So, you’ve got your Trailers Star Box Trailer packed, the kids are buzzing, and the car is hooked up. But where in magnificent Victoria should you head for a stress-free camping trip with a trailer in tow?
Melbourne offers incredible access to diverse landscapes, from stunning coastlines to rugged bushland. However, not all routes—or campsites—are created equal when you’re maneuvering a few extra metres behind you.
We’ve compiled our top 5 trailer-friendly camping routes around Melbourne, complete with a “Reversing Difficulty Rating” so you can choose your adventure wisely!
1. The Easy Breezy: Wilsons Promontory National Park (Tidal River)
- Distance from Melbourne: Approx. 2.5 hours
- Why it’s great for trailers: Paved roads all the way, designated large campsites at Tidal River with plenty of room to manoeuvre. Amenities are excellent, and the scenery is world-class.
- Trailer Considerations: Book well in advance, especially for larger sites. Ensure your gas bottles are compliant, as park rangers often check.
- Reversing Difficulty Rating: 1/5 (Very Easy – Most sites are pull-through or have ample space)
2. The Coastal Classic with a Catch: Great Ocean Road (Apollo Bay & Beyond)
- Distance from Melbourne: Approx. 2.5 – 3.5 hours
- Why it’s great for trailers: Iconic scenery, charming towns, and beautiful caravan parks or designated campsites (e.g., Blanket Bay, Aire River) once you get past the busiest sections.
- Trailer Considerations: The Great Ocean Road (between Memorial Arch and Skenes Creek) has specific restrictions for long vehicles. Heavy vehicles (including caravans and trailers over 4.5 tonnes GVM/GTM or 7.5 metres in length) are advised to avoid the winding, narrow section. Plan your route to join further along or take inland detours. Once past Apollo Bay, the roads generally open up. Always check current VicRoads advisories.
- Reversing Difficulty Rating: 3/5 (Moderate – Some caravan parks can be tight, and popular spots require precision)
3. The Inland Escape: Lake Eildon National Park (Jerusalem Creek)
- Distance from Melbourne: Approx. 2.5 hours
- Why it’s great for trailers: A massive inland lake perfect for boating, fishing, and watersports. Jerusalem Creek has well-maintained gravel roads and spacious campsites, often right on the water’s edge.
- Trailer Considerations: Roads are generally good but can become dusty in summer. Ensure your trailer’s bearings are well-greased if driving on corrugated gravel for extended periods. Watch out for wildlife, especially at dusk.
- Reversing Difficulty Rating: 2/5 (Easy – Most spots are generous, but some lake-edge sites might require a slightly trickier angle)
4. The Rugged Adventure: Gippsland Lakes & Croajingolong National Park (Cape Conran Coastal Park)
- Distance from Melbourne: Approx. 4 – 5 hours
- Why it’s great for trailers: Untouched coastline, abundant wildlife, and fantastic fishing/boating opportunities. Cape Conran offers excellent designated camping.
- Trailer Considerations: Gippsland’s Muddy Secrets. While main roads are paved, access tracks to many remote campsites, especially after rain, can become extremely muddy and slippery. A 4WD tow vehicle is highly recommended. If you have an Off-Road Trailer with good ground clearance and all-terrain tires, you’ll be fine. If you have a standard box trailer, stick to the more developed camping areas within Cape Conran or the gravel sites around Gippsland Lakes (e.g., Paradise Beach). Always check park conditions before heading out.
- Reversing Difficulty Rating: 4/5 (Hard – Especially in wet conditions, tight spots in bush camps can be very challenging. You’ll need good reversing skills and patience.)
5. The High Country Challenge: Mansfield & Surrounds (Howqua Hills Historic Area)
- Distance from Melbourne: Approx. 3 hours
- Why it’s great for trailers: Stunning mountain scenery, crystal-clear rivers, and a sense of remoteness. Basic bush camps are available along the Howqua River.
- Trailer Considerations: Expect corrugated dirt roads, river crossings (check depths!), and steep ascents/descents. This area is definitely for experienced towers with capable 4WD vehicles and robust Heavy-Duty Trailers. Reversing can be very difficult in tight bush camps with limited turning circles. Avoid during winter as many tracks close.
- Reversing Difficulty Rating: 5/5 (Expert Only – Tight tracks, uneven ground, and limited visibility make this a true test of your towing and reversing prowess.)
Master Your Reversing Skills Before You Go!
No matter where you choose to go, a little practice in a quiet car park can save a lot of frustration (and marital disputes!) at the campsite. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.
Ready for your next adventure? Ensure your trailer is up to the task! From robust Box Trailers to purpose-built Off-Road models, Trailers Star has the perfect companion for your Victorian camping escapades.