Bimbi Park, A Unique Otways Camping Experience with the Koalas
Escape to the heart of the Great Otway National Park and discover Bimbi Park, a truly magical destination where you can camp directly under the manna gum trees that are home to a large, wild population of koalas. The name ‘Bimbi’ is an Aboriginal word for ‘a place of many birds,’ and the park lives up to its name, offering an immersive nature experience on the spectacular Great Ocean Road. This is not just a place to park your van or pitch a tent; it’s a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the Australian bush. Waking up to the sight of a koala in the branches above you is an unforgettable experience that makes Bimbi Park a must-visit location.
Perfectly situated for adventurers, Bimbi Park provides direct access to the world-famous Great Ocean Walk, making it an ideal base for hikers and bushwalkers. The rugged, beautiful coastline of the Shipwreck Coast is just a stone’s throw away, with the iconic Cape Otway Lightstation only a short drive down the road. The park caters to all types of travellers, offering a range of accommodation from sheltered, unpowered tent sites nestled in the bush to powered sites for caravans and motorhomes, as well as rustic cabins and bunk rooms. A highlight for many is the opportunity to have a real Aussie campfire in the evenings (subject to fire restrictions), gathering under a brilliant starry sky, far from city lights. For an authentic and memorable holiday that combines wildlife, adventure, and tranquility, Bimbi Park in Cape Otway is the perfect choice.
Bimbi Park
Address: 90 Manna Gum Dr, Cape Otway VIC 3233
Website: bimbipark.com.au/
GPS Coordinates: -38.83272, 143.51268
Park Features and Amenities
- Location: Set deep within the Great Otway National Park at Cape Otway, famous for its abundant native koala population.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans. Cabins and bunkhouses also available.
- Road Access: Access is via a well-maintained unsealed road (Manna Gum Drive), suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans.
- Site Surface: Natural, grassy sites set amongst the trees.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, powered and unpowered camping sites are the park’s main feature.
- Powered Sites: Yes, a good number of powered sites are available.
- Un-powered Sites: Yes, numerous unpowered sites are scattered throughout the bushland setting.
- Picnic Tables: Yes, available in the communal camp kitchen and outdoor areas.
- Potable Water: Yes, available throughout the park.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited. Telstra is the only provider that may offer some service. Wi-Fi is available for purchase.
- TV Reception: Poor to non-existent due to the remote, forested location.
- BBQs: Yes, free gas barbecues are located in the camp kitchen.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, amenities blocks with hot showers are available.
- Ullage / Dump Point: Yes, a dump point is available for registered guests.
- Drive Through Sites: No, drive-through sites are not a feature of this park.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes, rubbish and recycling facilities are provided.
- Open Fires: Yes, a major attraction. Campfires are permitted in provided fire drums, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Firewood can be purchased onsite.
- Generator Use: Permitted only in a designated area during specific, limited hours. Please check with reception.
- Essentials to Bring: Binoculars for koala spotting, a torch (it is very dark at night), sturdy walking shoes, and a camera.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on campsites by prior arrangement during off-peak periods. They are not permitted in park accommodation.
- Fishing: Surf fishing is popular at nearby beaches like Station Beach and Rainbow Falls.
- Short Walks: Direct access to sections of the Great Ocean Walk. Many other trails through the national park start from or near the park.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Lavers Hill Roadhouse & Tavern (approx. 22 km)
- Apollo Bay Hotel (approx. 35 km)
- Forrest Brewing Company (approx. 50 km)
- Places to Eat:
- Lightkeeper’s Cafe at Cape Otway Lightstation (approx. 6 km)
- The Shoppe, Lavers Hill (Cafe & Takeaway) (approx. 22 km)
- A wide variety of cafes and restaurants in Apollo Bay (approx. 35 km).
- Local Attractions:
- Cape Otway Lightstation (Australia’s oldest mainland lighthouse) (approx. 6 km)
- The Great Ocean Walk (accessible directly from the park)
- Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (approx. 20 km)
- The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures (approx. 40 km)
- Johanna Beach (approx. 25 km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Aire River East & West Campgrounds (Parks Victoria) (approx. 10 km)
- BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park (approx. 34 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- The Otways are primarily National Park with paid camping. The nearest basic Parks Victoria sites include Johanna Beach and Aire River. True free camps are a significant distance away.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Onsite at Bimbi Park.
- Apollo Bay Public Dump Point (approx. 35 km).
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Lavers Hill Roadhouse (approx. 22 km)
- Multiple service stations in Apollo Bay (approx. 35 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Onsite at the park.
- Nearest Public Toilets:
- Onsite within the park.
- Cape Otway Lightstation (for visitors) (approx. 6 km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Cape Otway
- Summer (December – February): Generally mild to warm, but cooler than inland areas. Perfect for hiking and exploring the coast. Average temperatures range from 12°C to 23°C.
- Autumn (March – May): Often calm, clear, and sunny days. The surrounding forest is beautiful, and it’s a great time for walking. Average temperatures are between 10°C and 20°C.
- Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp and often wet. The rainforest is at its most vibrant, and waterfalls are flowing. It’s the quietest time to visit. Average temperatures range from 6°C to 14°C. Be prepared for rain.
- Spring (September – November): The weather can be very unpredictable, with sun, wind, and rain all possible in one day. Wildflowers are in bloom. Average temperatures range from 8°C to 18°C.