Had our first camping trip since, I don’t even know when was the last time I setup a tent. But just like our Lake Sambell and Marengo trips, it was great overall. Though the setup in Cumberland, being in a valley, is a little different than usual. In terms of looks and natural beauty, I’d say it’s in the breathtaking category.

Anyway, this blog will give you a taste of Cumberland camping, its surrounding sites and activities. I will also feature a few of my new camping gear — yes, camping isn’t camping without a few trips to your local Anaconda, BCF and Adventure Kings outlets. It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve gone camping, there’s always something new to add. Camping gear shopping is indeed my guilty pleasure (next to Smith’s potato chips and desserts).

Preparations

Given that we haven’t camped for ages and the family has grown since the last time we pitched a tent, I had to get two of the main camping essentials – a bigger tent and camping beds. If you think it’s an easy task, think again. Budget and preferences based on previous camping experiences all add up to the point of overthinking – borderline.

The Tent

Let’s start with the tent. Now that we are a family of four, I’d like an 8-person tent with enough headroom to stand. When tents say it’s a 4-person tent, then it’s really just for 4 people without room for personal stuff. My other preference was a fast-pitch type because they’re much quicker to setup and pack.

Unfortunately for fast-pitch tents, convenience comes at a cost – weight and size. Compared to a traditional dome tent, a fast-pitch tent is heavier and bulkier when packed due to its frame. For a family of four with a toddler, car space can get tight pretty quick so this is an issue for me.

After sleepless nights of Googling, ChatGPT-ing tents, and a few store visits, I’ve decided to go with the Oztrail Hightower Mansion from Anaconda. To me it was the most sensible choice all things considered.

Was it good? I’m quite happy with it. Might give a detailed breakdown/review in another blog if anyone wants it – just let me know in the comments.

The Beds

Our previous camping trip was at Lake Eildon around Easter weekend. It was bloody cold I didn’t get to sleep on the first night – a bit easier the following night due to, well, lack of sleep. What I’ve found is that, ground temperature drops really low at night which cools the mattress air due to groud contact. Without the right sleeping bag or insulation between you and the mattress, it will just suck the heat out of you.

Best setup based on my readings? Hard to tell, there are always pros and cons to each setup.

What did I end up getting?

  1. The Spinifex Dreamline Double High II Air Mattress Queen You must think i hate airbeds now? Yes and no. In terms of packed size, it’s the most compact. A bit heavy but easy to find a space in the boot so I went for it. To deal with the cold, I bought a new sleeping bag – the Spinifex Moondance II Queen. It’s rated 0 degrees which is warmer compared to our old 2 degree rated ones. Quick verdict for this combo – it did the job.
  2. A queen bed isn’t big enough for us four, so I also got the Dune 4×4 Super Deluxe bed. It’s a stretcher. Single size but it can fit me and one of my kids if needed. I got it because it’s raised will not that have contact to the cold ground. I must warn you, it is bulky. I managed to have it in my top load but it does take up a lot of space. Was it any good? Yes. “I slept like a baby,” says my 8 year old.

The Camp

Cumberland is a 2.5-hour drive from Melbourne. It’s conveniently located along the Great Ocean Road, just a few minutes further from Lorne. I say conveniently because it’s not really that far from Melbourne. here are a few photos of the camp site.

Activities and Nearby Attractions

Just like any time in the Australian outdoors, the kids did not have any boring moment. As long as you are with a group of other families and kids, they will find ways to have fun on their own. The best part probably is having a river right at your doorstep (tent doorstep that is) – if you have kids, you know they can’t get enough water/river shenanigans. Fishing is allowed. The staff said there are eels around – we caught nothing unfortunately. They loved casting lines so it was still good fun. Although they did catch heaps of worms by the river. At least they got the bait catching part

Hiking at Cumberland River Trail

After brunch we all headed out for a quick child friendly hike. There’s a trail along the Cumberland River and I’m just going to call it Cumberland River Trail. How child friendly is it? Well we’re four families with kids in tow, three of them are just over two years old. The little ones were tagging along, laughing, running and jumping on muddy puddles. Difficulty level I would say – toddler. We could have gone further if we crossed the river, but the kids’ safety was top priority.

Hike to Sheok Falls

After the quick river side hike we took some time relax over late lunch. When the sun wasn’t so high and everyone has recovered (I’m not talking about the kids), we drove off to see the Sheok Falls. It’s not far, probably a 5-minute drive through the GOR, and you’ll find a designated parking spot. Then it’s about 15-min hike to the falls. Again, the trail has scenic views with a toddler-level difficulty.

Final Thoughts

Cumberland camping is a good spot to relax and connect with nature and most importantly for us, it’s child-friendly. The only thing I would stress out is that safety should always be top priority. Camping right next to a river or any body of water can be a double edged sword if you got kids. It’s great, the sight and sounds are relaxing, but we really need to keep an eyen on the little ones. The river is not deep but it’s rocky and could be slippery in some parts. Anything can happen when kids are being kids so always be on the lookout (I am starting to sound like my father, my daughter hates it).

To keep things simple: People with kids – have fun but stay alert. People without kids – enjoy your stay, enjoy your beer you lucky bunch.

Kidding aside, it was a great experience for everybody. I know because the ladies are already planning for the next one. In fact, that’s how campings should be rated – satisfaction level: the wife wants another one. That didn’t sound right, but you get what I mean. 😉

Now that it’s officially summer, what are your holiday plans? Let us know in the comments. I may add it to our bucket list.