Parker Hill Campground

Parker Hill Campground is a small, unpowered tent campground on a forested hill near Cape Otway, overlooking the beach and estuary. Its 20 sites take up to six people each, among wind-pruned stringybarks. Come for a simple bush camp with the coast close by; this is a quiet base for nearby walks, not a serviced holiday park.

Bookings and payment are required year-round. The campground has toilets and an untreated-water tap, so bring drinking water; the tank water isn't potable. There are no powered sites or showers, and fires aren't permitted. Plan food and supplies before you arrive. Sites 1–10 allow car access to the pitch; sites 11–20 use a shared car park and a short walk, so check which site you book and plan for your gear.

A steep stairway drops about 300 steps from the campground to Parker Inlet and its beach and estuary. The climb back is strenuous, and the stairs aren't wheelchair accessible. The water and exposed coast are the payoff; leave time and energy for the return.

The 3 km Stringybark Loop takes about an hour and can start from Parker Hill or Point Franklin. Koalas and wallabies may be around the campground, though sightings aren't guaranteed. The approach from the Great Ocean Road includes gravel and dirt sections; visitors differ on how rough it feels and what vehicle is comfortable, so check access information before driving in.