Have a bargain basement holiday at these stunning campgrounds around Australia
Newsflash: summer is already here! While it’s the happiest time of the year for many, it’s also one of the most expenny. Christmas presents, booze, holidays and even air conditioning – it all adds up. But we don’t want those feeling the pinch of the festive season to miss out on having epic summer adventures. That’s why we enlisted one of Australia’s top travel experts, Nick Baker, CEO of Reflections Holidays, to share his five favourite summer camping spots across the country. With sites from just $13 a night, you can still have a well-deserved holiday without breaking the bank.
⛺️ The best free campgrounds in Australia
✨ Where to go glamping in Australia
🚘 The most epic Australian road trips to do before you die
Simplicity is bliss at this chilled-out holiday park in the heart of Pambula on NSW’s dreamy Sapphire Coast. After pitching your tent at one of the dog-friendly campsites, you can drive five minutes down the road to Pambula Beach for swimming, surfing, fishing and fresh oysters. With a well-equipped camp kitchen, barbecue area, laundry and tennis courts, this campground is all about coastal convenience. Prices start at $31 per night – what a bargain!
Camping on one of Australia’s best beaches might sound like a ticket to a hefty fine, but on Kangaroo Island, it’s totally possible (and legal) at Vivonne Bay. Hidden away between rocky cliffs, this serene spot is perfect for switching off and soaking up the beauty of the island without anything (or anyone) getting in the way. The campground is just a short walk from the U-shaped cove, famous for its long jetty, glassy water and sugary white sand. There are only 15 camping spots and basic toilets on-site, with Vivonne Bay General Store just a short drive away. Due to limited internet connectivity, booking in advance is recommended, with prices starting at $23 per night.
Swap the snow for sunshine at Lake Catani Campground, perched on a peaceful mountain plateau in the free-entry Mount Buffalo National Park. With 47 campsites nestled among towering snow gums, this spot offers options for tents, small caravans and campervans. For those craving even more tranquillity, walk-in campsites are also available. The fresh mountain air is perfect for invigorating walks on the Mount Buffalo plateau, followed by a hot shower at the campground or a refreshing swim in Lake Catani. Summer camping is available from November until the end of April, starting at $26.60 per night.
If you're after a coastal camping getaway, Cylinder Beach on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) is the place to be. This shady campground on the world’s second-largest sand island is within walking distance of not one, but three beautiful beaches. You could unzip your tent to stunning views of Cylinder Beach, the island’s most popular surfing spot, with Deadmans Beach and Frenchmans Beach also just a short stroll away. There are 59 unpowered tent sites available, starting at $59 a night – a bit more pricey, but worth it for a slice of island paradise.
Tasmania offers up some beautiful beachside campgrounds that really turn their charm on in summer. Tucked within Tasman National Park, this remote spot is bordered by towering forests and the sparkling waters of Fortescue Bay. Spend your days here swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, rock climbing, bird watching or bushwalking to the breathtaking Cape Hauy. There are 50 sites split between two campgrounds, Banksia and Mill Creek, with tank water and gas barbecues also available. Bookings are required from October to late April from just $13 for two people, with additional charges for extra adults and children. You’ll also need a Parks Pass to enter the National Park.
Discover Time Out original video
