Aussie Nights Under Canvas: The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Australia

Thinking of camping in Australia?
Australia, the land down under, is famous for its natural wonders: amazing beaches, superb coastal views, and the best camping spots.

For instance, camping locations in Australia vary from coastal to hills, offering stunning views that will make you want to pitch a tent immediately.

In this ultimate guide, we will uncover everything you need to know about Australian camping, including some of the best places to camp in Australia.

Planning Your Best Camping in Australia

✔️Decide on a Location

There are hundreds of Australian camping sites that you can choose from. For a list of some campsites in every state, you can check Australian Campsites.

Moreover, you can visit Find A Camp to search for campgrounds or caravan parks in your preferred location. 

✔️Park Entry Fees, Permits and Camping Cost

How much does it cost to camp in Australia? In detail, fees, permits, and rules vary across states and are managed by the Australian National Parks.

Hence, check each State below for more information on how to book and the fees required.

Camping Across States of Australia

⛺CAMPING IN NEW SOUTH WALES

Camping in NSW requires a prior booking. You can check campgrounds and their availability in NSW National Parks.

Campsites are classified as budget or mid-range. A per-night stay at a budget campsite costs $24.60, while a mid-range campsite costs $34.85. 

NSW National Parks also charges motor vehicle entrance fees to 45 of the over 880 National Parks and Reserves. Single-day entry passes range from $8 to $12 per day. 

Click here to learn more about NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. 

⛺ CAMPING IN VICTORIA

Advanced booking for campsites and accommodation is required in Victoria, which can be made online or by phone.

With that in mind, visit Victoria’s National Parks to explore all available campgrounds.

In Victoria, camping fees vary across all parks. Unpowered sites start from as low as $14.70 per night. The camping fee also includes a permit for one vehicle.

What’s great is that Vicotria offers free camping places in Australia, such as the Fairhaven camping area. 

For more details, visit Parks Victoria. 

⛺ CAMPING IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Most South Australian campsites charge from $13.50 to $17.00 for an overnight stay, which includes a vehicle entry fee. 

Bookings can be made online and would require full payment.

For more information, visit the National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia.

⛺ CAMPING IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Camping fees vary by location and the facilities available. A campground with basic facilities such as toilets, picnic tables, barbecues, or fire pits costs $11 per night.

In addition to the camping fee, you also need to pay the park entry fee.

Certain parks require $15 entry fees. Check here for more details. You only need to pay the park entry fee on the first day. 

To book your adventure, visit Western Australia Parks and Wildlife Service.

⛺ CAMPING IN NORTHERN TERRITORY

Campgrounds in the Northern Territory are classified according to their facilities. They are graded as either Category A, B, C or D to give you the best camping Australia offers.

Most campgrounds work on an honesty system. They have an honesty box where you can pay as you enter.

For Categories A and B, the fee is collected on-site and is on a first-come, first-served basis. You can, however, book in advance in Category C and D. 

Category A has moderate facilities and charges $10 per adult, while Category B includes outdoor education and $4 per adult.

Other commercial operators manage Category C. Lastly, Category D is an exclusive camping site with premium facilities and a fee of $20 per adult.

Visit the Parks and Reserves of the Northern Territory for more information.

⛺ CAMPING IN QUEENSLAND

You must book and pay the permit in advance when camping in Queensland. The camping fee per adult is $6.85 per night or $27.40 per family.

A vehicle access permit should also be obtained for some parks and recreation areas. 

Please visit the Queensland Department of Environment and Science for more information on the fee and vehicle access permit.

⛺ CAMPING IN TASMANIA

Some camping sites Australia offers in Tasmania are free and do not require booking, but you must pay for the Parks Pass, which is necessary to enter all Tasmanian National Parks. 

A daily pass with a validity of up to 24 hours costs $40 per vehicle (up to 8 people).

Camping sites in Tasmania with moderate features cost $13 for two people per night. In addition, you need to pay for the Parks Pass.  

Hence, to know more information, visit Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.

Best Time To Go Camping in Australia

There are four seasons across Australia. Summer falls between December and February. With this, nature’s brilliant colours change from March to May in autumn.

Not to mention the winter from June to August. Flowers bloom in Spring from September to November. 

However, because of Australia’s size, the climate varies from one state or region to the other.

In addition, the wet season in northern Australia is from November to April, characterized by sunny days with possible monsoon rains and cyclones.

On the other hand, the dry season, from May to October, is characterized by warm, sunny days with cool nights. 

So, when is the best time to camp in Australia, and how do you camp? It depends on which region you choose to camp in and what activity you choose. Either way, every state offers some of the best camping spots in Australia.

In detail, it is best to camp in the northern area during the dry season since flooding and road closures are expected in the wet season. So, if you intend to swim in the river or beach, summer is the best time.

Furthermore, the temperature during summer soars high up to 40 degrees.

Camping in the South from October to April would be best, as the temperature varies between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius. 

Free Camping in Australia

Yes, you read it right. Australia offers over 4,000 free or low-cost camping sites, so you do not need to book or pay a fee in advance.

However, it would be best if you had or at least hire a self-contained campervan.

It is also best to check the free camping laws in the state where you are or plan to explore. For additional information, check out our best guide to free camping in Australia.

Hence, to find free camping grounds in Australia, check these websites: Free Camping Australia and Camp Australia Wide. Furthermore, you can download these free camping apps:

• WikiCamps
• Spaceships
• Travellers Autobarn – Available in Apple and Google stores
• CamperMate – Available in Apple and Google stores
• NSW National Parks – Available in Apple and Google stores
• Camps Australia-Wide – With $9.99AUD Annual Fee – Available in Apple and Google stores

Hiking Packing Suggestion

If you’re planning to go hiking, packing can be crucial to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Whether solo camping in Australia or with a group, it’s essential to pack smartly and efficiently to avoid unnecessary hassles or extra expenses.

Here are some helpful packing suggestions that will make your trip memorable.

From clothing to gadgets, we’ve covered everything you need to know to pack like a pro for your adventure.

🧳 Sunscreen: Cancer Council Active.

If you love spending time outdoors and have an active lifestyle, you’ll want to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays while enjoying the campgrounds of Australia. That’s where this product comes in!

It has you covered with an impressive SPF 50+ and broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

The best part? The dry-touch, fast-absorbing lotion won’t slow you down or leave you feeling greasy. Check it out on Amazon.

🧳 Good Rain Jacket: The North Face Waterproof Rain Jacket.

As someone who loves outdoor adventures, I understand the importance of staying dry and comfortable in unpredictable weather.

That’s why I highly recommend The North Face Rain Jacket – it’s made with waterproof, breathable DryVent 2.5L fabric that protects you during backcountry storms.

Moreover, this jacket is made from 100% recycled materials and features DryVent performance tech with a Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) Finish.

So not only is it waterproof, windproof, and breathable, but it’s also cozy and comfortable for casual nights or adventure-filled days. Check it out on Amazon.

🧳 Day Pack: Osprey Hiking Backpack. If you’re like me and enjoy pushing your limits on challenging hikes, you need a technical pack to keep up.

That’s where the Talon/Tempest series comes in – it’s one of the most versatile packs ever created, and now it’s sustainably designed with recycled high-tenacity nylon. Check it out on Amazon.

🧳 Hiking Boots: Merrell Hiking Shoes. Regarding hiking boots, the Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a top-notch choice for your Cairns itinerary.

Crafted from 100% leather and imported with a Vibram sole, these boots are built to last.

The waterproof membrane seals out water and lets moisture escape, so you can trek through streams and puddles in the best camping spots in Australia without worrying about soggy socks. Check it out on Amazon.

🧳 Trekking poles: Black Diamond Trekking Poles. Crafted from durable 7075 Aluminum shafts, these poles can handle even the most challenging terrain while camping in Australia.

But what I love most about them is the attention to detail in their design.

The soft-touch ergonomic grip top with 100% natural cork grip and EVA foam grip extension provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the Fusion comfort strap offers premium support. Check them out on Amazon.

Best Places to Camp in Australia

Whether camping in the outback or on white sandy beaches with clear water, the land down under has the best and most fantastic camping sites.

I have listed some of the best camping spots in Australia. Let’s dive in!

✅ Green Patch Campground in Booderee National Park, NSW

Primarily located near Green Patch Beach, this beautiful and discreet campsite is perfect for that quiet and calm experience.

Trees and wildlife animals such as Kangaroos and possums surround it.

Not to mention, this campground has public toilets, hot water showers, and sheltered barbeques. 

✅ Cockatoo Island, NSW

This waterfront campground, just a ferry ride from Circular Quay, offers a unique experience with unbeatable views of Sydney Harbour.

You can bring your camping tent or choose from their pre-erected tents.

Not to mention, it has toilets, hot showers, and a communal kitchen. We enjoyed the moment when we stayed here.

We also booked their ghost tour! Indeed, try it for a more exciting experience!

✅ Johanna Beach Campground, Great Ocean Road, VIC

Located on a famous surfing beach, Johanna Beach Campground is tucked behind sand dunes. This Australia camping site is also the best spot for surfing, fishing, or hiking the Great Ocean Walk.

There are long drop toilets but no shower or barbecue available.

✅ Grampians Paradise Camping and Caravan Parkland, VIC

Enjoy a spectacular view in this campground just 750 meters off the edge of the Grampians National Park.

This campsite offers powered and unpowered sites, surrounded by parkland, Australian native animals, birds, and flowers.

✅ Amity Point Camping Ground, North Stradbroke Island, QLD

Located on North Stradbroke Island, Amity Point Camping Ground is one of the fantastic camping sites in Australia where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset, turquoise water, and wildlife.

An unpowered camping site near the beach would cost $59/night for two adults. 

✅ Noah Beach Campground, Cape Tribulation, Daintree National Park, North QLD

Noah Beach Campground is situated 150 km north of Cairns. It is in the Cape Tribulation of Daintree National Park and is a 50m stroll to the beach.

The campground has 15 well-shaded campsites with compacted gravel surfaces. Composting toilets are available. However, no fires are permitted in the area. 

✅ Ayers Rock Campground

Experience the beauty of Uluru by pitching your tent at Ayers Rock Campground! This campground has 220 unpowered campsites and costs $43/night.

This camping spot in Australia also has communal showers and toilets, a swimming pool, a playground, an outdoor kitchen, and barbecue facilities. 

✅ Vivonne Bay Campground, Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Vivonne Bay was once voted Australia’s best beach. You will be camping just a few steps away from this beautiful beach.

It has powered and unpowered sites with toilets, showers, and barbeque facilities. It is also a pet-friendly campground. Unpowered sites start from $17 per night. 

Check out this article to learn about Kangaroo Island’s Caravan Parks and Campgrounds.

✅ Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park, WA

Lucky Bay is located within the beautiful Cape Le Grand National Park. This campground is the perfect place to enjoy water-based activities such as snorkelling.

There are toilets, barbecues, and showers (hot water is not guaranteed). This campground costs $15 per adult per night. 

✅ Flinders Ranges National Park, SA

Explore the outback in the Flinders Ranges! Several campgrounds are in Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Parks, such as Acraman, Aroona, Brachina East, etc.

There is also a privately operated campground, the Wilpena Pound Campground, in the heart of the Ikara Flinders Ranges.

This camping ground has toilets, showers, fuel, public phones, an ATM, and internet access. Mobile phone reception is unavailable in the Flinders Ranges (Telstra Network might work in some areas). 

Camping in Flinders Ranges brings one of Australia’s most memorable camping experiences, with its best outback experiences!

✅ Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, SA

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park sits on Yorke Peninsula’s southwest tip. It takes 3.5 hours from Adelaide. See the Cape Spencer Lighthouse and hear about the Ethel shipwreck.

The National Park has two primary campgrounds: Stenhouse Bay and Pondalowie.

Check Parks SA for announcements and alerts about this National Park. 

✅ Cradle Mountain, Lake St. Clair National Park, Tasmania

Experience Australia’s deepest freshwater lake – Lake St Clair and the iconic Cradle Mountain. The park also offers walking tracks, including the famous Overland Track.

This campsite has a kitchen with a coin-operated barbecue, toilets, and showers. The cost is $1 for 6 minutes.

Cradle Mountain also has amazing walks and hikes you can explore while camping in Australia.

✅ Freycinet National Park

Freycinet National Park is famous for Wineglass Bay, a white sand beach with crystal clear water. Richardsons Beach is the main campground, which has powered sites.

You can also check Freycinet National Park in our 9-Day Tasmania Itinerary.

Camping in Australia Essentials List

Are you wondering what to pack for your Australia camping trip? I have done the work for you! Here is everything you will need to help you prepare for that adventure!

SLEEPING / SHELTER

• Tent
• Tent Pegs
• Mattress
• Sleeping Bag / Blankets / Sheets
• Pillows
• Tarps / Gazebo
• Rope
• Mozzie Net

FURNITURE

• Camping Tables and Chairs
• Clothesline and Pegs
• Umbrella Shelter
• Portable Heater
• Shower Tent / Solar Shower

TOILETRIES

• Toothbrush / Toothpaste
• First Aid Kit and Snake Bite Kit
• Soap / Shampoo and Conditioner
• Towels 
• Insect Repellant
• Sunscreen
• Glasses / Contact Lens (plus the solution)
• Toilet Paper / Wipes
• Medication
• Hand Sanitizer
• Aloe Vera

APPAREL (Depending on weather)

• Thermals
• Jackets / Fleece Jumper
• Beanie
• Sandals / Thongs
• Hiking Shoes / Gum Boots
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Swimmers
• Raincoat
• Fly Head Net (especially in the Outback)

COOKING

• Esky / Cooler / Ice
• Pots and Pans
• Cooking Utensils, Cutlery and Crockery 
• Bin and Bin Bags
• Sharp Knife
• Paper Towels / Tea Towels
• Plates and Cups
• Thermos
• BBQ / Stove
• Dishwashing Liquid and Sponge / Bucket
• Gas Cylinder / Butane Gas
• Matches / Lighter
• Can Opener
• Kettle
• Food and Drinks (Adequate Supply of Water)
• Dustpan and Brush

LEISURE

• Board Games
• Frisbee
• Fishing Rod and Gears
• Bikes / Scooters
• Snorkels
• Goggles / Armbands or Lifejacket
• Pack of Cards
• Speaker / Music
• Books
• Inflatables Toy
• Camera / Phone Charger
• Firewood (For Bonfire if applicable) and marshmallows!

NECESSITIES

• 12V Compressors for Car Tyres
• Radio / Batteries
• Waterproof Containers
• Compass / GPS / Map
• Headlamp / Battery-operated Torch
• Pocket Knife
• Powerbank
• Tools: Hammer, Shovel, Spanner, Mallet
• Extension Cords
• Generator and Oil (For campervans)
• Whistle

Recommended Camping Gear

I have compiled the best camping guide for getting camping gear to ensure you have the best camping trip around Australia. You can also check this Best Camping Gear Essentials List.

1. Tent / Swag

Tents come in different sizes and shapes. It is always best to get a tent with a larger capacity, especially if you have many things to store.

Tents are made of different fabrics, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here is a list of the 10 Best Camping Tents for families.

Further, the best material would depend on your needs:

• Cotton/canvas tents are the most common traditional tent material. Cotton is excellent as it insulates well, meaning it will not get too hot on a warm day. It is also breathable and can absorb water but can be heavy or bulky.

• Polyester-cotton tents (Polycotton) are made from cotton with polyester woven into it. They are a better option for a longer-lasting tent.

• Polyester is a popular option for durability. A polyester tent with a coating provides good ventilation but not enough moisture, so it can get hot when it is warm. This tent won’t get heavy or shrink when wet and is less affected by sunlight. 

• Because of its light material, nylon tents are ideal for hiking. They also do not shrink or become heavy when in contact with water. Some nylon tents have silicone, polyurethane, or acrylic protective coating. Nylon tents are also the most affordable ones. 

2. Air Mattress

It would be best to consider many considerations when buying a camping mattress. There are three different types of air mattresses:

• Air camping mattress—This is the most common type of camping mattress. You inflate the mattress with air using the pump that comes with it. This mattress is lightweight but can be time-consuming to inflate. 

• Self-inflating mattress – This mattress inflates by itself once you open the valve. It is pretty lightweight and easier to inflate.

• Foam camping mattress—This is made of solid foam. It is quite firm and might be bulky when rolled. 

We have always used an air camping mattress but did not find it comfortable. The problem is that sometimes it leaks air in the middle of the night.

We recently tried a 70mm high-density foam mattress, which is much better. The only drawback is that it is a bit bulky and heavy (compared to an air bed).

I would still recommend having a foam mattress over an air bed when discussing comfortability. 

3. Sleeping Bag

For the best sleeping experience outdoors, there are lots of considerations that we need to look at: 

Warmth

Each sleeping bag has a temperature rating that determines its warmth. The ratings are categorized into three levels: Comfort, Limit of Comfort, and Extreme. 

• Comfort – the standard night’s sleep in a comfortable, relaxed position.
• Limit of Comfort—A ‘standard man’ or ‘woman’ sleeps at the lowest temperature in a curled position to keep warm. 
• Extreme—This is the coldest temperature, associated with a cold sensation and a possible risk of health damage. 

Fill Type

For this purpose, it can either be down or Synthetic. A down-fill sleeping bag is lightweight and offers the best warmth. It is less water-resistant and more expensive than synthetic.

Conversely, Synthetic fill has good insulation and dries out faster. However, it is also bulky and heavy. 

Shape

Furthermore, there are three main shapes of sleeping bags: Rectangular, Tapered and Mummy. 

• Mummy bags—This shape is wide at shoulder level and narrows to the feet. It offers less space but maximum insulation.

• Rectangular bags are the most common and most comfortable type of sleeping bag. However, because they take up space, they are less efficient at keeping you warm and can be bulkier and heavier. 

• Tapered bags—These are a combination of the mummy and rectangular bags. But unlike the mummy bag, they provide more space for your legs. 

With so many sleeping bag options available, choosing one based on your specific preferences and circumstances when camping in Australia is best. 

4. Camping Chair

The most popular chair is the quad-fold camping chair. It is the standard chair with four legs and collapsible material between the legs. However, it is cheap and not very comfortable.

So, for a great camping experience in Australia, I recommend a reclining chair with additional features such as a headrest or footrest, armrest, cup holder, or cooler bag. 

5. Esky / Cooler

A cooler (an Esky in Australia) is essential equipment for your camping journey in Australia.

A cooler can be hard-sided or soft-sided. Hard-sided coolers are perfect for camping, fishing, or even boating.

When looking at hard-sided coolers, we need to check their insulation properties. Also, inspect the walls, lids, latches, and seals.

With this in mind, choose also the right size for your cooler. Ideally, a 20-50 litre cooler suits two people camping over the weekend.

Not to mention, for your convenience, choose a cooler with handles and wheels for easy maneuvering.

Safety Tips When Camping in Australia

• Check the weather forecast for cyclones, floods and fire warnings. 
• Make sure your car is serviced regularly. Afterwards, check the water, oil, air filters, and tyres before driving.
• Remember the numbers of local police, hospitals, and family members. (In an emergency, use Triple Zero and 112 if there is no signal reception.) 
• Download a map from the National Parks Website to learn more about the area. Choose a campsite near the toilet or shower. 
• Ensure you have extra cash and ID. 
• Book the campsite in advance. Campgrounds tend to get busy during school holidays.
• Check the ground before pitching your tent (See if there are any sharp objects or rocks).
• Use long-life canned goods or supplies. Put dry goods in a labelled, air-tight container. 
• Place your esky in a shaded area to keep it cool.
• Dry your tent before you store it. 
• BE RESPONSIBLE. Check with National Parks for any campground restrictions. Camping Fire is usually not allowed during spring and summer because of bushfire danger. 

The Wrap-Up: Guide to Camping in Australia

In conclusion, camping in Australia offers an unparalleled experience of nature’s grandeur and diversity.

Whether you pitch a tent in the vast Outback, nestled amidst ancient rainforests, or along the pristine coastline, you’ll immerse yourself in a world of breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife.

The serenity of the starlit skies, the crackling campfires, and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers create cherished memories that last a lifetime.

However, respecting and preserving the delicate ecosystems you encounter is crucial, leaving no trace of your presence and ensuring the beauty of Australia’s wilderness endures for generations to come.

So, embrace the call of the wild, venture into the great outdoors, and savour the unmatched sense of freedom and connection with nature that camping in Australia offers.