Allenvale Campground

Overview

Allenvale is a simple, bushy walk-in campground tucked beside the St George River just outside Lorne. It’s tent‑only and unpowered, so the feel stays quiet and nature‑first, but you’re still a short drive from town and the coast.

Campsites & Facilities

• 20 walk‑in sites (up to six people each), tent‑only and unpowered.
• Park in the campground carpark, then it’s roughly 230 m on foot to the sites.
• Basic amenities only: non‑flush (drop) toilets, low benches/tables, and a central shelter. There’s a rainwater tank tap for cleaning, but it’s not safe to drink—pack all your own water.
• Fires are not permitted at any time. Bring a fuel stove or gas BBQ for cooking.
• Advance booking and payment are required year‑round. Dogs are not allowed.

Wildlife

This is prime riparian habitat—watch the St George River quietly at dawn and dusk for a shot at seeing platypus. Across the Otways you may also notice digging from echidnas and bandicoots; give wildlife plenty of space and keep food securely stored.

Nearby Walks and Current Conditions

From camp you’re well placed for waterfalls and forest walks around Lorne. As of November 20, 2025, Parks Victoria notes the Cora Lynn Cascades walking track is closed, and the Kalimna Tramline link is closed (Lower Kalimna Falls still accessible from Sheoak Picnic Area; Upper Kalimna closed). Track statuses change—always recheck the Parks Victoria change‑of‑conditions page before you go.

Safety & Seasonality

Allenvale sits in the Central Fire District—check Fire Danger Ratings and any Total Fire Bans before your trip. Even without a ban, campfires aren’t allowed here. After rain, expect slick tracks and heavier leaf litter.

Best Time to Visit

• Dawn/dusk: best wildlife watching and softer light under the tall forest.
• Weekdays or outside school holidays: quieter feel and easier parking.
• Summer brings longer evenings but higher fire risk; winter is peaceful if you’re prepared for cool, damp conditions.

How to Make It Easy

Pack light and use a trolley or backpacking setup for the 230 m carry. Bring plenty of drinking water, a reliable stove, headlamps for the evening walk‑in, and sturdy pegs for firm ground. Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles at the carpark.