Blanket Bay Campground
Detailed notes
Sheltered coastal campground on the eastern shores of Cape Otway with beach access, rockpools and koala spotting inland along the Katabanook Walk. 22 unpowered sites, some suited to tents, camper trailers and small campervans — not suitable for caravans. Bring your own water and firewood — fires are allowed in the shared fireplaces only (never on Total Fire Ban days), and firewood collection isn't permitted in the national park. Popular and books out early, especially summer and long weekends.
Access is manageable but take the last stretch slowly, especially after rain.
On the ground you'll find basic (non-flush) toilets, shower facilities not confirmed — check ahead, unpowered sites, fires allowed in designated fireplaces (never on Total Fire Ban days). Nearest shops: FoodWorks Apollo Bay, about 11 km as the crow flies (via the Great Ocean Road) — handy for anything you forget.
It sits roughly 234 km from Melbourne in the Otways / Great Ocean Road, which makes it a reasonable run for a weekend away.
Beginner Confidence Score
Good for campers with some experience
Why we recommend this campsite
- No 4WD required — any normal car can get you there
- Reliable mobile reception if you need to check in or look something up
- Shops nearby if you forget supplies or run low
Things to know before you go
- Book early on weekends and holidays — popular sites fill fast
- Basic non-flush toilets only — bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser
- Shower facilities are not confirmed — check ahead before relying on them
Weather confidence
Generally suitable for most beginners throughout the year. Conditions are usually gentle, so it's a forgiving place to learn the ropes.
Seasonal advice
- The sweet spot here is spring and autumn — mild days, cooler nights and the fewest weather surprises for a first trip.
- Winter nights in this part of Victoria get genuinely cold — a four-season bag or extra blankets make the difference between a good night and a miserable one.
- Always check Parks Victoria for fire restrictions and total fire ban days before you pack the car.
Hidden tips
- Reception is decent, but the back corners of the site can still be a dead spot — test before you rely on it.General tip
- Ask when you book whether the quieter, better-positioned sites can be requested — most people just take what's assigned.General tip
- Set up with the morning sun in mind so the tent dries quickly and you're not packing away wet canvas.General tip
- The nearest town often has a better bakery or pub than the reviews suggest — worth a midday break.General tip
- Bring a cheap groundsheet a touch smaller than your tent floor — it keeps the underside clean and dry.General tip
Crowd expectations
This one stays relatively quiet most of the year. You'll likely share it with a handful of other campers rather than a full house — ideal if you're after a low-key first trip.
Local knowledge
- Locals treat the Otways / Great Ocean Road as a year-round spot, but they avoid the peak summer rush and head out in the shoulder seasons.
- The nearest town is your friend — grab firewood, ice and bait there rather than hauling it from the city.
- Wildlife is part of the experience here — store food in the car overnight so you're not woken by curious visitors.
- Phone the local ranger or visitor centre the week before; they'll tell you about track closures and conditions no website lists.
Full site details
- · Best season: .
- · Booking: yes.
- · Check Parks Victoria for fire restrictions before you go.
Campsite information was last reviewed in September 2026. Fees, facilities, dog rules, access and closures can change at any time — always check with the park or operator before you travel. Distances and drive times are approximate, measured from Melbourne CBD in normal traffic.
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