Australia's Most Beautiful Campsites

There’s camping and there are the most beautiful places to camp in Australia. You can thank us later.

Personal butlers. Five-star dining. Drink umbrellas. There are a trillion-and-one ways to define luxury, but sometimes the best things in life are the simplest. Like when you find yourself alone on a beautiful beach. Or accidentally falling asleep in a hammock. Or when you’re so far into holiday mode, that you find yourself wandering around with no shoes on. And no make-up on. And maybe even no pants on.

With all that in mind, we’ve scoured the country for nature’s most luxurious spots: hidden hideaways and picture-perfect retreats just begging for you to pitch a tent in, boil the billy and get away from it all… hammock not included.

1. Lucky Bay, WA

Forget paying top dollar to sit around an overcrowded resort: your own personal paradise awaits at Lucky Bay.

Situated almost on top of the beach, the campsite itself couldn’t offer more luxurious views: lush, turquoise waters lapping at gloriously white sand, a dramatic framing of rocky outcrops and beach-going kangaroos lazing about in the sunshine (yes, really)…

Swim, fish or bushwalk one of the many trails that wind through the park past freshwater pools, admire the dazzling blanket of wildflowers (if you happen to be there in spring), or just sit and wonder at the beauty of the natural world. Lucky Bay is just past Esperance in WA’s far south.

Contact: 08 9083 2100, dpaw.wa.gov.au

2. Mt Field National Park, TAS

Tucked amongst the lush greenery of Tasmania’s oldest national park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to sleep outdoors under the careful watch of the ancient, elegant trees nearby.

Wake to the gentle sounds of nearby Tyenna River, wander through the giant fern forests (via the many walking trails), and take the time to walk to the magnificent Russell Falls – Tasmania’s most spectacular waterfall of all, and the perfect place to sit in quiet contemplation.

This pristine area is also home to an array of native species like yellow-tailed black cockatoos, crescent honey-eaters and green rosellas, so keep an eye out.

Found 65km northwest of Hobart, the tiny camp area has just 14 sites, so take your partner, some candles and enjoy the serenity. Electric barbecues and wheelchair access are available here, too.

Contact: 03 6288 1149, parks.tas.gov.au

3. Pondalowie Bay, SA

Sandwiched between rugged coastal views and mallee bushland on the southern tip of Yorke Peninsula in Innes National Park (four hours from Adelaide), this is a beachside playground for the whole family.

Pitch your tent, wander to the beach and jump in for a surf – the bay is especially renowned for its waves. There are also many good fishing spots and a shipwreck to check out, at nearby Ethel Beach.

Contact: 08 8854 3200, environment.sa.gov.au/parks

4. Green Patch, NSW

White sandy beaches, crystal clear water, kangaroos bounding in the distance… and you.

Situated in Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay on the New South Wales South Coast, Green Patch campsite is so beautiful that those in-the-know will book the place out months in advance – so get in early.

Once you’re there, the neighbouring beaches are perfect for swimming and sun-worshipping, while nearby bushwalking trails are perfect for discovering little picnic spots in the shade.

Bathrooms, hot showers and fresh water are all in ready supply, as are barbecues and wood fireplaces – so bring plenty of supplies for a barbie under the stars and a night time bonfire. And don’t forget the wine…

Contact: 02 4443 0977, environment.gov.au/parks/booderee

5. 1770, QLD

Tucked away in a secluded bay between sub-tropical forest and sparkling blue ocean, is Queensland’s best kept camping secret: 1770.

Soft sand meets lazy palm trees on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef here, and you can actually sleep right on the beachfront.

Diving, snorkelling, reef trips, beach walks, kayaking, canoeing, fishing and boat hire are all available options (especially good if you’ve brought the kids along!) – or just grab a rug, find a secluded spot, and spend your days enjoying the gentle breeze while you read a good book.

1770 is about 125 kilometres north of Bundaberg.

Contact: 07 4974 9286, 1770campingground.com.au

6. Johanna Beach, VIC

If you fantasise about falling asleep each night to the soundtrack of waves, then this is the place for you.

Camping at Johanna Beach isn’t just picturesque, it’s world-class-stunning: just as you’d expect of a spot that’s part of the Great Ocean Road coastline.

Literally right on the beachfront, this little secret is tucked away just past Apollo Bay in Victoria’s Great Otway National Park – a relatively easy (and scenic) drive from Melbourne.

Pack your cozzies, toss in a sarong and don’t forget the drinking water – there isn’t easy access to any here.

Kids and doggies are welcome – and if you do bring them along, there are several nearby trails meandering past heathland, wildflowers and awesome sea views that they can burn their energy on. Fishing and surfing are also good here.

Contact: 03 8627 4700, parkweb.vic.gov.au

7. Red Cliff, NSW

True to its name, Red Cliff campground takes in panoramic views of isolated beaches bordered by rich red cliffs, rocky outcrops and surf.

Perched on the northern coastline of Yuraygir National Park, about 150 kilometres south of Byron Bay near Brooms Head, this private pocket of paradise attracts many birds and kangaroos – but not so many people.

Take in views like this one (below) on one of many nearby walks, head to the beach for a swim, or wander on over to neighbouring Lake Arragan: it’s a great spot for canoeing, swimming, fishing and bird-watching… What more do you need?

Contact: 02 6641 1500, nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

8. Younghusband, SA

Amidst a scattered of gum trees and scenic bushland you’ll find Younghusband: a tiny, picturesque area offering serene and beautiful spots to sleep under the stars along the grassy stretches that border the Murray River.

Mild weather, classic Australian scenery and spectacular sunsets are three reasons to come camp here – but they’re not the only ones.

You can kayak along the river and nearby creeks, go fishing for your dinner, and spend your arvos snoozing in the afternoon shade while listening to the prolific birdlife.

There’s no caravan access or amenities, but that’s part of the charm.

Pitch a tent or roll out a swag anywhere that isn’t marked as private property and snuggle up under the silence of the stars with a crackling fire for company. Ahh, serenity…

Contact: 08 8363 6244, murrayriver.com.au/younghusband

9. Ormiston Gorge, NT

Rugged scenery, gumtree-lined river banks and dramatic rocky cliffs: that’s what this camping area offers, located close to its renowned namesake (that’d be the Ormiston Gorge) in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Wander the area on foot with many nearby hiking trails – like the easy 40-minute Ghost Gum Lookout walk, which finishes at a breathtaking viewing platform, or the four-hour Ormiston Pound Walk – part of the Larapinta Trail.

Then cool off at the campground’s fresh waterhole, which is ideal for swimming and attracts plenty of wildlife year-round. You can also expect bathrooms and barbecues, although there’s limited drinking water – so come prepared!

Contact: 1800 645 199, or find more info on Ormiston Gorge here

10. Kurrajong camping area, WA

Situated in the Kimberley’s spectacular Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park, Kurrajong is surrounded by the area’s trademark orange and black beehive-like mounds.

Soak up jaw-dropping views of this dramatic outback landscape and check out many picturesque walks and waterholes such as Echidna Chasm and Mini Palms Gorge.

And although the camp ground features its own sunset lookout, we suggest taking a helicopter flight across the park for the best views (flights run regularly).

However Kurrajong’s impossibly stunning and remote location comes at a price – it can only be accessed by 4WD and although there are some basic facilities, be sure to carry all food and drinking water.

You can also stay further north at the Walardi Campground.

Contact: 08 9168 4200, parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au/

11. Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve, NT

Spend a night or three here, and you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of one of Australia’s most extraordinary natural attraction: the Devils Marbles.

These huge, granite boulders scattered across a dramatic ocre landscape set the scene for the ultimate desert romance. You’re almost guaranteed to fall in love with the colours, sights and gentle solitude of the area.

You’ll need to bring your own drinking water, as well as firewood to kindle evening flames – the area cools down at night.

Don’t forget a camera to catch the extraordinary beauty of sunrise and sunset, too.

The camping area is situated at the southern end of the Karlu Karlu Reserve.

Contact: 08 8999 5511, nretas.nt.gov.au/national-parks-and-reserves

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

11 of Australia’s most beautiful secluded campsites