Perched high in the hinterland of the Great Otway National Park, Big Hill Campground is a fantastic destination for adventurers seeking a true forest escape just a stone’s throw from the vibrant town of Lorne. This Parks Victoria campground is particularly renowned among mountain biking enthusiasts, as it serves as the trailhead for the popular Big Hill Mountain Bike Trails. The campground itself is a serene and rustic clearing, set amongst a towering forest of messmate, stringybark, and mountain grey gums. It offers a classic Australian bush camping experience, with well-spaced, individual sites that provide a sense of privacy and immersion in the tranquil forest environment. It’s the perfect spot for self-sufficient campers who value nature and outdoor recreation over extensive facilities.
The main drawcard is its incredible access to recreation. Mountain bikers can ride directly from their campsite onto a network of purpose-built trails that wind through the stunning Otway forest. For hikers, the campground provides access to a variety of walking tracks that reveal the rich biodiversity of the area, from lush fern gullies to drier ridges with coastal views. While the campground feels wonderfully remote and peaceful, its proximity to Lorne is a major advantage. After a day on the trails, the famous beaches, acclaimed cafes, and bustling pub scene of Lorne are just a short drive down the hill. This unique combination of secluded forest camping and easy access to coastal town amenities makes Big Hill a highly sought-after location. As a designated national park campground, bookings are essential to secure a spot. For an active, nature-focused getaway in the heart of the Otways, Big Hill Campground is an exceptional choice.
Big Hill Campground – VIC Location Map
Big Hill Campground
Site Details
- Location: Forest setting in the Great Otway National Park, in the hills behind Lorne.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, and small Off-road Camper Trailers. Not suitable for caravans or large motorhomes.
- Road Access: Unsealed gravel road (Big Hill Track). Can be slippery when wet, 4WD may be required.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and gravel base.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are mandatory via the Parks Victoria website.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check Parks Victoria guidelines for booking limits.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, shared fire pits, picnic tables. No power or showers.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very patchy. Telstra has the best chance of a weak signal.
- TV Reception: Unlikely.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Not permitted.
- Number of Sites Available: 14 designated, bookable sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, mountain bike, hiking boots.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Great Otway National Park.
Activities
- Fishing: Not applicable.
- Short Walks: Excellent access to numerous bushwalking trails.
- Mountain Biking: The primary attraction, with a network of trails starting at the campground.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Lorne Hotel – Approx. 10 km
- Deans Marsh Hotel – Approx. 15 km
- The Grand Pacific Hotel (Lorne) – Approx. 11 km
- Places to Eat:
- Extensive range of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Lorne – Approx. 10 km
- Deans Marsh General Store & Cafe – Approx. 15 km
- Local Attractions:
- Big Hill Mountain Bike Trails – Onsite
- Erskine Falls – Approx. 12 km
- Teddy’s Lookout – Approx. 12 km
- Lorne Main Beach – Approx. 11 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park – Approx. 10 km
- BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park – Approx. 30 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Sharps Camping Area – Approx. 25 km
- Stevensons Falls Campground – Approx. 35 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park (fee may apply) – Approx. 10 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available at the Lorne Visitor Information Centre.
- Public Toilets:
- Available onsite (non-flush).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm and can be humid in the forest, averaging 14-25°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cool and calm, often with beautiful misty mornings, averaging 10-21°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and wet, the peak season for a vibrant, dripping rainforest. Averaging 7-15°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and crisp, with frequent showers bringing the forest to life. Averaging 9-19°C.
