Camping is the most affordable way of staying on Phillip Island (or simply ‘The Island’ to locals). There are nine campgrounds/caravan parks on Phillip Island and three over the bridge on the mainland at San Remo. Most are campervan, caravan and RV friendly. I’m only reviewing those that score the highest on Trip Advisor or Google;

• Cowes Caravan Park (Cowes)
• Phillip Island Caravan Park BIG4 (Newhaven)
• Amaroo Park – tents only (Cowes)
• Anchor Belle Holiday Park (Cowes)

Phillip Island’s close proximity to Melbourne (1 hr and 45 mins), abundant and charismatic wildlife as well as its breathtaking natural beauty, has made it a mecca for tourists in the summer holiday season swelling the population by 40,000. Visit in winter and you will experience a quieter place inhabited by farmers, retirees and hippies.

1. Cowes Caravan Park

What makes it special?

This campsite and caravan park is situated on 10 acres of well-maintained lawns and shade trees right on the beach at Cowes so you have natural beauty and the convenience of Phillip Island’s largest town.

Facilities

• Campers kitchen with fridge, small oven/hotplates
• Microwave, kettle, toaster, cutlery, crockery available – extra charge applies
• Dishwashing area
• Undercover BBQs
• Playground
• Large recreation hall with open fire
• 2 laundries
• Two shower and toilet blocks
• Child/babies bathroom
• Private facilities for people with disabilities

In brief: As with all campgrounds and caravan parks in the high season, it can get crowded. The facilities are clean and the staff helpful in suggesting places to visit. Large trees provide shade and you can hear the ocean at night.

Tip: Not all sites are shaded or level so if these things are important to you, ask for them. There is a caretaker on the site 24 hrs and a number to call to report unreasonable noise.

Rates: $37 – $55 for 2 people. Additional people $10 for children, $20 for adults 16 years and over.

Pets: Yes, at certain times.

2. Phillip Island Caravan Park (Big4)

What makes it special?

This caravan park has direct access to the beach and is encircled by forest. Little bunnies and water birds add to the charm.

Facilities

• Modern Camp Kitchen
• Electric BBQs
• Wireless Internet (free for first 24 hours)
• Internet Kiosk
• Games Room
• TV & Video Room
• Outdoor Cinema (seasonal)
• Buggy Hire
• Giant Jumping Pillow
• Adventure  Playground
• Basketball Ring
• Volleyball Net
• Sports Equipment and Board games available
• Clean Amenities (toilets, showers)
• Laundry with Washers and Dryers
• Clothesline
• Ice
• Gas Swap and Refills
• Drinks and Ice-creams
• Tourist Information
• BIG4 Club Benefits

In brief: As with all campgrounds and caravan parks on Phillip Island, this caravan park can get busy in the summer holiday season, which means less space. The amenities are kept clean but could do with an upgrade. The staff are friendly and the management keep things quiet at night in consideration of the other guests, so if you want to party through the night, this place isn’t for you. It’s close to public transport if you wish to leave your campervan on site.

Rates: $30 – $58 (up to 7 people)

Pets: No

3. Amaroo Park (tents only)

What makes it special?

Although this caravan park and campground is not on the beach, the well-maintained gardens and lawns have created a picturesque setting. It is also within easy walking distance of the restaurants, beach and supermarket. And it is QUIET!

Facilities

• Free WIFI
• Toilet and shower amenities
• Gamesroom
• Laundry with coin operated dryers and a clothes line
• Heated pool
• Japanese Restaurant
• Undercover kitchen with fridge, microwave, sink, toaster, kettle and hotplates
• Picnic areas
• Electric push-button BBQs

In brief: Amaroo Park is mainly occupied by permanent residents but they do have a few cabins and campsites. This creates a quiet, low-key atmosphere.

Rates: $40 – $70

Pets: Yes

4. Anchor Belle Holiday Park

What makes it special?

This caravan park and campsite is in a tranquil bush setting with grassy shaded sites and direct access to the beach.

Facilities

• UV protected indoor heated pool
• Free BBQs & camp kitchen
• Children’s playground
• Laundry facilities (coin)
• Infant bathroom
• Internet Kiosk
• Kiosk
• Boat park
• Computer Games Room
• Lounge /TV room
• Modern toilet and shower block with disabled access

In brief: Due to the charges for additional people (more than 2) the price here can quickly add up. In high season, a family of 4 could be paying as much as $135 per night to camp in their own tent or camper van.

Rates: $36 – $85 for two people. Additional adults $15-$35. Additional children $12 – $25

Pets: No

Map of caravan parks, things to do, restaurants, and other points of interest on Phillip Island.

Activities on Phillip Island

• Walking
• Penguin watching
• Pelican feeding
• Kayaking
• Cycling
• Fishing
• Koala encounters
• Wildlife encounters
• Chocolate factory visit
• Wine tasting at the vineyards of Phillip Island
• Go Kart racing and touring the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
• Exploring beach caves
• Bird watching
• Seal watching
• Helicopter tours
• Boat tours (wildlife tours, sunset tours, coastal tours)
• A visit to historic Churchill Island to see hairy highland cows

Campervan Hire in Australia

If you are planning a road trip of Australia and will rent a camper van to do it in, Camperman has a depot in nearby Melbourne. You can pick up your camper van, head off on your adventure,  and drop off the campervan in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Airlie Beach, Townsville or Cairns.

More Information

• Melbourne to Sydney Coast Drive: 14 day itinerary
• Melbourne to Adelaide Coast Drive: 10 day itinerary
• A Comparison of Campervan Hire in Australia: Top 9 companies
• Phillip Island in Pictures
• 7 Reasons to Visit Phillip Islands