Australia is home to some of the most spectacular camping destinations on Earth. From rugged coastal cliffs and ancient rainforests to red desert plains and alpine meadows, there's a campsite for every kind of adventurer.
Whether you're a weekend warrior looking for a quick escape from the city, or planning a month-long tour across the outback, Australia's camping spots deliver experiences that rival any five-star resort — often for free.
We've put together this guide covering the best campsites across every state and territory. Use our Campsite Explorer to search thousands more, read reviews from fellow campers, check weather forecasts, and plan your next trip.
New South Wales
Blowering Dam, Snowy Mountains
Tucked away in the Snowy Mountains, Blowering Dam offers some of the best bush camping in New South Wales. The wide, grassy campsites along the lakeshore give you room to spread out, cast a line, and simply unwind. In summer, the dam is perfect for kayaking and swimming, while autumn brings spectacular golden foliage across the surrounding hills.
Jervis Bay
With some of the whitest sand beaches in the world, Jervis Bay on the NSW South Coast is a camping paradise. Several campgrounds sit within Booderee National Park, offering easy access to sheltered bays ideal for snorkelling, paddleboarding, and dolphin spotting. Book well ahead during school holidays.
Blue Mountains
Just ninety minutes from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer bushwalking, waterfalls, and dramatic cliff-top views. Campgrounds like Euroka Clearing put you among wild kangaroos and towering eucalyptus. Nearby towns like Katoomba and Leura are perfect for a pub lunch after a morning hike.
Victoria
Pineapple Flat, King River
Situated on the banks of the King River north of Mount Buller, in Victoria's High Country. You'll need a 4WD to access this area, as there are numerous river fords to cross. It's a brilliant spot to camp and fish for trout, or use as a base for tackling legendary 4WD tracks. The isolation is part of the charm — don't expect phone reception.
Wingan Inlet, East Gippsland
Nestled along the Far East Gippsland Coast, this small wilderness inlet offers a gateway to stunningly remote surf beaches. The bush camps overlooking the inlet are sublime, and you're woken each morning by rumbling surf and the activity of fur seals on the skerries. Raw, wild camping at its absolute best.
Wilsons Promontory
Known locally as "The Prom", this is the southernmost point of mainland Australia. Tidal River campground is the main base, a short walk from pristine Squeaky Beach. The multi-day Prom Circuit hike features remote campsites at Sealers Cove, Refuge Cove, and Waterloo Bay.
Bright
This picturesque alpine town in northeast Victoria is a camping hub for all seasons. Autumn brings golden foliage, summer means swimming in the Ovens River, and winter opens up Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. Holiday parks in town and free camps through the Alpine National Park.
Queensland
Fraser Island (K'gari)
The world's largest sand island offers freshwater lakes with crystal-clear water, towering rainforests growing out of sand, coloured sand cliffs, and expansive beaches that double as highways. Beach camping under the stars here is unforgettable. You'll need a 4WD and vehicle access permit.
Noosa & the Sunshine Coast
Noosa North Shore offers beach camping just a ferry ride from the boutique shops of Hastings Street. The Noosa Everglades — one of only two everglades systems on Earth — offer kayak-in camping for those seeking something truly unique.
Cape Tribulation, Daintree
Where the rainforest meets the reef. Cape Tribulation is one of the few places on Earth where two World Heritage areas exist side by side. Camp under ancient Daintree rainforest canopy, minutes from the Great Barrier Reef. Watch for cassowaries on the walking tracks.
South Australia
Robe & the Coorong
Robe and the Coorong National Park offer stunning beach and bush camping within easy reach of Adelaide. The fishing and 4WD opportunities are hard to beat. Long Beach is a favourite for families, while the Coorong's remote lagoons attract anglers and birdwatchers. A perfect stop on the Melbourne-to-Adelaide road trip.
Flinders Ranges
Wilpena Pound is one of Australia's most iconic natural amphitheatres. Camp at the base and hike to the rim for panoramic outback views. At night, zero light pollution makes this one of the best stargazing spots in the country.
Western Australia
Esperance & Lucky Bay
Beach camping at Lucky Bay is famous for kangaroos lounging on white sand. The turquoise water rivals anything in the Caribbean. Cape Le Grand National Park has several campgrounds, each more beautiful than the last. A long drive from Perth, but every kilometre is worth it.
Margaret River
Australia's premium wine region is also an excellent camping destination. Surf breaks, towering karri forests, underground caves, and world-class wineries — all within easy reach. Camp by day, dine at a vineyard restaurant by night.
Northern Territory
Litchfield National Park
Just 100km southwest of Darwin, Litchfield is one of Australia's premier freshwater swimming destinations. The swimming holes, camp areas, and waterfalls are spectacular — and you can swim knowing there aren't any crocs about. Florence Falls and Wangi Falls are the highlights.
Tasmania
Cradle Mountain
The starting point for the famous Overland Track — a six-day hike through dramatic alpine scenery. Day hikes around Dove Lake and Crater Lake are equally spectacular. Campgrounds range from basic bush sites to well-equipped holiday parks.
Bay of Fires
Orange lichen-covered granite boulders on Tasmania's east coast create one of Australia's most photographed camping backdrops. Free camping at several spots along the coast, with crystal-clear water for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking.
Plan Your Next Camping Trip
Australia has thousands of campsites waiting to be explored. Whether you're chasing the perfect beach, a hidden riverside spot, or a mountain retreat, our Campsite Explorer makes it easy to find your next destination. Search by location, filter by features like pet-friendly or free camping, check weather forecasts, and read reviews from the camping community.
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