Free Camping Ballarat

Let’s talk about one of life’s greatest pleasures – camping. But not just any camping. Free camping! There’s something so liberating about pulling into a beautiful spot, settling in for the night, and knowing that it hasn’t cost you a cent. And, if you’re heading to Ballarat and the surrounding Goldfields region, you’re in luck because this area is dotted with amazing free camping sites, each with its own character.

But, with so many to choose from, figuring out which campsites are genuinely free to stay at and which are the best is a very confusing task. That’s where we step in to save the day! Below, you’ll find details on the best free camping Ballarat has to offer, along with information on the amenities, restrictions, and activities you can enjoy nearby.

Are you ready? Let’s hit the road and go exploring!

Ballarat Free Camping Spots

• Lake Burrumbeet Foreshore Camping Area
• Mount Franklin Camping Reserve

Before we start looking at these free campgrounds in more detail, it’s important to note that some are in pretty remote areas. As such, they’re best visited by campervan. Contact the expert team at Travellers Autobarn today, and we’ll set you up with a campervan that perfectly fits your style, whether you’re travelling solo or with family.

Lake Burrumbeet Foreshore Camping Area

Burrumbeet, Victoria

Lake Burrumbeet Foreshore Camping Area is only about 25 minutes away from Ballarat, but it feels like an entirely different world. If you love the idea of camping by the water, this is the place for you. The lake is huge (one of the largest in western Victoria, actually), and the shallow waters are filled with wildlife. On any given day, you’ll spot birds gliding across the surface and maybe even spot a kangaroo hopping by, making it a must-stay for nature lovers.

But what about the actual camping facilities? Firstly, the sites here are big, so there’s plenty of room for your campervan, and you won’t feel squeezed in next to your neighbours. There are also on-site toilets and a boat ramp, which is pretty perfect if you want to spend as much time on the lake as possible. However, that’s about it in terms of amenities. Don’t let this put you off camping here, though – the atmosphere is peaceful and well worth sacrificing a few home comforts for.

When you’ve had your fill of lake-based fun, you’ve got some great options for outdoor activities nearby. Sovereign Hill in Ballarat is a particular favourite, an open-air museum that brings the gold rush to life. Or, if you want to spend even more time around nature, both Ballarat Wildlife Park and Ballarat Botanical Gardens are around 30 minutes away.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Boat Ramp

Mount Franklin Reserve Camping

While it’s a bit further out than the other free camping sites on our list, Mount Franklin Reserve Camping is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience. You’ll be camping in the crater of an extinct volcano here, which isn’t only exciting in itself, but the trees that surround the site really make it feel as though you’ve found a secret hideaway to call home for a few nights!

RVs and tents are welcome to camp here, so if you’ve got young kids travelling with you who are desperate to spend the night under canvas, you can switch things up. The whole area is spacious and flat, too, and the amenities include toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits, so you’ll have everything you need to set up camp and settle in for a cosy evening.

As well as being an incredible place to spend some time camping, Mount Franklin Reserve is also a great base for exploring the surrounding Hepburn region. You’re only 15 minutes away from Daylesford, where you’ll find mineral springs, cafes, and shops. Or, for more of a nature-based activity, the hiking trail at Sailors Falls is 20 minutes away from the campgrounds and is particularly beautiful in autumn when the surrounding trees turn fiery shades of red and orange.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Picnic Tables
• Fire Pits

Final Thoughts

Free camping in Australia isn’t just about saving money; it gives you the opportunity to stay in some of the most beautiful places near Ballarat that you might otherwise not have known existed! Whether your idea of bliss is watching the sunset of Lake Burrumbeet or stargazing from the crater of Mount Franklin, there’s an option for every type of camper and each gives you the chance to create memories that will stick with you forever.

If you’re planning a road trip to Ballarat, you can make things much easier by hiring a campervan from Travellers Autobarn. With unlimited kilometres, you’ll be able to explore as far and wide as your heart desires and take your time when doing so. All you have to do is pack your gear, load up the campervan, and hit the road.

Interested in more? Some other articles you may enjoy:

• Top 10 Essential Road Trip Rules
• Australia Bucket List: 20 Must-Do Activities
• Travel don’ts – avoid the threat of driving licence suspension in Australia
• Backpacking checklist: everything you need to get ready

DISCLAIMER: All information provided, including prices, availability, and site details, is correct at the time of publishing. We recommend contacting campsites or caravan parks directly to confirm the latest details before planning your visit. Please review our Terms and Conditions for additional information.