When the city feels a little too loud and your soul craves open skies and natural beauty, there’s nothing better than a quick camping escape. Luckily, Melbourne is surrounded by some of the most picturesque campsites in the state. From dramatic coastlines to volcanic craters and fern-filled forests, here are five of the best camping spots near Melbourne with unforgettable views.

1. Wilsons Promontory – Tidal River

Drive time: About 3 hours southeast of Melbourne

Wilsons Promontory is Victoria’s most iconic national park, and for good reason. Tidal River is the main campground, nestled between native tea-tree scrub and sweeping sandy beaches. The area offers a balance of comfort and nature, with plenty of wildlife, walking trails, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re taking a dip in Norman Beach or hiking up Mount Oberon for a sunrise view, you’ll be surrounded by one of the state’s most scenic landscapes.

Why go:

• Spacious campground with powered and unpowered sites
• Close to the beach, river, and hiking trails
• Excellent facilities including toilets, hot showers, BBQs, and a general store
• Kangaroos, wombats, emus and other native wildlife roam freely

Best for: Families, wildlife lovers, beach campers, and those who like a bit of comfort in nature

2. Cathedral Range State Park – Neds Gully

Drive time: Just under 2 hours northeast of Melbourne

If you’re craving something more rugged, Cathedral Range State Park is a dream. This park is known for its razorback ridges and panoramic views. Neds Gully is a peaceful walk-in campground tucked beside a river, offering a truly immersive bush experience. Towering sandstone cliffs rise around you, and hiking trails lead straight to some of the most epic lookouts in Victoria.

Why go:

• Campsites surrounded by towering cliffs and eucalyptus forest
• Walk-in setup adds seclusion and serenity
• Home to some of Victoria’s best ridge hikes
• Peaceful river sounds and frequent lyrebird sightings

Best for: Hikers, photographers, and small groups looking for a wilder adventure

3. Great Otway National Park – Stevenson’s Falls & Johanna Beach

Drive time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours southwest along the Great Ocean Road

For a dose of both forest and ocean, the Great Otways deliver in a big way. Stevenson’s Falls campground is tucked in the rainforest, close to one of the region’s most picturesque waterfalls. A little further along, Johanna Beach campground offers the chance to sleep right beside the surf. It’s a stunning combo—misty trees by day, crashing waves by night.

Why go:

• Rainforest surrounds and waterfall access at Stevenson’s Falls
• Unpowered beachfront campsites at Johanna with sweeping ocean views
• Ideal mix of forest hikes and beach relaxation
• Glowworms can sometimes be spotted after dark

Best for: Nature lovers, couples, surfers, and campers looking for variety in one trip

4. Lerderderg State Park

Drive time: About 1 hour northwest of Melbourne

Closer to home but just as impressive, Lerderderg State Park is a lesser-known gem. The park features a dramatic river gorge flanked by cliffs and native bushland. It’s quieter than many other sites, making it perfect for those who want to get away from it all. The river offers scenic picnic spots, while the trails range from gentle walks to full-day treks.

Why go:

• Gorge views and peaceful riverside camping
• Excellent birdwatching and native flora
• Great walking tracks for all experience levels
• Campfires allowed in designated areas (seasonal restrictions apply)
• Best for: Solo campers, bushwalkers, bird lovers, and those seeking tranquillity

5. Mount Franklin Reserve

Drive time: Around 1 hour 45 minutes northwest near Daylesford

Mount Franklin is camping inside an extinct volcano—literally. This small, grassy reserve sits in the crater and offers wide open space with a peaceful, unique setting. It’s a great spot for beginners, families, or anyone after a low-key getaway with beautiful skies and a touch of novelty.

Why go:

• Camp within a volcanic crater ringed by tall trees
• Flat grassy areas perfect for tents and caravans
• BBQs, picnic tables and toilets on-site
• Brilliant night skies for stargazing

Best for: Families, beginner campers, and those who want a scenic but easy camping option

Final Thoughts

Camping near Melbourne doesn’t mean sacrificing the view. Each of these five spots offers something unique—coastal sunsets, mountain ridges, rainforest waterfalls, and even volcanic craters. Whether you’re after an adventure-filled hike, a quiet night under the stars, or a beachside breeze, you’ll find it within just a few hours of the city.

Parks Victoria link: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/