Bear Gully Campground: Coastal Camping & Fishing in Cape Liptrap, VIC

Nestled amongst shady Banksia trees right on the magnificent shoreline of Waratah Bay, Bear Gully Campground is a premier coastal camping destination within Victoria’s stunning Cape Liptrap Coastal Park. This sought-after spot offers campers an authentic back-to-nature experience, where the sounds of crashing waves provide a constant, soothing soundtrack to your getaway. The campground is perfectly positioned for those who love the ocean, providing direct access to a rugged beach known for its fantastic rock pooling at low tide and excellent fishing opportunities. While the beach is unpatrolled and not recommended for swimming due to its wild nature, its raw beauty is undeniable and perfect for long coastal walks and exploring.

Bear Gully is a paid campground managed by Parks Victoria, and advanced bookings are essential, especially during peak seasons and long weekends when the 30 unpowered sites fill up quickly. The sites are suitable for a range of setups, from traditional tents to camper trailers and caravans, accommodating a maximum of six people per site. It’s an ideal base for exploring the wider Cape Liptrap area, including the historic Cape Liptrap Lighthouse and the unique Lime Kilns at nearby Walkerville. The campground itself provides basic but essential facilities, encouraging a self-sufficient style of camping. The focus here is on disconnecting from the hustle and bustle and reconnecting with the pristine coastal environment. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore, watching a spectacular sunset over the bay, or simply relaxing by a warm campfire under the stars, Bear Gully offers a memorable and picturesque camping adventure.

Campground Details

• Name: Bear Gully Campground
• Address: 435-465 Bear Gully Road, Tarwin Lower, VIC 3956, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -38.888611, 145.987228

Campsite Information

• Road Access: Accessible via gravel road (Bear Gully Road). Suitable for 2WD vehicles in good weather, but care is advised.
• Site Surface: Natural earth and grass surfaces. Can be uneven in places.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, paid camping in designated sites only. Advanced bookings are required via the Parks Victoria website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Varies by season. Check the Parks Victoria booking system for current restrictions.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets and shared steel fireplaces are provided.
• Potable Water: No drinking water is available. You must bring your own supply for drinking and cooking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Telstra and Optus coverage is generally available but can be intermittent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out park. Please take all your rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted only in the designated steel fireplaces. BYO firewood. Check for fire bans before and during your stay.
• Generator Use: Not permitted.
• Number of Sites Available: 30 unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, and all cooking/camping equipment.
• Location: Situated within Cape Liptrap Coastal Park.
• Pet Friendly: No, dogs and other pets are not permitted in the campground or on the adjacent beach.
• Fishing: Yes, shore-based fishing is very popular.
• Short Walks: Yes, enjoy beachcombing and exploring the coastline on foot.

Nearby Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Fish Creek Hotel – Approx. 21 km
  • Tarwin Lower Hotel – Approx. 22 km
  • Meeniyan Hotel – Approx. 35 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Cafes and bakeries in Fish Creek – Approx. 21 km
  • Takeaway and cafes in Tarwin Lower – Approx. 22 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Cape Liptrap Lighthouse – Approx. 20 km
  • Walkerville South Beach & Historic Lime Kilns – Approx. 15 km
  • Wilsons Promontory National Park Entrance – Approx. 45 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Walkerville Foreshore Camping Reserve – Approx. 15 km
  • Waratah Bay Caravan Park – Approx. 18 km
  • Sandy Point Caravan Park – Approx. 25 km
• Next Free Camps: Most camping in the immediate region is paid. Check camping apps for the latest information on low-cost or free options further afield.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Foster Showgrounds – Approx. 30 km
  • Walkerville Waste Transfer Station (check for RV dump point suitability) – Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Fish Creek – Approx. 21 km
  • Tarwin Lower – Approx. 22 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Foster (public taps may be available) – Approx. 30 km
  • Tarwin Lower – Approx. 22 km
• Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Walkerville South Beach – Approx. 15 km
  • Fish Creek town centre – Approx. 21 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Bear Gully experiences a temperate coastal climate. Be prepared for changing conditions at any time of year.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Generally warm to hot with average temperatures between 15-25°C. Days can be sunny and ideal for coastal activities, but cool changes are common.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and often calm days with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. A beautiful time to visit with fewer crowds.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and wet, with average temperatures from 5-15°C. Expect rain and strong winds. The coastline is wild and spectacular during this season.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild with increasing sunshine, but can be windy. Temperatures range from 8-18°C. Wildflowers begin to bloom in the coastal park.