RV Travel in Bendigo, Australia – The Complete Guide

Set in the golden heart of Victoria, Bendigo is a city where history, creativity, and country charm all meet—making it a brilliant destination for RV travellers. Once the epicentre of Australia’s gold rush, today Bendigo is known for its grand architecture, award-winning food and wine, and a thriving regional arts scene. Just a two-hour drive from Melbourne, it’s easy to reach and even easier to explore, with open roads, accessible attractions, and plenty of space to park your rig.

For grey nomads, vanlifers, or families on the move, Bendigo offers more than just a stopover—it’s a destination with real character. You can explore underground mines, hop on heritage trams, enjoy bushwalks in Greater Bendigo National Park, or relax by Lake Weeroona with a coffee from a local caravan café. And when you’re ready to settle in, the city’s RV parks and campgrounds are well-equipped and conveniently located.

Bendigo works beautifully for both short getaways and longer regional circuits. Whether you’re heading north to the Murray, looping back toward Ballarat, or exploring Victoria’s goldfields in depth, RV travel in Bendigo is about comfort, connection, and discovering a proud regional city with a warm welcome.

What Makes Bendigo a Great RV Destination?

Bendigo is one of those rare regional cities that delivers on every front for RV travellers—history, scenery, convenience, and a laid-back vibe that invites you to stay longer than planned. It’s big enough to offer all the essentials for life on the road, yet small enough to explore without stress. And with its central location in Victoria, Bendigo is an ideal hub for short escapes or extended road trips through the goldfields, high country, or Murray River region.

Why RV Travellers Love Bendigo

At its core, Bendigo is a city built on stories. From the 1850s gold rush era to its rise as a centre of arts, design, and gastronomy, there’s always something new to uncover—whether that’s beneath the surface at Central Deborah Gold Mine or through the bold exhibitions at the Bendigo Art Gallery. RV travellers can enjoy this cultural depth while still soaking up open space and nature just minutes from the CBD.

You’ll also find wide streets, plentiful parking, easy-to-access campgrounds, and good signage—making driving, parking, and navigating in a larger vehicle surprisingly simple.

Best Time of Year for RV Travel in Bendigo

• Spring (September to November): Blooming gardens, mild weather, and community festivals make spring ideal for RV trips.

• Summer (December to February): Dry heat, longer daylight, and plenty of lakeside shade—but plan for air flow inside your van.

• Autumn (March to May): Brilliant foliage across historic streets and country drives—arguably the most scenic season.

• Winter (June to August): Crisp mornings, quieter tourist flow, and cosy cafés. Perfect if your RV is winter-ready.

City Convenience Meets Regional Escape

Bendigo offers the best of both worlds—a walkable, café-rich city centre surrounded by lakes, bushland, and quiet country towns. You can spend your mornings browsing markets or galleries, then drive 15 minutes to the peaceful trails of Greater Bendigo National Park. The city’s scale makes it easy to base yourself for a few days without having to relocate constantly.

In short, Bendigo is a confident, creative city that welcomes RV travellers with practical infrastructure, a warm atmosphere, and endless ways to explore at your own pace.

Where to Rent an RV in Bendigo

While Bendigo itself doesn’t have large commercial RV depots like Melbourne, there are still excellent options for hiring a campervan or motorhome. Whether you’re starting your road trip locally or getting a vehicle delivered from a nearby city, these top rental providers offer everything from compact vans to fully self-contained motorhomes—ideal for exploring central Victoria in comfort.

1. Camplify – Bendigo Region

• Location: Private owners in Bendigo and surrounding areas

• Vehicle Types: Campervans, caravans, motorhomes (2–6 berth)

• Highlights: Support local owners, flexible pickups, pet-friendly options, insurance included

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

2. Apollo Camper – Melbourne (Delivery Available)

• Location: Tullamarine depot, with potential delivery to Bendigo for longer hires

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

• Highlights: Australia-wide network, unlimited kilometres on some rentals, wide selection

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

3. Let’s Go Motorhomes – Melbourne (Depot or Delivery)

• Location: Melbourne-based, delivery may be available to regional Victoria

• Vehicle Types: Modern campervans and motorhomes (2–6 berth)

• Highlights: Luxury interiors, high safety rating, bikes and extras available

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

4. Outdoorsy – Victoria-wide Private Rentals

• Location: Flexible pickup based on host listings (including Bendigo)

• Vehicle Types: Vintage vans, family motorhomes, camper trailers

• Highlights: Peer-reviewed listings, optional add-ons, suitable for short or long-term hire

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

5. Wicked Campers – Melbourne

• Location: West Melbourne depot (approx. 2 hours from Bendigo)

• Vehicle Types: Budget campervans (2–3 berth)

• Highlights: Low cost, basic setups, ideal for short getaways or young couples

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

Tips for Renting an RV for Bendigo Travel

• Licensing: A standard Australian or international driver’s licence (in English) is valid for most campervans and motorhomes under 4.5 tonnes. Check if you need an International Driving Permit if your licence is not in English.

• Tolls: There are no toll roads in Bendigo. If picking up from Melbourne, register for tolls via https://www.linkt.com.au to avoid fines.

• Pre-Trip Checklist: Before you hit the road, inspect the vehicle’s tyres, fridge, water tank, brakes, lights, gas compliance, and ventilation—especially if travelling during summer or winter extremes.

Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Bendigo

Bendigo makes it easy for RV travellers to settle in with a solid mix of holiday parks, bush-style retreats, and even some low-cost community-run options. Whether you’re looking for family facilities, pet-friendly stays, or peaceful sites close to nature, there’s something here for every kind of road tripper.

1. BIG4 Bendigo Marong Holiday Park – Marong

• Location: Marong, 15 minutes west of the CBD

• Why Stay Here: Quiet rural setting with full facilities, great for long stays and families

• Facilities: Powered and ensuite sites, dump point, heated pool, playground, BBQ areas

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

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

2. Bendigo Park Lane Holiday Park – Junortoun

• Location: Junortoun, 10 minutes east of the city

• Why Stay Here: Resort-style holiday park with excellent amenities and recreational facilities

• Facilities: Powered sites, camp kitchen, dump point, games room, jumping cushion

• Pet-Friendly: Yes (conditions apply)

• Visit website: https://parklaneholidayparks.com.au/locations/bendigo

3. A-Line Holiday Village – Strathdale

• Location: Strathdale, 5 km from CBD

• Why Stay Here: Peaceful bush setting with well-kept sites and good value for money

• Facilities: Ensuite and powered sites, BBQ area, pool, laundry, dump point

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

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

4. Ascot Holiday Park – Ascot

• Location: Northern Bendigo, close to Epsom shops and Bendigo Racecourse

• Why Stay Here: Affordable and accessible base for exploring the city and surrounding region

• Facilities: Powered sites, camp kitchen, laundry, dump point

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

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

5. Axedale Lions Park Free Camp – Axedale

• Location: About 25 minutes east of Bendigo

• Why Stay Here: Low-cost donation-based campground in a quiet riverside setting

• Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, shaded parking, no power

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

• Visit website: https://www.goldfieldstrack.com.au/locations/axedale

6. Greater Bendigo National Park – Notley Campground

• Location: South of the city, off Mandurang Road

• Why Stay Here: Basic bush camping in a natural setting (free, unpowered)

• Facilities: Fire pits, toilets (no dump point), no water

• Pet-Friendly: No (due to conservation rules)

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

Tips for Staying in Bendigo

• Book Ahead on Peak Weekends: Major festivals (like Bendigo Easter Festival or Artisanal Food Weekends) can cause sites to book out fast.

• Public Transport Access: Park Lane and A-Line are near bus routes that head into the CBD.

• Legal Camping Note: Overnight parking in public areas or streets is not permitted unless signed otherwise. Always check local council rules.

RV Facilities and Essentials in Bendigo

Bendigo offers a practical and well-supported setup for RV travellers. Whether you’re looking to empty your tanks, top up on fresh water, restock fuel, or repair something on the go, the city has everything you need—without big-city headaches.

Dump Points (Public & Campground Access)

• Bendigo Showgrounds Dump Point – Holmes Road, North Bendigo

  • Free public dump point, available 24/7

  • Accessible for large vehicles

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

• Park Lane Holiday Park

  • Guest access, but may allow non-guests for a small fee (call ahead)

• BIG4 Bendigo Marong Holiday Park

  • Onsite dump station for guests

Use WikiCamps or CamperMate to check up-to-date availability and user reviews before heading out.

Fresh Water Refill Stations

• Showgrounds (Holmes Road)

  • Adjacent to the dump point—free potable water available

• Most RV Parks

  • Provide potable water access for guests; some allow refills for a fee

• BP and United Service Stations

  • Some have taps—always ask permission before using

Tip: Always carry a food-grade hose and filter to avoid taste issues or sediment from unknown taps.

RV-Friendly Fuel Stations

These stations have wide driveways and high canopies suitable for larger vehicles and trailers:

• United Epsom – Midland Highway

• BP Golden Square – High Street

• Ampol Strathdale – McIvor Road

• 7-Eleven Kangaroo Flat – High Street

Use PetrolSpy to compare current fuel prices in Bendigo and surrounding towns.

RV Repair & Accessory Shops

• Central Victorian Caravan Services – Epsom

  • Repairs, parts, solar installs, insurance claims

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

• Jayco Bendigo – Epsom

  • Jayco-certified dealer, parts store, and service centre

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

• Battery World Bendigo – Hattam Street

  • Deep cycle battery specialists, solar power, RV electricals

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

• BCF Bendigo – High Street, Kangaroo Flat

  • Camping accessories, hoses, chairs, outdoor cooking gear

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

Recommended Apps & Tools

• WikiCamps Australia: Best for finding campgrounds, dump points, water refill, and user reviews

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

• CamperMate: Live updates on fuel, camps, toilets, weather, and more

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

• PetrolSpy: Compare fuel prices in real-time

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

• VicTraffic: Stay informed about traffic changes, closures, and roadworks

  • Visit website: https://traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au

Parking, Driving & Local Regulations in Bendigo

Driving an RV through Bendigo is generally smooth and stress-free thanks to wide roads, manageable traffic, and straightforward parking. Still, it’s important to understand local parking laws and regulations to avoid fines or confusion—especially when it comes to overnight stays and city navigation.

Can You Drive an RV into Bendigo’s CBD?

Yes—RV access into Bendigo’s central business district is easy for most vehicle sizes.

• Major streets like Pall Mall, Hargreaves Street, and McCrae Street are RV-navigable, though it’s best to avoid school zones and peak-hour traffic (8–9:30 am and 3–5 pm).

• Roundabouts are common, but most have wide turning radii suitable for vehicles up to 7 metres.

• Avoid small laneways and backstreet shortcuts unless you’re driving a compact van.

Day Parking & Overnight Rules

Day Parking:

• Rosalind Park Precinct: Includes large council car parks near the gallery and conservatory. RVs can park here during the day.

• Lake Weeroona Parking Area: Popular with day visitors and often has enough space for larger rigs.

• Bendigo Showgrounds: Open event parking areas can sometimes accommodate RVs—check availability beforehand.

• Shopping Centre Car Parks: Kangaroo Flat and Epsom centres have larger open lots but check signage for maximum durations.

Overnight Parking:

• Street or public car park overnight camping is not permitted in Bendigo.

• Use RV parks or designated free/donation-based campgrounds such as Axedale Lions Park.

• Some rural areas just outside town may allow overnight rest stops for self-contained vehicles—check WikiCamps or council maps.

Local Driving Rules for RV Travellers

• Speed Limits:

  • CBD: 40–50 km/h

  • Arterial roads: 60 km/h

  • Rural highways: 100–110 km/h

• Height & Clearance: Few issues in town—no major tunnels or bridges with height restrictions under 4.3 metres.

• Turning & Reversing: Roundabouts are large, but side-street reversing should be avoided in larger rigs.

Parking Fines & Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overstaying time zones (usually 1P or 2P) in central shopping areas

• Overnighting in public car parks—Bendigo Council monitors these zones

• Blocking driveways or pedestrian footpaths while parking on street edges

• Greywater disposal in unauthorised areas (only use proper dump points)

Helpful Links for Drivers

• VicRoads travel maps & road info: https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au

• Greater Bendigo parking and local laws: https://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

• Toll road payments (for routes via Melbourne): https://www.linkt.com.au

RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do in Bendigo

Bendigo is packed with things to see and do, many of which are easily accessible to RV travellers. Whether you’re into history, nature, art, or food, there’s plenty to explore within short driving or walking distance from most campgrounds and caravan parks. And best of all, most attractions have nearby parking or are reachable with a short detour from your site.

Historic & Cultural Sites

• Central Deborah Gold Mine
  Take a guided underground tour through a real 1900s gold mine and learn what life was like for Bendigo’s early miners.

  • RV Tip: Onsite parking is tight—better to park nearby or walk from CBD.

  • Visit website: https://www.central-deborah.com

• Bendigo Tramways & Museum
  Hop on a restored vintage tram that winds through the city’s historic precinct. The depot and museum are must-visits for train and history buffs.

  • RV parking available nearby at Lake Weeroona or Rosalind Park precinct

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

• Bendigo Art Gallery
  One of Australia’s top regional galleries with rotating exhibitions, classic works, and a heritage building full of surprises.

  • Close to Rosalind Park with daytime RV parking nearby

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

Nature & Parks

• Lake Weeroona
  A beautiful lakeside loop ideal for walks, picnics, and mobile food trucks. Free public parking surrounds the lake, and it’s within walking distance to many attractions.

  • Pet-friendly and flat walking paths

  • Playground, BBQs, and restrooms available

• Rosalind Park
  Right in the centre of Bendigo, with shaded walking trails, sculptures, gardens, and a historic conservatory.

  • Parking nearby; often used as a starting point for city walks

• Greater Bendigo National Park
  A bushland haven with walking tracks, native wildlife, and peaceful picnic spots just 20–30 minutes from the city.

  • Several picnic areas accessible to small–mid-sized RVs

  • No camping permitted inside the park, but perfect for day trips

Pet-Friendly Places

• Strathdale Park – Off-leash zones, shady paths, and close to local cafes

• Back Creek Trail – Scenic, low-traffic walking/biking trail popular with dog walkers

• Lake Weeroona – Leashed dogs welcome, plus local vendors that often put out water bowls

Family-Friendly Activities

• Discovery Science & Technology Centre
  Hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an indoor vertical slide—great for rainy days with kids

  • Parking available across the street or near Rosalind Park

  • Visit website: https://www.discovery.asn.au

• Playgrounds & BBQ Spots:

  • Lake Weeroona – Excellent all-ages playground

  • Crook Street Park (Eaglehawk) – Skatepark, picnic tables, off-street parking

  • Kennington Reservoir – Great for walks, fishing, and family day trips

Markets, Local Food & Events

• Bendigo Community Farmers Market (every second Saturday)

  • Local produce, gourmet food, and craft stalls in a relaxed outdoor setting

• Chancery Lane & View Street

  • Home to street food vendors, bakeries, boutique shops, and open-air cafés

• Bendigo Easter Festival (April)

  • A massive regional event with parades, food stalls, and family entertainment

  • RV parks book out early—plan ahead

RV Tips for Attractions

• Use WikiCamps to check parking suitability near main attractions

• Weekends can get busy near Lake Weeroona and the CBD—arrive early for parking

• Combine attractions by walking between several sites (Tramways, Gallery, Rosalind Park, Central Deborah) from a single parked location

Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Bendigo

To help you get the most out of your road trip, here are some real-world, expert-level RV travel tips specifically tailored to Bendigo. These are the kind of insights that save you time, money, and frustration—whether you’re in town for a weekend or a week.

1. Use the Bendigo Showgrounds for Essential Services

The showgrounds on Holmes Road offer a 24/7 dump point and potable water tap—ideal for mid-journey cleanups or post-bush-camp resets.

2. Avoid Last-Minute Bookings During Festival Periods

Events like the Bendigo Easter Festival, food weekends, and major exhibitions cause local caravan parks to book out quickly. Plan at least a month ahead during peak periods.

3. Take Advantage of the Free Camp at Axedale

Just 25 minutes from Bendigo, Axedale Lions Park is a donation-based camp with toilets and riverside parking. It’s a great low-cost alternative if you’re self-contained.

4. Stock Up in Kangaroo Flat or Epsom

These outer suburbs have large supermarkets, hardware stores, and service stations with RV access. Ideal for re-supply without navigating the CBD.

5. Use Public Transport from Caravan Parks

Holiday parks like Park Lane and A-Line have nearby bus stops that take you straight into the CBD—saving the hassle of daily parking.

6. Watch for Timed Parking Zones in the CBD

Many city centre streets are 1P or 2P zones. Always read signs carefully and avoid overstaying, especially around Pall Mall and View Street.

7. Winter Nights Are Cold—Pack Accordingly

Even outside peak winter, Bendigo can drop below 5°C overnight. Insulated vans, extra blankets, and diesel heaters are smart additions to your setup.

8. Visit Midweek for Fewer Crowds

Attractions like Sovereign Hill (Ballarat day trips), the Bendigo Gallery, and local markets are noticeably quieter Tuesday to Thursday—great for parking and photography.

9. Check Roadworks with VicTraffic Before Arrival

Major roadworks or detours on the Calder Highway or Midland Highway can delay entry. Check https://traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au before travelling in or out of the city.

10. Use Facebook Groups for Local Insight

Search for “Bendigo camping and caravanning” or “Central Victoria travellers” on Facebook—locals often post about hidden camp spots, weather warnings, or special events.

How Bendigo Compares to Other Australian RV Cities

Bendigo stands out as one of Victoria’s top inland RV destinations, but how does it measure up against other popular cities across Australia? Below is a practical comparison to help you decide if Bendigo fits your travel style—or how it pairs with other stops on your journey.

Bendigo vs Ballarat

• Vibe: Both are historic gold rush cities, but Bendigo leans more into arts and cultural events, while Ballarat has a heavier heritage focus with attractions like Sovereign Hill.

• RV Access: Similar RV infrastructure, though Ballarat’s caravan parks are more spread out.

• Driving & Parking: Easier traffic and CBD navigation in Bendigo.

• Cost: Very similar for fuel, groceries, and park fees.

Bendigo vs Geelong

• Vibe: Geelong is coastal with a seaside holiday atmosphere; Bendigo is inland with a country-creative feel.

• Attractions: Geelong offers waterfront activities and is closer to the Great Ocean Road. Bendigo offers inland bushwalking and gold history.

• RV Parks: Geelong has more beachside parks, while Bendigo has better proximity to town from all camps.

• Pet-Friendliness: Both cities are pet-friendly, but Bendigo has more relaxed trails and bush areas.

Bendigo vs Mildura

• Vibe: Mildura is a riverside, semi-outback city with a relaxed pace. Bendigo feels more urban, active, and cultural.

• Driving Ease: Mildura has less traffic and more wide-open spaces for large rigs.

• Nature Access: Mildura focuses on the Murray River, while Bendigo offers national parks and forest drives.

• Weather: Mildura is hotter and drier year-round; Bendigo has more seasonal variation.

Bendigo vs Melbourne

• Vibe: Melbourne is bustling, diverse, and fast-paced. Bendigo is calmer, slower, and more regional.

• RV Travel Practicality: Far easier to park, camp, and drive in Bendigo. Melbourne presents challenges for larger vehicles.

• Attractions: Melbourne offers world-class museums and restaurants, but Bendigo punches above its weight for its size—especially in art and heritage.

• Cost: Bendigo is far more budget-friendly across the board.

Bendigo vs Canberra

• Vibe: Both are regional cities with cultural significance. Canberra is formal and political; Bendigo is relaxed and creative.

• RV Infrastructure: Canberra has well-maintained parks, but Bendigo’s are closer to the CBD.

• Driving: Both are RV-friendly, but Canberra’s roundabouts and parkways can be confusing.

• Things to Do: Canberra has museums and monuments, while Bendigo offers heritage, art, and food.

In summary, Bendigo combines the convenience of a regional city with excellent access to culture, history, and nature. It may not have coastal views or capital city energy, but what it offers is deeply authentic, easy to navigate, and ideal for RV travellers of all styles.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

Bendigo may not shout for attention like Australia’s big-ticket cities, but for RV travellers, that’s exactly the appeal. It’s a place where gold-rush streets meet gallery walls, where wide open roads lead to forest trails, and where you’re always just minutes from your next great meal or quiet lakeside morning.

Whether you’re a history buff chasing stories from the underground mines, a foodie on the hunt for craft produce, or a vanlifer seeking restful, pet-friendly parks, Bendigo delivers. Its strong RV infrastructure—dump points, powered sites, well-stocked fuel stops—makes it both an ideal overnight stay and a destination worthy of a few days’ exploration.

The charm of Bendigo lies in its balance. You get culture without crowds, nature without remoteness, and convenience without compromise. For travellers who value authenticity, comfort, and a relaxed rhythm, Bendigo is not just a stop on your map—it’s a highlight.