The first stage of works on a new campground at Point Nepean National Park, on Bunurong Country, has been completed, ahead of a springtime opening.

Positioned near the beach, within the historic Quarantine Station precinct, the new campground will feature pre-pitched tents on timber platforms, including all-abilities-accessible sites.

The tent pads sit on footings made from 100% recycled materials with a design that means no holes or concrete are needed.

To complete the campground set up, the finishing touches are being put on nearby buildings that are being refurbished to include showers, toilets and basic kitchen facilities.

This facilitated model of camping will appeal to range of people, especially those with little experience or with limited gear.

Set to open in spring, the campground is a key project of the park’s master plan, which is boosting the visitor experience at this popular destination, fostering support for its conservation, providing unique outdoor activities and supporting local businesses.

Through the master plan, Defence Road was upgraded to improve visitor safety and enabling bicycle access to Fort Nepean. And in 2020, new visitor facilities were added at the Quarantine Station including seating, picnic and BBQ facilities with shelters and a drinking water fountain.

A second stage of the campground is also planned, which will see additional tent pads sensitively placed nearby within a remnant Moonah woodland.

Elsewhere in the 560-hectare national park, $6 million will be invested to help restore parts of the historic Fort Nepean.

After being built in the late 1800s to provide protection for Victoria’s rich goldfields, Fort Nepean became a critical military defence post. The site of the first Australian shots fired for both World Wars, the fort now requires technical assessments and structural remediation to make visitor areas safe to open.

Parks Victoria is managing both projects, working closely with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation and the Point Nepean National Park Advisory Group.

For more information visit www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects