A multi-day hike is one of my goals. I decided to start slow and steady with a trial run and was lucky enough to get a nights booking at the Oberon Bay Beach Campsite in Wilsons Prom, Victoria, during the Easter break.
As you enter the park, be sure to take a walk in the animal viewing area. I saw emus busy grazing and kangaroo families jumping along.
Arriving at Tidal Bay around noon, I first took the shuttle bus (which operates during busy seasons) to Telegraph saddle where I hiked up Mt Oberon. It’s a nice climb with some breathtaking views of the bay at the top. I even spotted a wallaby on my way down. The entire walk out and back takes under 2 hours.
You can park your car at the overnight hikers carpark and make your way past the visitor centre to the start of the trail. Be sure to carry enough water in your pack, although it’s only 8kms to the Oberon Bay Campsite, there’s loads of uphill, walking through sand, etc., and it can get hot and sweaty even on a cool day.
The hike starts through a beautiful forest, with lush, green sections and others that feel like you’re walking through an enchanted forest. You’ll hear loads of sweet bird songs along the trail.
The views of the bay along the hike are breathtaking. When you’re close to the campsite, there’s a little river crossing. It’s generally recommended to wait for low tide before you cross. It was refreshing to take off my boots and walk across the inlet. The water only reached just above my ankles.
From there it’s a short walk along the beach until you reach the campsite.
The sun had just gone down when I arrived; luckily, I had my headlamp and quickly set up my tent. The campsite was full, but there were many nice secluded spots for those who got there early.
I sat outside for a bit, making my first meal using my newly purchased JetBoil. And it was the best dehydrated chicken meal I’ve ever had (and also the only one so far).
To end the night, I read a book in my tent for a bit, before dozing off listening to the sound of the waves and the rain.
The next morning, I woke up to a beautiful, misty morning at the prom and had time for a nice walk to the beach – even spotted another wallaby.
Having the luxury of a warm breakfast of porridge and coffee out in nature was the cherry on top of a great first-time hike-in camp. I took my time packing down my tent and made my way back to my car and then home. What a great experience, so glad I was able to do this hike.