Happy campers in Victoria can stay at campgrounds at national parks and state forests for free from December 1
Summer holidaymakers in one Australian state will save some cash this year with the government introducing free camping.
Campers in Victoria will have free access to every national park and state forest in the state soon, wiping $7.3 million in booking fees.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan made the announcement today, revealing 131 bookable camping grounds will be free from December 1, 2024 until June 30, 2025.
READ MORE: Aussie couple welcome surprise baby after freak hurricane hits Florida
Campground st Wilson Promontory National Park in Victoria. Getty Images/iStockphoto
The state government has invested $9 million into the scheme, which will ensure happy campers don't need to fork out pricey fees to stay on campgrounds.
Current fees in place exceed $40 per night for some areas, including Tidal Rivers in Wilson's Promontory, south-east Melbourne, which costs campers $40.70 per night.
"Busy families deserve a great holiday in our great outdoors – and this summer, they can stay for free," Allan said in a statement.
"I grew up camping with my family and those special memories have stayed with me forever."
READ MORE: Mystery Aussie sitting on $4.8m lottery ticket for years
The iconic pinnacle lookout over Grampians National Park. Getty
READ MORE: One dead, another injured after being hit by car at illegal park rave
Part of the multi-million dollar investment will be spent on maintenance, repair and operating costs so the campgrounds remain clean and safe, the Labor government said in a statement.
Families who have already booked and paid camping fees for stays after December 1 will have their money refunded.
Over 50 million people visit Victoria's national parks and state forests every year.
Camping fees have halved since 2019 and bookings cost between $3 and $40 depending on the campsite.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
