Place · 0 mi away
Overview
Tucked above Parker Inlet near Cape Otway, this compact bush campground feels wild yet convenient. You’re camping among wind-pruned stringybarks with glimpses toward the ocean and a steep staircase down to a secluded cove. It’s a solid base if you’re piecing together sections of the Great Ocean Walk or just want a quiet night in the forest.
Campsites & Facilities
There are 20 unpowered, tent-only sites (max six people). Sites 1–10 are drive-in; 11–20 are walk-in from a small communal car park about 10 meters away. Facilities are basic: clean drop toilets and a simple washing-up sink. There’s a rainwater tank for cleaning, but the water isn’t treated—plan to bring all your drinking water. Fires aren’t permitted; use fuel stoves or gas BBQs. Rangers check in regularly.
Access & Layout
Reach it via Great Ocean Road > Lighthouse Road > Blanket Bay Road > Parker Hill Track. It’s generally 2WD in normal conditions, but the unsealed road can get slippery when wet. Expect compact pads and neighboring cars in the drive-in loop; several campers note the sites sit fairly close together.
What You’ll See & Do
From camp, a staircase of roughly 300 steps drops to Parker Inlet—good for rock platforms and exploring the estuary. The beach is unpatrolled with strong currents, so think scenic wandering and fishing rather than swimming. On the Great Ocean Walk, you can head north toward Blanket Bay or south along clifftops for big coastal views.
Wildlife
Koalas and wallabies are regulars around camp, and you’ll hear kookaburras at dawn. Echidnas and long‑nosed bandicoots dig along the Great Ocean Walk—watch your footing and give them space. Foxes do lurk, so secure food.
Hazards & Rules
No dogs, drones (without a permit), firearms or horses. Be mindful of falling limbs on windy days, European wasps in warmer months, and flash-flooding or rough surf around the inlet. Mobile reception can be patchy.
Booking & Fees
Bookings and payment are required year‑round through Parks Victoria. For stays between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026, nightly campsite fees are Peak AU$17.30, Shoulder AU$16.40, and Off‑peak AU$15.60; concession and school rates apply. Basic supplies can be picked up at Bimbi Park about 6 km away.
Best Time to Visit
It’s usually quiet, but expect it to fill during Christmas and New Year. If you want the inlet to yourself, arrive early or aim for shoulder seasons; golden hours make the forest and headlands look their best.
Pros
- Mix of drive-in and walk-in sites
- Short walk to Parker Inlet and the Great Ocean Walk
Cons
- Sites are close together with limited privacy
- Non-potable water; bring all drinking water
Tips
- Bookings are required year‑round and fees vary by season.
- Bring all drinking water; the onsite tank is for cleaning only.
- Expect a steep 300‑step climb to and from the beach—pack light.
- In wet weather the unsealed access road gets slick; an SUV helps.
- For a bit more space and grass, target the walk‑in sites 11–20.
