Halls Outdoors Holiday Camps for Kids near Melbourne

Sending your kids to camp can feel like a big step, but after experiencing Halls Outdoor Education Holiday Camps firsthand, we can confidently say it’s one of those experiences that stays with them long after they get home.

Our two kids attended the Hall Outdoors holiday camps over the summer school holidays, with our younger child heading to Wombat Corner Camp (ages 5-12yrs) based in Emerald and our older one off to Stringybark Teen Camp (ages 12-15yrs) based in Gembrook.

They are intentionally very different, designed around age and independence, but both delivered an incredible mix of fun, challenge, and confidence-building.

Both of our kids absolutely loved it and came home buzzing with stories, new friendships, and a huge sense of achievement.

Wombat Corner Camp

The Wombat Corner Camp is aimed at younger kids from 5-12 years old, it’s the perfect first camp experience.

The kids mostly stay onsite or nearby the camp which creates a secure, familiar environment while still offering plenty of adventure.

Each day is carefully structured with activities set up around the camp, including outdoor games and group challenges, nature-based activities, and water-based fun on the nearby lake.

Camp Activities included things such as:

Outdoor adventure challenges
Archery
Ropes course & Zipline
Arts & Crafts
Evening group activities
Nature walks

Stringybark Teen Camp

Stringybark Camp is designed for older, more independent kids 12 years and older who are ready to step things up as it offers more independence and challenge.

There are bigger adventures, teamwork-based activities, and lots of opportunities to really step outside their comfort zone.

Kids leave camp after breakfast, spend the day out on adventures, then return to camp for dinner, downtime, and sleep before heading out again the next morning.

Camp Activities included things such as:

Caving
Rafting
Abseiling
Mountain bike riding
Paddle boarding
Bushwalking

Teen Adventure Camp Rafting Halls Education

What They Do, Where They Sleep & How It All Works

These aren’t sit-around camps. Days are packed with hands-on outdoor experiences designed to build confidence and resilience while still being loads of fun. Everything is guided by experienced instructors who genuinely know how to connect with kids and bring out the best in them.

Accommodation is age-appropriate and comfortable, in shared cabins with bunk beds. Kids sleep alongside their peers, which is a huge part of the bonding experience. In the Wombat Corner Camp with the younger kids, there is also camp leader in each cabin.

All meals are provided, and dietary requirements are catered for, which made things easy for us as parents.

Camps usually run for multiple days (often 4-6 days depending on the program), giving kids enough time to settle in, make friends, and fully immerse themselves in the experience.

There are no phones allowed on camp, encouraging kids to disconnect and really interact with others.

What Kids Gain From Camp (Beyond the Fun)

Yes, they have an amazing time, but the benefits go so much deeper.

Increased independence and confidence
Stronger social skills and teamwork
Willingness to try new things
A real sense of accomplishment
New friendships and unforgettable memories

There’s something incredibly powerful about kids realising they can manage away from home, make decisions, and be part of a community.

Our Overall Experience

Wombat and Stringybark Camps are very different experiences, but both are exceptionally well designed for their age groups. Our kids had completely different days, challenges, and adventures, yet both came home happy, confident, and already asking when they could go back.

If you’re considering a holiday camp for your child and want something that’s fun, well-organised, and genuinely beneficial, Halls Outdoor Education is absolutely worth looking into.