Blanket Bay Campground

Overview

Tucked between a Manna Gum forest and a protected cove on the eastern side of Cape Otway, Blanket Bay Campground is the classic coastal camp: waves for white noise, rockpools for poking around, and koalas overhead. It’s scenic without being showy, and that low-key charm is exactly why regulars guard it closely.

Campsites & Facilities

There are 22 unpowered sites set just behind the beach. Facilities are simple and well kept: non‑flushing drop toilets (four standard plus one larger cubicle) and rainwater tank taps for washing up. Bring all drinking water and your own firewood. Fires are allowed only in the provided shared fireplaces; no generators. Some flatter, close‑to‑amenities sites (notably 12, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21) are within about 40 m of the toilets, with a few sneaking ocean glimpses.

What to Do

This is a great base for low‑effort, high‑reward exploring. The sheltered beach and intertidal reef make for easy snorkeling and rockpooling, and there’s boat access nearby for those chasing a fish. Hikers can step straight onto the Great Ocean Walk—Blanket Bay to Cape Otway is a rewarding coastal forest stretch with cliff views and beach sections.

Wildlife

Expect company: koalas are commonly seen in the gums around camp, with kangaroos, echidnas and bandicoots also about. Snakes are possible in warmer months—stick to tracks and give all wildlife space. Offshore along this coast, dolphins and migrating whales are sometimes spotted.

Getting There

Access is via an unsealed road that’s fine for 2WD when dry but corrugated and slow—budget an extra 10–15 minutes and take it easy. Parking is limited.

Need‑to‑Know

• Bring: drinking water, firewood, sturdy tent pegs (the ground can be hard), and a headlamp.
• Rules: no dogs, no generators. Firewood collection in the park is prohibited. Campfires are banned on Total Fire Ban days (gas cookers permitted).
• Conditions change: check current track/area updates and fire danger ratings before you go.

Best Time to Visit

Mid‑week outside school holidays is your best bet for quieter sites. Mornings are calmest for snorkeling and wildlife watching. Summer and the shoulder seasons are best for swimming; winters on the Otways coast are wet and blustery, so come prepared. Sunrise light pours into the cove and makes those rock platforms glow.