RV Travel in Victoria – The Complete Guide

Campervan parked along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria – iconic Australian RV route featuring cliffs, beaches, and scenic campsites

Victoria might be Australia’s second-smallest state, but for RV travellers, it’s one of the richest and most rewarding places to explore. With a compact size, world-class road networks, and wildly diverse scenery, Victoria offers the perfect balance between convenience and adventure. You can wake up beside the ocean, drive through alpine forests by midday, and finish the evening with a glass of wine in a high-country vineyard — all in a single day’s journey.

For grey nomads taking their time, young couples road-tripping the Great Ocean Road, overseas visitors in rented campervans, or Aussie families exploring the school holiday circuit, Victoria delivers. The state is packed with RV-friendly towns, well-equipped holiday parks, scenic drives, dump points, and national parks that cater beautifully to self-contained travellers.

Whether you’re navigating Melbourne’s vibrant outskirts or heading into the Grampians, the Prom, or the snow-capped peaks of the High Country, Victoria makes RV travel feel both seamless and exciting. It’s a state built for explorers — and the road ahead is full of possibility.

What Makes Victoria a Great RV Destination?

Victoria is a dream state for RV travellers who want variety without the long-haul drives. While it may be small in size compared to its western and northern neighbours, Victoria more than makes up for it with its tight-knit diversity of landscapes — from wild surf coasts and rainforest-covered hills to alpine regions, wine valleys, and historic gold-rush towns. The best part? Everything is just a few hours apart, making it perfect for travellers who want to see more and drive less.

Compact State, Big Scenic Impact

You can start the day in Melbourne and be parked beside a coastal lookout, a mountain lake, or a vineyard cellar door by lunch. Distances between key regions are short — ideal for those who prefer shorter drive days and more time exploring. Victoria’s road network is sealed, well-maintained, and clearly signposted, with plenty of roadside rest stops and visitor centres geared towards self-drive tourists.

The state also boasts one of the best-developed networks of holiday parks, free campgrounds, and RV facilities in Australia. Whether you’re cruising in a luxury motorhome or a hired budget campervan, you’ll find somewhere welcoming to park, recharge, and relax.

Four Distinct Seasons, Four Unique Experiences

Victoria is one of the few states in Australia with a classic four-season climate, which means different times of year offer entirely different RV experiences.

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Best for Great Ocean Road trips, beach camping, and wine region touring. Be prepared for hot inland temps and busy coastlines.

  • Autumn (Mar–May): Arguably the best time for RV travel — mild days, golden foliage in the alpine regions (especially Bright), and quieter roads.

  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Ideal for hot spring getaways (Daylesford, Mornington Peninsula) and snow-fringed drives through Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.

  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers, waterfalls, and regional food festivals come to life. A perfect season for the Grampians, Dandenongs, and Wilsons Promontory.

A Welcoming Vibe and Traveller-Friendly Culture

Victoria is known for its friendly towns, accessible public spaces, and progressive travel support. Many regional councils are part of the RV Friendly Town scheme, offering amenities like dump points, water refills, designated overnight parking, and public toilets. Local communities across the state actively welcome RVers — especially those supporting local bakeries, fuel stations, and markets.

There’s also a strong vanlife and road-tripping culture in Victoria, especially along the Surf Coast and Gippsland. You’ll often meet fellow travellers at scenic lookouts, free campgrounds, or over a shared sunset by the beach. Whether you’re here for a long-haul lap or a weekender out of Melbourne, Victoria is built for RV freedom.

Where to Rent an RV in Victoria

Melbourne is the main gateway for RV rentals in Victoria, with dozens of reliable companies offering everything from compact campervans to luxurious motorhomes and off-grid-ready rigs. Whether you’re planning a Great Ocean Road escape or a cross-country road trip, you’ll find the right wheels in and around the Melbourne metro area.

Here are five top-rated RV and campervan rental companies serving Victoria.

1. Britz Campervans – Tullamarine (Melbourne Airport)

Vehicle Types: 2–6 berth campervans, motorhomes, 4WD options
Why Choose Britz: Australia’s most recognised name in camper travel, Britz offers a large, modern fleet ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers. Vehicles come with toilets, showers, solar, and kitchen facilities.
Visit website: https://www.britz.com

2. Apollo Camper – Tullamarine

Vehicle Types: Budget campervans, premium motorhomes, 4WD campers
Why Choose Apollo: Competitive pricing, extensive support network across Australia, and good options for one-way hires. Their Melbourne depot is close to the airport, and vehicles are suitable for long or short trips.
Visit website: https://www.apollocamper.com

3. Jucy Rentals – Melbourne CBD

Vehicle Types: Compact campervans (2–4 berth), no bathroom
Why Choose Jucy: Ideal for young travellers, backpackers, and short-distance road trips. Their colourful vans are budget-friendly and easy to park in cities and coastal towns.
Visit website: https://www.jucy.com/au

4. Lets Go Motorhomes – Braybrook (Western Melbourne)

Vehicle Types: Luxury motorhomes, 2–6 berth, automatic
Why Choose Lets Go: High-end fit-outs, clean modern interiors, unlimited kilometres on many vehicles, and pet-friendly options available. Suited for long-haul comfort.
Visit website: https://www.letsgomotorhomes.com.au

5. Go Camper – Melton South (Western Suburbs)

Vehicle Types: Family-sized motorhomes, camper trailers, tow-behind options
Why Choose Go Camper: A local, family-run company offering personal service, well-maintained vehicles, and more flexible rental conditions than big brands. Also offers pet-friendly options.
Visit website: https://www.gocamper.com.au

RV Rental Tips for Travelling in Victoria

Licensing Requirements

  • A full, valid driver’s licence is required. If your licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit is necessary.

  • Most companies require drivers to be 21 or older, though some accept 18+ with conditions.

Melbourne Tolls

  • Melbourne has toll roads, including CityLink and EastLink.

  • Some rental companies register your vehicle automatically and charge tolls back to your credit card.

  • If not, you’ll need to register manually at https://www.linkt.com.au

Before You Book

  • Confirm what’s included: bedding, kitchenware, insurance, GPS, or camping chairs.

  • Check vehicle height if you plan to park in metro areas (some city parks have low clearances).

  • If visiting alpine areas (May–October), ask about diesel heaters and winter suitability.

  • Look into unlimited kilometre options if planning long-distance travel beyond Victoria.

Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Victoria

Victoria is one of the easiest states in Australia to camp your way through, offering everything from beachfront holiday parks to quiet alpine hideaways. With a strong mix of commercial caravan parks, national park campgrounds, and council-run rest areas, RV travellers have excellent choices — whether you’re chasing luxury amenities or a peaceful bush setting.

Here are six of the best RV-friendly campgrounds across Victoria’s key regions:

1. BIG4 Anglesea Holiday Park – Great Ocean Road

Why Stay Here: Set just 10 minutes’ walk from the beach, this park is ideal for exploring the Great Ocean Road. It’s family-friendly and well-maintained, with easy access to coastal walks and cafes.
Facilities: Heated indoor pool, jumping pillow, camp kitchens, BBQs, dump point, ensuite sites.
Pet-Friendly: Yes (seasonal conditions apply)
Visit website: https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/vic/great-ocean-road/anglesea-holiday-park

2. NRMA Bright Holiday Park – Victorian Alps

Why Stay Here: Nestled in the heart of Bright, this park is perfect for autumn foliage, cycling, and food & wine trails in the High Country. A great base for Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.
Facilities: Powered sites, fire pits (seasonal), riverfront camping, laundry, kids’ playground.
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au/bright

3. Discovery Parks – Echuca (Murray River)

Why Stay Here: Located on the banks of the Murray River, this park is ideal for water activities, paddle steamers, and historic town walks.
Facilities: Powered sites, pool, water playground, laundry, camp kitchen, dump point.
Pet-Friendly: Yes (check before booking)
Visit website: https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/echuca

4. Tidal River Campground – Wilsons Promontory National Park

Why Stay Here: The only campground inside the Prom, Tidal River puts you walking distance from pristine beaches, wildlife, and epic hiking trails.
Facilities: Basic powered and unpowered sites, toilets, showers, BBQs, visitor centre.
Pet-Friendly: No (national park rules)
Visit website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park

5. BIG4 Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park – Rosebud

Why Stay Here: Great base for exploring the Mornington Peninsula’s hot springs, wineries, and coastal towns. Family-oriented with excellent facilities.
Facilities: Heated pool, spa, full amenities block, dump point, games room, kitchen.
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/vic/mornington-peninsula/mornington-peninsula-holiday-park

6. Lake Catani Campground – Mount Buffalo National Park

Why Stay Here: Beautifully secluded alpine camping during the warmer months, surrounded by forest and granite formations. Open seasonally (Nov–Apr).
Facilities: Pit toilets, untreated water, fireplaces (bring wood), walking trail access.
Pet-Friendly: No
Visit website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/mount-buffalo-national-park

RV Camping Tips in Victoria

  • Booking Seasons:
    Summer (Dec–Feb) and long weekends book out quickly in coastal and alpine regions. For Wilsons Prom and popular parks, book 3–6 months in advance via Parks Victoria: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au

  • Public Transport Access:
    Parks near towns like Bright, Anglesea, or Mornington have better access to buses and shops. National park campgrounds are remote — stock up before arrival.

  • Legal Camping Guidance:
    Free camping is not allowed within 20 km of Melbourne or in built-up tourist zones (e.g. along the Great Ocean Road). Use official rest stops, council camps, or private campgrounds to avoid fines.

  • Apps for Campground Discovery:
    Use WikiCamps or CamperMate to find real-time availability, photos, and reviews of campgrounds across Victoria — especially helpful when plans change on the road.

RV Facilities and Essentials in Victoria

Victoria makes RV travel easy with its well-distributed services across towns and highways. Whether you’re looking to empty waste, refill water, top up fuel, or get repairs — you’ll find facilities that are clean, accessible, and often free. The state’s compact layout also means you’re never too far from help if needed.

Dump Points

Dump points are widespread across Victoria and are often available at:

  • Holiday parks and commercial campgrounds

  • Visitor information centres in regional towns

  • Local council rest areas or free overnight zones

To find them:

Be sure to use chemical-safe disposal only and rinse with available water to keep facilities clean.

Fresh Water Refill Stations

Most holiday parks offer potable water as part of your stay. Free refill stations are also available at:

  • Town showgrounds

  • Roadside rest stops (especially in RV-friendly towns)

  • Visitor centres (look for exterior taps)

Tip: Carry a threaded tap adaptor and 10–15 metre food-grade hose to make refilling easy, especially at rural stations.

Fuel Stops & Long-Distance Planning

Victoria doesn’t have the vast fuel gaps seen in WA or NT, but it’s still wise to plan ahead in alpine areas or the western Wimmera. Always top up before heading into:

  • Grampians National Park

  • Mount Buffalo / High Country

  • East Gippsland forests

Use fuel price apps like:

Some remote towns only have one servo — and prices may vary significantly.

RV Repairs & Accessories

If you run into problems or need parts, these Victorian RV service centres are trusted by long-haul travellers:

Essential Travel & Navigation Apps

Bonus Tip: Mobile Signal & Connectivity

Most of Victoria has good mobile coverage, especially along major highways and towns. However, coverage drops off in:

  • Deep forest parks (e.g. Otways, Alpine National Park)

  • Mountain valleys

  • Certain parts of the Great Ocean Road

Download offline maps and campsite data before heading out.

Parking, Driving & Local Regulations in Victoria

Victoria offers excellent roads and a well-structured system for RV travellers — but it also has some of the strictest rules when it comes to urban parking and overnight stays. Understanding the state’s parking zones, toll road systems, and local restrictions will help you avoid fines and enjoy a stress-free trip.

Can You Drive an RV into Melbourne CBD?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. The Melbourne CBD is not RV-friendly, especially for larger rigs. Limitations include:

  • Low clearance in most public car parks (2.0–2.2 metres)

  • Scarcity of long-vehicle street parking

  • High traffic volumes and tram lines

Best alternative:
Park in outer suburbs such as Essendon, Box Hill, or Werribee, and catch a train or tram into the city. Many suburban stations offer open-air parking suitable for campervans.

If you’re determined to drive into the CBD, plan ahead:

  • Use outdoor parking like the Siddeley Street car park (Docklands)

  • Check clearance signs before entering any structure

Day Parking and Overnight Stay Rules

Victoria has a strict approach to overnight street parking and freedom camping in urban zones.

Day Parking:

  • Allowed in most towns unless signage states otherwise

  • Avoid blocking driveways, residential areas, or staying longer than signed time limits

  • Look for “RV Parking” zones in RV Friendly Towns

Overnight Camping:

  • Prohibited in metropolitan areas, foreshore reserves, and most car parks along the Great Ocean Road

  • Allowed only at designated rest areas, campgrounds, or council-permitted free camps

  • Many country towns (like Maryborough, Rochester, and Nhill) welcome 24–48 hour free stays in showgrounds or sports ovals

How to stay legal:

  • Use WikiCamps or ask local visitor centres for permitted overnight locations

  • Avoid sleeping in roadside pull-offs unless signs explicitly allow it

Local Driving Rules and Tolls

Key road rules to remember:

  • Drive on the left

  • Keep to the left lane unless overtaking on highways

  • Roundabouts: give way to vehicles on your right

  • No U-turns at traffic lights unless a sign says otherwise

Snow driving:

  • During winter (June–October), snow chains may be mandatory in alpine regions like Mount Hotham, Falls Creek, and Mount Buller

  • Chain hire is available in towns like Bright and Mansfield

Toll roads in Melbourne:

  • Includes CityLink (Tullamarine Freeway to Monash Freeway) and EastLink

  • Most rental companies auto-register your vehicle and charge tolls to your card

  • If driving your own RV, register with Linkt for a casual pass: https://www.linkt.com.au

Fines and Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Illegal camping: $100–$300 fines in metro or foreshore zones

  • Exceeding parking limits: Time-restricted areas are enforced, especially in tourist towns

  • Speeding in school zones: Strictly enforced with variable limits (often 40 km/h)

  • Low clearance damage: Watch height signs when entering car parks or drive-throughs

Helpful Driving Resources

With a bit of planning, Victoria’s road network is smooth, scenic, and very rewarding for RVers — especially those willing to trade city parking for wide-open roads and well-marked campgrounds.

RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do in Victoria

From postcard-perfect coastal towns to dramatic mountain ranges and lush wine valleys, Victoria offers a rich variety of experiences — all easily accessible to RV travellers. The state is compact enough to explore on a short trip, but packed with enough depth to fill months of slow travel. Here’s a breakdown of must-see places and activities, with RV accessibility in mind.

National Parks & Natural Highlights

Grampians National Park

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Great Otway National Park

  • Dense rainforest, glow worm walks, and waterfalls near the Great Ocean Road.

  • Stay at Aire Crossing, Stevensons Falls, or commercial parks in Apollo Bay.

  • RVs can access most roads, but be cautious on windy inland routes.

Mount Buffalo National Park

  • Scenic alpine plateau with cliffs, lakes, and seasonal snow.

  • RV camping available at Lake Catani Campground (open Nov–Apr).

  • Ideal during spring and autumn when wildflowers bloom and walking trails are open.

Iconic Scenic Drives

Great Ocean Road

  • Australia’s most famous coastal drive — from Torquay to Port Fairy.

  • Key stops: Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, Otway Fly, Loch Ard Gorge.

  • Use larger carparks at viewing platforms. Avoid overnight parking outside of formal campgrounds (strictly patrolled).

High Country Alpine Drive

  • Bright to Omeo via Mount Hotham — snow-capped peaks, valleys, and vineyards.

  • Best in late summer or autumn. Snow chains required in winter.

Silo Art Trail

  • Western Victoria’s painted silo route, featuring towns like Brim, Rupanyup, and Sheep Hills.

  • Ideal for slow road-trippers interested in photography and regional history.

  • Plenty of small-town RV stopovers and showground camping.

Pet-Friendly Attractions

Many Victorian attractions outside of national parks welcome pets on leads. Highlights include:

  • Dog-friendly beaches:

    • Ocean Grove Main Beach

    • Inverloch’s off-lead zones

    • Altona and Rosebud during off-peak times

  • Pet-friendly wineries (Yarra Valley & Mornington Peninsula):

    • Coombe Yarra Valley

    • Quealy Wines

    • Tucks Ridge

    • Always call ahead to confirm leash policies.

  • Walking trails:

    • The Bellarine Rail Trail

    • Maribyrnong River Loop

    • Dandenong Ranges forest paths (outside national park boundaries)

Family-Friendly Activities

Victoria offers loads of experiences for families travelling in RVs:

Markets, Local Food & Events

  • Queen Victoria Market (Melbourne): Australia’s most iconic produce and food market. Street parking nearby, but best accessed via public transport.
    Visit: https://qvm.com.au

  • Daylesford Farmers Market: Monthly market with fresh produce, local meats, cheese, and artisan goods. Pet-friendly and RV-accessible.

  • Yarra Valley Wine & Cheese Trails: Dozens of wineries with RV parking or nearby camping.

  • Autumn Festival – Bright: Peak foliage season with local produce markets, parades, and live music. Book RV sites well in advance.

Victoria blends world-class attractions with strong RV infrastructure. Whether you’re chasing coastlines, forest walks, gourmet trails or cultural stops — you’ll never be far from your next memory.

Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Victoria

Whether you’re planning a long-haul lap around the state or a quick escape from Melbourne, these travel tips will help you stay safe, legal, and comfortable on the road. Victoria’s diversity, compact layout, and four distinct seasons mean smart planning goes a long way.

1. Book Early for Coastal and Alpine Campgrounds

Popular locations like the Great Ocean Road, Wilsons Promontory, and Bright fill up months in advance during summer and public holidays. National park sites through Parks Victoria often require pre-booking and may limit vehicle size. Book as early as possible, especially between December and February.

2. Avoid Urban Overnight Parking

Free camping is heavily restricted in and around Melbourne, and local councils are quick to issue fines. Use designated RV rest areas, caravan parks, or free community sites in rural towns. Always check signage — “No Camping” includes sleeping in vehicles overnight.

3. Use Outer Suburbs as Launch Points into the City

Melbourne’s traffic, tolls, and parking limitations make city travel difficult in larger RVs. Park in suburban areas like Essendon, Glen Waverley, or Frankston and catch a train into the CBD. This avoids stress and avoids low-clearance car parks.

4. Pack for All Seasons — Especially Along the Coast

Victorian weather is famously changeable, and you can experience four seasons in one day, especially along the Great Ocean Road or in the mountains. Pack layers, waterproofs, and gear for hot sun and chilly nights — even in summer.

5. Check Road Conditions Before Alpine or Forest Travel

In winter, some alpine routes require snow chains, and access may be restricted due to snow or ice. In summer, fire bans or fallen trees can close forest roads. Use:

6. Don’t Rely on Phone Signal in Remote Areas

Coverage can drop out in national parks, along forest trails, and in parts of western Victoria. Download maps and apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate for offline use. Carry a printed map as a backup for the Grampians, High Country, and Gippsland.

7. Look for RV-Friendly Towns

Towns like Maryborough, Rochester, Tallangatta, and Nhill are part of the RV Friendly Town network. They often offer free or low-cost camping, dump points, fresh water, and designated RV parking close to town centres.

8. Avoid Driving at Dusk and Dawn

Wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats are most active during low-light hours — and collisions are common. Stick to daylight driving, especially in rural and forested areas.

9. Plan Your Fuel and Water for the High Country

While most of Victoria is well-serviced, regions like Mount Buffalo, Licola, and Omeo can have limited fuel stations and water points. Always top up before entering national parks or heading up into the alpine regions.

10. Respect Local Rules and Communities

Dump only at official dump points, avoid campfire use during Total Fire Ban days, and be respectful of signage and locals. Victoria’s strong tourism network depends on responsible visitors — and the communities that host them are usually very RV-friendly when travellers do the right thing.

How Victoria Compares to Other RV Destinations

Victoria may be smaller than some of its neighbours, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to RV travel. Whether you’re choosing your first campervan route or refining your Australia-wide itinerary, here’s how Victoria stacks up against the other top RV destinations around the country.

Victoria vs New South Wales

Victoria

  • Easier to navigate with shorter distances between attractions

  • More diverse in a smaller area: coast, forest, mountain, and wine regions within a few hours’ drive

  • More compact towns and fewer toll roads

  • Strong infrastructure in alpine and wine areas

New South Wales

  • Greater coastline length and major tourist centres like Sydney and Byron Bay

  • Denser traffic, more toll roads, and stricter parking regulations

  • Less accessible alpine areas for large RVs

  • Bigger population = more crowding at peak times

Victoria vs Queensland

Victoria

  • Four-season experience with snow, foliage, and mild summers

  • Better suited for cultural trips, wine trails, and nature parks

  • Stronger infrastructure for weekend and short-stay travel

  • More formal campgrounds, fewer beach-side free camps

Queensland

  • Tropical, warm weather most of the year

  • Ideal for beach lovers, Great Barrier Reef access, and long coastal drives

  • More laid-back parking laws in rural areas

  • Easier winter travel for long-haul RVers escaping the cold

Victoria vs Western Australia

Victoria

  • Compact and easily traversed — no need to plan weeks between fuel stops

  • Higher population = more services and closer campgrounds

  • Variety of landscapes in close proximity

  • Fewer remote wilderness adventures

Western Australia

  • Vast, untamed landscapes perfect for seasoned off-grid travellers

  • Incredible isolation and red-dirt beauty, but demands serious preparation

  • Fewer tolls and parking restrictions

  • Best for epic long-distance routes like Gibb River Road or Coral Coast

Victoria vs Tasmania

Victoria

  • Easier access from mainland cities

  • Better road conditions and larger campgrounds

  • More developed attractions, especially for families and urban travellers

  • Warmer overall climate

Tasmania

  • Wild, cool-climate beauty with more rustic, off-grid options

  • Slower-paced travel with dramatic coastal and mountain scenery

  • Less predictable weather and more ferry planning

  • Ideal for nature and hiking-focused RV trips

Victoria vs South Australia

Victoria

  • Offers more elevation and alpine destinations

  • Stronger focus on compact scenic loops and gourmet trails

  • Coastal and forest diversity in a tighter radius

  • More developed in terms of tourism infrastructure

South Australia

  • Strong Outback appeal (Flinders Ranges, Eyre Peninsula)

  • Long stretches between attractions in regional zones

  • Excellent desert and lake camping

  • Great wine regions, but more seasonal limitations in extreme heat

In Summary:
Victoria is the most accessible state for RV travellers looking to experience a bit of everything — without covering thousands of kilometres. It’s perfect for short trips, family holidays, and scenic slow travel. While it may not offer the vast wilderness of WA or the endless coastline of Queensland, Victoria delivers depth, comfort, and incredible variety in a compact, RV-friendly package.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

Victoria is one of those rare places where RV travel feels both adventurous and effortless. It’s the kind of state where you can wake up in a vineyard, have lunch beside a crashing surf beach, and fall asleep under mountain stars — all in a single day’s drive. With its compact size, excellent road network, and broad mix of landscapes, Victoria offers an RV experience that’s as diverse as it is accessible.

Whether you’re hiring your first campervan or towing your own rig across the state, you’ll find well-equipped parks, friendly towns, and stunning nature waiting at every turn. From the dramatic cliffs of the Great Ocean Road to the golden hills of the High Country and the cool rainforests of the Otways, each region has its own flavour and rhythm — and they’re all within reach for road-trippers.

So take your time. Travel slow. Let the winding roads of Victoria guide you through experiences that go far beyond the destination. With a little planning and an open itinerary, your RV trip through Victoria could easily become one of your all-time favourite journeys.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

Is wild camping or free camping allowed in Victoria?

Free camping is allowed in Victoria, but it’s important to understand where it’s legal and where it’s strictly prohibited. In metropolitan areas, especially near Melbourne, along the Great Ocean Road, and within national parks, free camping is often banned or heavily restricted. Many councils enforce fines if you’re caught sleeping in a vehicle outside of a designated campground or rest area.

However, Victoria also supports RV travel through numerous council-managed free camps, particularly in rural towns like Maryborough, Rochester, and Tallangatta. These areas often include showgrounds, sports reserves, or riverside sites with basic amenities like toilets and water. Some offer stays of 24–72 hours for free or a small donation.

To stay compliant, use apps like WikiCamps or CamperMate to find legal free camping zones, and always check signage at the site. Responsible free camping helps preserve access for future travellers, so be sure to leave no trace and support local communities where you stay.

Victoria is full of world-class road trip routes ideal for RV travellers. One of the most iconic is the Great Ocean Road, stretching 243 km from Torquay to Allansford. This drive hugs the rugged southern coast, offering must-see stops like the Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, and Great Otway National Park. It’s best enjoyed over 3–5 days with overnight stays in Anglesea, Lorne, or Port Campbell.

The High Country Alpine Loop is another standout, especially in autumn. Starting in Bright, this route winds through Mount Hotham, Falls Creek, and Omeo — showcasing alpine peaks, golden foliage, and excellent camping options. Note that snow chains may be required in winter.

For culture and outback scenery, the Silo Art Trail through western Victoria is a hidden gem. It features large-scale silo murals in towns like Brim and Rupanyup, with plenty of RV-friendly rest stops along the way. Each route offers its own rhythm — from coastal calm to mountain drama.

While you can technically drive RVs into Melbourne, it’s not the most practical or enjoyable experience. The city has narrow streets, limited height clearance in car parks (usually 2.0–2.2 metres), and very few suitable long-vehicle parking options. Peak-hour traffic and tram lines can also make city driving stressful for large or unfamiliar vehicles.

Instead, it’s smarter to park in one of Melbourne’s outer suburbs and use public transport. Train stations like Essendon, Box Hill, Frankston, or Werribee have open-air car parks that can accommodate campervans. From there, a direct train gets you into the CBD in under an hour.

If you must drive in, use outdoor lots such as Siddeley Street Car Park in Docklands or scout ahead for street parking near places like Albert Park or Carlton. Avoid attempting to park near Queen Victoria Market or Flinders Street during the day — it’s not worth the hassle or the risk of fines.

Victoria offers four distinct seasons, and each brings its own unique RV experience. The best overall months for RV travel are March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring). These shoulder seasons offer mild temperatures, colourful scenery, fewer crowds, and cheaper campground rates.

Summer (Dec–Feb) is perfect for coastal trips — think the Great Ocean Road, Gippsland Lakes, and Mornington Peninsula. However, campgrounds fill fast, and some inland areas like the Grampians can get very hot.

Winter (Jun–Aug) is underrated but ideal for hot spring destinations like Daylesford or exploring the High Country towns like Bright. Snowfall transforms Mount Hotham and Falls Creek into alpine getaways, but you’ll need to check road conditions and carry snow chains.

Ultimately, when you go depends on what you want: beach, snow, vineyards, or golden leaves. Victoria’s changing seasons make it a year-round destination — just pack and plan accordingly.

Yes, most of Victoria’s national parks are RV-friendly, though each park has its own rules and limitations regarding size, access, and camping facilities. Parks like Grampians National Park, Wilsons Promontory, and Great Otway National Park offer designated campgrounds with flat, unsealed roads suitable for most campervans and motorhomes.

Some parks have size restrictions or limited turnaround space, so larger rigs (over 7 metres) should double-check access before entering. Booking is required for most park campgrounds and can be made via Parks Victoria: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au

Facilities vary. Some campgrounds offer powered sites, toilets, and BBQs, while others are more basic (BYO water and toilet). Pet access is limited — most national parks do not allow dogs.

In alpine regions like Mount Buffalo or Lake Catani, access is seasonal (Nov–Apr) and often closed during snow season. With a bit of research, Victoria’s national parks are among the best in Australia for nature-focused RV travel.

Victoria has two major toll roads — CityLink (connecting Melbourne Airport to the CBD and south-east) and EastLink (serving the eastern suburbs). These tolls apply to all vehicles, including campervans and motorhomes. If you’re driving a rental, the company often auto-registers your number plate and deducts tolls from your card. If you’re in your own RV, you’ll need to register for a Linkt pass at https://www.linkt.com.au

Driving laws in Victoria are similar to other Australian states:

  • Drive on the left

  • Give way to the right at roundabouts

  • Observe speed limits (often variable in school zones)

  • Don’t use mobile phones unless hands-free

For RVs, be mindful of:

  • Height clearance in parking garages (many max out at 2.1 m)

  • Snow chain requirements in alpine areas from June to October

  • Fire bans during summer — check daily via CFA

If you’re towing a caravan or trailer, you’ll need towing mirrors and correct load distribution. Always stay alert to signage, especially in national parks and urban zones.

Victoria is packed with RV-friendly destinations that cater beautifully to families, offering a mix of nature, history, wildlife, and hands-on fun. One of the top spots is Sovereign Hill in Ballarat — an open-air gold rush museum with costumed characters, gold panning, and underground mine tours. RV parking is available nearby, and Ballarat also has several family-focused holiday parks.

The Mornington Peninsula is another great choice, with activities like the Enchanted Adventure Garden, hot springs, mazes, and kid-friendly beaches. Stay in Rosebud, Sorrento, or Dromana for easy access and top-notch RV parks.

Phillip Island is ideal for wildlife lovers, with the nightly Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve, and plenty of beach space. Stay at Cowes or Newhaven holiday parks.

Other excellent options include:

  • Bright (bike trails, rivers, autumn colours)

  • Healesville Sanctuary

  • Lorne and Apollo Bay (beach and forest combo)

These destinations offer safe, engaging experiences with facilities suited for families travelling by road.

Join the Aussie RV Community

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