There’s nothing quite like getting away into the great outdoors. In Australia, we’ve got enough beaches that you could keep discovering new places for a lifetime. There are secret waterholes and the good old local favourites too. And the only thing better than spending the day at spots like this, is spending the night. Below are a few of our top picks for camping and swimming in Australia—but trust us when we say, this is just scratching the surface.
A few quick tips
To make your adventure memorable in a good way, below are a few tips for Aussie camping.
- Check for site closures where possible as parks are sometimes shut due to maintenance or weather.
- Check whether the campsite requires a permit or booking. In some areas, you may also need to print off a tag with your booking number to display at your camp site.
- Keep your food locked up tight so you don’t get ransacked by cheeky wildlife. (Psst. Make the most of our lockable gear if you’ve got it.)
- Take plenty of drinking water if the site doesn’t provide it.
- Check the facilities and plan your gear ahead.
- Make sure it’s dog friendly if you're taking your best friend. National parks and wildlife reserves generally don’t allow dogs to enter, but thankfully there are plenty of other camping sites to take your companion.
Alright, let’s get stuck into it.
Camping sites in Queensland
Image: Kauri Creek Camping Area ©Queensland Government
Danbulla National Park and State Forest – Tropical North QLD
There are plenty of camping areas to choose from in Danbulla ranging from the hoop pine plantations of Platypus camping area to the uninterrupted water views at Downfall Creek camping area or camping by the water at Kauri Creek.
K’gari Island – Wide Bay–Burnett Region
K’gari is a 4WD dream with plenty of places for camping and swimming. Take your time exploring Lake Mckenzie (Boorangoora), Eli Creek, Champagne Pools and loads of other creeks and lakes. You’ll need vehicle access and camping permits which can be found in this Camping in K’gari guide. Most importantly, make sure you educate yourself on dingo dos and don’ts for your safety and theirs.
Moreton Island – Southeast Queensland
Moreton Island is an absolute paradise with incredible snorkeling along the wrecks and a range of camping options. You can set up camp at sites marked along the beach or head behind the foredunes—either way, you’re in for a real treat. There’s a couple of ferries you can book from Brisbane with or without your 4WD.
Etty Bay – Tropical North QLD
Etty Bay Caravan Park is a great place to enjoy Tropical North QLD with a patrolled beach and stinger nets. It’s also a pretty ideal base for exploring nearby places such as Babinda Boulders, Josephine Falls, and Canecutter Way. While you relax, you might also spot a cassowary on the beach.
Camping sites in New South Wales
Image: Booderee National Park © Parks Australia
Booderee National Park – Jervis Bay
Green Patch Camping Area has you sorted with nearby swimming, fishing, bushwalking, and snorkelling. Located on the South Coast of New South Wales, the white sands and crystal waters are well worth checking out. As far as camping and swimming spots go, this one is up there.
Blue Waterholes Campground – Kosciuszko National Park
Swimming isn’t the only drawcard for Blue Waterholes Campground—there’s also waterfalls, caves, and gorges. Waking up to the wilderness and switching off for a few days is a great way to be if you ask us.
Tallow Beach Campground – Byron Bay
If having swimming, fishing and surfing spots on your doorstep sounds like a dream, Tallow Beach Campground is calling. There are also holiday parks nearby with powered sites if that’s more your cup of tea or if you’re booking for a group. Either way, get out there and enjoy everything Byron Bay has to offer.
Camping sites in Victoria
Image: Wilsons Promontory National Park
Tidal River – Wilsons Promontory
Tidal River Campground is well-equipped and perfectly positioned to make the most of the popular Wilsons Promontory National Park. You can take a dip or go for a surf at the pristine beaches, check out the hiking trails, and see loads of incredible views (including scaling Mount Oberon).
Candlebark Campground – Lake Eildon National Park
How does camping and swimming in the shadow of the Victorian Alps sound? Enjoy all Lake Eildon has to offer by staying a few days at Candlebark or Devils Cove Campgrounds.
Borough Huts Campground – Grampians National Park
We’re not done with the picturesque lake destinations just yet. If you’re heading into the Grampians, spend a few nights at Borough Huts. Head to Lake Bellfield Picnic Area to cool off and enjoy a BBQ lunch while you take in the surrounding mountain ranges.
Camping sites in South Australia
Image: Memory Cove ©National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia
Memory Cove – Lincoln National Park
Memory Cove Campground overlooks a white sandy beach and is surrounded by Lincoln National Park. The only catch is that you need a 4WD to access it. There are excellent fishing spots if you’re keen for some fresh meals, though you’ll want to take note of the sanctuary zones where fishing isn’t allowed.
Pondalowie Bay – Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park
Another great spot for camping and swimming, as well as surfing, fishing and bushwalking, you’ll find Ponalowie Bay Camgrounds in Yorke Peninsula. For lunch with a view, take a picnic up to the West Cape picnic area.
Perlubie Beach Campground – Eyre Peninsula
Perlubie Beach Campground has been a top choice for beach camping in the Eyre Peninsula for years. Eat your heart out with local seafood and enjoy all the endless sandy beaches and natural wonder Streaky Bay has to offer. It’s not bad.
Camping sites in Western Australia
Image: Kurrajong Camping Area ©Dominic Ruefenacht
Kurrajong Campground – Ningaloo Reef
Right beside the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo reef, sits Kurrajong Campground. You'll want to pack your snorkel and fins with an incredible range of marine creatures right on your doorstep. Osprey Bay Campground is also a short distance down the road for another option to explore this beautiful corner of the earth.
Lucky Bay – Cape Le Grand National Park
Are you feeling lucky? You will be at this Cape Le Grand National Park campground. This is a choose your own adventure scenario, with plenty to do on land and in the ocean. Swim, surf, go fishing, or hike on this ancient coastline.
Honeymoon Pool Campground – Collie
Discover an oasis a two-hour drive from Perth CBD at Honeymoon Pool Campground. It’s a top spot for taking some time out, enjoying a dip, and exploring Wellington National Park. Wake up to Honeymoon Pool and get out into the surrounding bushland along the walking trails starting at the campground.
Camping sites in the Northern Territory
Ormiston Gorge – Alice Springs
There’s nothing like spending the day hiking and getting back to camp for a swim before settling in for the evening. Located 135km west of Alice Springs, Ormiston Gorge Campground gives you plenty to do. You’ll find a waterhole 500m from the visitor centre, as well as short and overnight walks.
Wangi Falls Campground – Litchfield National Park
Welcome to one of the most popular camping and swimming spots in Litchfield National Park. Flowing all year round, it’s no wonder people love it. Stay for a few days at Wangi Falls Campground, and enjoy a comfy stay with great facilities (yes, we’re talking showers).
Leliyn (Edith Falls) – Nitmiluk National Park
The paperbark and pandanus trees around Lleliyn make this swimming spot unreal. Drive-in campgrounds make it easy to get set up, so you can spend more time soaking up the stunning location.
Camping sites in Tasmania
The Neck and Truganini Lookout
Richardsons Beach – Freycinet National Park
Freycinet National Park has a range of campgrounds to choose from, including Richardson’s Beach, Honeymoon Bay and Ranger Creek. Only a few metres from the beach, the campgrounds give you an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Freycinet National Park.
Fortescue Bay Campground – Tasman National Park
When you arrive at Fortescue Bay Campground, you’ll say “how good”. It’s set amongst shady trees on the tranquil shores of an impressive bay. Take the 4-hour return walk to Cape Hauy, part of the iconic Three Capes Track—which is why you might see some weary hikers with overnight packs along the way.
Bruny Island Campgrounds
Drive onto the Bruny Island ferry and make your way over to the island for a few days. There is a range of campgrounds to choose from, including beachfront spots surrounded by bushland. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the white wallabies and treat yourself to a drop at Bruny Island Premium Wines. There's also Bruny Island Cheese Co. if you're craving a refreshing beer along the way.
Where are you off to? We love seeing how you all kit out your vehicles for work and play, so tag us on Instagram or Facebook using @deckedaustralia to show us how you’re getting after it!