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Benefits of powered campsites for camping experiences
So, what is the big deal, exactly? Well, opting for a powered campsite can make a world of difference when you’re on a road trip. Rather than juggling battery levels or fretting about conserving power, you can simply adventure during the day and plug in and enjoy the comforts of home in the evenings– lights, refrigeration, and a kettle for that essential cuppa. It’s especially handy if you’re balancing holiday mode with the odd work email or aren't quite ready to part from your evening Netflix binge.
Many powered sites, especially in holiday parks, also come with handy extras like camp kitchens, barbecues, Wi-Fi, and even laundry facilities. That makes life on the road all the more stress-free. Plus, there’s often a friendly communal vibe – a spot of neighbourly chat around the barbecue is not uncommon.
Of course, one of the best parts about powered sites is that they tend to be in the thick of all the action and Aussie nature. Whether it’s the rugged coastlines of the Great Ocean Road or the lush rainforests of the Otways, you’ll often find a powered pitch waiting to keep your campervan or motorhome running happily.
No matter where you choose to pitch your tent or park your campervan, in Victoria’s great outdoors, you are bound to find a perfect spot for camping.
Tips for choosing a powered campsite
Picking the right powered campsite really depends on your holiday style. Are you after a tucked-away retreat near waterfalls and hiking tracks? Or do you want to be right by the city so you can pop into trendy cafés during the day and retreat to your campervan at night?
If you’re unsure where to start, check out our recommended driving routes in Victoria. This’ll give you a feel for different regions and let you hone in on the vibe you’re craving. And don’t forget about amenities – some parks are pretty basic, while others come with full kitchens, pools, and playgrounds. Figure out what suits you best in terms of both facilities and budget.
It’s also wise to think about timing. During school holidays and peak seasons, powered sites can book out fast – so if your travel itinerary is set in stone, make sure to reserve your spot early. And if you’re on the hunt for “powered sites near me” on the go, give the thl Roadtrip App a whirl. It’s packed with useful info from fellow road-trippers who’ve been there, done that, and have some solid recommendations to share.
Image: Visit Victoria
Best powered campsites in holiday parks in Victoria
Below, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite powered campsites in Victoria, all with their own unique charm. From bushy retreats that’ll have you sharing your morning cuppa with curious kangaroos to coastal spots perfect for a classic Aussie beach holiday, there’s something here for every sort of Victoria getaway.
1. Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park
If the idea of waking up in the heart of the Grampians National Park sounds like your kind of heaven, then Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park should be at the top of your list. It’s about three hours from Melbourne’s CBD, making it a doable weekend road trip or a perfect remote stop on a longer travel itinerary.
The big draw here is the breathtaking scenery: jagged mountain peaks, scenic bushwalking trails, and the chance to spot native wildlife roaming around your site. It’s perfect if you’re keen on giving your camera (and your legs!) a workout. Back at camp, the powered sites let you enjoy home comforts like a hot shower or a fully charged phone to check the next day’s hiking weather. After a big day of exploring, why not treat yourself to a star-filled night around the campfire (in line with local rules, of course)?
2. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island
Phillip Island is best known for its adorable Little Penguin colony (seriously, who can resist them?), but there’s a whole lot more to love about this coastal gem. If you’re keen to see the famous penguin parade or just want to soak up Victoria’s southern coastline, BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island is a perfect choice for a base.
You’ll find everything you need here for a comfortable stay, from well-maintained shower blocks to spacious kitchens and lounge areas. And, of course, the all-important powered sites. Once you’ve settled in, you can fill your days with long walks on sandy beaches, surfing lessons, fishing charters, or wildlife spotting. There’s also a chilled seaside atmosphere in the nearby township, complete with cafés and boutiques if you fancy a quick shopping trip or a decent coffee to start the day right.
3. NRMA Port Campbell Holiday Park
Fancy being just a short stroll away from a charming little beach and the main street of Port Campbell? Then you’ll love NRMA Port Campbell Holiday Park. This spot is conveniently located only two-and-a-half hours’ drive from Melbourne – easy enough for a quick weekend break or an essential stopover if you’re touring the Great Ocean Road.
The area is brimming with iconic sights, including the famed Twelve Apostles and other dramatic limestone formations along the coast. Spend your day marvelling at the rugged scenery, then head back to camp and settle in under the stars. The powered camping sites here are a top pick for travellers who want to keep everything running smoothly without sacrificing that cosy ‘on the road’ feeling of a Great Ocean Road trip.
4. Daylesford Holiday Park
If you’re more of a spa and wine person than a surf and sand person, Daylesford Holiday Park might be just the ticket. Perched among towering oak and Sequoia trees in the heart of Spa Country, this park offers a tranquil base for a campervan hire adventure.
The surrounding region is famous for its mineral springs, spa retreats, and impressive local foodie scene. Spend your days sampling artisan cheeses, sipping on local brews, or meandering through lush gardens and galleries. Then come back to your powered site to kick back with a good book or continue your relaxation with an alfresco dinner under the stars. It’s the best of both worlds, offering a cosy, private spot to recharge while still letting you indulge in Daylesford’s luxuries.
Image: Visit Victoria
5. BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill
If you’ve had your fill of city crowds and fancy a quieter getaway, make tracks for BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill. This laid-back park is nestled alongside the mighty Murray River, making it a top choice for travellers who love their water activities. From hopping on a historic paddle steamer to sampling the region’s wines, there is always heaps to see and do.
With a powered site, you won’t need to worry about the battery running low on your fridge or phone. Spend your evenings savouring riverside sunsets and chatting with fellow travellers about the hidden gems they’ve uncovered along their journeys. If you’re lucky, they might tip you off about a secret fishing spot or a cracking local pub!
Why powered campsites are recommended over unpowered sites to get the most out of your motorhome
When you’re hitting the road in your campervan or motorhome, comfort and convenience can seriously elevate your trip. That’s why many travellers opt for powered campsites in Victoria rather than unpowered ones – because sometimes you just want to turn on the air conditioning, use your microwave, and charge your devices without worrying about draining your battery. Of course, unpowered sites can be excellent if you’re after a more rustic or remote experience (and are happy to manage your energy use carefully as well as forgo things like a microwave and air conditioning). But if you’re on a longer road trip or you want the flexibility of running all those modern essentials, a powered site is hard to beat.
Maximising motorhome features
Modern motorhomes come equipped with heaps of features that can turn a simple camping holiday into a down-to-earth but cosy retreat. If you’ve ever used a maui motorhome, you’ll know they’re kitted out with all sorts of handy appliances:
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Appliance use: With a powered site, there’s no need to constantly keep an eye on the charge level of the house battery. And you also get access to the high-energy ticket items like air conditioning, microwave etc. With power on tap (so to speak), you can whip up everything from toasties to late-night hot chocolate.
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Entertainment systems: If you fancy a movie night after a day of adventuring, you can watch TV or listen to music while plugged in at a powered campsite. Powered sites let you keep your gadgets topped up, whether that’s your laptop for those working-on-the-road moments or your camera for documenting epic sunsets.
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Lighting: Sure, we all love the ambience of fairy lights and lanterns, but sometimes you want to flick on a bright light to cook or read without the “battery guilt” creeping in. At a powered campsite, you can keep things well-lit inside and outside your camper so you’re not fumbling in the dark every time you head to the amenities block.
Battery management
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House battery charging: One of the biggest perks of hooking up to power is being able to fully charge your house battery. This is especially important if you’re mixing up your itinerary with some off-grid nights. By arriving at a remote campsite with a fully juiced battery, you’ll have more freedom to run essentials like the fridge, water pump, and lighting without constantly stressing about your charge levels.
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Peace of mind: Worried about waking up in the middle of the night to a powerless fridge or dead lights? A powered site can help put those fears to rest. Knowing you have the ability to recharge everything (from your phone to your van’s battery) means you can relax, kick back, and enjoy your trip without rationing energy.
Convenience and comfort
For many travellers, powered camping sites bring a layer of comfort that can transform a simple getaway into a blissfully relaxed road trip. Here’s how:
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Essential amenities: Powered sites often come with water connections or easy access to fill up your tanks, which can be a lifesaver if you’re on the move. No more trekking back and forth with jerry cans.
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Staying connected: Whether you need to check emails for work, keep the kids entertained, or just make sure you’ve got enough juice to upload your holiday snaps, powered sites make it all fuss-free.
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Overall comfort: Sometimes, being too far off the grid can feel like roughing it. If you prefer your creature comforts (think hot showers on demand, a fully functional kitchen, and the ability to flick on a fan or heater at the push of a button), then a powered site is well worth it.
Pro Tip: Regardless of your comfort levels, we recommend that you stop at a powered campsite or holiday park every two days, plug in, and give your campervan a bit of TLC. Empty your grey water tank, dump the toilet cassette, fill up your fresh water tank, and get those batteries charged to the max. This little routine is a quick way to keep your trip running smoothly and comfortably.
Frequently asked questions about campervan travel in Victoria
Here are a few queries people often have when planning a Victorian road trip in their camper or motorhome:
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Can you sleep in a caravan on the side of a road in Victoria?
Technically, you might be able to pull over for a quick rest or overnight stay in certain designated rest stops. However, it’s recommended to use official campsites (powered or unpowered) or designated parking areas. This ensures you’re following local regulations, staying safe, and not risking a fine.
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Where can you camp for free in Victoria?
Free camping does exist in Victoria, particularly in some national parks and state forests. Check for signs and guidelines to confirm you’re allowed to stay overnight. Keep in mind that these unpowered sites usually have limited amenities, so you’ll need to be prepared for a more self-sufficient experience. For more tips, check out our guide to the best free camping in Australia.
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Is Boondocking legal in Australia?
In certain areas, yes. ‘Boondocking’ (staying in remote locations without connections) is allowed, but the rules vary based on local council regulations. Always make sure you’re camping where it’s legally permitted, and be mindful of leave-no-trace principles.
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Are you allowed to camp on beaches in Victoria?
Generally, camping directly on beaches is restricted (both by local councils and campervan hire companies), though some coastal parks do have designated camping spots that are right next to the sand. Make sure you look out for signage, as many beaches have strict regulations to protect wildlife and dunes.
Ready to start mapping out your very own Victoria adventure?
From the comfort of powered sites to the excitement of exploring pristine coastlines or rolling countrysides, there’s no question that powered campsites in Victoria can seriously level up your travels. They give you the best of both worlds: the freedom of the open road and the luxury of staying connected, cosy, and worry-free. Ready to start planning your adventure? Be sure to have a look at our top Victoria guides below to help you start planning:
We also recommend downloading the thl Roadtrip App. It’s a handy little tool for finding campsites, reading reviews, and booking spots on the go. Once you’ve got a few options lined up, you can book your maui motorhome online and pick it up from any maui branch to start your Victorian adventure. Before you know it, you’ll be cruising along, enjoying all the perks of a fully charged battery and the ability to run your campervan’s best features at full tilt.