Aire River West Campground

A family with three young children relax under a marquee shelter next to a river and alongside their blue family-sized tent.

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Aire River West Campground

Nestled in the shadow of the Otway Ranges, enjoy a stay by the heritage-listed Aire River at Aire River West Campground.

The large, flat and open Aire River West Campground is located on the western banks of the river and perfect for larger groups and caravans. On the eastern banks, Aire River East Campground is smaller, but more protected from the elements.

Advanced bookings and payment at Aire River West are required year-round. Aire River West Campground has 40 campsites on offer. All campsites accommodate a maximum of six people and are also unpowered. Campsites 1-5, 17-23, 27-40 are suitable for large caravans. Campsites 7-11 can only cater to smaller caravans and sites 12-16 are only suitable for tents. All other sites are suitable for tents, camper trailers, campervans and recreational vehicles.

A small gravel ramp on the western banks of the river is perfect for launching a canoe or kayak. Explore upstream and discover the wetlands and floodplains birdlife including swans, ducks, egrets, swamphens and the endangered Hooded Plover on Glenaire Beach.

Fishing is also exceptional here. Choose between the calm estuary waters of Aire River or the wild ocean of Glenaire Beach. Catch bream, salmon, mullet, trout, mulloway and snapper too.

Glenaire Beach is a 15-minute walk away. This unpatrolled and rugged beach is best for experienced surfers. A little further to west, Johanna Beach offers similar rewards.


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Changes to Great Ocean Road parks and campsites

From 1 July 2026, some parks and campsites along the Great Ocean Road will be managed by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA). Visit the GORCAPA website to see which parks GORCAPA manage.

This change is part of the transition of land management responsibilities to GORCAPA, helping support a dedicated and localised approach to managing the Great Ocean Road coast and parks.

Things to do

 
Canoeing

Canoeing and Kayaking

Canoeing and kayaking are great ways to explore beautiful waterways. Enjoy the tranquility and spot wildlife that hikers don’t normally see.
A woman with a large hiking pack takes in the view from Blanket Bay Campground.

Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk extends just over 100km between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles near Princetown. The spectacular walk weaves its way through tall forests, coastal heathlands, wild rocky shores, river estuaries and windswept cliff-tops presenting amazing views.
Two friends fish off the back a boat on a misty morning on Lake Eildon.

Fishing

In quiet lakes and gently flowing rivers, in the pounding surf or in the depths beneath your boat – the waters of Victoria’s parks and reserves offer some prize catches.

How to get there

Aire River West Campground

Aire River lies approximately three hours' drive west of Melbourne and is positioned on the western edges of Cape Otway. It can be reached via the Great Ocean Road or via Lavers Hill. Head west on the Princes Highway from Melbourne before joining up with Cape Otway Road and following signs to Apollo Bay. Here, join up with the Great Ocean Road and travel on to Glenaire and follow Sands Road to access Aire River West Campground.
Aire River West Campground

When you're there

While the campground caters for self-contained comfort, you should bring your own drinking water and firewood, and take all rubbish home with you.

Need to know

Aire River West Campground

Accessibility

The day visitor area is located on the west side of Aire River adjacent to the campground. There is also a day visitor area on the east side of the river but there are no accessible toilets on this side.

There is designated parking on a level compacted gravel surface very close to the picnic area. There are no designated disabled parking bays.

The picnic area has a number of picnic tables and a rotunda scattered on a flat grassed area adjacent to the camping ground. These have bench seats on two sides and sufficient underneath space at the ends for wheelchairs or strollers. There are also some fireplaces with barbecue hotplates.

The day visitor area is close to the west bank of the Aire River. The river can be crossed in wheelchairs and strollers via the vehicle bridge. The ocean beach is not accessible by vehicle or by wheelchair.

There is a unisex accessible toilet and standard toilet cubicles that service both the campground and the day visitor area. A compacted gravel path of approximately 100 metres leads from the day visitor area to the toilets. This path is on reasonably level ground except for the last 25 metres, which has a slope of approximately 1:14. Drop off parking is available within 30 metres of the toilets if required.

Be prepared and stay safe

  • No solid fuel fires permitted.
  • Fuel stoves or gas barbecues are preferred for cooking.
  • Bring your own drinking water.
  • Come and enjoy the peace and quiet – please, no generators.

Aire River West Campground is prone to regular flooding. Please check for any change of conditions before you depart for alerts and updates.

Great Otway National Park is in the South West fire district. Bushfires can occur during the warmer months. It is your responsibility to check current and forecast weather conditions. Campfires cannot be lit on days of Total Fire Ban, however gas cookers can be used for preparing food.

Check the Fire Danger Rating and for days of Total Fire Ban at emergency.vic.gov.au, on the Vic Emergency App or call the Vic Emergency Hotline 1800 226 226.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Aire River West Campground (Great Otway National Park GORCAPA, Aire River Heritage River)

    Aire West Campground – Partial Seasonal Closure

    Visitors are advised that sites 17–40 at Aire West Campground in Great Otway National Park are temporarily closed from 29 May to 25 September 2026 due to seasonal conditions.

    What to expect:
    Sites 17–40 are closed and unavailable for camping or vehicle access during this period
    Remaining sites may still be accessible, subject to conditions

    Important information:
    The closure period may be extended if conditions remain too wet to safely support camping and vehicle access
    Visitors are asked to follow any on-site signage and avoid closed areas to prevent damage to the campground and ensure safety.
    The Great Ocean Walk hike in camp site is not impacted.
    Entering into or camping within closed areas is subject to National Park regulations

    We appreciate your cooperation in helping protect the park during these conditions.

  • Aire River East Campground (Great Otway National Park GORCAPA, Aire River Heritage River)

    Aire East Campground – Seasonal Closure

    Aire East Campground in Great Otway National Park will be closed from 29 May to 25 September 2026 as part of the annual seasonal winter closure.

    This closure is necessary to protect the campground and access tracks during periods of wet weather, when conditions are highly susceptible to damage from vehicle use and camping activity.

    What to expect:
    No visitor or vehicle access to the campground during the closure period.
    Campground and toilet facilities will be unavailable.

    Important information:
    The closure period may be extended if conditions remain too wet to safely support vehicle access and camping.
    Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and consider alternative campgrounds.
    Entering into or camping within closed areas is subject to National Park regulations

    We appreciate your cooperation in helping protect the park environment during this time.

  • Ironbark Basin Nature Trail (Great Otway National Park GORCAPA)

    Surf Coast walk/ Ironbark Nature trail closure

    The Ironbark Nature trail loop is undergoing storm damage repairs.  It will be closed for the duration of the works. The section of the Surf Coast Walk between Ironbark carpark and Point Addis stairs will be closed also. 

  • Notices Affecting Multiple Sites

    Great Otway Natonal Park - flood damge impact

    Severe thunderstorms and flash flooding on 16 January 2026 caused significant damage across parts of the eastern Great Otway National Park.
    Recovery works are ongoing. 

    We are pleased to advise that some areas have now reopened, while others remain closed to ensure public safety during assessment and repair work.

    The following areas are now open to visitors:
    • Moggs Creek Picnic Area
    • Distillery Creek Picnic Area
    • Ocean Track
    • Castle Rock
    • Sheoak Falls to Swallow Cave Track

    Parks Victoria has reopened sections of the Kalimna Falls Walking Trail, providing:

    • Access from Sheoak Picnic Ground
    • Walking access to Lower Kalimna Falls
    • Return via the same route or continuing through to Garvey Track
    ✅ Open sections are marked in green on park signage/maps
    ❌ Closed sections remain in red and must not be entered
    Visitors should remain on marked open tracks and follow all onsite signage.


    ⚠️ Important Visitor Advice
    • Always follow posted signage and staff directions
    • Stay within reopened (green-marked) track sections
    • Do not enter closed areas under any circumstances
    • Conditions may change without notice

  • Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (Great Otway National Park GORCAPA)

    Maits Rest Carpark – Temporary Partial Closure


    Visitors are advised that maintenance works will be undertaken at the Maits Rest Carpark in Great Otway National Park on Monday 22 June 2026 

    These works involve repairing and resurfacing sections of the carpark affected by pothole damage.

    What to expect:
    • Partial closure of the carpark during works
    • Reduced parking availability
    • Construction activity and machinery on site

    Access:
    • The carpark will remain partially open, with approximately half of the parking area available
    • Access to the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk will remain open at all times
    • Visitors are asked to follow all signage and directions from contractors to ensure safety.

    We appreciate your patience while these essential maintenance works are completed.

Similar experiences

 
White van parked next to picnic table in a campsite, shaded by trees

Best Alternatives to Popular Victorian Campgrounds

If you’re looking for a great camping experience in Victoria without the crowds, we’ve put together a list of alternatives to popular campgrounds, including the best times to visit.
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Bear Gully Campground

This camping area offers shady campsites set among tall Banksias right on the shore of Waratah Bay. The adjacent beach is unpatrolled and not recommended for swimming. The area is popular for fishing and rock pooling.
A car camping set up at Aire River East Campground in the Great Otway National Park

Aire River East Campground

This campground is situated within the Great Otway National Park located on the banks of the Aire River Estuary. This area is home to a magnitude of native and migratory bird species as well as an abundance of fish species making it a great place to go bird watching, fishing, swimming and canoeing
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Blanket Bay Campground

This campground is situated within the Great Otway National Park just a short stroll from the beach which is accessible via walking tracks. Picturesque views are obtainable only meters from this campsite looking out over the beach and surrounding landscapes.
A couple in their thirties play with their dog at Johanna Beach Campground next to their tent and campervan.

Johanna Beach Campground

Nestled between coastal sand dunes, a lush, grassy hinterland and a prime surf beach, the dog-on-lead friendly Johanna Beach Campground has everything you need for an unforgettable seaside camping experience. Take in the salty ocean vistas, go surfing, fishing or hike a section of the Great Ocean Walk.
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