Riverwood Farm – Secluded Camping on the Great Ocean Road

Discover a hidden gem on the world’s most scenic coastal drive at Riverwood Farm, a private camping sanctuary in the heart of Glenaire. Perfectly positioned between the lush, ancient rainforests of the Great Otway National Park and the wild Southern Ocean, this farm stay offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. It provides a peaceful and exclusive alternative to crowded campgrounds, allowing self-sufficient travellers to find their own slice of paradise. The spacious campsites are set within a beautiful farm environment, offering privacy, serenity, and stunning rural views, with the sound of the nearby ocean creating a constant, soothing backdrop.

Riverwood Farm is more than just a place to camp; it’s a launchpad for adventure. Its strategic location on the Great Ocean Road means you are just minutes away from some of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. A short drive west takes you to the magnificent Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, and Loch Ard Gorge. Head east to explore the charming seaside town of Apollo Bay. The farm itself is a gateway to the Otways, with the famous Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, numerous waterfalls, and sections of the Great Ocean Walk all within easy reach. The nearby coastline at Glenaire and Castle Cove is a rugged and often deserted landscape perfect for beachcombing, fishing, or simply watching the waves crash ashore. After a day of exploring this incredible region, return to the tranquility of the farm for a relaxing evening, perhaps by a campfire under a sky filled with stars. For a truly memorable Great Ocean Road experience, Riverwood Farm is an exceptional choice.

Site Information

• Name: Riverwood Farm
• Address: 2805 Great Ocean Rd, Glenaire VIC 3238, Australia
• Ph: +61 3 8797 2555

• GPS Coordinates: -38.749000, 143.328500

• Website: riverwood.net.au

Camp Details

• Location: Private farm property directly off the Great Ocean Road in the Glenaire valley.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers. Access may be weather-dependent for 2WD vehicles.
• Road Access: Direct access from the sealed Great Ocean Road. On-site tracks may be gravel or grass.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, private camping that requires booking in advance.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with the host when booking.
• Facilities: Minimal. Assume no facilities and come fully prepared.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water supply.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited. Telstra is the only likely provider, and service may only be available in specific spots.
• TV Reception: Poor to non-existent due to the valley location.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own portable toilet and dispose of waste responsibly off-site.
• Rubbish Bins: No. A strict leave-no-trace policy is enforced. Take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Generally permitted in designated areas when fire restrictions are not in place. Confirm with the host.
• Generator Use: Permitted during set hours only, with respect for the natural quiet and other guests.
• Number of Sites Available: A small number of exclusive, private campsites.
• Essentials to Bring: All water, food, power, toilet, and rubbish bags. Be prepared for all weather conditions.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, usually permitted but must be confirmed with the host. Pets must be under strict control.
• Fishing: Beach and estuary fishing available at Glenaire Beach. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Excellent opportunities on the property and direct access to the Great Ocean Walk.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Lavers Hill Roadhouse & Tavern, Lavers Hill: Approx. 14 km
  • Apollo Bay Hotel, Apollo Bay: Approx. 40 km
  • Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, Apollo Bay: Approx. 40 km
• Places to Eat:
  • The Shoppe, Lavers Hill (Cafe & Pizza): Approx. 14 km
  • Yatzies, Lavers Hill (Cafe): Approx. 14 km
  • Extensive options in Apollo Bay: Approx. 40 km
• Local Attractions:
  • The Twelve Apostles: Approx. 30 km
  • Otway Fly Treetop Adventures: Approx. 20 km
  • Cape Otway Lightstation: Approx. 25 km
  • Johanna Beach: Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve & Caravan Park: Approx. 40 km
  • Princetown Recreation Reserve & Camping: Approx. 25 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Aire River West Campground (Parks Vic, booking required): Approx. 20 km
  • Johanna Beach Campground (Parks Vic, booking required): Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Apollo Bay Foreshore Public Dump Point: Approx. 40 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Lavers Hill: Approx. 14 km
  • Apollo Bay: Approx. 40 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at the visitor information centre in Apollo Bay.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located in Lavers Hill and Apollo Bay.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm, with temperatures averaging 12°C to 24°C. Can be humid with occasional rain.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Cool and calm, often with clear sunny days. Ideal for walking. Temperatures range from 9°C to 20°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and wet, with frequent rainfall. The rainforest is at its most vibrant. Average temperatures range from 6°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and invigorating, with wildflowers in bloom. Weather can be very changeable. Temperatures average 8°C to 18°C.