Camping and caravan holiday hotspots and other recreational facilities across the state are set to be revitalised just as coronavirus restrictions begin to ease and regional Victoria prepares to open up to visitors.

The Victorian Government has allocated $18.9 million to maintain and upgrade public visitor sites and infrastructure including recreation reserves, camping spots and picnic facilities.

This includes improvements at Lightwood Creek, Mornington Peninsula National Park, Grants Picnic Area at Dandenong Ranges National Park, Greater Otway National Park’s Herbert campground, The Gums site at Kinglake National Park, Longridge Campground in Manningham and Slaty Creek camping in the Creswick Regional Park.

The Government is also making available more than $2.5 million dollars in grants for 25 projects to enhance the visitor experience at campgrounds and caravan parks providing a further boost as tourists return to regional areas.

Public land managers responsible for campgrounds and caravan parks have been awarded grants of up to $200,000 at locations in the Loddon Mallee, Barwon South West, Grampians, Hume and Gippsland regions.

The grants will be used to improve landscaping, increase site capacity and all abilities access, and establish indigenous culture signage and information.

A second round of grants worth $2 million will be brought forward next month to provide further economic stimulus.

The funding is part of the Government’s Building Works package providing $2.7 billion towards shovel-ready projects and the $107.2 million Great Outdoors program.

From Monday 1 June, camping and accommodation is permitted in some areas.

For more information on which campgrounds and caravan parks are open including the facilities available visit: parks.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, the Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“Now more than ever we’re appreciating the value of the great outdoors and it’s great to see the return of an affordable and well-established holiday tradition in Victoria.”  

“This is a great boost for our regional towns when they need it most and will mean Victorians can enjoy improved facilities as they begin to return to their favourite destinations.”

 “It’s great to see the return of camping – it’s all about getting out into nature and exploring our wonderful parks and natural environment.”