Henty Park Portland Camping | Waterfront RV & Caravan Stopover VIC
Positioned perfectly on the shores of Portland Bay, Henty Park offers self-contained travellers an unbeatable location combined with essential convenience. As one of Victoria’s most sought-after low-cost coastal stopovers, this grassy parkland provides stunning waterfront views, with ships and fishing boats gliding past just metres from your site. It is the ideal base for exploring the rich maritime history of Victoria’s first permanent settlement and the dramatic landscapes of the Discovery Coast. The park’s prime location on Bentinck Street means you are just a short, pleasant stroll away from Portland’s main shopping precinct, charming cafes, and historic pubs, allowing you to immerse yourself in the town’s welcoming atmosphere without needing to drive.
The appeal of Henty Park lies in its simplicity and unparalleled access to both nature and town amenities. While facilities are basic, they cover the necessities for self-contained motorhomes and caravans, with public toilets and potable water readily available. The large, open grassed areas allow for easy parking and positioning to maximise the magnificent ocean views. It’s a pet-friendly location, making it perfect for those travelling with four-legged companions who will enjoy the adjacent foreshore walks. The convenience is a major drawcard; travellers can easily restock supplies, do laundry, or enjoy a meal out before returning to their tranquil seaside spot. For a nominal fee or donation, Henty Park provides a safe, scenic, and practical solution for a short stay, making it a cherished gem among the RV and caravan community exploring this beautiful stretch of the Australian coastline.
Name: Henty Park
Address: 2 Bentinck St, Portland VIC 3305, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -38.35385155578675, 141.6073890835002
Website: No official website available. Managed by the Glenelg Shire Council.
Site Information
- Location: Absolute waterfront in central Portland, adjacent to the marina and town centre.
- Site suitable for: Primarily for self-contained caravans, RVs, and motorhomes.
- Road access: Sealed road access (Bentinck Street/Henty Highway).
- Site surface: Mostly level grass.
- Camping permitted: Yes, designated for overnight stays.
- Maximum overnight stays: Please check local signage. Typically restricted to 48 or 72 hours.
- Facilities: Unpowered sites. Basic amenities for self-contained vehicles.
- Potable water: Yes, a tap is available for public use.
- Mobile phone coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
- TV reception: Strong digital TV reception.
- Onsite public toilets: Yes, public toilet block located within the park.
- Rubbish bins: Yes, multiple bins are provided.
- Open fires: Strictly not permitted.
- Generator use: Permitted, but only during specified hours. Please be considerate of others.
- Number of sites available: Large open area, though it can be popular. First come, first served.
- Essentials to bring: A long hose for water connection may be useful.
- Pet friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing opportunities from the nearby breakwater, marina, and beaches.
- Short walks: Direct access to the Portland Foreshore Promenade, a scenic coastal walk.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Mac’s Hotel (~500 m)
- Gordon Hotel (~600 m)
- Royal Hotel Portland (~750 m)
- Places to Eat: A wide selection of cafes, fish and chip shops, and restaurants along Percy Street and Bentinck Street (~200-800 m).
- Local Attractions:
- Portland Cable Trams (~300 m)
- Portland Maritime Discovery Centre (~1 km)
- Powerhouse Motor & Car Museum (~1.1 km)
- Cape Nelson Lighthouse (~13 km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Portland Bay Holiday Park (~1.5 km), Henty Bay Beachfront Holiday Park (~4 km).
- Next Free Camps: Narrawong Reserve (~15 km), Sawpit Free Campground in Mount Clay State Forest (~20 km).
- Nearest Dump Points: Portland Transfer Station, Darts Road (~4 km).
- Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations are located within 1 km.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Available on site.
- Public Toilets: Available on site.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Portland, VIC
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm with average temperatures between 14°C and 22°C, moderated by coastal sea breezes.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant and mild days with cool nights, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 20°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and brisk, with average temperatures between 8°C and 15°C. Expect frequent showers and wind.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild and often windy, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C.