After enforcing the longest Covid lockdown in the world, the Victorian Government is finally able to share some good news. They have just announced the opening of 13 new and 28 upgraded campgrounds around the southern state. At a cost of over $100m, the sites are spread from the Grampians to the Great Ocean Road, and include caravan parks and traditional camping sites through to remote hiking locations.

And what’s more, by the middle of next year they’ll be joined by another 23 new and 55 upgraded campgrounds. It’s part of a priority project for the government, perhaps fearing the future medical expenses for all those citizens who lived like Gogglebox for the best part of a year. Which isn’t to say it was bad policy, hindsight is wonderful, just that Victorians probably deserve a free holiday at this stage.

“It’s been fantastic to see so many Victorians enjoy our great outdoors this summer, and we will continue to support camping opportunities for everyone, in some of our state’s most special places,” said Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio.

Some of the newly opened spots include Flat Spur Campground at Mt Buller, Thomson Bridge Campground in Gippsland and Stockman’s Campground in Big River State Forest just south of Lake Eildon. Popular destination the Great Otway National Park has three new campsites and there are seven new hike-in campgrounds along the Grampians Peaks Trail. If you want to read the full list then check the press release here.