Aire River East Campground

Overview

Set beside the heritage‑listed Aire River near Cape Otway, Aire River East Campground is the mellow, riverside option on this stretch of the coast. Think grassy sites under gum trees, birdsong at dawn, and easy water access without the bustle of the highway.

Why go

It’s a fantastic base if you want to paddle calm estuary water, fish, or link up sections of the Great Ocean Walk. Glenaire Beach is close enough for an evening surf check or a windswept sunset wander, and the river flats often deliver wildlife—koalas in the trees, kookaburras chattering, and nocturnal visitors like possums.

Campsites & facilities

• 20 grassy, unpowered sites; bookings and payment required year‑round. Each site allows up to six people.
• Site layout matters: 1–4 suit smaller tents; 10–20 can handle larger caravans.
• Facilities are deliberately simple: drop toilets; bring all your own drinking water and pack out rubbish. No solid‑fuel fires and no generators.
• Pets are not permitted.

What to do

• Paddling: The river is ideal for kayaks, canoes and SUPs; the best launch spot is near the bridge.
• Beach time: Glenaire Beach is about a 25‑minute walk from camp—great for experienced surfers and big‑sky sunsets.
• Hiking: The Great Ocean Walk passes through the area, threading coastal heath and forest for as long or short a wander as you like.

Getting there

Roughly three hours west of Melbourne. Access is via unsealed roads: Hordern Vale Road is the easier approach; Sand Road is rougher and includes a bridge with a 6‑tonne load limit.

Wildlife

Koalas are regularly spotted in the eucalypts, with plenty of birdlife around camp. Across the park, echidnas and long‑nosed bandicoots leave fresh diggings—watch your footing on tracks, especially at dusk.

Best time to visit

Weekdays and shoulder seasons keep things quieter. Mornings are typically calmest for paddling, and late afternoon light is lovely on the river and dunes. If you’re here for surf or sunsets, time your beach walk for golden hour.

Need to know

As of late November, the East campground has been temporarily closed due to waterlogged conditions—check Parks Victoria for current status before you commit. Book ahead regardless; sites are limited and popular on fair‑weather weekends.