RV Travel in Ballarat, Australia – The Complete Guide

Motorhome near historic buildings in Ballarat – popular RV destination in Victoria with gold rush heritage and family attractions

Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s goldfields, Ballarat is more than just a city of heritage buildings and historic tales—it’s a welcoming, well-equipped destination for RV travellers looking to blend culture, comfort, and countryside. Just over an hour from Melbourne, Ballarat feels like a world away, offering peaceful lakefront strolls, vibrant local food, and easy access to nature reserves and national parks. Whether you’re towing a caravan across the state or hiring a campervan for a family road trip, Ballarat delivers both convenience and charm in equal measure.

From the living history of Sovereign Hill to the peaceful shores of Lake Wendouree, this city offers experiences that suit all types of roadtrippers: grey nomads chasing quiet towns, young couples looking for cosy weekend escapes, or international visitors exploring Australia beyond the big cities. Add in top-notch RV parks, accessible dump points, wide roads, and a cool climate perfect for all-season travel, and it’s easy to see why Ballarat is a favourite among savvy travellers.

Ballarat isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right, full of personality, stories, and scenery worth slowing down for. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or using it as a launchpad into western Victoria, RV travel here is straightforward, scenic, and full of surprises.

What Makes Ballarat a Great RV Destination?

Ballarat is a city that delivers a rich blend of history, community spirit, and natural beauty—making it a compelling RV destination for travellers of all kinds. Unlike fast-paced metro hubs, Ballarat invites you to slow down, explore its gold rush legacy, and enjoy the comforts of a regional city that still values outdoor living and open roads.

Historical Charm Meets Modern Convenience

Few places in Australia offer a window into the 1800s like Ballarat. The immersive goldfields experience at Sovereign Hill, the solemn Eureka Centre, and the bluestone streetscapes make every day here feel like a walk through time. But it’s not all about history—Ballarat also boasts great coffee, contemporary galleries, a thriving events calendar, and RV infrastructure that rivals larger cities.

Ideal RV Seasons for Every Traveller

  • Spring (Sept–Nov): Wildflowers bloom in surrounding reserves, days are mild, and the town comes alive with festivals.

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm, dry, and great for lakeside camping and family activities. Expect temperatures around 25–30°C.

  • Autumn (Mar–May): Ballarat’s tree-lined streets turn into a gold and crimson wonderland—perfect for scenic drives.

  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Crisp air and cozy vibes dominate. Ballarat Winter Festival makes this an off-peak gem for vanlifers with heating!

Great Urban-Rural Balance

Ballarat lets you park up close to the action—whether that’s a lakeside trail, a farmers market, or a historic precinct. RV parks and campgrounds are spread across quiet outer suburbs, yet still within 10–15 minutes of major attractions. For those who prefer off-grid or bush settings, it’s easy to escape to nearby spots like Mount Buninyong, Enfield State Forest, or Lerderderg State Park.

This balance of scenic day trips, cultural experiences, and RV-friendly setup makes Ballarat a city worth staying in—not just passing through.

Where to Rent an RV in Ballarat

While Ballarat itself has fewer large-scale rental depots compared to Melbourne, RV travellers will still find a solid mix of local providers and flexible delivery services. Whether you’re starting your road trip in Ballarat or getting a vehicle dropped off from Melbourne, these options make renting a campervan or motorhome easy and stress-free.

1. Let’s Go Motorhomes – Delivery to Ballarat

  • Location: Melbourne-based, offers delivery to Ballarat

  • Vehicle Types: 2–6 berth motorhomes and campervans

  • Highlights: Modern fleet, unlimited kilometres, bikes available with rental

  • Visit website: https://www.letsgomotorhomes.com.au

2. Apollo Motorhome Holidays – Melbourne Depot (Airport Pickup)

  • Location: Tullamarine (90 minutes from Ballarat)

  • Vehicle Types: 2–6 berth campervans, 4WD campers, motorhomes

  • Highlights: Budget to premium options, Australia-wide network, good insurance cover

  • Visit website: https://www.apollocamper.com

3. Camplify – Ballarat Area

  • Location: Ballarat and surrounding suburbs

  • Vehicle Types: Locally-owned campervans, caravans, and trailers

  • Highlights: Peer-to-peer rentals, many owners offer delivery, pet-friendly options available

  • Visit website: https://www.camplify.com.au

4. Outdoorsy – Regional Victoria

  • Location: Based on host locations (Ballarat & surrounds)

  • Vehicle Types: Variety including vintage vans, modern caravans, compact campers

  • Highlights: Verified hosts, insurance included, custom add-ons like generators or camping gear

  • Visit website: https://www.outdoorsy.com.au

5. Wicked Campers – Melbourne Depot

  • Location: West Melbourne (approx. 1.5 hours from Ballarat)

  • Vehicle Types: Budget 2–3 berth vans with basic amenities

  • Highlights: Low-cost, unique designs, ideal for solo or young couple travellers

  • Visit website: https://www.wickedcampers.com.au

RV Rental Tips for Ballarat

  • Licensing: A standard car licence (Australian or international equivalent) is valid for all typical campervans and motorhomes under 4.5 tonnes. Check if an International Driving Permit is needed if your licence isn’t in English.

  • Tolls: No tolls exist in Ballarat itself, but if you pick up from Melbourne or travel on the CityLink or EastLink, you’ll need to register for e-tolls at https://www.linkt.com.au.

  • What to Check Before Departure: Tyres, windscreen, brakes, fridge function, water levels, gas compliance, fire extinguisher, and condition of solar or battery system (if equipped).

Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Ballarat

Ballarat offers a variety of well-maintained, welcoming places to park your van—from centrally located holiday parks near Lake Wendouree to peaceful bushland retreats just outside the city. Whether you want full facilities, pet-friendly stays, or access to public transport, you’ll find excellent options for short or long-term RV camping.

1. BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park – Cardigan

  • Location: Cardigan (10 minutes west of Ballarat CBD)

  • Why Stay Here: Great for families and long-term travellers, with spacious powered sites and resort-style facilities

  • Facilities: Indoor heated pool, camp kitchen, BBQ area, dump point, playground, ensuite sites

  • Pet-Friendly: Yes (on request, not during peak holiday periods)

  • Visit website: https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/vic/goldfields/ballarat-windmill-holiday-park

2. Ballarat Caravan Park – Golden Point

  • Location: Golden Point (close to Sovereign Hill)

  • Why Stay Here: Easy walking distance to Sovereign Hill and Eureka Centre

  • Facilities: Powered sites, modern amenities block, camp kitchen, laundry, free Wi-Fi

  • Pet-Friendly: Yes (conditions apply)

  • Visit website: https://ballaratcaravanpark.com.au

3. NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park – Lake Gardens

  • Location: Near Lake Wendouree and Ballarat Botanical Gardens

  • Why Stay Here: Ideal for walkers and cyclists; quiet and leafy location

  • Facilities: Powered and ensuite sites, dump point, playground, mini-golf, pool

  • Pet-Friendly: Yes (in selected areas)

  • Visit website: https://www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au/ballarat

4. Creswick Holiday Park – Creswick

  • Location: 20 minutes north of Ballarat

  • Why Stay Here: Tranquil setting next to St Georges Lake; great for nature lovers

  • Facilities: Camp kitchen, BBQs, powered and unpowered sites, direct access to bushwalking trails

  • Pet-Friendly: Yes

  • Visit website: https://creswickcaravanpark.com.au

5. Victoria Park (Free Overnight Zone – Self-Contained RVs Only)

  • Location: Gillies Street, Ballarat

  • Why Stay Here: Free overnight option close to the city (max 72 hours, must be fully self-contained)

  • Facilities: Limited—no power or water, but public toilets nearby

  • Pet-Friendly: Yes

  • Visit website: https://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au

6. Enfield State Park Bush Camping – Enfield

  • Location: Approx. 30 minutes south of Ballarat

  • Why Stay Here: Basic bush camping experience for off-grid RVers looking for quiet nature stays

  • Facilities: Drop toilets, picnic tables, no power or water

  • Pet-Friendly: Yes (on leash)

  • Visit website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au

Tips for Staying in Ballarat

  • Book Ahead on Holidays & Weekends: Sites fill quickly during school holidays, Easter, and events like the Ballarat Winter Festival.

  • Public Transport Access: Parks near the CBD and Lake Wendouree are within walking distance to buses and trams.

  • Legal Camping Advice: Overnight parking outside designated areas is not permitted. Use official parks or the Victoria Park free zone for short stays.

RV Facilities and Essentials in Ballarat

Ballarat is well-equipped for RV travellers, offering a full range of services to keep your rig running smoothly. Whether you’re topping up water, emptying tanks, fuelling up, or sourcing replacement parts, the city has the essentials you’ll need—without the stress of big-city congestion.

Dump Points (Public & Campground Access)

  • Victoria Park Dump Point – Gillies Street South

  • NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park

    • Guests have access; call ahead for non-guest use availability

  • BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park

    • Full dump station and water refill access for guests

Fresh Water Refill Stations

  • Victoria Park (near dump point)

    • Potable water tap next to the dump station

    • Ample space for all vehicle sizes

  • Ballarat Service Stations (ask before use)

    • BP Alfredton – Gillies Street

    • Shell Wendouree – Howitt Street

Use CamperMate or WikiCamps to find additional refill spots as you move around the region.

RV-Friendly Fuel Stations

These stations offer wide lanes and high canopies, ideal for larger vehicles:

  • BP Alfredton (Gillies Street)

  • United Wendouree (Creswick Road)

  • Ampol Ballarat North (Lydiard Street)

  • 7-Eleven Sebastopol (Albert Street)

Tip: Fill up before heading into hilly or rural zones like Creswick or Enfield, where options are limited.

RV Repairs & Accessory Shops

Recommended Travel & Utility Apps

Parking, Driving & Local Regulations in Ballarat

Driving and parking an RV in Ballarat is generally stress-free thanks to wide roads, accessible CBD streets, and clearly marked signage. However, knowing where you can legally park, avoid fines, and plan overnight stays is key to a smooth RV experience in the city.

Can You Drive an RV into the Ballarat CBD?

Yes—Ballarat’s city centre is highly accessible for most RV types.

  • Streets such as Sturt Street and Mair Street are wide and relatively easy to navigate.

  • Roundabouts are common but manageable for vehicles up to 7 metres.

  • Avoid driving through the CBD during school pickup (3–4 pm) or Saturday late mornings when it gets busier.

  • Low-clearance issues are rare, but always check signage on backstreets.

Day Parking & Overnight Laws

Day Parking:

  • Free and time-limited parking is available along many CBD streets and near Lake Wendouree.

  • Victoria Park and the Eureka Centre both have large open lots suitable for RVs and trailers.

  • Avoid blocking footpaths or residential driveways—Ballarat has active council patrols.

Overnight Parking:

  • Victoria Park offers a free, legal overnight zone for self-contained RVs (max 72 hours).

  • There is no legal overnight camping in public car parks or street parking outside this designated area.

  • Always follow local signage and check for any event-related closures in public parks.

Local Driving Rules

  • Speed Limits:

    • CBD: 40 km/h

    • Main roads: 50–60 km/h

    • Rural areas nearby: 100 km/h unless signed

  • Hook Turns: Not required in Ballarat (common in Melbourne only)

  • Roundabouts: Give way to the right; most are single-lane

  • Low Clearance: Few to no low-clearance bridges—RV travel is generally unrestricted within city bounds

  • Toll Roads: None in Ballarat, but if travelling to/from Melbourne, register with Linkt for toll access (https://www.linkt.com.au)

Parking Fines to Avoid

  • Overstaying timed zones in the CBD (most are 1P or 2P limits)

  • Illegal overnight stays in parks other than Victoria Park

  • Dumping greywater or blackwater in non-dump zones—serious fines apply

  • Parking across multiple bays—always centre your rig and avoid blocking access

Helpful Links

RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do in Ballarat

Ballarat is bursting with things to see and do—especially for RV travellers looking for variety, accessibility, and real Victorian character. Whether you’re chasing gold rush history, lakeside serenity, or pet-friendly trails, Ballarat delivers big experiences in a compact, easy-to-navigate city.

Historic Sites & Cultural Stops

  • Sovereign Hill
    A world-famous open-air museum that recreates Ballarat’s 1850s gold rush. Explore underground mines, pan for gold, and witness live street theatre.

  • Eureka Centre
    Located at the site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade, this museum brings Australian democracy history to life.

  • Art Gallery of Ballarat
    Australia’s oldest regional gallery with a free permanent collection and rotating exhibitions

    • Located in the heart of the CBD—use nearby public parking

Scenic Drives & Nature Escapes

  • Lake Wendouree Circuit
    A 6 km loop ideal for walking, cycling, or relaxing. The foreshore is perfect for picnics, birdwatching, and kayaking.

    • Free parking all around the lake with ample space for RVs

  • Mount Buninyong
    About 20 minutes from Ballarat, this extinct volcano offers panoramic views and shady picnic areas.

    • Narrow road to summit—park at base if in a large vehicle

  • Ballarat to Daylesford Drive
    A beautiful 50-minute scenic drive through countryside and forest, with access to mineral springs, bushwalks, and cafés

  • Enfield State Park
    Free bush camping, hiking trails, and birdwatching—all within 30 minutes south of town

Pet-Friendly Places

  • Victoria Park
    Off-leash areas, walking trails, and shaded picnic zones. It’s also where you’ll find the free overnight RV area.

  • Gong Gong Reservoir Park
    Quiet bushland with leash-friendly trails and a dam-side picnic spot

  • Outdoor cafés in the CBD and Lake Wendouree precinct
    Many welcome dogs in outdoor seating areas

Family-Friendly Attractions

  • Ballarat Wildlife Park
    Home to over 100 native species including kangaroos, wombats, and reptiles. Great for all ages.

  • Ballarat Botanical Gardens
    Located on the western shore of Lake Wendouree, with beautiful themed gardens, playgrounds, and sculptures

  • Kryal Castle (just outside Ballarat)
    A medieval theme park featuring knights, castles, and family shows—great for weekend fun

Markets, Local Food & Events

  • Bridge Mall Farmers Market
    Held every first Saturday of the month—local produce, crafts, and live music

  • Ballarat Night Market (seasonal)
    Food trucks, live entertainment, and artisan stalls during warmer months

  • Ballarat Winter Festival (July)
    An annual event with light shows, pop-up ice rinks, and special RV-friendly overnight options

  • Local Cafés and Breweries: Try Aunty Jacks, Hydrant Food Hall, and Hop Temple for casual, RV-accessible dining

RV Tips for Attractions

  • Always check height limits on urban car parks—use street-level or lakeside options

  • Weekends can be busy—arrive early for markets and popular sites

  • Use CamperMate to confirm parking suitability near each attraction

Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Ballarat

Ballarat is one of Victoria’s most RV-friendly regional cities—but a few inside tips can make your trip even smoother. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, these expert suggestions will help you avoid hassles, save money, and make the most of your time.

1. Use Victoria Park for Short Free Stays

Ballarat’s designated free overnight zone for RVs is located at Victoria Park. It’s quiet, shaded, and close to the lake and CBD. You can stay up to 72 hours, but only in fully self-contained vehicles.

2. Avoid Peak Holiday Weekends Without a Booking

During long weekends, school holidays, and events like the Ballarat Winter Festival, RV parks fill fast. If you’re travelling during these times, book early to avoid last-minute stress.

3. Prep for Cold Nights in Winter

Ballarat is known for chilly evenings—even in spring or autumn. Make sure your van has good insulation or heating, and pack warm bedding. Thermal window covers are also handy.

4. Stock Up Before Heading to National Parks

Supplies are plentiful in Ballarat, so stock up before heading to Mount Cole, Enfield State Park, or Wombat Forest, where services are limited. Use Woolworths Sebastopol or Delacombe Town Centre for easy RV parking.

5. Use WikiCamps to Find Dump Points & Fill Stations

While Victoria Park has a central dump and potable water point, WikiCamps will help you find backups at parks or service stations. Always double-check opening hours for non-public ones.

6. Enjoy Pet-Friendly Travel

Most RV parks allow pets, but check conditions in advance. Many public parks like Lake Wendouree, Victoria Park, and Gong Gong Reserve are pet-friendly on-leash.

7. Watch for Timed Parking in the CBD

Ballarat offers generous street parking, but most CBD zones have 1–2 hour limits. Always read signs, especially around Sturt Street and Armstrong Street, to avoid fines.

8. Visit Ballarat in Autumn for Scenic Drives

From March to May, the region’s tree-lined streets and rural backroads explode in red, orange, and gold. It’s a photographer’s dream and a top time for nature-loving travellers.

9. Check VicTraffic Before Heading Out

For roadwork alerts, detours, or major event closures, always check the VicTraffic app or site before heading toward Daylesford, Melbourne, or the Western Highway.

10. Tap into Local Info Boards & Facebook Groups

Search for “Ballarat Caravan and Camping” or “RV Travel Victoria” groups on Facebook. Locals share tips, private camp spots, and last-minute accommodation options.

Ballarat vs Other Australian RV Cities

Ballarat may not have beaches or tropical rainforests, but what it does offer is a unique mix of heritage, charm, and RV infrastructure that holds its own against other popular road trip destinations. Here’s how Ballarat compares to other RV-friendly cities across Australia, so you can weigh your options when building your itinerary.

Ballarat vs Bendigo

  • RV Infrastructure: Both cities are well set up for RV travel, but Ballarat has more dump points and a designated free overnight zone.

  • Atmosphere: Ballarat feels more expansive and polished, while Bendigo is more compact and artsy.

  • Attractions: Bendigo leans into art and architecture; Ballarat shines with immersive history like Sovereign Hill and Eureka Centre.

  • Driving & Parking: Ballarat’s wider roads and Victoria Park RV area make navigating and overnighting a bit easier.

Ballarat vs Melbourne

  • RV Access: Melbourne is more urban, with complex toll roads, traffic, and limited RV parking. Ballarat offers easy navigation and short travel distances between attractions.

  • Camping Laws: Overnight parking is more restricted in Melbourne; Ballarat has clear council guidance and dedicated space for self-contained vans.

  • Nature Proximity: Ballarat is closer to quiet bushland, lakes, and volcanoes, while Melbourne requires longer drives for similar experiences.

  • Vibe: Melbourne offers big-city energy; Ballarat gives you history, greenery, and calm.

Ballarat vs Geelong

  • Landscape: Geelong gives you coastal access and surf beaches; Ballarat delivers forest drives and inland trails.

  • RV Parks: Geelong’s parks are more coastal resort-style; Ballarat’s are spread across peaceful green zones and historical districts.

  • Driving Experience: Both cities are easy to drive, but Geelong can get congested during peak season. Ballarat remains more relaxed year-round.

  • Activities: Ballarat is rich in gold rush heritage; Geelong is better for ocean lovers and day trips to the Great Ocean Road.

Ballarat vs Daylesford

  • Size & Amenities: Ballarat is a full-sized city with supermarkets, hardware stores, RV service centres. Daylesford is more boutique, ideal for 1–2 day stays.

  • Camping Options: Ballarat has better RV infrastructure; Daylesford leans towards glamping and cabins.

  • Atmosphere: Daylesford is romantic and spa-focused; Ballarat is family-friendly, history-rich, and more practical for long-term travellers.

Ballarat vs Canberra

  • Planning & Layout: Canberra is well-planned and easy to navigate, but lacks Ballarat’s small-town warmth.

  • Culture & Attractions: Canberra offers museums and government landmarks; Ballarat’s gold rush storytelling feels more immersive and interactive.

  • RV Costs: Ballarat is more affordable for camping, fuel, and day-to-day living.

  • Weather: Both have cold winters, but Ballarat gets frostier nights—ideal for winter travel in well-insulated vans.

Summary:
If you’re after an RV destination with a deep sense of place, historic charm, and easy access to both nature and city comforts, Ballarat quietly rivals or outshines many more well-known stops. It’s ideal for families, grey nomads, and culture lovers alike.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

Ballarat is one of those RV destinations that surprises you—not with flash or hype, but with depth, atmosphere, and genuine hospitality. It’s a city that invites you to slow down and soak in the stories, from the gold rush days at Sovereign Hill to tranquil lakeside mornings at Wendouree. With its thoughtful infrastructure, easy access to nature, and year-round event calendar, Ballarat offers a rare balance that many regional stops can’t quite match.

For RV travellers, everything just works here. Roads are wide, parking is manageable, and there’s a clear understanding of what mobile adventurers need: dump points, water refills, well-run parks, and space to unwind. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family, or a solo explorer with your dog in the back seat, Ballarat fits comfortably into any Victorian road trip itinerary—and often becomes a favourite stop along the way.

So take your time. Wander through history, breathe in the crisp air, watch the autumn leaves fall, and discover why Ballarat is not just a detour—it’s a destination.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

Is free camping allowed near Ballarat for RV travellers?

Free camping near Ballarat is possible, but it’s regulated. The main legal option within city limits is Victoria Park, where fully self-contained RVs can stay for up to 72 hours. This site is quiet, shady, and located just west of the CBD—making it a great base for exploring town without paying for a commercial park. However, this is not a serviced campground: no power, limited lighting, and facilities are basic. You must have your own onboard toilet and greywater tank to comply with local rules.

If you’re venturing slightly out of town, Enfield State Park offers free bush camping just 30 minutes south of Ballarat. It’s more rustic, with only drop toilets and no water, but a fantastic choice for off-grid travellers. Overnight camping in urban car parks, near Lake Wendouree, or at public reserves not designated for RVs is not allowed and may result in fines. Use apps like WikiCamps to find current legal sites.

The best time to visit Ballarat in an RV is from autumn to spring, with March through May and September through November offering ideal weather. In autumn, Ballarat’s heritage avenues and regional backroads glow with colourful foliage—perfect for scenic drives and camping. Spring brings wildflowers, clear skies, and vibrant community markets, all while avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Summer (December to February) is also a good time to visit, but days can get hot and busy, especially during school holidays and city festivals. Most RV parks are well-shaded and equipped with amenities, but free camping may feel more exposed.

Winter (June to August) offers crisp mornings and unique seasonal events like the Ballarat Winter Festival, though nights can drop to 0°C or below. If you have a well-insulated van or onboard heating, winter camping can be quiet, cosy, and deeply atmospheric. Just be prepared with warm gear and keep batteries charged.

Ballarat offers several convenient locations for dumping waste and refilling water tanks, especially if you’re travelling in a self-contained motorhome or caravan. The main public dump point is located at Victoria Park, off Gillies Street South. It’s available 24/7 and is free to use. It also has a potable water refill tap nearby, making it a perfect stop for essential maintenance while overnighting at the park or passing through town.

Most commercial caravan parks, such as BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park and NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park, provide dump stations and water refill points to their guests. Some may allow access for a small fee even if you’re not staying overnight—just call ahead to confirm.

Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate will help you locate alternative options, including facilities at nearby towns like Creswick or Daylesford. Always carry a potable hose and be respectful of shared facilities by cleaning up after use and not blocking access for long periods.

Yes, Ballarat is quite pet-friendly, with several RV parks welcoming dogs—though most have conditions. One of the most popular choices is BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park, which allows pets on request outside of peak seasons. They offer large grassy sites and walking trails nearby, ideal for pets to stretch their legs.

NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park and Ballarat Caravan Park also allow pets in specific areas, often requiring leashes and supervision. It’s important to notify management at the time of booking and confirm any breed restrictions or off-peak limitations, especially during holidays or festival periods.

For daytime adventures, Victoria Park, Gong Gong Reservoir Park, and Lake Wendouree foreshore offer on-leash walking zones with space to roam. Some cafés around the CBD and Lake Wendouree also welcome dogs in outdoor seating areas.

Always pick up after your pet and respect signage in national parks or conservation zones where dogs may not be permitted for wildlife protection.

Ballarat is a family-friendly gem for RV travellers, with attractions that mix history, nature, and hands-on fun. The standout is Sovereign Hill, a living history museum where kids can pan for gold, explore mines, and interact with costumed actors. It’s a full-day experience and includes parking areas suitable for larger vehicles.

Another must-visit is the Ballarat Wildlife Park, home to kangaroos, wombats, reptiles, and even a Komodo dragon. It’s ideal for younger children, with interactive feeding zones and wide paths for prams.

At Lake Wendouree, families can enjoy bike paths, paddle boats, and the sprawling Ballarat Botanical Gardens, which include an adventure playground and sculptures. In winter, the Ballarat Winter Festival offers family-friendly events, including light shows and skating.

RV parks like NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park often have pools, mini-golf, and playgrounds onsite, making them a great home base. Many of these spots are within a short drive of each other, so it’s easy to explore without constantly relocating.

Overnight RV parking in the Ballarat CBD is not permitted on public streets or in general-use car parks. However, there is one city-approved option for self-contained RVs: Victoria Park, located just a few minutes west of the centre. Here, travellers can legally park and stay overnight for up to 72 hours, provided their vehicle is fully self-contained (with onboard toilet and greywater storage).

Victoria Park offers a quiet, tree-lined setting and is close to bus stops, walking trails, and Lake Wendouree. It’s a favourite among grey nomads and budget-conscious travellers. While there are no powered sites, potable water and a public dump point are available.

If you prefer more comfort and facilities, several holiday parks are located within 5–10 minutes of the CBD and offer ensuite sites, Wi-Fi, and access to public transport. Avoid staying overnight in supermarket car parks, lakeside zones, or backstreets, as Ballarat council monitors these areas and fines apply for non-compliance.

Ballarat and Bendigo are two of Victoria’s most popular inland RV destinations, and while they share a gold rush past, they offer distinct travel experiences. Ballarat tends to be more spread out, with wider streets and more spacious RV parks. It also offers a designated free overnight camping area at Victoria Park—something Bendigo doesn’t currently match.

In terms of attractions, Ballarat shines with immersive storytelling—Sovereign Hill, Eureka Centre, and the Ballarat Wildlife Park make it ideal for families. Bendigo, on the other hand, is more geared toward arts, culture, and foodies, with a compact city centre and attractions like the Bendigo Art Gallery and Central Deborah Gold Mine.

Driving and parking are straightforward in both cities, but Ballarat’s infrastructure better supports larger rigs and longer stays. Fuel, dump points, and repair services are slightly more accessible in Ballarat, making it a more practical base for extended road trips through western Victoria.

Related posts:

  1. RV Travel in Melbourne, Australia – The Complete Guide
  2. RV Travel in Victoria – The Complete Guide
  3. RV Travel in Bendigo, Australia – The Complete Guide
  4. RV Travel in Geelong, Australia – The Complete Guide
  5. Top 10 RV Dump Points in Australia

Join the Aussie RV Community

Get travel tips, RV news, and destination ideas — straight to your inbox.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Disclaimer
  • © 2025 Aussie RV Trips