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New South Wales

Welcome to the vibrant and expansive New South Wales (NSW), a premier destination for families and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of Australia in the unique comfort of a campervan. Nestled on the east coast, NSW is bordered by tropical Queensland to the north, verdant Victoria to the south, and azure waters of South Australia to the west, making it a perfect central starting point for any Australia campervan holiday on the mainland.

Exploring NSW in a campervan is the perfect way to experience the sheer diversity of Australia’s landscapes and NSW attractions—from the pristine beaches of Kiama and the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains to the dynamic urban centres, remote bushland, and coastal retreats of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Whether you're looking to surf the waves at Bondi Beach, enjoy a serene hike in the national parks, or indulge in the culture at the Sydney Art Gallery, there is an unparalleled variety of things to do in NSW!

 

Why explore NSW by campervan

Travelling through NSW on an Australia campervan holiday offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean at a beachside campsite near Batemans Bay or enjoying your breakfast amidst the lush greenery of a secluded forest. Campervans provide not only flexibility in your travel plans but also the opportunity to connect deeply with the Aussie landscapes. 

What’s more, an Australia campervan holiday through NSW lets you discover hidden gems that are often off the beaten path and not easily accessible by traditional means of travel. From the wine regions of the Hunter Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines in the world, to the heritage towns of the New England hinterland area, a campervan can take you to places that would otherwise require extensive planning or expensive tours.

 

Things to do in New South Wales

NSW is bursting with activities. For beach lovers, the coast offers endless opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at famous spots like Bondi, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, NSW also offers unique experiences like whale watching in Nelson Bay, marvelling at contemporary art at the Sydney Art Gallery, or hiking through the ancient rainforests of the Blue Mountains. No matter what your interests are, NSW has something spectacular to explore. For information on what to do in NSW, check out our guides to exploring NSW. 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Free Camping Spots in Victoria

Ready to dive into the spectacular landscapes of Victoria from the cozy confines of a campervan? This guide is your ultimate resource, outlining the top free camping near Melbourne and across the state, perfect for adventurers on a budget. We’ll explore everything from the rugged coasts at Johanna Beach to the tranquil waters of Lake Eildon, covering everything you need to know for a seamless Australia road trip. 

Expect practical advice on interacting with wildlife, finding spots with the best amenities, and the essential dos and don’ts of Australia freedom camping. Gear up for an epic campervan road trip—it’s time to explore Victoria’s breathtaking beauty and wild charm from the comfort of a campervan!

 

Why you should go freedom camping in Victoria

Victoria is home to an array of breathtaking landscapes —from the dramatic cliffs of the Great Ocean Road to the tranquil ambience of the Dandenong Ranges. As such, freedom camping in Victoria offers more than just a cheap place to sleep—it's a gateway to experiencing Aussie nature at its purest. Imagine waking up to the sounds of waves at Johanna Beach or the peaceful silence of the high country's rugged wilderness.

If that weren’t enough, Victoria also boasts a rich cultural history, vibrant local communities, and a thriving food and wine scene, making it a perfect destination for any road trip itinerary planner. Whether wandering the laneways of Melbourne, soaking in the mineral springs of Daylesford or marvelling at the views from the historic riverboats along the Murray River, you will have no shortage of ways to fill your road trip itinerary planner while freedom camping in Victoria.

 

Things to think about when freedom camping in Victoria

Venturing into the great outdoors of Victoria with your campervan requires a bit of prep and know-how. Here are a few things to consider when planning a freedom camping adventure.

Image: Lachlan Gardiner

 

Legalities and regulations

In Victoria, not all scenic spots are up for grabs for a night under the stars (sadly). Some areas require permits, and others are completely off-limits to campers to preserve the area. Checking with local authorities or the Parks Victoria website can save you from fines and help preserve our beloved landscapes. Staying informed is not just about following the rules—it's about contributing to the sustainability of these beautiful places.

 

Leave no trace

Leave no trace is not just a courtesy; it's a responsibility. When setting up camp at free campgrounds in your campervan, it is important to ensure it looks untouched when you leave. This means packing out trash, keeping fires within designated pits (where permitted), and ensuring that the natural flora and fauna remain undisturbed. Practising this principle helps maintain the pristine condition of these Victorian campgrounds, making sure they remain enjoyable and open to future visitors.

 

Safety precautions

When you explore Australia in a campervan, your safety should always come first. Always inform someone of your itinerary, and be prepared for unpredictable weather by packing the right gear. A comprehensive first-aid kit is your best friend in the wild, remote areas of Australia, and a knowledge of basic survival skills can be a helpful addition.  

 

Accessibility and amenities

While the spirit of freedom camping in Australia is often about roughing it, some planning is still essential. Many free camping campgrounds offer minimal amenities, so come prepared with sufficient supplies. Water, food, and basic hygiene products are must-haves. While some freedom campgrounds might offer the bare minimum, like toilets or fire pits, others may have none — so checking site facilities ahead of your trip is a smart move. For extended campervan adventures, remember to book a powered campground every three days to recharge your campervan to keep all systems running smoothly.

 

Wildlife awareness

When freedom camping in Australia, expect to share your temporary backyard with local wildlife. These furry friends can range from curious kangaroos to spikey echidnas. While encountering wildlife is a pretty exciting part of any camping experience, it's important to store food securely and keep a respectful distance when encountering these wild animals. This not only protects you and your group but also ensures that wildlife remains, well, —wild.

 

What’s the best way to explore Victoria?

There's arguably no better way to see Victoria than from the comfort of a Cheapa campervan. With the flexibility to move at your own pace and the freedom to access remote corners of this picturesque state, campervan travel becomes the ultimate adventure. Imagine waking up to a different breathtaking view each morning—whether it’s a mist-covered mountain or a sandy beach—this is what an Australia road trip in a campervan offers.

Travelling by campervan allows you to store all your essentials and keep comforts close while you navigate through Victoria’s diverse landscapes. From bustling Melbourne streets to the peaceful Murray River, each day ends exactly where you want it to be. Whether finding hidden gems off the beaten path or following the well-trodden tourist trails, your campervan is your gateway to an unforgettable Australia road trip.

 

The best freedom camping spots in Victoria

Now that you know the basics of freedom camping and campervan travel, let’s explore some of the top spots where you can park up your campervan and enjoy the natural beauty that this part of Australia has to offer.

Image: Lachlan Gardiner

 

1. Candlebark Campground, Lake Eildon National Park

Nestled in the heart of Victoria's highlands, Candlebark Campground offers a tranquil escape in the expansive Lake Eildon National Park. This campground is perfect for those who enjoy water sports and fishing, as the lake provides ample opportunities for boating and kayaking. The campground features basic amenities like toilets, picnic tables and fireplaces, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature. Located just over two hours’ drive from Melbourne, Candlebark is easily accessible for a weekend getaway or a stop on a northbound Australia road trip.

 

2. Johanna Beach, Great Otway National Park

For those drawn to the sea, Johanna Beach Campground in Great Otway National Park offers a stunning coastal experience in Victoria. Known for its rugged beauty and as a haven for surfers, this freedom campground provides visitors with basic facilities like toilets. However, what you sacrifice in amenities can be made up with the views! 

This is easily one of the best freedom camping sites in Australia, where you can watch the dramatic Southern Ocean waves crash against the shore or enjoy a peaceful sunset. Johanna Beach is approximately a three-hour drive from Melbourne, making it an excellent spot for an extended road trip through the Great Ocean Road. This is a perfect addition to any road trip itinerary planner for those looking to explore the region’s scenic oceanside trails or relax by the beach.

 

3. Toolangi State Forest

Looking for a little forested paradise? Toolangi State Forest boasts magnificent mountain ash trees and a lush understorey, creating a lush forested backdrop for your campervan adventure. This area offers a variety of free camping sites scattered throughout the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, ideal for those who love hiking and spotting wildlife. Facilities are rustic, aimed at those who are self-sufficient but still appreciate the accessibility of nearby hiking trails and clearings for campfires.

The best part? This freedom camp in Australia is located just an hour and a half from Melbourne, making this a perfect campground for a quick escape from the city. With so many campgrounds to choose from, even those new to van travel can find a secure place to stay while enjoying the tranquillity of the Victorian bushland.

 

4. Aire River West Campground, Great Otway National Park

At the heart of the Great Otway National Park, the Aire River West Campground offers a serene setting along the banks of the Aire River, a prime spot for those hoping to add a little canoeing and fishing to their campervan adventure. Keen anglers can choose between the calm estuary of Aire River or the wild ocean waters of Glenaire Beach for their chance to catch salmon, mullet, trout and more. 

The campground provides basic amenities such as toilets and picnic tables and is conveniently located about a three and a half hours' drive from Melbourne. For those travelling along the Great Ocean Road by campervan, this is a convenient base to add to your road trip itinerary planner as you explore the surrounding beauty of the Otway ranges.

 

5. Aberfeldy River, Gippsland

Set in the picturesque outskirts of Gippsland, the Aberfeldy River Camping Area offers an enchanting escape into Baw Baw National Park. The surrounding forest provides ample opportunities for wildlife photography—especially during the wildflower season—and the nearby Australian Alps Walking Track and Mushroom Rocks attractions mean you don’t have to wander far to immerse yourself in Aussie alpine beauty. Plus, with pitfall toilets, firepits, and a fully stocked campervan, you’ll have everything you need for a tranquil getaway. 

This secluded spot is perfect for those driving east of Melbourne and looking to add a little fishing, swimming, and bushwalking to their Australia road trip. The drive from Melbourne to the Aberfeldy River takes about three hours, which also makes it a feasible weekend getaway for city dwellers looking to disconnect. 

 

6. Sawpit Free Campground, Mount Clay State Forest

Located near the coastal town of Portland, the Sawpit Free Campground is a hidden gem within the tall eucalypt forests of Mount Clay State Forest. Despite being a free campground, it boasts well-maintained amenities, including BBQs, toilets and picnic tables. This site is an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like the Cape Bridgewater seal colony, the stunning Bridgewater Bay, and the Mt Clay Mountain Bike track

Just over a four-hour drive west of Melbourne, Sawpit offers a straightforward, no-frills that is typical of free camping in Australia. The campground’s accessibility and the proximity to coastal landscapes make it a popular choice for those looking to explore the less frequented parts of Victoria's coastline and a perfect addition to an Australia road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide. 

 

7. Meredith Park, Lake Colac

Meredith Park lies on the banks of Lake Colac and offers expansive views across the water. Set on six hectares of the Lake Colac shoreline, this Australia freedom camping site is ideal for those interested in boating, fishing, hiking on the nearby trails, or simply relaxing by the lake and enjoying some enviable lake-side sunsets. The campground itself is spacious, well-suited for campervans and includes basic facilities like toilets and barbeque areas for a little extra comfort. 

A drive from Melbourne to Meredith Park takes approximately two and a half hours, making this another top contender for a lakeside weekend getaway or those planning an Australian road trip through the Otways. What’s more, the park offers ample space for campervans to park near the lake, making this one of the best freedom camping in Victoria for water lovers or anyone looking to soak up the peaceful lake atmosphere.

 

Think camping in Victoria sounds like fun?

After exploring just a few of the many free camping spots available in Victoria, it’s clear why this state is a favoured destination for a campervan road trip. Whether you choose to visit for the weekend or as a quick stopover on a longer Australia road trip, each campground offers its unique charm and a host of activities.

Think camping in Victoria sounds like fun? You can easily book your Cheapa camper online and pick it up from any Cheapa branch before setting out on your very own Victoria road trip. Whether you’re after the lush forests of the Otways or the tranquil waters of Lake Colac, freedom camping in a campervan allows you the simple pleasures of exploring at your own pace. So why wait? Victoria’s stunning landscapes are calling.

 

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Popular NSW road trips & itineraries

New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia, is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Accessible internationally via the Sydney International Airport and an achievable drive away from major cities like Brisbane (approximately 10 hours) and Melbourne (about 9 hours), NSW is ideally positioned for an Australia campervan holiday adventure. Some of the most popular road trips within New South Wales include the scenic coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay, the food and wine trail in the Hunter Valley, and the heritage-rich adventures around the historical towns of Bathurst and Mudgee.

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Great savings on your NSW road trip

New South Wales offers a mosaic of dazzling coastal views and exquisite natural terrains. From the iconic beaches within Sydney's bustling centre to the serene heights of its alpine regions, discover the full splendour of this region and see how you can make your travel budget go further with our incredible deals. Check out the epic savings available for your NSW road trip. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked shores or mountainous adventures, these offers help ensure your Australia campervan holiday is both memorable and affordable.

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Apollo NSW campervan branches

Sydney, a gateway to some of the most captivating NSW attractions, is also home to our Sydney Apollo campervan branch. Strategically located, it offers seamless access to iconic NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Northern Beaches, and regional NSW gems. Apollo's Sydney branch is the perfect launchpad for your Australia campervan holiday, and our knowledgeable team is there to equip you with everything you need to explore urban wonders and serene landscapes at your own pace.

 

 

Helpful tips for visiting NSW

Are you excited to start planning your very own NSW Australia campervan holiday? Here are a few essential tips to consider when crafting your campervan itinerary, ranging from the best travel times and climate insights to packing essentials and must-see NSW attractions.

New South Wales boasts a climate as varied as its landscape, with coastal regions enjoying mild, breezy summers and crisp winters while the western plains see more extreme temperatures. All in all, the ideal times to visit are spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when the weather is most temperate, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visiting outside the peak months means you won't have to navigate the hotter (and much busier) summers and cooler (and often rainy) winters. Travelling in the shoulder seasons also means fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for those looking to save a little on accommodation and NSW attractions.

Your packing list for an Australia campervan holiday in NSW should include versatile outdoor gear for sudden weather changes, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs (which are available from Apollo for hire). Don’t forget a good camera to capture the stunning views and any hiking or beach gear if you plan on heading out to explore NSW’s wild, remote regions. For more details on what to pack, check Apollo's summer campervan road trip essentials.

Wondering what to do in NSW? This state is booming with attractions, from natural beauties to man-made wonders. Here's a closer look at some must-visit things to do in NSW:

  • Sydney: As Australia's iconic face, Sydney is packed with must-see NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The city's vibrant culture and bustling nightlife are complemented by serene spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens and bustling markets like The Rocks.
  • Taronga Zoo: This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe and offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features daily animal shows, a sky safari gondola, and interactive encounters, making it a perfect day trip while exploring New South Wales.
  • Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and lush eucalyptus forests. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hunter Valley: Renowned for its exquisite wineries and gourmet dining, Hunter Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Explore vineyards, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in picturesque vineyard settings.
  • Port Stephens: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Port Stephens is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkelling and sailing to sandboarding on the dunes, it offers many outdoor activities.
  • Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Big Banana, one of Australia's original 'big things'. It's also a great spot for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the surrounding natural reserves.
  • Newcastle: A blend of old and new, Newcastle boasts a vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and a strong surf culture. Its revitalised waterfront district offers trendy cafes, galleries, and parks.
  • Booderee National Park: Located at Jervis Bay, this national park is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's an excellent spot for camping, fishing, and bushwalking.
  • Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, this charming seaside town offers scenic coastal walks and a laid-back atmosphere. The blowhole is a natural spectacle where seawater spouts high into the air from the rocks.
  • Port Macquarie: A historic town with a rich convict past, Port Macquarie has stunning coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and a koala hospital where visitors can learn about conservation.
  • Batemans Bay: Ideal for nature lovers, Batemans Bay is located at the entrance of the Clyde River and is surrounded by forests, estuaries, and national parks. It's popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Sydney.

New South Wales offers a variety of campervan accommodation options, ranging from beachfront caravan parks to secluded free camping spots. For those looking to wake up to ocean views, there are plenty of stunning beachfront caravan parks in NSW that offer prime locations and amenities. Holiday parks in NSW are also for the whole family! Families can enjoy the comforts and activities at family-friendly campsites in NSW as well as family-friendly campgrounds in Sydney, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly campsites across NSW that welcome even the furriest members of the family. For those seeking a more rustic experience, NSW's free camping spots provide a perfect way to save a few pennies, all while connecting you with nature. Notable parks like South West Rocks Holiday Resort on the mid-north coast, Lake Mac Holiday Parks in Lake Macquarie, and Norah Head Holiday Park on the Central Coast offer excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the state in a campervan.

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