Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park

Overview

Set right on the sand-and-river fringe of Lorne, this foreshore park is all about convenience: you’re strolling distance to the surf, the Erskine River, and Mountjoy Parade’s cafes. It’s a classic Great Ocean Road base—easy for families and relaxed campers who want nature without giving up town comforts.

The Layout: Five Precincts

• Erskine River: Shady, riverside feel and the precinct with a camp kitchen.
• Ocean Road: Central and flat—handy to shops and beach access.
• Kia Ora: Close to town; a good pick if you like being in the mix.
• Top Bank: Set just back from the river with a dump point and family facilities shown on the map; fronts a public road in places, which some guests notice.
• Queens Park: Near the pier/headland and the Eco Safari Tents; quieter, dog‑free zone.

Facilities & Rules That Matter

Expect regular amenity blocks with mains water, hot showers, laundries and free BBQs; playgrounds are dotted through the precincts, and there’s a camp kitchen in Erskine River. Dogs are allowed only on campsites in Kia Ora, Ocean Road and Top Bank from 1 Feb to 15 Dec (blackout peak long weekends). No dogs in cabins, and Erskine River and Queens Park are dog‑free. Campfires are strictly limited to Erskine Park powered sites, in the off‑peak window from 1 May until Melbourne Cup weekend, using supplied fire drums and wood.

Nature, Walks & Wildlife

You’re on the doorstep of waterfalls, tall forests and birdlife. Around the river you’ll often spot ducks and ducklings; possums can be bold at night—secure your food and don’t feed wildlife. Koalas are commonly seen in the region (more reliably down the road at Kennett River). On foot from the foreshore, the Erskine River track to Erskine Falls is a long, adventurous 7.5 km each way with river crossings; many visitors drive to the signed short walks. For something gentler, try the coastal Shipwreck Trail from the Swing Bridge to Shelly Beach (dogs on‑lead along the path).

What Recent Visitors Say

Location gets consistent praise—walk-everywhere convenience—with clean, functional amenities noted by many. Common gripes are tight sites (especially in busy times), occasional gate hiccups, variable hot water/shower pressure, and pricing that jumps in peak periods. Top Bank’s proximity to a public road means passing cars; keep kids close near those edges.

A Bit of Context

Lorne sits on the heritage‑listed Great Ocean Road, built by returned servicemen between 1919 and 1932, and the coast here is shaped by Otway Group sandstones and shales—hence the mix of cliffs, waterfalls and sandy flats around the river mouth.

Best Time to Visit

If you prefer calmer vibes (and easier site selection), aim outside peak long weekends. Campfire fans should target the off‑peak window (1 May to Melbourne Cup weekend). Note the 2025 Schoolies Week period—29 November to 6 December 2025—requires phone bookings and sees heavier crowds. After‑hours check‑in is possible when arranged; staff have assisted guests late.

How to Choose a Site

Study the precinct maps before booking: pick near what you need (camp kitchen, laundry, playground) and request an inner site if you’re noise‑sensitive or wary of road edges. If you want shade and a mellower feel, Erskine River is the go‑to; for pure convenience to shops and beach, Ocean Road or Kia Ora win.