Pros & cons
PROS
- Leafy riverside setting with real platypus-spotting potential at dawn and dusk
- Walk-in, tent-only vibe keeps it quiet yet minutes from Lorne
CONS
- No campfires or power; fuel stoves/gas BBQs only
- 230 m gear carry from the carpark and bring your own drinking water
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.
Where it is
-38.5504, 143.9596Tips for Allenvale Campground
- 01Book ahead—sites are reservable year‑round and can fill in peak periods.
- 02Pack all your drinking water; the on-site tank water isn’t potable.
- 03Bring a trolley or backpacking system for the 230 m gear carry.
- 04Use a fuel stove or gas BBQ—campfires are never permitted here.
- 05Scan the St George River at dawn or dusk for shy platypus.
Amenities
Near Allenvale Campground
All places →All trails →
0.9 mi awayPhantom FallsShaded Otways waterfall via a short, rewarding forest walkTrailhead · Parking
0.9 mi awayLower Kalimna Falls TrackFerny stroll to a walk-behind waterfall with a cave-like alcoveModerate · 5.1 mi · 2.3 hr
0.9 mi awayPhantom Falls and Henderson Falls via The CanyonTwo rainforest waterfalls and a narrow canyon in one moderate loop.Moderate · 5.9 mi · 3 hr
0.9 mi awaySheoak Falls via Castle RockWaterfall and lookout loop with ocean views and a swallow-filled caveModerate · 6 mi · 3.5 hr
0.9 mi awayHenderson Falls TrackShady fern gully stroll to a graceful 8–10 m waterfall.Easy · 2.2 mi · 1 hr
1.1 mi awaySwallow CaveHoneycombed cave with nesting swallows on the Sheoak Falls walkTrailhead · Parking
1.1 mi awayTeddy's LookoutQuick, sweeping view of St George River and Great Ocean RoadParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1.1 mi awayLorne Main BeachFamily-friendly surf beach with foreshore perks and cafes steps awayParking · Restroom
