Port Campbell National Park

Port Campbell Overview

Port Campbell National Park, located along the scenic Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is renowned for its dramatic coastal landscapes, towering limestone cliffs, and remarkable rock formations. Established in 1964, the park covers an area of approximately 17.5 square kilometers (about 6.75 square miles), offering a condensed showcase of natural beauty and geological wonders that draw visitors from around the globe.

The park is most famous for the Twelve Apostles, a collection of massive limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. These iconic formations, created by the relentless action of the waves over thousands of years, are a highlight for any visitor to the region. Although the name suggests twelve, there are fewer stacks standing today, yet their impressive presence continues to captivate.

Beyond the Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park features a variety of other geological attractions, including Loch Ard Gorge, named after a shipwreck that occurred there in 1878, and the arches and blowholes of the Gibson Steps and The Grotto. Each site tells a story of erosion and natural sculpting processes, offering stunning viewpoints and photo opportunities.

The park’s coastal environment supports diverse plant and animal life, with unique vegetation stabilizing the cliffs and a variety of seabirds, such as the short-tailed shearwater, calling the area home. The intertidal and marine environments are equally rich, with rock pools revealing a miniature world of marine creatures at low tide.

Visitors to Port Campbell National Park can explore its natural wonders through a network of walking trails, lookouts, and guided tours that provide insights into the area’s ecology, geology, and maritime history. The park is a key highlight of the Great Ocean Road journey, offering a glimpse into the dynamic forces that shape our planet and the enduring beauty of Australia’s southern coastline.