Camper Champ

Victoria's national parks offer a wealth of experiences for campervan travellers. Take the time to appreciate the natural beauty, unique wildlife, and rich cultural history that each park has to offer.

The Great Otway National Park, nestled along the Great Ocean Road with its dramatic coastline, lush rainforests, and magnificent waterfalls, offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the diverse plant and animal life in the region. The Cape Otway Lighthouse stands as Australia's oldest surviving mainland lighthouse, and the park's extensive network of trails provides ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting, with the Great Ocean Walk being a major highlight.

Wilsons Promontory National Park, affectionately known as "The Prom," is the southernmost point of mainland Australia. This coastal wilderness is renowned for its pristine beaches, granite peaks, and abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, and emus. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the park's well-maintained trails, with the overnight hike to the remote and beautiful Sealers Cove being a popular choice. The iconic Squeaky Beach, where the rounded quartz sand grains make a distinctive squeaking sound underfoot, also makes for an intriguing visit.

The Grampians National Park is a majestic oasis of rugged sandstone mountain ranges, vibrant wildflower displays, and cascading waterfalls. The park is a haven for various outdoor pursuits, with its hiking trails, rock climbing adventures, and scenic lookouts. Additionally, it houses the most extensive assortment of Indigenous rock art sites in Victoria, providing a fascinating insight into the region's historical heritage. The Balconies, an iconic rock formation, and the panoramic views from the Pinnacle lookout should not be missed.

The Alpine National Park boasts a stunning array of alpine landscapes. From snow-capped peaks in winter to vibrant wildflower meadows in summer, this park offers year-round adventure for campervan travellers. The park is crisscrossed with walking tracks, 4WD routes, and horse riding trails that cater to a range of skill levels. The iconic High Country Huts, which once sheltered cattlemen, are an interesting historical feature scattered throughout the park.

Stretching along the coastline of the Mornington Peninsula, the Mornington Peninsula National Park offers dramatic coastal scenery, picturesque beaches, and fascinating historical sites. The park is a haven for marine wildlife, with opportunities to spot seals, dolphins, and migrating whales. The diverse range of walking trails includes the scenic Bushrangers Bay Walk and the adventurous Two Bays Walking Track. Be sure to visit the Cape Schanck Lighthouse, which has been guiding mariners since 1859.

The Yarra Ranges National Park showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges. Home to towering mountain ash forests, ancient fern gullies, and the majestic Yarra River, this park offers a range of recreational activities. Highlights include the popular Steavenson Falls, the Rainforest Gallery, and the scenic drive to the summit of Mount Donna Buang, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Just an hour's drive from Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges National Park is a tranquil retreat featuring lush forests, charming villages, and an abundance of walking trails. The park is famous for its stunning cool climate gardens and the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Railway, which winds its way through the picturesque landscape. A visit to the park wouldn't be complete without exploring the popular 1000 Steps, which follows the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk and pays tribute to Australian soldiers who served during World War II. The park is also home to the beautiful Sherbrooke Forest, where you can spot native wildlife, such as lyrebirds, wallabies, and kookaburras, while strolling through the fern-lined tracks.

Good news for penny pinchers: entry to all Victorian national parks is free. The state government abolished fees over a decade ago to promote healthy, active lifestyles—if only other states would follow suit.

Many national park campgrounds require a permit to stay overnight. However, in another generous act, the Victorian Government recently halved camping fees for all its campgrounds. Prices range from a meagre $2.70 to $15 per person per night.

Some campgrounds must be booked online. For the rest, just rock up and pick your spot.

Private and state-run campgrounds tend to fill up fast during peak periods, especially school holidays. Reserve ahead to secure your site.