To assist park staff to locate and contact people on the walk when emergencies occur and to ensure hiker safety, it is important that you inform Parks Victoria if you do not complete any section of your registered hike.

For your safety, and your role and responsibility in supporting efficient search and rescue, we recommend you register your trip intentions to aid emergency support should the need arise.

A Trip Intention Form is advised for any hikers undertaking walking/hiking overnight.

No designated long-term parking exists for the Great Ocean Walk. It is strongly recommended that hikers use the shuttle services available.

There are unsecured public car parks on the foreshore between Apollo Bay and Marengo. No designated long-term parking exists in this area. Unsecured public parking exists in the Great Otway National Park at day-visitor car parks and camping areas.

Parking may be available at Princetown Recreation Reserve for hikers completing the 'end' of the walk. You should confirm with the Princetown Recreation Reserve caretaker (call 0457 198 662) BEFORE parking there. This is relatively secure parking and walkers can drop their packs off at their cars here before continuing the final 5km to end at the Twelve Apostles.

Great Otway and Port Campbell National Park carparks are open to the public at all times. Please note:

• The Twelve Apostles carpark is not patrolled after hours.
• Hikers leave their vehicles in these areas at their own risk.
• Please remember to remove valuables and lock your vehicle.
• It is NOT recommended that visitors use Gibson Steps carpark for overnight parking. (very small, no facilities)

Your car safety remains your responsibility. Be sure to advise police if you intend to leave a vehicle for any length of time beyond one day.

There are rainwater tanks at the Great Ocean Walk hike-in campgrounds, which collect untreated rainfall water. Due to the remote nature of the campsites, Parks Victoria cannot guarantee rainwater availability at each campsite.

It is anticipated that Great Ocean Walk campsite rain water tank levels are currently at adequate levels for use by hikers. If they drop below serviceable volumes, our Ranger team will provide advice in the change of conditions section of this page.

Hikers are responsible for their own water requirements. Tank-rainwater, when present, can be treated in several ways such as filtering and boiling or adding sterilisation tablets. Hikers should carry extra water in warm weather.

There are a number of licensed tour operators who provide options to have water dropped off or delivered ahead of your hike.

It is recommended you carry enough food for the walk as options for purchasing food are very limited. You may be able to purchase food from the following locations:

• The historic Cape Otway Lightstation precinct café serves light meals and refreshments during business hours. Entry fees apply.

• The Lightstation entry station sells cold drinks and snacks to visitors choosing not to enter the historic area.
• Apollo Bay has supermarkets for comprehensive shopping needs and nearby villages are located at Lavers Hill and Princetown and Bimbi Park on Cape Otway.

Parks Victoria’s licensed tour operators can provide a food and water drop-off service

Whether you are planning a multi-day hike or an afternoon walk, it is important to plan in advance. Coastal weather can change quickly and be unpredictable in all seasons. Be prepared for strong winds, heavy rain; as well as hot or cold weather throughout the year.

• Protective clothing such as a jumper, weatherproof jacket, hat and sunscreen.
• Sturdy footwear with a good tread.
• First Aid Kit — for blisters, sunburn, stings and bites (especially if you have extreme reactions/allergies).
• A large waterproof bag – may be useful for keeping gear dry inside your pack when crossing rivers.
• A portable radio (not mobile phone/internet access) for immediate access to Emergency broadcasting and updates (e.g. fire and storm warnings and updates) including ABC Local Radio.
• Food and Water — Carry food, water, water treatment methods, and equipment for up to 15km per day if you are walking unsupported. Alternatively, you may consider linking your walk to nearby accommodation and service providers. Water is untreated rainwater and not guaranteed to be available at campgrounds.
• Leave no trace — please ensure that you carry all your rubbish out with you. Do not deposit rubbish into the composting toilets as this stops the systems from working and staff then have to physically remove your rubbish by hand.

Mobile coverage is intermittent along the Great Ocean Walk. Generally, Telstra mobile coverage can be found at high points where there is little overhanging vegetation.

Known mobile phone reception areas (Telstra only) include; Blanket Bay beach area, above Station Beach, Johanna Beach, Milanesia Beach at creek crossing, Ryans Den campground, Moonlight Head and Devils Kitchen campground ocean-view areas.

One of the best ways to experience the Great Ocean Walk is with a Licensed Tour Operator. Booking a Licensed Tour Operator gives you the confidence they are insured and comply with park regulations and best of all, they do all the hard work for you by planning and preparing your visit so you can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.