Cumberland River Holiday Park, Great Ocean Road’s Hidden Gem

Nestled in a spectacular gorge where the mountains meet the sea, Cumberland River Holiday Park offers one of the most unique and picturesque camping experiences on the entire Great Ocean Road. Located just seven kilometres south-west of the vibrant seaside town of Lorne, this park is a world away from the hustle and bustle, set in a lush valley bordered by the tranquil Cumberland River as it meanders through rock pools to the Southern Ocean. The dramatic cliff faces and rolling green hills provide a stunning natural amphitheatre, creating a sense of seclusion and adventure that is truly unforgettable. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, with the soundtrack of a trickling river and the calls of native birdlife.

Cumberland River Holiday Park is a haven for traditional camping and nature lovers. The park offers a wide range of spacious, grassy campsites, from secluded garden sites to premium riverfront spots, all boasting incredible views of the surrounding escarpment. For those seeking more comfort, a selection of cosy Cedar Cabins and modern River View Units are available. The park embraces a true back-to-nature philosophy; it generates its own power and encourages guests to switch off, with no Wi-Fi and limited mobile reception, making it the ideal digital detox. What’s camping without a campfire? The park provides courtesy fire drums, allowing you to enjoy the timeless ritual of a crackling fire under the stars (subject to fire regulations).

Adventure is right at your doorstep. The park is a paradise for hikers, with direct access to trails leading to the magnificent Cumberland Falls and beyond. The river itself is perfect for fishing, rock-hopping, and cooling off in the crystal-clear swimming holes. The private beach at the river mouth is a fantastic spot for surf fishing and exploring rock pools. While the park feels wonderfully remote, the cafes, boutiques, and restaurants of Lorne are just a short, scenic drive away. For an authentic Great Ocean Road holiday that combines breathtaking scenery with outdoor adventure, Cumberland River Holiday Park is an unparalleled choice.

Cumberland River Holiday Park – VIC Map

Park Information

Name: Cumberland River Holiday Park
Address: 2680 Great Ocean Rd, Cumberland River VIC 3232
Website: cumberlandriver.com.au
GPS Coordinates: -38.57356, 143.94805

Site Details

• Location: Nestled in a river valley gorge on the Great Ocean Road, 7km south-west of Lorne.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and small to medium-sized caravans/motorhomes. Cabin accommodation is also available.
• Road Access: Sealed road access directly off the Great Ocean Road.
• Site Surface: Well-maintained, spacious grass sites.

Facilities

• Two Amenities Blocks with toilets and showers
• Undercover Free Gas BBQs
• Children’s Playground
• Guest Laundry (Washing machine and dryer)
• Well-stocked Kiosk (ice, firewood, basic groceries)
• LPG Gas Refills
• Rubbish Bins
• Potable Water
• Open Fires: Permitted in park-provided fire drums, subject to daily conditions and CFA regulations. Wood available for purchase.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. A great place to disconnect.
• TV Reception: Cabins have satellite TV; reception for personal setups may be limited due to the gorge.

Activities & Essentials

• Essentials to Bring: Food and supplies (Lorne is the nearest town), torch, sturdy walking shoes, and fishing gear.
• Pet-Friendly: No, pets are strictly not permitted in the park.
• Generator Use: No, generators are not permitted to maintain the park’s peaceful atmosphere.
• Fishing: Excellent river fishing for trout and surf fishing at the river mouth.
• Short Walks: Numerous walking tracks start from the park, including the popular hike to Cumberland Falls and Jebbs Pool.

Local Amenities (in Lorne, approx. 7km away)

Pubs

• Lorne Hotel Motel: Approximately 7 km
• Grand Pacific Hotel Lorne: Approximately 8 km
• Wye Beach Hotel, Wye River: Approximately 13 km

Places to Eat

• Lorne Pier Seafood Restaurant: Approximately 8 km
• Moons Espresso: Approximately 7 km
• Pizza Pizza: Approximately 7 km

Local Attractions

• Lorne Main Beach & Township: Approximately 7 km
• Erskine Falls: Approximately 16 km (via Lorne)
• Teddy’s Lookout: Approximately 9 km
• Split Point Lighthouse, Aireys Inlet: Approximately 22 km
• Sheoak Falls: Approximately 6 km

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park: Approximately 7 km
• Kennett River Family Caravan Park: Approximately 16 km

Nearest Free Camps

• Sharps Camping Area (check status, may be closed): Approximately 12 km
• Stevensons Falls Free Campground: Approximately 45 km (inland)

Nearest Dump Points

• Lorne Public Dump Point (at Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park): Approximately 7 km
• Anglesea Family Caravan Park (fee may apply): Approximately 33 km

Nearest Petrol Stations

• Shell Lorne: Approximately 7 km
• BP Aireys Inlet: Approximately 22 km

Drinking Water Resupply

• Onsite at Park
• Lorne Visitor Information Centre (public tap): Approximately 7 km

Nearest Public Toilets

• Onsite at Park
• Lorne Foreshore area: Approximately 7 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Cumberland River / Lorne

• Summer (December – February): Warm and generally sunny with average maximum temperatures around 22°C. Perfect for swimming in the river and enjoying the beach.
• Autumn (March – May): Mild, clear days are common, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the Otways. Evenings become cooler.
• Winter (June – August): Cool and often wet, with average maximums around 14°C. The waterfalls are at their most spectacular, and it’s a great time for enjoying a campfire.
• Spring (September – November): The weather becomes milder and the landscape is lush and green. A beautiful time for seeing the region’s flora and fauna come to life.