Great Otway National Park

A couple walking up some forest steps surrounded by lush tree ferns and dense understory vegetation cover.

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Great Otway National Park

Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park.

  See the stunning coast between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles by foot on the Great Ocean Walk, where nature unfolds at every step. Do the whole walk in eight days or tackle it in sections on weekends away. Immerse yourself in nature by walking the Surf Coast Walk over 44km from Torquay to Aireys Inlet.

Or drive the iconic Great Ocean Road. Built by soldiers recently returned from World War 1, it is the world’s longest war memorial.

Take a tour and discover the colourful maritime history of the Cape Otway Lightstation. Climb to the top of the historic lighthouse for dramatic views of the so-called Shipwreck Coast.

Surf the thunderous beach breaks off Johanna Beach and discover the fascinating underwater mini-ecosystems of rockpools in the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary at Aireys Inlet or the sandy shores and rock platforms along the Great Ocean Road.

Ride through tall eucalypt forests, dry heathy scrub and dense fern gullies along the Forrest Mountain Bike Trails in the nearby Otway Forest Park, or simply relax among the eucalyptus trees and have a picnic at the Sheoak Picnic ground near Lorne.

Traverse fern-laden valleys to discover picture-perfect waterfalls such as Erskine Falls, Sheoak Falls, Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Kalimna Falls.

Walk through the mossy forest of Melba Gully and witness the unique night-time spectacle of glow worms.

Visit Maits Rest to discover gorgeous fern gullies or the giant beech trees – some of which are up to 300 years old and walk among the towering Californian Redwoods hidden in the Otway Ranges.

For longer stays, there are excellent camping opportunities whether you are looking for a family-friendly place to park your caravan or a solitary night under the stars.

As beaches and coasts are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Great Otway National Park is a safe and enjoyable one.

Please Note:

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority has been appointed as manager for part of the Great Otway National Park, from 1 July 2025.

The Authority will take over the responsibilities of Parks Victoria and ensure the Great Otway National Park continues to thrive and be enjoyed by locals and visitors for generations to come.

Parks Victoria continue to manage the majority of the Great Otway National Park, locations which are primarily accessed from the Princess Highway including Lake Elizabeth, Triplet Falls, Hopetoun Falls, Beachamp Falls, Stevenson Falls, Distillery Creek and many well-known mountain bike and walking trails, as well as Big Hill and Hammonds campgrounds and the Anglesea Heath, accessed via the Great Ocean Road. 

Parks Victoria staff will continue to be visible in the area, as they will maintain their role in monitoring and caring for the land during the transition period. For more information visit Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority.

Top places

The famous Split Point Lighthouse at Airey's Inlet.
Anglesea and Aireys Inlet
A man looks out of his tent towards his partner walking towards him with the coast in the background at Johanna Beach in the Great Otway National Park.
Cape Otway and Apollo Bay
Three friends standing at the Erskine Falls lookout admiring the waterfall.
Lorne
Three friends canoe through Lake Elizabeth infront of a back drop of ferns and old growth forest.

Forrest

The Forrest section of Great Otway National Park, along with Otway Forest Park, encompasses a stunning landscape including undulating plains and plateaus of the hinterlands and magnificent Mountain Ash forests.

A woman with a large hiking pack takes in the view from Blanket Bay Campground.

Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk is a one-way, long-distance walk extending just over 110km. This once-in-a-lifetime hike will take you eight days.

Two people standing on viewing platform looking at waterfall.

Best Waterfalls Along the Great Ocean Road – Your 2-Day Itinerary

Looking for awe-inspiring waterfalls in Victoria? Explore these four must-visit waterfalls just off the Great Ocean Road over two days.

Four friends relax by the edge of the Yarra River as their curly brown dog gets ready to jump in the water.

Dog friendly parks in Victoria

Find where dogs are allowed in parks across Victoria so you can enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend.

A couple walking their dog on lead along a track.

Your A-Z guide to Victoria’s dog-friendly walking trails

While dogs aren’t allowed in our national and state parks, there’s still plenty of great places you can get into nature with your pooch. So, grab a lead and a handful of treats, whistle up the dog and head for the park.

People canoeing on a lake

Dog friendly camping

Looking for dog-friendly camping in Victoria? Find a park where you and your dog can camp together.

Great Otway National Park

Explore the different areas

Explore all of the different areas within the Great Otway National Park.

When you're there

Download the Great Otway National Park visitor guides for more information about the park and the plethora of experiences to be had within its borders. 
 

Related Sites

Need to know

Great Otway National Park

Accessibility

The Colac Otway Shire and Surf Coast Shire each have an all-terrain wheelchair, called a Trailrider, that is available for park visitors with mobility difficulties. The chairs can be booked with the respective shires.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.


Safety

Rock fishing is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors, but it’s also risky. See our water safety page and follow safety precautions around water to make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable.


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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.

  • Cora Lynn Campground (Great Otway National Park)

    Cora Lynn campsite permanently closed

    Due to environmental and safety reasons Cora Lynn campsite is permanently closed 

  • Notices Affecting Multiple Sites

    Jarosite Headlands Beach Closure

    Safety Notice: Jarosite Headlands Beach Closure

    Due to recent cliff falls, the beach at the base of Jarosite Headlands is closed to the public.
    A large amount of rock and debris is still unstable, and further collapses may occur. For your safety, please do not attempt to enter the closed area.
    Access to Addiscott Beach and Southside Beach remains open. Please consult the map below for the designated closed area.
    We will provide an update when the area is safe to reopen.

    Kalimna Tramline link walk and Upper Kalimna is closed

    The Kalimna Tramline link walk is closed due to damage to a pedestrian bridge. Walkers can still access the Lower Kalimna Waterfall via the Kalimna Falls Walking Track, which starts at Sheoak Picnic Area. Upper Kalimna Falls closed until further notice.


    Great Ocean Walk Trail Advisory: Echidna & Long-nosed Bandicoot Activity

    Important Safety Alert – Great Ocean Walk > Trail Conditions
    Recent observations in Great Otway National Park have recorded a significant increase in digging activity by both short-beaked echidnas and long-nosed bandicoots—themselves ecosystem engineers—resulting in numerous diggings and burrows along the entire Great Ocean Walk. These excavations create trip hazards, especially in low-light conditions during dawn and dusk when both species are most active.

    Safety Recommendations
    • Remain vigilant for fresh soil disturbances, shallow holes, and uneven ground surfaces.
    • Wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support to reduce injury risk.
    • Carry a torch or headlamp for early starts or late finishes to spot potential hazards. 
    Protected Wildlife Notice
    • Echidnas and long-nosed bandicoots are fully protected native wildlife. 
    • It is illegal to disturb, harass, handle, injure, or remove them—or any part of their habitat—from the wild.
    • Do not approach, touch, chase, corner, or attempt to move these animals.
    • Keep a respectful distance and allow wildlife to move away naturally.
    • If you encounter an injured or orphaned animal, do not intervene directly.
    Ecosystem Importance
    • Echidnas move up to 200 m³ of soil annually through their digging behavior, promoting soil health and biodiversity.
    • Long-nosed bandicoots create shallow foraging pits that aid seed germination and nutrient cycling, further enhancing ecosystem function.
    Reporting & Contacts
    For any wildlife concerns or to report animal incidents or injured wildlife, contact 
    Parks Victoria on 131963 or visit the 
    Conservation Regulator on 136186 or online at https://www.vic.gov.au/conservation-regulator.

    Please stay on designated tracks to protect native vegetation and minimize disturbance to habitat.

    Attachments: GONP Spring 2025 (349KB)

    Twelve Apostles Precinct- Change of Conditions Update Notice as of 20.10.2025

    General Public Information
    Due to ongoing construction works at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre, significant changes to access and parking arrangements will be in effect from Friday, 19th September 2025. All visitors are asked to plan ahead and be patient when travelling to the site during this busy period. High visitation is expected in-line with School and Public Holidays
     
    Key changes and reminders for visitors include:
    • Temporary Changes to Parking:
      Construction works have resulted in temporary parking areas and altered traffic flow. Expect reduced speed limits, changed parking arrangements, and traffic management on-site.  Please see attached map.  
    • Car Parking:
      In the event of full parking capacity, visitors are encouraged to seek alternative destinations such as Port Campbell township or Bay of Islands, and encouraged to return later in the day.
    • Pedestrian Safety:
      Use designated walkways and pedestrian crossings only. Do not climb fences or viewing barriers.
    • Environmental Care:
      Protect this unique landscape by staying on paths, respecting barriers, and taking your rubbish with you.
    • Bushfire Safety:
      Stay informed by visiting emergency.vic.gov.au, downloading the VicEmergency app, or calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
    For more information, contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or visit parks.vic.gov.au
    Licensed Tour Operators (LTOs)
    IMPORTANT – Operational and Access Update
     
    From Friday, 19th September 2025, the following updates apply to all Licensed Tour Operators visiting the Twelve Apostles:
     
    New Access & Parking Procedures:
    • Coach/Bus/Coaster Access:
      All LTO vehicles must access the temporary parking area via Booringa Road and the new entry/exit road. Directional signage will be in place. Please see attached map.
    • Temporary Parking Area:
      Use designated bays only. This area has been established during current construction works.
    • Drop-Off Instructions:
      • All vehicles (with or without trailers) must drop passengers at the front of the Visitor Centre.
      • Pick-ups are not permitted at the drop-off zone.
      • Drivers must proceed immediately to the designated parking area after drop-off.
      • Provide passengers with clear directions and walking instructions before they disembark.
    Traffic Management:
    • Follow Traffic Controller Instructions at all times when management is in place.
    • Be prepared for redirection to alternative parking areas based on capacity.
    • Observe on-site signage directing different vehicle sizes to specific parking bays.
    Operational Reminders:
    • Permit Display: Ensure your LTO permit is clearly displayed on your vehicle at all times.
    • Passenger Safety: Remind passengers to use designated walkways and not to climb fences or barriers.
    • Journey Planning: Allow extra time, travel safely, and prepare staff for delays due to high visitation and traffic coordination.
    Stay Informed:
     
    Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors while works are underway. Your support is essential in protecting the Twelve Apostles and surrounding areas.
     

    Attachments: LTO Map Updated 17.10.25 Conditions A3 (98KB)

  • Cora Lynn Cascades Walk (Great Otway National Park)

    Cora Lynn Cascades Walking Track Closure

    Cora Lynn Cascades walking track is currently closed due to damaged infrastructure. Please note this closure will affect you if you plan to walk from Allenvale through to Erskine falls and vice versa. 

  • Lake Elizabeth Campground (Great Otway National Park)

    Lake Elizabeth Campground Upgrade Information

    Lake Elizabeth Campground and the associated campground car park will be closed from: Tuesday 27th January 2026 to Tuesday 31st March 2026. We ask visitors to stay clear of the campground and campground carpark which will have signed closures in place. 

    As you plan for your holidays please do not attempt to book the Lake Elizabeth campground from Tuesday 27th January - Tuesday 31st March 2026.
     
    The closure is for enhancing the camping experience and these renovations have been funded by the Victorian Government’s Victoria’s Great Outdoors program. Victoria’s Great Outdoors is a $106.6 million investment by the Victorian Government into better campgrounds, walking trails, 4WD tracks and visitor facilities across Victoria’s parks and state forests.
     
    All other areas at Lake Elizabeth will remain open, including ablutions, day use areas, walk to and around the lake.

  • Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (Great Otway National Park)

    Maits Rest Carpark- bus access

    Maits Rest Carpark is suitable for small coaster buses only. Large buses or coaches are advised to use Melba Gully walk track near Lavers Hill.

Tours and adventure experiences in parks

One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.

There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.

Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more. 

Licensed Tour Operators know all the best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.

Find a Licensed Tour Operator

How we keep it special

The Great Otway National Park and Otway Forest Park Management Plan was first published in December 2009 and amended in November 2019.

The Great Otway Parks Conservation Action Plan provides directions for environmental conservation management across the diverse landscape, including Great Otway National Park. This covers the old-growth forests, cool temperate rainforests and wet forest, heathlands, coastline and marine ecosystems.

Bellarine and Great Ocean Road Dunecare project

Coastal dunes form a unique and highly diverse ecosystem. They play an important part in the health of our coastlines, protecting them from sea surges and storms that can impact infrastructure and livelihoods. Parks Victoria received over $124k in funding as part of the Bellarine and Great Ocean Road Dunecare Project to improve habitat conditions for native animals and reduce the impacts of human-induced erosion.

Parks Victoria

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