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Horseyard Flat, Gippsland
Looking for a remote and rugged escape? Horseyard Flat is a beauty for seasoned offroaders with self-sufficiency sorted. Found about five hours from Melbourne (by car) and just off the route to the iconic Billy Goat Bluff Track, this spot drops you straight into the heart of Victoria’s High Country.
You’ll need a proper 4WD vehicle with low-range gears and solid clearance to reach this one. Facilities are minimal — there’s a long drop toilet and untreated water, so bring everything you need, including drinking water and firewood. Sites suit tents, offroad campers and hardy offroad caravans. There are no bookings, so rock up early to nab a good spot.
Limestone Creek Campground, Lakes
Tucked away in Alpine National Park, this peaceful camping area suits those travelling light with tents or swags and prepared for self-sufficient stays. It’s a great base for hiking and exploring remote trails.
Offroad camper trailers can reach the campsite via a section of Limestone Creek Track (between Benambra-Limestone Road and the campground). But be warned: several nearby tracks are off-limits for trailers due to steep, sketchy conditions. Parks Victoria currently has closures in place for many of these routes — always check the latest track info before heading off.
Main image: Limestone Creek Campground
Latrobe River Picnic and Camping Area, Gippsland
Less than two hours east of Melbourne by car, this chilled-out site sits under towering mountain ash trees and offers easy access for most vehicles, including camper trailers.
There’s a toilet block, each site has a fire ring and there’s a separate picnic zone with shelters, benches and wood-fired barbecues. Bring your own wood and pack drinking water. Dogs are allowed if kept leashed and under control. Access is via Ada River Road off the Yarra Junction-Noojee Road near Powelltown.
Dandos Campground, Great Ocean Road
Nestled beside the Gellibrand River, this grassy site is a gem for tent campers and smaller trailers. You’ll find it by following Gellibrand East Road, which turns into Lardners Track, then on to Sayers Track and Dandos Road.
There’s a good amount of space (about 20 sites), so even in peak summer it doesn’t feel too squishy. 2WDs can access it in good conditions and there are toilets, fire pits and picnic tables available. No need to book, and there’s no fee. Bonus: dogs are welcome (on leash).
Contact: exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/activities/camping/dandos-campground
Dandos Campground, Otway State Forest, Great Ocean Road region (Image credit: Robert Crack)
Overnight stop options — rest area etiquette
Rest areas are meant for drivers needing a break — not for setting up a full camp. If you’re stopping overnight, keep it low-key and leave no trace. Don’t park in heavy vehicle zones (that’s illegal) and avoid popping up tents or awnings because this turns your resting into camping, which is not permitted unless signposts indicate that camping is permitted.
Time limits vary, but in general, recreational vehicles can rest for up to 20 hours — just enough for a sleep and a feed. Here are a few handy ones:
*FREEBIE* RV Friendly 48 Hour Stop Area Winchelsea, Great Ocean Road
Right off the Princes Highway, Winchelsea’s council-run RV-friendly area allows up to 48 hours of free parking for self-contained RVs. Tents and sleeping in cars are a no go here.
There are barbecues, picnic tables, toilets and a dump point near the Barwon Hotel. No fires or booze allowed, and generators are OK between 9am and 8pm. It’s near the train line, so be prepared for some noise. And, if you can, do the right thing and pop into town to support local businesses while you’re there!
RV Friendly 48 Hour Stop Area Winchelsea, Great Ocean Road (Image credit: Robert Crack)
*FREEBIE* Cherrypool Highway Park/Cherrypool Camping Area, Western Grampians
Just off the Henty Highway between Horsham and Hamilton, this roadside camp backs onto the Grampians State Forest. It’s basic but spacious, with picnic tables, bins and a drop toilet.
Bring all your own water and supplies — the nearest general stores and fuel are a fair drive away (Wartook and Haven are your best bets). Fishos will love that Rocklands Reservoir and Glenelg River are nearby, home to a range of species. Note: a valid fishing licence is a must.
No bookings here — just roll up and pick your patch.
Cherrypool Highway Park/Cherrypool Camping Area, Western Grampians
*FREEBIE* Smythesdale Gardens Rest Area, Ballarat
Run by passionate local volunteers, this well-kept rest area is a cracking option for short stays near Ballarat. With powered camp kitchens, barbecues, toilets, hot showers, water taps (not for direct RV hookup) and a dump point, it’s got all the essentials.
Dogs are allowed but must be quiet and leashed. Donations help with upkeep — you can drop a few bucks at the nearby Ampol Foodary. The maximum stay is three nights and there’s plenty to explore nearby, including the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail and historic Nimons Bridge.
Thanks to a recent $100k state government funding boost, even more upgrades are on the way.
Final tips for towing travellers
Always double-check road and track conditions, especially after heavy rain.
Respect local rules and time limits at rest areas — they’re for resting, not extended stays.
Be self-sufficient: carry water, firewood and rubbish bags.
Support small towns nearby — grab a pie, fuel up or buy a local brew!
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