Aire River West Campground
Located on the western banks of the Aire River beneath the Otway Ranges, Aire River West Campground is a large, open site suited to caravans, larger groups and longer stays. Compared to the more sheltered Aire River East on the opposite bank, this side is flatter and more exposed.
The campground provides direct access to the estuary, with a small gravel ramp for launching kayaks and canoes. Upstream, the river opens into wetlands and floodplains that support a range of birdlife.
Glenaire Beach is around a 15-minute walk away, where more exposed conditions attract experienced surfers. Johanna Beach lies further west along the coast.
Important access information for Aire River campgrounds
Access to Aire River East and Aire River West campgrounds is via narrow, unsealed gravel and sand-based roads. Road conditions may include soft edges, occasional steep verges and tight bends.
The bridge linking Hordenvale Road and Sand Road over the Aire River has a 5 tonne load limit. Due to low vegetation on the eastern access route to Aire River West, vehicles over 2.5 metres in height are not recommended.
Given the remote nature of these sites, restricted access, road conditions, and vegetation in and around Great Otway National Park, access by large or heavy vehicles, caravans and vans is not encouraged.
Please note that Hordenvale Road access from the east, and access via Glenaire and Sand Road from the west, are managed by Colac Otway Shire Council. Vegetation, signage and roadside reserve management on these non-arterial local roads is the responsibility of the road manager.
Seasonal site closures
Aire River West
Sites 17 to 23 closed from 29 May to 29 September 2026.
Sites reopen from 30 September 2026.
Sites 24 to 40 closed from 29 May to 30 October 2026.
Sites reopen from 31 October 2026.
Sites 17 to 23 closed from 29 May to 29 September 2027.
Sites reopen from 30 September 2027.
Sites 24 to 40 closed from 29 May to 28 October 2027.
Sites reopen from 29 October 2027.
Campsites
- Unpowered campsites
- 40 grassy sites, accommodating up to 6 people each
Site suitability:
- Sites 1 - 6, 17 - 23, 27 - 40: suitable for tents, camp trailers and caravans
- Sites 7 - 11: suitable for tents and camp trailers
- Sites 12 - 16, 24 - 26: tents only
Bookings and payment are required year-round.
Facilities
-
Basic campground facilities
- Gravel ramp for launching kayaks and canoes
- Access to river, wetlands and nearby coastal areas
What to expect
- Large, open campground suited to caravans and group stays
- Direct access to calm estuary waters for paddling and fishing
- Nearby wetlands with birdlife including swans, ducks and egrets
- Walking access to Glenaire Beach and surrounding coastline
Accessibility
Accessible facilities are available within the day visitor area on the western side of the river.
- Parking on level compacted gravel near the picnic area
- Accessible toilet available, along with standard toilet cubicles
- Compacted gravel path 100 m from picnic area to toilets (mostly level, with a short steeper section)
- Drop-off parking available within 30 m of toilets
Need to know
- No solid fuel fires permitted
- Fuel stoves or gas barbecues are recommended
- Bring your own drinking water
- No generators permitted
Aire River West is prone to flooding. Check conditions and alerts before your visit.
The campground is also located in a bushfire-prone area — check weather, fire ratings and park updates prior to travel.
Getting there
Aire River West Campground is approximately a three-hour drive from Melbourne.
Access is via the Great Ocean Road or inland via Lavers Hill. From Glenaire, follow Sands Road to the campground.
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