ARE WANTING TO CHECK IN ON THE SAME DAY. Large 4800 square metre block. 4 camp sites all dog friendly sites. Gates are locked at night for safety. Great for kids and dogs to ride ,run and play - Water supplied with booking and power available on request - Large campfire ,great for drinks and conversations. We supply some wood always good to bring a bit to keep the fire going. - Plenty of off-street parking We encourage campers to park in the property - Close to supermarkets and shops. 5 minutes from town center by car, 25mins to Bellarine coastal beaches, 30mins to start of great ocean road, 1 hour to Lorne. - Bus stops at front every 25 minutes into town - Has a pool (conditions apply to use) - Short drive to Geelong Beach front - 20 minutes from Bellarine Coast wineries - 10 minutes to adventure park - Perfect for Spirt of Tassie travelers only a short trip to the dock - Tent available for hire - Transfers to Geelong CBD (available on request)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
AU$60
 / night

9. Cumberland River Holiday Park

93%
(35)
10km from Lorne · 88 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Cumberland River Holiday Park, the best camping location on the famous Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia. The perfect base to explore the coast and surrounds. Camping next to a peaceful trickling river can be a delight, and our campsites will not disappoint, from garden sites to riverfront sites all with picturesque views of the cliff face escarpment. Our cozy garden cabins sleep up-to 6 people. They feature a gas look-alike fire place, plasma television with 40 satellite channels, a fully functional kitchen with a full-size stove and refrigerator, and a peaceful and private verandah. These delightfully bright and modern 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom River View Units have a fully equipped kitchen, gas space heating, and satellite flat-screen TV. Sleeps a maximum of 6 people. Has a private balcony with views over the river and gorge.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
AU$81
 / night

10. Swan Bay Road Wallington

100%
(28)
65km from Lorne · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the middle of The Bellarine Peninsula. Within walking distance of Adventure Park, Flying Brick Cider House and McGlasions Winery (Farm Dog Brewery). 5 minutes Drive to Ocean Grove/Barwon Heads. 10 mins drive to Queenscliff, Pt. Lonsdale, Portalington, Geelong. Our little property is suitable for tents, caravans, RVs. We have a fully functioning toilet, can run power to your camp (no shower facility). We have an inground trampoline, half court basketball/netball court. Our small inground pool can be added extra. Our acerage can cater for small groups of up to 15 people, your van/tent/RV or ours. Pets allowed by agreement and must be on lead at all times. We have free range geese, chooks and a friendly dog There is no need for an alarm clock our Roosters have that covered.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$146
 / night

11. Twelve Apostles Motel & Country Retreat

82%
(28)
65km from Lorne · 18 sites · RVs, Lodging
Twelve Apostles Motel & Country Retreat offers fully air-conditioned rooms and pet-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. It is only 3-minute drive from the world-famous Twelve Apostles and 12 Apostles Visitor Information Centre and 4-minute drive to the Gibson Step and beach. Loch Ard Gorge is just 7 kilometers away. Please kindly note due to the pandemic the onsite restaurant has been closed. The nearest restaurants and stores are located in Port Campbell, about 15 15-minute drive. Meanwhile, self-check-in and check-out are now available. All rooms, 9 motel rooms, and 4 cottages include a fridge, microwave, heater, electric blanket, private bathroom, and car parking. A kettle and toast, coffee, tea, and milk are provided. There are some wildlife animals around the property, which guests may see in different seasons, such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and birds. The property is particularly loved by families, couples, kids, and people with pets. Amenities: - BBQ Area - Pet friendly - Non-Smoking Property - WiFi Internet - Children Play Area - Non-Smoking Rooms - Café - Air-Conditioning - Garden - Mini Fridge - Room Service - TV
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$37
 / night

12. Lakes and Craters Holiday Park

93%
(7)
71km from Lorne · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Set on a ridge between the two magnificent lakes of Lake Bullen Merri and Lake Gnotuk, Camperdown’s Lakes and Craters Holiday Park offers panoramic views of the surrounding Lakes and Craters country. The Park is located within an Arboretum and adjacent Botanic Gardens, featuring majestic heritage listed Oaks and Elms and other exotic trees from around the world, including rare and endangered specimens. The Lakes and Craters Holiday Park is located at 220 Park Rd Camperdown and features 7 cabins, 15 annual sites, 61 powered and 25 unpowered camping sites at very affordable prices. The park is also pet-friendly. There is a great camp kitchen, interactive children’s playground, laundry and amenities block. There are also additional barbecues located in the beautiful surroundings of the Guilfoyle Botanic Gardens. Facilities Camp Fire Braziers Children’s Playground Laundry Speed Queen Washers and Dryers Large Double sinks Irons and ironing boards Dishwashing area Enjoy a well-appointed Camp Kitchen featuring: Dining tables in a beautiful outdoor setting, stainless steel electric hotplates, a full size fridge, electric stove/oven, microwave, toaster and electric jug. Other features include a large plasma TV, hot and cold water, dishwashing liquid and scourers, power points for charging mobile phones etc Assisted Bathroom Amenities Block; Hot Showers with change area Clean Toilets Mirrored vanities Hand soap and dryers Outdoor Adventure Hiking, Cycling, Water and more Camperdown’s lakes and mounts offer the opportunity to indulge in a vast range of outdoor pursuits. Fishing Camperdown is a great base for taking advantage of a variety of fishing locations including Lake Bullen Merri and Lake Purrumbete. Cycling The Camperdown-Timboon Rail Trail starts at Naroghid, just near Lake Bullen Merri (Naroghid Road Camperdown). Also in the area are cycling trails in Terang and Forrest. Hiking Camperdown is the ideal base for your hiking adventures in the South West. There are many walking trails in Camperdown and close surrounds, but we’re also conveniently located to both the Great Ocean Road (53km) and Grampians (110km) regions. Water-based activities Kayaking, Boating, Canoeing, Yachting, Jet Skiing and more.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$43
 / night

13. Seahorse stud

100%
(5)
23km from Lorne · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Aireys inlet is a unique tiny town with so much to do. The local beach is iconic for surfing and swimming, the local creek is a favourite at the inlet for young kids to swim or for canoeists to have somewhere quiet to paddle. Mountain biking is a must in the area, with thousands of tracks available right outside the back door. If you have your own horse you can bring it along on holiday with you, we have paddocks available and there are so many gorgeous tracks around to ride on and beach riding at low tide and the right times is a bucket list item! The location itself is 17 acres and is next to the Painkallac creek in a peaceful bush setting. This location used to be a horse riding school which is now not running but has been converted to offer camping, caravan and RV parking. It’s only 1.5 km from the beach and the Otway national park is right on your doorstep. If you have bikes, horses or love to hike or run, or just laze on the beach, it’s a perfect location, be ready to be spoilt as there are so many tracks on offer in our stunning local beach and bush land. The local town of aireys inlet has plenty to offer, a general store for all your essentials, loads of places to eat out for breakfast, lunch or dinner and only 1 3/4hrs from Melbourne. No need to stress if you don’t want to be near anyone else, this is a small setting so it’s very private and its only got one space to rent so that you have peace and quiet. If you do have friends and want to book a double space please just message me and I can open up another space for you. I also have an option to add a pottery class for you, the cost is $50 a person for a two hour session. Look forward to seeing you at our cosy country and coastal retreat.
Pets
Potable water
from 
AU$110
 / night

15. Secluded Otways Forest Camp

97%
(125)
13km from Lorne · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our property is surrounded by the Otways forest and native Australian bush. Under 2 hours from Melbourne, and only 10-15minutes drive from the Otway Harvest Trail. Find a spot to park your van, tent, camper trailer or caravan on our beautiful natural piece of secluded bush, and you won't see or hear another soul. You may spot lots of birds and wildlife, or enjoy the beautiful view from the road. Please note: this is a spot for people such as hikers who appreciate nature and understand the concept of ‘leave no trace’. It’s not for parties or big groups. There are limited facilities (there is a basic composting toilet to use on site, but it’s not suitable as a caravan dump point) so you need to be totally self-sufficient and take all your waste and rubbish with you. BYO water.We are happy to accommodate up to 8 ppl, but please take everything with you, and leave our beautiful wilderness spot exactly as you left it, don't destroy the native vegetation and don't feed the wildlife. Fires only in the fire-pit please and must be totally extinguished (with water, so bring extra) before you leave, and not on fire ban days. You must BYO firewood and take all your rubbish away with you. Extra charges will apply for any rubbish, food scraps etc left on site.Enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
from 
AU$61
 / night

20. Clear Springs

98%
(104)
26km from Lorne · 1 site · Tent, RV
Clear Springs is a very special spot, offering sweeping views over rolling hills, and across to the ocean. King Island lighthouse is visible on clear nights, and there are koalas and wallabies in abundance. Whilst we require you to BYO toilet, we do have hot shower, woodfired hot-tub, power, water and phone reception. The site is all-weather access, and is just a 7-minutes drive to the Apollo Bay township. Once you catch your breath after initially taking in the sweeping, majestic ocean views, you can find a spot to pitch your tent or park your van. You drive in through a locked farm gate into the fenced camp area. There is not an abundance of flat area, so may not suit if you need large level space. We don't accept multiple bookings, so the space is all yours. You can choose from a few different spots with near-level ground (choose grass or gravel). The site is open to the amazing ocean views to the south yet the area is nestled among mature trees to give privacy and shelter. There are very few houses dotted around the area and not a single busy road within earshot. There is 240v mains power (BYO lead and plug into switchboard). And a tank with spring water (natural and untreated, we've been drinking it for years) and a pressure pump (BYO hoses as needed). There is an outdoor gas-heated shower. We also have a woodfired hot tub available for guests, BYO firewood. Our listing is intended for people looking for a private, tranquil and well-serviced camping area with several bonuses such as power, water, telstra reception, and a hot tub (BYO firewood). And no other guests to worry about. It's much more than a patch of grass! But please BYO toilet - this is mandatory - and leave no trace to allow other people to enjoy the beauty of our property. Sorry pets are not allowed.
Electrical hookup
Showers
Water hookup
from 
AU$170
 / night

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The best camping near Lorne with campfires guide

Where to go

Lorne and Around

Lorne has a scattering of campgrounds and private parks, many set on the Erskine River and conveniently located in town. Those who prefer to escape town can find tranquility and bush walks to waterfalls just outside of Lorne, while grassy campsites can also be found south of Lorne along the Great Ocean Road. Great coastal walks and birds are a boon here.

Wye River

Half an hour from Lorne is Wye River, one of the Great Ocean's Road's smallest hamlets. Even so, it offers big adventure thanks to its location between the Great Otway National Park and the ocean: birdwatching, surfing, mountain biking, and fishing.

Kennett River

A tiny hamlet and popular surfing mecca, Kennett River and its Kennett River Holiday Park are guaranteed places to spot koalas (plus king parrots, rosellas, and glow worms). Another bonus? The beach has a life-saving patrol.

Forrest

The tiny rural village of Forrest is a mountain bike hub, although its main highlight is Lake Elizabeth, home to the elusive platypus. Here you’ll also find beautiful trees, from mountain ash (Eucalyptus regnans, or Tasmanian oak) to manna gums.

When to go

While you can camp year-round at some (but not all) campsites in and around Lorne, it’s packed from 26 December to the end of January, during the Australian summer holiday season, and on Victorian school holidays. The rainiest and coldest months are June through August. Be aware of bushfire threats, especially from January to March.

Know before you go

  • While it’s only 142 kilometres from Melbourne to Lorne, allow at least three hours. The road is good but winding and strict speed limits apply.
  • Use the slow vehicle pull-ins on the road between Eastern View at Lorne. This enables other cars to pass so that you can enjoy the drive.
  • If you don’t have your own wheels, V-Line offers daily bus services from Melbourne to Apollo Bay that stop at points along the Great Ocean Road.
  • Campfires are generally prohibited, especially in summer. (Heed the bushfire warnings.)