Whether it be camping with close friends on world-renowned beaches, sleeping amongst wildlife in Queensland’s national parks or escaping into ancient rainforests by yourself, camping in Queensland is a truly unforgettable experience. Regardless of how you want to camp – beach camping, 4WD camping or even glamping – the beautiful Queensland wilderness offers something for everyone.
Thankfully, it’s never been easier to pack your tent, jump in a car, and get camping. For those looking to get back to nature, here are the 10 best campgrounds and camping spots in Queensland!
Photographed by Sam Thies.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Munga-Thirri National Park
Right on the border of the Simpson Desert, Munga-Thirri National Park promises an outback camping experience unlike anything else in the sunshine state. One of the best 4WD camping sites and a truly one-of-a-kind national park campground in Queensland, Munga-Thirri lets campers sail through the rich orange sands to your heart’s content. Make sure to back plenty of water, since the rough heat can certainly wallop even the most seasoned campers.
Photographed by Reuben Nutt.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Mount Barney Lodge
Located two hours from Brisbane, Mt Barney Lodge is one of the best camping experiences for families both big and small. Nestled within Mount Barney National Park, this shaded campground provides stunning views and easy access to the nearby mountain range. Even the youngest members of the family can partake in the Adventure Activity Program – offering rock climbing, mountain expeditions and guided tours year-round around the national park. While the campsite welcomes campervans, motorhomes, and tents, those looking for a cozier trip can book a rustic cottage, perfect for the whole family.
Photographed by Reuben Nutt.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Noah Beach
Sandwiched between the Daintree National Park, a World Heritage-listed natural wonder and the Great Barrier Reef, Noah Beach is one of the most scenic and unique camping spots in Queensland. Waking to the sound of the ocean before hiking the oldest rainforest in the world guarantees campers a breathtaking and one-of-a-kind experience. A three-hour drive from Cairns at Cape Tribulation, camping at Noah Beach is a must for those wanting to connect with Australia’s vast wilderness. Be sure to check availability; the camp is closed during the wet season from the first Sunday of New Year’s Day till Good Friday.
Photographed by Kenny Smith.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Nightfall Wilderness Camp
The definitive glamping experience in Queensland, the Nightfall Wilderness Camp, promises to give a luxurious campsite housed in a lush and vibrant forest. Unlike the rough-and-tumble most come to expect from camping, Nightfall provides a spacious tent, an untouched Lamington National Park, and the chance to relax along the nearby creek. This boutique experience, about an hour drive from the Gold Coast, will set you back quite a bit – with booking slots scarce. But if you can manage to find an availability, we guarantee that no other campground in Queensland can quite match its richness.
Photographed by These Wander Days.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Jardine River
Those looking for a wild camping experience should look no further than the Jardine River campgrounds. Right on the tip of Queensland, Jardine River is a lofty 11 hour drive from Cairns. But that remoteness ensures a peaceful trip to nature, away from the stress and struggles of modern life. Wide open spaces, rough tracks and stunning scenery make this a perfect 4WD camping trip in the heart of one of Queensland’s national parks. Take a walk (or drive) on the wild side of Queensland!
Photographed by Reuben Nutt.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Whitehaven Beach
One of the best beach camping sites in Queensland, Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Islands, offers a breathtaking experience for any would-be campers. After taking a ferry to the island, you’ll be greeted with pure white sand, the chance to canoe with the local sea life, and a cozy camp site. Enjoy an exclusive night on the soft sand, listening to the tide come in and out with your friends and family. Booking a trip to this island paradise will set you back $6.35 a night, but be quick: only 36 people can be at the campgrounds, and those slots fill fast!
Photographed by Reuben Nutt.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Fraser Island
For nature lovers, nothing can compare to camping in the picturesque K’gari, also known as Fraser Island. This World Heritage Listed island, off the coast of Southeast Queensland, is a bastion of outdoor adventuring, including 4WD tracks, whale watching, hiking and so much more. There are several campsites across the island to choose from, but regardless of where you pitch a tent, make sure to purchase a camping and vehicle permit before landing on the island.
Photographed by Josh Thies.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Tamborine National Park
Sometimes the beauty of nature is right in our backyards, just waiting to be explored. A brisk hour-long drive from the Gold Coast or Brisbane, Tamborine National Park is one of the best camping grounds in Southeast Queensland. Enjoy gorgeous waterfalls and scenic forests with friends and family for a perfect weekend getaway.
Photographed by Radley White.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Conondale National Park
One of the best bush camping grounds in Queensland – Conondale National Parks in Southeast Queensland – is a great way to enjoy nature with close friends and families. Hidden inside the Conondale National Park, make sure to check out the Booloumba Creek and nearby waterfalls for a lush sight of nature’s beauty. The four-day long, 56-kilometre Conondale Range Great Walk is a great way to stretch your legs in a luscious forest.
Photographed by The Edit Suite.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
The Wrecks, Moreton Island
One of the best kept secrets in Queensland, the Tangalooma Wrecks is a camping location unlike anything you’ve seen before. Fifteen ships hollowed out ships grace the side of Moreton Island, giving an almost eerie atmosphere. But, in fact, those giant metal skeletons house clusters of stunning coral reefs, making for a one-of-a-kind snorkelling destination. Just off the coast of Southeast Queensland, make sure to explore the rest of Moreton Island and its rich wildlife, pitch white beaches and unforgettable camping grounds.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
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From the bush to the beach, pitch your tent at the best campsites Queensland has to offer!