Kennett River Family Caravan Park
A Wildlife Haven on the Great Ocean Road
Positioned perfectly along the most iconic stretch of the Great Ocean Road, the Kennett River Family Caravan Park is a destination where coastal scenery and Australian wildlife converge. Located halfway between the bustling towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay, our park offers a unique escape, sheltered by the lush Great Otway National Park and just metres from the pristine sands of Kennett River beach. This is a place renowned across the globe as one of the best spots to see koalas in the wild, often spotted snoozing in the Manna Gum trees right within the park. The vibrant local birdlife, including King Parrots and Rosellas, adds to the chorus of nature, creating a truly immersive outdoor experience.
Our park provides a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere where you can truly switch off and relax. We offer a variety of accommodation options, from spacious, grassy powered and unpowered sites perfect for your caravan or tent, to comfortable, self-contained cabins for that extra touch of convenience. The beach, which is seasonally patrolled, is a favourite for swimmers and surfers alike, known for its reliable and fun point break. For those who prefer to stay on land, the area is a gateway to numerous walking trails, including the famous ‘Koala Walk’ along Grey River Road. Park facilities include a clean amenities block, a communal camp kitchen, free electric BBQs, and an updated playground for the kids. With a general store and café right next door, all your essentials are covered. By staying with us, your fees are reinvested into preserving the magnificent coastline you’ve come to enjoy.
Contact & Location
- Address: 1-13 Great Ocean Road, Kennett River, VIC 3234, Australia
- Phone: (03) 5289 0272
- Email: kennettrivermanager@greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au
- Website: greatoceanroadparks.com.au
- GPS Coordinates: -38.66772307705597, 143.8613105982831
Our Location
Park Information & Features
Park Features
- Directly opposite a patrolled surf beach
- Famous for wild koalas and native birdlife
- Sheltered and shady park surrounded by the Otways
- Updated children’s playground
- Adjacent to a general store and café
Facilities
- Clean amenities block with accessible facility
- Camp kitchen
- Free electric BBQ facilities
- Laundry facilities
Site Details
- Number of Sites: A range of powered and unpowered sites, plus cabins. Bookings are essential, especially during peak periods.
- Site Surface: Grass.
- Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, and Tents.
Park Rules & Policies
- Pet-Friendly: Yes, on sites only during off-peak seasons. Conditions apply, please confirm when booking.
- Open Fires: Not permitted within the park. Communal BBQs are available.
- Generator Use: Generally not permitted due to the park’s focus on natural serenity and wildlife.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra. Coverage for other carriers can be limited in the Otways region.
Essentials to Bring
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
- Surfboard or bodyboard
- Walking shoes for bush tracks
- Camera for the koalas and scenery
- A good book to relax with
Things to Do
On-Site & Local Activities
- Wildlife Spotting: Look for koalas in the trees and feed the colourful King Parrots and Rosellas (use bird-safe food).
- Surfing & Swimming: Enjoy the waves at the seasonally patrolled Kennett River beach.
- Fishing: Beach and river fishing opportunities.
- Short Walks: Stroll the famous Kennett River Koala Walk up Grey River Road or explore trails in the Great Otway National Park.
Nearby Attractions & Amenities
- Great Otway National Park: Surrounds the park
- Lorne Township: Approx. 23 km
- Apollo Bay Township: Approx. 25 km
- Local Pubs: Wye Beach Hotel (Wye River, ~8km), Lorne Hotel (Lorne, ~23km)
- Places to Eat: Kafe Koala (next door), a wide variety of options in Lorne and Apollo Bay.
Nearby Parks & Facilities
Alternate Caravan Parks
- BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park: Approx. 8 km
- Marengo Family Caravan Park: Approx. 23 km
- Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park: Approx. 23 km
Nearby Free Camps
- Stevensons Falls Campground: Approx. 35 km inland (check vehicle suitability)
- Beauchamp Falls Reserve: Approx. 45 km inland
Nearest Dump Points
- Lorne Public Dump Point: Approx. 23 km
- Apollo Bay Public Dump Point: Approx. 25 km
Seasonal Weather Guide
Summer (December – February)
Warm and popular, perfect for beach days and swimming. Average temperatures range from 14°C to 23°C, but can have hotter days.
Autumn (March – May)
Mild, sunny days and cooler evenings. The crowds thin out, making it ideal for peaceful walks and wildlife spotting. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.
Winter (June – August)
Cool and crisp, often with beautifully clear days. A great time for invigorating walks and enjoying the lush rainforest. Average temperatures range from 7°C to 14°C.
Spring (September – November)
Temperatures are warming up and the national park is in full bloom. Waterfalls are at their best. Average temperatures range from 9°C to 18°C.