 | ||
| Your browser is not supported. | ||
|
Please browse our site using any of the following options:
| ||
The Best Camping Spots Right Across Australia
Australia is blessed with some truly unique and remarkable natural landscapes, millions of years in the making. So, it should come as no surprise that camping is an immensely popular activity for getting up-close and personal with what makes this continent special.
As well as well-known camping hotspots - like Cable Beach, Honeymoon Bay, Boudi National Park, Diamond Head, Wilsons Prom, The Grampians, Stradbroke Island, Thunderbird Park, Kuitpo Forest, Parra Wirra and Margaret River - we've compiled a list of the best camping locations in Australia that you absolutely should add to your list of go-to places.
Let's run through them state-by-state, territory-by-territory.
VICTORIA
Sheepyard Flat, Howqua Hills
The Howqua Valley is one of Victoria's top camping destinations and, if you're looking for the pick of the bunch, Sheepyard Flat is hard to top. It offers around 60 well-shaded sites on mostly grassy ground and - while it's a popular choice for 4X4 enthusiasts, hikers, bushwalkers and freshwater anglers - there's no shortage of serenity at Sheepyard Flat if you're just looking to take things easy.
Address: Brocks Rd, Howqua Hills VIC 3723
Lake Elizabeth, Great Otway National Park
The Great Otway National Park has some of the most diverse scenery you'll find anywhere in Victoria. So, if an immersive camping holiday in lush green forests with showstopping eucalypts topping out at over 100 metres tall is what floats your boat, then Lake Elizabeth campground is for you. There's plenty of natural shade and privacy here for campers, and it's also a great starting point for exploring some of the Great Otway National Park hikes and bushwalks.
Address: Great Otway National Park, Forrest VIC 3236
Cape Conran Campgrounds, Gippsland
Also known as Banksia Bluff, Cape Conran Campgrounds is one giant coastal park with more than 130 sites to choose from over a one-kilometre stretch. As well as swimming, rock pooling, boating and fishing, the Beware Reef Marine Sanctuary hides three shipwrecks and an array of underwater colours, so it's great for experienced divers and keen snorkelling enthusiasts. Dogs on leads are permitted at Cape Conran so, with such a wide array of hikes and bushwalks to choose from, even the furry members of your family can explore Cape Conran and fill their lungs with the fresh ocean air.
Killarney Beach, Killarney
Killarney Beach Camping Reserve is situated between Warrnambool and Port Fairy in Victoria's southwest. It's one of the best family-friendly camping sites to base yourself for exploring the rugged, unforgiving Shipwreck Coast and its well-known tourist attractions like the 12 Apostles. Killarney also puts places such as Peterborough, Apollo Bay, Warrnambool and Timboon within easy reach for sampling the region's top-flight gastronomic delights and award-winning local produce on relaxing, carefree day trips.
Address: 125 Mahoneys Rd, Killarney VIC 3283
Want more? Check out these awesome Victorian camping destinations.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Dingo Tops Campground, Tapin Tops National Park
With stunning waterfalls and swimming holes hidden away within its sub-tropical rainforests and old-growth eucalypts, Dingo Tops Campground in the Tapin Tops National Park is an extraordinary sensory experience. Stargaze at night under the clear North coast skies. Local wildlife includes koalas, wallabies, lyrebirds, owls and bowerbirds, so keep your camera's batteries well-charged for some truly Instagrammable photo ops.
Address: Dingo Tops S, Dingo Forest NSW 2429
Green Patch, Jervis Bay
If you're after a family-friendly camping experience, then look no further than Green Patch Campground in Booderee National Park. Owned and managed by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, their cultural program is a great way to learn about the traditional custodians and their connection to the country. Lap up the crystal clear water and white sands of this picture-postcard lagoon in Jervis Bay or explore the sights and sounds of the Booderee National Park with some spectacular hiking and bushwalking experiences.
Address: Booderee National Park, Village Rd, JBT 2540
Newnes Campground Wollemi National Park
Newnes Campground in the World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is the ideal destination in NSW if you're looking for an inland alternative to busy coastal destinations. Described by the National Parks Service as "Mother Nature's amphitheatre", it has some mind-blowing hiking and bushwalking trails like the Newnes Industrial Ruins Walk (accessible only by 4WD or rock-hopping), the family-friendly Glow Worm tunnel day hike, as well as a range of Wollemi National Park tracks to explore.
Address: Wolgan Rd, Newnes NSW 2790
Pretty Beach, Murramarang National Park
Whoever settled on the title of Pretty Beach for this idyllic camping spot must have been prone to understatement. Located within the Murramarang National Park on the south coast, Pretty Beach boasts some absolutely amazing coastal and bush views for hikes and walks, and is nothing less than sensational for enjoying all your favourite beach activities, doing some fishing or even some kangaroo, lyrebird and possum-watching.
Address: 1 Pretty Beach Rd, Pretty Beach NSW 2539
Want more? Check out these awesome New South Wales camping destinations.
QUEENSLAND
Boodjamulla National Park, formerly known as Lawn Hill National Park
This is the kind of outback camping adventure that draws travellers to Australia from all over the world. Containing some of the top end's most spectacular gorge country, sandstone ranges and World Heritage fossils, Boodjamulla National Park in the Gulf Savannah is a breathtaking outback oasis, with unforgettable sunrises and sunsets, canoeing or kayaking in crystal-clear waters and spectacular walks to enjoy. Experiencing the three-day Lawn Hill Gorge guided tour is a must.
Address: Wills Road, Lawn Hill QLD 4825
Bigriggen Park
Between its location in the Scenic Rim and the hiking trails on offer in the nearby Mount Barney National Park, it's easy to understand why Bigriggen Park is a popular camping spot. Just under two hours from Brisbane, it's also dog-friendly, making it the perfect family camping destination.
Address: 196 Bigriggan Rd, QLD 4287
North Stradbroke Island Beach Camping
For many campers, it doesn't get any better than spending time on North Stradbroke Island. Between its scenic headlands and white sand beaches, it's the ideal place for sightseeing or for finding out how little energy you can expend during your stay.
Address: North Stradbroke Island
Lamington National Park
An Australian World Heritage site, the unforgettable Gondwana Rainforests in Lamington National Park are among Brisbane and Queensland's most popular camping destinations. O'Reilly's Campground is great for glamping, while experienced campers looking for a more rustic getaway will love the choice of walk-in remote bush camping sites at Lamington Park: Echo Point, Darlington, Rat-a-tat, Illinbah and Lost World.
Address: Lamington National Park
Amamoor State Forest
Set in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, the Amamoor Creek and Cedar Grove Campgrounds are the destination of choice for campers who enjoy mountain biking, 4WDing and relaxing hikes in a riverine rainforest setting.
Address: Amamoor Creek QLD 4570
Want more? Check out these awesome Queensland camping destinations.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Wilpena Pound Resort, Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park
Wilpena Pound Resort is surrounded by some of the most unforgettable and romantic scenery South Australia has to offer. Accommodation options range from hotel rooms and glamping safari tents to powered and unpowered camping sites - there's truly something here for everyone. Take a guided tour through the park with the traditional custodians of the land, the Adnyamathanha people, or charter a scenic flight for a truly remarkable exploration of the park's 800-million-year-old landscape.
Address: Wilpena Rd, Via Hawker SA 5434
Dhilba Guuranda, Innes National Park
Located 300 kilometres west of Adelaide, and managed by the traditional custodians, the Narrunga people, the seven different campgrounds that make up Dhilba Guuranda Innes National Park make for one of South Australia's most popular, family-friendly camping destinations. Great for fishing, surfing, stargazing and a range of hikes and bushwalks, there's also a wealth of historical sites to check out, including Cape Spencer Lighthouse and Ethel Wreck.
Address: Inneston SA 5577
Tanunda Discovery Parks, Barossa Valley
Known the world over, South Australia's Barossa Valley is a Mecca for lovers of gourmet cuisine and fine wines. Add an extra layer of style and comfort to your stay in the Barossa by glamping in a deluxe safari tent. Each tent has ensuite bathrooms and a private deck for stargazing at night after a day spent visiting some of Tanunda's spectacular wineries. There's also access to a private outdoor lounge, BBQ space, fire pit, and a swimming pool and spa.
Address: Barossa Valley Way, Tanunda SA 5352
Little Dip Conservation Park
If you're the kind of family that loves off-the-grid camping, then Little Dip Conservation Park - located just over 340 kilometres southeast of Adelaide and a stone's throw from the town of Robe - has to be added to your list of places to visit. Accessible only by 4WD tracks that combine rugged sand dunes with stunning lagoons and inland lakes in equal measure, Little Dip has some awesome hiking and bushwalking tracks to explore, as well as being home to fantastic fishing spots.
Address: Nora Creina Rd, Robe SA 5276
Want more? Check out these awesome South Australian camping destinations.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Sandy Cape and Jurien Bay Tourist Park, Jurien Bay
Boasting pristine white sand and crystal blue waters, Sandy Cape and Jurien Bay offer the best of both camping worlds. Sandy Cape's an unparalleled rustic beach bush-camping experience, while Jurien Bay Tourist Park is the perfect choice if you're new to camping but still want a few of the creature comforts of home while you're learning the ropes (pun intended).
Sandy Cape Address: Sandy Cape Rd, Jurien Bay WA 6516
Jurien Bay Tourist Park Address: Roberts St, Jurien Bay WA 6516
Karijini Eco Retreat, Karijini National Park
It's one of the best campsites the country's west has to offer. There's the traditional outback camping adventure for the more experienced and self-sufficient campers, while Karijini Eco Retreat's glamping tents have got you sorted if you're not so experienced at the whole camping thing but want to combine the iconic red dust of Australia's top end with some style and creature comforts. Hike to nearby Joffre Gorge or take in one of the many guided tours of Karijini National Park for a truly immersive experience.
Address: National Park, Savannah Campground, off Weano Rd, Karijini WA 6751
Lane Poole Reserve, Northern Jarrah Forest
Lane Poole Reserve is home to some of WA's best bushwalking and mountain biking trails, as well as some quality freshwater fishing within bag limits. The reserve has a wide range of family-friendly camping spots to choose from including Baden Powell, Charlies Flat, Tony's Bend, Yarragil, Chuditch and Stringers, while Nanga Mill and Nanga Townsite cater for larger groups.
Address: Banksiadale Rd, Dwellingup WA 6213
Warroora Station
Warroora Station, around an hour south of Coral Bay, is a fully-operational cattle station run by the Horak family that provides guests with some great facilities. The Homestead Campground is perfect for exploring the Ningaloo Marine Park, so don't forget to pack your goggles and snorkel to explore the local marine life in some amazing coral reefs. For the thrillseekers in your camping party, there are guided tours that take you out into the deeper waters for a chance to see sharks, whales and stingrays in their natural habitat.
Address: Exmouth Coral Bay Road, WA 6707
Want more? Check out these awesome Western Australia camping destinations.
TASMANIA
Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair National Park
Combining gorgeous rainforest terrain with rugged wilderness and an almost endless choice of walking tracks, Cradle Mountain is a nature lover's paradise. One of the most photogenic National Parks in Australia, Cradle Mountain offers a unique variety of places to pitch your tent on the famed 5-day hike of the Overland Track, or request an evening linen turn-down service if you're after something a bit more comfortable for the family at the luxurious Cradle Mountain Lodge and its indulgent Waldheim Spa.
Address: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Honeymoon Bay, Freycinet National Park
Home to the most stunning sunrises and sunsets imaginable, Honeymoon Bay is a favourite spot for many Tasmanians looking for a relaxing coastal escape over the long weekend or school holidays. Spend your day cycling or stand-up paddle-boarding, or hiking up to the famous Wineglass Bay lookout point, then enjoy a BBQ dinner and fall asleep to the night-time chatter of the wildlife who call Freycinet National Park home.
Address: Freycinet TAS 7215
Mount Field National Park Campground, Mount Field National Park
Only an hour's drive northeast of Hobart is the Mount Field National Park campground. The first of Tasmania's forests to be afforded National Park status, Mount Field is home to some truly unforgettable natural beauty, like Russell Falls, and an ecosystem of wildlife and plant life unlike anywhere else in Australia. This is an almost heavenly habitat that won't disappoint.
Address: Lake Dobson Rd, National Park TAS 7140
Bay of Fires Conservation Area
The clear waters, white sand beaches and giant granite rocks of the Bay of Fires are impossible to resist for many of Tasmania's camping enthusiasts. Stretching over 50 kilometres, it's perfect for some wildlife watching, hiking and a range of watersports like boating, fishing and surfing.
Address: The Gardens TAS 7216
Cockle Creek Southwest National Park
Cockle Creek is one of the most sought-after camping experiences for people who want an active, adventure-filled trip. Located in Recherche Bay in Tasmania's visually amazing southwest, Cockle Creek is the gateway to the demanding South Coast Track - an 80-kilometre hike that takes you through the heart of Southwest National Park's remote beaches, rugged mountains, tranquil rivers and towering rainforests in the state's Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Address: Southwest National Park
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Kakadu National Park
The World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park covers a staggering 20,000 square kilometres, and contains some of the most remote and rugged beauty you'll find anywhere in the world, alongside stunning rainforests, serene and crystal clear lagoons, truly unique wildlife and a powerful spiritual connection to our country's traditional owners that stays with you long after your visit. As well as self-sufficient camping, Kakadu offers a range of accommodation options like wilderness safari retreats, self-contained cabins and a five-star luxury hotel.
Address: Kakadu Hwy, Jabiru NT 0886
Litchfield National Park
Litchfield National Park is the perfect family-friendly camping and adventure destination in Australia's top end. Renowned for its spectacular swimming holes and waterfalls like Florence Falls, Tjaetaba Falls, Tjaynera Falls and the must-see Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park also boasts some amazing 4WD tracks and scenic drives, as well as rewarding hikes and a selection of walks for a range of ages and fitness levels for enjoying the spectacular natural environment.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Uluru
At the other end of the Northern Territory's camping spectrum is the remote, red dust beauty of Kata Tjuta National Park and the iconic, awe-inspiring Uluru - a place of immense cultural and spiritual importance to the Indigenous Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara people. Located more than 300 kilometres south of Alice Springs, Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park offers campers sought-after walking and hiking tracks, historical art sites and refreshing rock pools for a cooling swim. Yulara, located at the Uluru Ayers Rock Campground, has grassy sites and a pool if freshwater swimming isn't your speed.
Address: Lasseter Hwy, Uluru NT 0872
Redbank Gorge, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park
Just a bit over 150 kilometres south of Alice Springs lies Tjoritja West MacDonnell National Park and the stunning Redbank Gorge (Rwetyepme 'roo-chip-ma'). Rwetyepme has two campgrounds - Woodland and Ridgetop - both of which offer fantastic facilities and act as ideal bases for hiking to sections of the Larapinta Trail, exploring the diverse wildlife and enjoying the picture-perfect watering holes dotted around the park.
Address: Alice Springs NT 0870
Before you head out on your next outdoor adventure, make sure you are fully equipped with all the camping and hiking gear you'll need, and for plenty more in-depth guides for enjoying the great outdoors, check out our Adventure Centre.
