Panmure Campground, Free Mount Emu Creek Camping & Great Ocean Road Base

Nestled on the picturesque banks of Mount Emu Creek, the Panmure Campground is one of Western Victoria’s most treasured free camping destinations. This large, well-maintained reserve offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and convenience, making it an incredibly popular stop for travellers exploring the Great Ocean Road and the surrounding volcanic plains. Maintained with pride by the local community, the campground provides a spacious and welcoming environment for all types of campers, from those in large big rigs and caravans to tent-based travellers. The grassy, open spaces are shaded by mature trees, and there are numerous spots right on the water’s edge, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

The campground’s appeal is significantly boosted by its excellent facilities, which are remarkable for a free site. Clean flushing toilets, an undercover shelter with electric barbecues, and picnic tables make for a very comfortable stay. The creek is the central feature, perfect for a spot of fishing for Redfin and Trout, or a leisurely paddle in a kayak. The reserve also includes a children’s playground, making it an ideal destination for families. Its strategic location right on the Princes Highway makes it highly accessible and a perfect base for regional adventures. The stunning coastline of the Great Ocean Road, including the Bay of Islands, is just a short drive south. The regional city of Warrnambool, the historic village of Port Fairy, and the incredible Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve are all within easy reach for fantastic day trips. For a friendly, convenient, and beautifully located free camp that ticks all the boxes, the Panmure Campground is an absolute gem.

Panmure Campground – VIC Location Map

Panmure Campground (Recreation Reserve)

• Address: 8830 Princes Hwy, Panmure VIC 3265
• GPS: -38.336606541043764, 142.7273765078383

Site Details

• Location: Creekside recreation reserve in the town of Panmure.
• Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
• Road Access: Sealed highway.
• Site Surface: Mostly grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping (donations are appreciated in the donation box).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe local signage, short stays (e.g. 72 hours) are typical.
• Facilities: Flushing toilets, undercover shelter with electric BBQs, picnic tables, playground. No power or showers.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap with drinking water is available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Generally not permitted. Use the provided BBQs.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with plenty of room.
• Essentials to Bring: Fishing gear, kayak.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a lead.

Activities

• Fishing: Fishing for Redfin and Trout in Mount Emu Creek.
• Short Walks: Enjoy pleasant walks along the creek bank and through the reserve.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Panmure Hotel – Approx. 400 m
  • The Commercial Hotel (Terang) – Approx. 18 km
  • The Cally Hotel (Warrnambool) – Approx. 25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Panmure Hotel (Bistro) – Approx. 400 m
  • Panmure General Store / Takeaway – Approx. 500 m
• Local Attractions:
  • Great Ocean Road (Bay of Islands) – Approx. 20 km
  • Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve – Approx. 20 km
  • Warrnambool City Centre & Flagstaff Hill – Approx. 25 km
  • Port Fairy historic fishing village – Approx. 45 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Figtree Holiday Park (Warrnambool) – Approx. 24 km
  • Terang Caravan Park – Approx. 18 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Hawkesdale Apex Campsite – Approx. 35 km
  • Mount Eccles National Park (Budj Bim) – Approx. 55 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Terang Public Dump Point – Approx. 18 km
  • Warrnambool Public Dump Point – Approx. 25 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Panmure – Approx. 500 m
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and generally dry, with moderating coastal breezes, averaging 13-26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool nights, ideal for walking and exploring, averaging 9-21°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp, with chilly days and a high chance of rain, averaging 6-14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild with increasing sunshine, a great time to see the region’s lush green landscapes, averaging 8-19°C.