Looking for a great outdoors adventure without the price tag this summer, then look no further than pitching a tent in some of Victoria’s most beautiful nature reserves.
From 1 December to 30 June 2025, camping at 131 of Parks Victoria’s paid campgrounds will be free of charge, helping families and tourists enjoy the experiences of bush, ocean, river and valley.
More than 50 million people visit Victoria’s iconic state forests and national parks per year, for camping, hiking, fishing and hunting, four-wheel driving, trail bike riding, horse riding, birdwatching and much more.
This $9 million initiative from the Victorian Government will ensure all campers have free access to every campground across the state.
“Busy families deserve a great holiday in our great outdoors – and this summer, they can stay for free,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.
“I grew up camping with my family and those special memories have stayed with me forever.”
Camping and recreation contributes more than $2.1 billion a year to the Victorian economy and supports 20,000 jobs – most in regional communities.
In the Yarra Ranges, discover the upper most point of the Yarra River accessible to the public by visiting and staying at the Upper Yarra Reservoir Park in Reefton.
This is a true escape to the high country’s bushland, surrounded by native bush and exotic trees.
Equipped with barbecues, toilets, fireplaces and access to numerous walks, its the perfect base to get back to nature but also to explore the region.
Located within the Kinglake National Park, try The Gums Camping Area, adjacent to a meandering mountain stream and woven between tall eucalypts and ferns.
It boasts 18 campsites, five of which are suitable for caravans up to 20ft in length.
Each campsite may be booked for a maximum of six people and one vehicle. Shared facilities include picnic tables, fireplaces and one free gas barbeque.
It’s the perfect base to then explore the Kinglake area and further afield into the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges which is only a short drive away.
If hiking is a preferred activity, why not try Cooks Mill Camping Area or Neds Gully located within the Cathedral Ranges National Park, with Little River flowing in the background.
A maximum of two campsites per campground can be booked in a single transaction during this time to ensure more people can enjoy the benefits of free camping.
Bookings are essential, even though there is no charge. Existing bookings for the summer will be honoured and camping fees will be refunded. If you book early, there may still be a fee charged but this will be refunded in coming weeks.
To book your next outdoor adventure, go to bookings.parks.vic.gov.au/book
