Australia is a camper’s paradise, with vast landscapes ranging from pristine beaches to rugged outback and lush rainforests. Whether you’re an experienced camper or just starting out, there are countless incredible spots to pitch a tent and experience the great outdoors. Here’s a guide to the best camping spots in Australia.
Cradle Mountain – Tasmania
Nestled in the heart of Tasmania’s stunning wilderness, Cradle Mountain is a dream destination for nature lovers and hikers.
- Best for: Scenic hikes, wildlife spotting, and serene lakes.
- Highlights: The Overland Track, Dove Lake, and wombat encounters.
- Camping: Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain and Waldheim Cabins.
Wilsons Promontory – Victoria
Wilsons Promontory National Park, or ‘The Prom,’ is one of Victoria’s most beautiful coastal camping locations.
- Best for: Beach lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Highlights: Squeaky Beach, Tidal River, and Mount Oberon lookout.
- Camping: Tidal River Campground offers powered and unpowered sites.
Cape Range National Park – Western Australia
Situated near Exmouth, Cape Range National Park is the perfect destination for beachside camping with stunning marine life.
- Best for: Snorkeling, whale watching, and stunning coastal scenery.
- Highlights: Ningaloo Reef, Turquoise Bay, and Yardie Creek.
- Camping: Osprey Bay and Yardie Creek Campground.
Fraser Island (K’gari) – Queensland
The world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island, is a 4WD camping paradise with diverse landscapes and unique wildlife.
- Best for: Off-road adventures, swimming in freshwater lakes, and exploring rainforests.
- Highlights: Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, and Maheno Shipwreck.
- Camping: Various beachfront and inland campgrounds (permits required).
Kakadu National Park – Northern Territory
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Kakadu is rich in Aboriginal culture, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
- Best for: Adventure seekers, cultural experiences, and nature lovers.
- Highlights: Jim Jim Falls, Ubirr Rock Art, and Yellow Water Billabong.
- Camping: Cooinda Campground and Gunlom Campground.
The Grampians – Victoria
The Grampians National Park is a rugged mountain range perfect for hiking and camping.
- Best for: Bushwalking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing.
- Highlights: Mackenzie Falls, The Pinnacle, and Halls Gap.
- Camping: Halls Gap Caravan Park and Plantation Campground.
Flinders Ranges – South Australia
Experience Australia’s outback beauty in the stunning Flinders Ranges.
- Best for: 4WD adventures, hiking, and outback landscapes.
- Highlights: Wilpena Pound, Bunyeroo Gorge, and Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary.
- Camping: Wilpena Pound Campground and Rawnsley Park Station.
Blue Mountains – New South Wales
Located just outside Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking scenery and bushwalking trails.
- Best for: Weekend getaways, hiking, and stunning lookouts.
- Highlights: The Three Sisters, Wentworth Falls, and Jenolan Caves.
- Camping: Euroka Campground and Ingar Campground.
Litchfield National Park – Northern Territory
A lesser-known but equally stunning alternative to Kakadu, Litchfield offers waterfalls and natural swimming holes.
- Best for: Waterfalls, swimming, and adventure camping.
- Highlights: Wangi Falls, Buley Rockhole, and Florence Falls.
- Camping: Wangi Falls Campground and Florence Falls Campground.
Esperance & Cape Le Grand National Park – Western Australia
Known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, this region is a beach camper’s dream.
- Best for: Beach camping, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
- Highlights: Lucky Bay (with kangaroos on the beach), Frenchman Peak, and Hellfire Bay.
- Camping: Lucky Bay Campground and Le Grand Beach Campground.
Australia’s diverse landscapes offer incredible camping experiences for all types of adventurers. Whether you prefer mountains, beaches, rainforests, or outback scenery, there’s a perfect camping spot waiting for you. So pack your tent, grab your gear, and get ready to explore the great outdoors!