Take advantage of free camping in Victoria this summer!

If you’ve been dreaming of an affordable summer escape into the wilderness, this news will make your day. The Victorian Government is making camping free at all national parks and state forests until 30 June 2025. That means you can pitch a tent and enjoy nature at one of 131 previously paid campgrounds across the state – without spending a cent.

This program is a $9 million investment and it’s about more than just waiving fees – it’s about making outdoor adventures accessible for everyone. With the rising cost of living, a free camping holiday feels like a rare and welcome opportunity for families and solo adventurers alike. As a travel blogger, I love seeing initiatives like this that encourage people to explore their own backyard.

The government has also invested $1.7 million to keep these campgrounds clean and safe.

Beyond creating opportunities for families to reconnect with nature, this initiative is a major boost for regional towns. Places like the Cathedral Ranges and Lake Eildon, which are surrounded by charming small towns, stand to benefit from increased visitor numbers. As someone who always stops for a bakery pie en route to a camping trip, I know firsthand how much these small purchases add up for local businesses.

How to book

Since the government made the announcement, bookings have skyrocketed by 115%, with nearly 100,000 nights already reserved.

So don’t wait too long to book! Popular spots are filling up quickly, but there’s still availability at many sites.

Head to the Parks Victoria website to secure your place. With free camping running until the end of June 2025, there’s plenty of time to plan multiple trips. Why not challenge yourself to explore a new part of Victoria every month?

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