For travellers seeking an authentic and affordable base to explore the heart of the Shipwreck Coast, the Port Campbell Recreation Reserve Camp Ground is an absolute gem. This spacious, community-managed campground offers a relaxed, friendly, and unpretentious atmosphere, making it a beloved choice for families, backpackers, and touring caravanners alike. Set on a sprawling grassy reserve, the park provides a huge range of unpowered sites, allowing campers to find their own perfect spot with plenty of room to spread out. It’s a place that buzzes with a friendly, communal vibe, especially during peak season, as visitors from all over the world gather after a day of marvelling at the region’s natural wonders.
The campground’s biggest drawcard is its unbeatable location. It is just a short, pleasant stroll from the charming Port Campbell township, with its vibrant foreshore, sheltered swimming beach, and fantastic cafes and restaurants. More importantly, it is the most centrally located campground for visiting the icons of the Great Ocean Road. The world-famous 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and The Grotto are all just a few minutes’ drive away, allowing you to easily visit these landmarks at sunrise or sunset without the long drive from larger towns. The facilities are clean and well-maintained, including toilet and hot shower blocks, a basic camp kitchen, and laundry services, providing all the essentials for a comfortable stay. While it may not have the bells and whistles of a resort-style park, its value, location, and classic Aussie camping feel make the Port Campbell Recreation Reserve an outstanding choice for an unforgettable Great Ocean Road adventure.
Port Campbell Recreation Reserve – VIC Location Map
Port Campbell Recreation Reserve Camp Ground
Site Details
- Location: In-town reserve, a short walk to the Port Campbell foreshore.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
- Road Access: Sealed road.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, a large number of unpowered sites available. Limited powered sites require booking.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with management, but standard holiday stays are welcome.
- Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, basic camp kitchen, laundry, playground.
- Potable Water: Yes, available.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
- TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Strictly not permitted.
- Generator Use: Permitted during designated hours, check with management.
- Number of Sites Available: Very large, unmarked area for unpowered sites. Can accommodate hundreds of campers.
- Essentials to Bring: Camera, walking shoes, warm jacket (even in summer).
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on leads in the unpowered section. Conditions apply.
Activities
- Fishing: Good surf and jetty fishing from the Port Campbell foreshore.
- Short Walks: Walk to the Port Campbell Discovery Trail and scenic lookouts. Part of the Great Ocean Walk.
- Surfing & Swimming: The main beach is sheltered for swimming, with surf breaks nearby.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Port Campbell Hotel – Approx. 800 m
- The 12 Rocks Beach Bar Cafe – Approx. 800 m
- Sow and Piglets Brewery – Approx. 700 m
- Places to Eat:
- Numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants along the main street – Approx. 700-900 m
- Local Attractions:
- Port Campbell Foreshore – Approx. 800 m
- The 12 Apostles – Approx. 11 km
- Loch Ard Gorge – Approx. 8 km
- The Grotto & London Bridge – Approx. 7 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- NRMA Port Campbell Holiday Park – Approx. 1 km
- Princetown Recreation Reserve – Approx. 18 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Panmure Campground – Approx. 35 km
- Johanna Beach Campground (Great Otway NP, requires booking) – Approx. 60 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Located onsite at the Port Campbell Recreation Reserve.
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Port Campbell – Approx. 1 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Public Toilets:
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm, but can be windy and changeable. Averaging 13-24°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cool and often calm, with clear days perfect for photography, averaging 10-20°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, wet, and windy, showcasing the coastline’s wild side. Averaging 7-14°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and brisk, with a mix of sun and dramatic showers, averaging 9-18°C.
