Loch Ard Gorge Geology Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

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Loch Ard Gorge Geology Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

Discover the secrets of the forces that shape this iconic coastline on this easy self guided walk. In winter, make sure you are rugged up and hold onto your hats as the wind of the Southern Ocean is strong. Also, keep a lookout for orchids, and the elusive Rufous Bristlebird.

How to get there

Loch Ard Gorge Geology Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

Need to know

Loch Ard Gorge Geology Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

  • No fishing
  • No fires permitted
  • No horses
  • No dogs allowed
  • No camping
  • No firearms allowed
  • No generators

Warnings

  • Terrain hazards
    • Unstable cliffs

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

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.

The Arch Closure - Port Campbell National Park

The Arch visitor site including lookout, walking trails and carpark remains closed following geotechnical changes and cliff instability. The site has been assessed by a Geotechnical Engineer and Parks Victoria are assessing options for the site. 

Loch Ard Gorge Beach Access Stairs Closure

The beach access has been closed following an independent geotechnical inspection after a rock fall over the steps themselves. Parks Victoria is working with The Great Ocean Road and Parks Authority as well as Traditional Owners to implement identified works required to make the site safe for all users.  

Great Ocean Walk - Important Notice

Parks Victoria is received increasing reports of concerning observations on the Great Ocean Walk .

This includes use of bikes, horses, unrestrained dogs, campfires and hikers arriving at their pre-booked campsites only to find them already occupied.

🔹 All hikers must book a campsite before their trip, even though camping is free.
🔹 Camping without a booking or outside designated areas is not permitted.
🔹 Campfires are NOT permitted at any Great Ocean Walk hike-in campsite.
🔹 Only medical certified companion animals are permitted (on lead).
🔹 The Great Ocean Walk is a walking/hiking trail - not a  long distance horse, trail bike or Mountain bike course.

National Park Regulations Apply.
 
Parks Victoria Authorised Officers patrol the Great Ocean Walk.  
Evidence of a booking must be shown to a Parks Victoria Ranger on request.
 
To ensure a fair and safe experience for all:
✅ Book your campsite before starting your walk.
✅ Only camp in designated areas and at your assigned site.
✅ Respect fellow hikers by only using the site you have booked.
✅ Do not light campfires—use fuel stoves for cooking.
✅ Do report observations of concern.

If you observe:
🚨 A campfire, bikes, animals other than native ones or hikers occupying an already booked site, please report it immediately (when safe to do so) to Parks Victoria on 131 963.

⚠️ Parks Victoria cannot respond to emergency situations involving hikers and campers who have not booked a campsite.

Thank you for helping us protect the Great Ocean Walk and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.
For bookings and further information, visit Parks Victoria’s website.

Parks Victoria
Caring for Country, Connecting People

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