Spring brings longer days and plenty of reasons to explore Victoria, but the weather can change quickly. If you're planning a weekend away, consider these five regions, pack for cool nights and wet weather, and check local access and safety conditions before travelling.
Where to go spring camping in Victoria
Wilsons Promontory
Wilsons Promontory National Park, or The Prom, combines coastal scenery, beaches, walking tracks and wildlife. Pack comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, a waterproof jacket and sun protection. Check campsite availability and current conditions before setting off, especially for exposed coastal areas.
Grampians (Gariwerd)
Grampians National Park, known as Gariwerd, offers walking, lookouts, wildlife and spring landscapes. Carry water and check current track access and conditions before longer walks.
Great Ocean Road
A camping trip along the Great Ocean Road can bring together beaches, forests, waterfalls and coastal walks. Plan a manageable route with time for stops. Pack layers and waterproof clothing for changing coastal weather.
Great Otway National Park
The Otways are worth considering for forest walks and waterfalls. Rain is a possibility, so keep clothing and electronics protected and bring a reliable rain jacket.
Alpine Victoria
Areas such as Mount Buffalo and the Victorian High Country can stay cold in spring, especially overnight. Check forecasts and road or track conditions, and bring sleeping gear and layers suitable for the elevation.
What to pack for spring camping
- Shelter: tent, pegs, guy ropes, tarp and groundsheet as needed
- Sleeping: sleeping bag rated for expected overnight temperatures, mat, pillow and an extra warm layer
- Clothing: waterproof jacket, warm layers, spare socks, hat and comfortable footwear
- Camp kitchen: stove and fuel, cookware, food, storage containers, cooler and enough safe drinking water
- Essentials: first-aid kit, headlamp, charged phone, sunscreen, insect repellent, rubbish bags and basic repair gear
Plan for changing weather
Check the forecast shortly before departure and keep an eye on conditions during your trip where possible. Protect your sleeping gear from rain, secure your tent in windy weather and have a wet-weather cooking and shelter plan.
Check fire rules before lighting a campfire
Fire rules depend on the campsite and current conditions. Check local restrictions and total fire bans before lighting a fire. If fires are permitted, use designated areas where required, never leave the fire unattended and extinguish it completely before leaving.
Look after the place you're visiting
Watch wildlife from a distance and never feed it. Store food securely, keep rubbish contained, follow campsite and track rules, and leave the site ready for the next visitor.
Before you leave home
- Confirm campsite access and any bookings.
- Check weather warnings, fire restrictions, road and track conditions.
- Check whether drinking water is available; bring enough potable water or appropriate treatment.
- Pack for cool nights, rain, sun and insects.
- Tell someone your plans if travelling to a remote area.
Need to prepare your kit? Browse camping and outdoor gear, camp kitchen and food storage, and camping accessories at Skylark Outdoors.
Camping conditions, park access and restrictions can change. Check the latest advice from the relevant Victorian park or land manager before travelling. This guide is general information, not a substitute for current local safety advice.