Hamilton Showgrounds Camping | Low-Cost & Pet-Friendly VIC Stopover

Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s scenic Western District, the Hamilton Showgrounds offers travellers a convenient, affordable, and welcoming place to rest. Perfectly positioned for those exploring the Grampians, the Great Ocean Road, or journeying between Melbourne and Adelaide, this campsite provides essential facilities in a spacious and relaxed setting. Managed by the Hamilton Pastoral & Agricultural Society, the grounds are well-maintained and cater to a wide range of vehicles, from large motorhomes and caravans to camper vans and tents.

The key appeal of the Hamilton Showgrounds is its blend of practicality and location. Visitors appreciate the availability of powered and unpowered sites on a mix of grass and gravel surfaces, providing flexibility depending on the weather and personal preference. The presence of clean toilets, potable water, and rubbish bins covers the core needs for a comfortable stay. Being pet-friendly is a significant advantage, allowing the whole family to travel together without the stress of finding pet-friendly accommodation. The grounds are expansive, meaning that even during busier periods, there is generally ample room to find a suitable spot without feeling crowded. The straightforward, honest approach to camping makes it an ideal stopover for a night or two, allowing travellers to recharge, resupply, and explore the historic town of Hamilton before continuing their journey. Its reputation as a reliable and budget-friendly option makes it a popular choice in the regional touring community.

Name: Hamilton Showgrounds
Address: Shakespeare St, Hamilton, VIC 3300, Australia

GPS Coordinates: -37.7472, 142.0255

Website: hamiltonshowgrounds.com.au/camping

Site Information

• Location: Set within the town limits of Hamilton, offering easy access to shops and services.
• Site suitable for: Self-contained and non-self-contained caravans, RVs, motorhomes, big rigs, camper trailers, and tents.
• Road access: Sealed road access directly to the entrance.
• Site surface: A mix of grass and gravel surfaces available.
• Camping permitted: Yes, camping is permitted year-round.
• Maximum overnight stays: Typically up to 7 days, but can vary. Check with the caretaker on arrival.
• Facilities: Powered and unpowered sites available.
• Potable water: Yes, drinking water is available on site.
• Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage for Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.
• TV reception: Good digital TV reception.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: Yes, bins are provided for general waste.
• Open fires: Not permitted. Contained cooking fires may be allowed depending on local fire restrictions.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers (e.g., restricted hours).
• Number of sites available: Large area with numerous un-designated sites.
• Essentials to bring: Levelling blocks may be useful as some areas are on a slight slope.
• Pet friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
• Fishing: Nearby fishing opportunities in the Grange Burn and the Wannon and Nigretta Falls areas.
• Short walks: The Hamilton Parklands and Lake Hamilton are nearby, offering excellent walking and cycling tracks.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The Grand Central Hotel (~1.5 km)
  • The Cally Hotel Hamilton (~1.8 km)
  • The Hamilton Hotel (~2.0 km)
• Places to Eat: A variety of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants are located in Hamilton’s town centre (~1-2 km).
• Local Attractions:
  • Hamilton Botanic Gardens (~2.0 km)
  • Ansett Transport Museum (~1.8 km)
  • Hamilton Gallery (~1.9 km)
  • Nigretta Falls & Wannon Falls (~15-18 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Lake Hamilton Motor Village & Caravan Park (~3.5 km).
• Next Free Camps: Wannon Falls Campground (~18 km), Nigretta Falls Campground (~15 km).
• Nearest Dump Points: An onsite dump point is available at the showgrounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations within 2 km in Hamilton town centre.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available on site.
• Public Toilets: Available on site and throughout Hamilton’s parks and town centre.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Hamilton, VIC

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days with average temperatures between 12°C and 27°C. Can experience hot spells and cool changes.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and cool nights, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 22°C. Generally stable weather.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often overcast, with average temperatures between 4°C and 13°C. Frosts are common.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and cool, with increasing sunshine. Temperatures range from 7°C to 18°C. Can be windy.