The Victorian Government is making it easier for families to enjoy the great outdoors this summer by offering free camping across all national parks and state forests in the state. Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos made the announcement at Leanganook Camping Area in Mount Alexander Regional Park, with the initiative kicking off on 1 December 2024.
Campers will have free access to 131 Parks Victoria campgrounds, saving families a collective $7.3 million in booking fees. The initiative runs until 30 June 2025, covering popular spots such as Tidal River in Wilson’s Promontory, where fees currently sit at $40.70 per night.
This $9 million investment includes $1.7 million allocated for additional maintenance and repairs to ensure campgrounds are kept clean and safe. The announcement builds on the Labor Government’s half-price camping scheme, which has saved Victorian campers $25.7 million since 2019.
Families who have already booked and paid for their camping trips will not miss out. Existing bookings will be honoured, with refunds provided.
Victoria’s state forests and national parks attract more than 50 million visitors annually, with people flocking to camp, hike, fish, four-wheel drive, trail bike ride, horse ride, and more. With camping and recreation contributing over $2.1 billion to the Victorian economy each year and supporting 20,000 jobs—many in regional communities—this move is set to provide a significant boost to local tourism.
The Government has also delivered 31 new and 60 upgraded campgrounds, as well as improvements to 155 four-wheel drive tracks and 16 walking tracks spanning 31 kilometres.
Premier Jacinta Allan shared her enthusiasm for the initiative, reflecting on her own experiences. “Busy families deserve a great holiday in our great outdoors—and this summer, they can stay for free. I grew up camping with my family, and those special memories have stayed with me forever,” she said.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos added, “There is no better time than this summer to get out and enjoy nature, all while saving the cost of your holiday and boosting tourism in regional communities.”
For more information or to make a booking, visit parks.vic.gov.au.
