The best campervan holiday spots in Queensland
List
By Sarah Bristow
Ready yourself for an adventure on the open road. Embarking on a van journey is one of the best ways to see Queensland’s diversity in its entirety, from its secluded islands to its bustling cities. And it seems others are coining on, with campervan travel on the rise.
Thankfully whether your destination is the luscious rainforest canopies of the Wet Tropics or the arid red deserts of Outback Queensland, there’s a place to pull up for the night. We’ve made it easy for you ahead of your journey. Here you’ll find a collection of the best campervan spots in Queensland, from foliage-laden National Parks to beachside grounds within inches of the waves.
By the Beach
Cotton Tree Holiday Park
It’s in the middle of the Sunshine Coast that you’ll find Cotton Tree and its Holiday Park namesake. On the cusp of Cotton Tree Beach and the calm waters of Maroochy River both and their main drags, this campervan spot is heavy on convenience. While there’s a swimming pool right next door, it would be a shame to miss out on your chance to enjoy the watersports available - there’s kite-surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and more.
Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park
Perch yourself on the waterfront at the Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park, which occupies two prime beachfront locations in one of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular destinations. There are two sites to choose from - the oceanfront Esplanade Holiday Park, or the more secluded Parkyn Parade site, a little back from the beach. Had enough swimming? Spend the day on Mooloolaba’s Esplanade or explore the neighbouring Underwater World Sea Life Aquarium.
Airlie Beach
Nudging the Great Barrier Reef and the much loved Whitsunday Islands is NRMA Airlie Beach Holiday Park in the Whitsundays’ Airlie Beach. A gateway to the iconic reef beyond, use your time on the mainland to plan your beach-based getaway on the gaggle of 74 islands within arm’s reach. Or explore Airlie Beach proper, strolling your way to town centre, and spending time on Cannonvale Beach.
Cathedrals on Fraser
Embrace the adventure potential of rugged K’gari (Fraser Island). The World Heritage-listed island is home to Cathedrals on Fraser holiday park among its natural wonders. Nestled amongst the multi-coloured sand formations that give the park its name, this campervan spot is one of the best in Queensland thanks to its seclusion, and access to plenty of places to swim, fish, and off-road.
Photo by @hilltopsandflipflops
Cape Tribulation Camping
A trip to Cape Tribulation Camping belongs on every bucket list - after all this is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, where the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area meets the waters of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Spend your days snorkelling, exploring the many bushwalking tracks and boardwalks, and keeping an eye out for resident flora and fauna, including cassowary.
Palm Cove Holiday Park
You’ll find yourself in paradise at NRMA Palm Cove Holiday Park, which sits along one of the state’s most beautiful beaches. Sitting pretty at the northern end of the palm-lined promenade, this campervan stop is within walking distance of ample shopping, spa, fishing, and dining potential. Outdoor enthusiasts will also be tempted by the location - Cape Tribulation, Kuranda, and the Great Barrier Reef are just a day trip away, and Cairns is around the corner.
Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park
On the southern end of the Gold Coast is the ever-popular Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park. Peering over the estuary, this stay will tempt water sports fans who are eager to frolic in the calm waters of neighbouring Tallebudgera Creek. Though those wishing to venture further afield will find a patrolled surf beach just a stroll down the road, and Burleigh Head National Park as well as the Gold Coast’s crew of theme parks a short drive away.
Captain Cook Holiday Village, 1770
Make way for the Southern Great Barrier Reef and on its edge, you’ll come across the sleepy seaside town of 1770. Named in ode to its discovery, this picturesque region is these days famed for its fishing and surfing, as well as its access to the reef. Spend your days meandering around nearby Lady Musgrave Island or Fitzroy Reef and your nights catching some shut-eye at the Captain Cook Holiday Village cabins.
By the Bush
Thunderbird Park, Mount Tamborine
A foray through the Gold Coast Hinterland will help you forget all about the region’s famous beaches. Just 45-minutes’ drive from the bright lights of Surfers Paradise you’ll greet the serenity of Tamborine Mountain. Reconnect back with nature during your stay at Thunderbird Park, where freshwater rock pools, waterfalls, high ropes courses and horse riding are all a part of the package. Not mentioning the chance to fossick for thunder eggs.
Borumba Deer Park, Imbil
En route further north to Cairns? Stop over at Borumba Deer Park in Imbil, in the midst of the idyllic Mary Valley. Encased by 15-acres of bushland, this park will tempt seekers of solitude, and nature lovers alike. Spend the day fishing, swimming, or kayaking around Yabba Creek with your dog in tow as pets are welcome.
Lake Somerset Holiday Park
Families tend to gravitate towards Lake Somerset Holiday Park in Kilcoy and it’s no surprise why when you consider that parks, a playground, basketball courts and a sporting oval are included in the facilities. Not to mention that the campervan spot in Queensland boasts a dam on its doorstep, ideal for kayaking, and throwing in a line.
Mount Barney Lodge
Not far from the outskirts of Brisbane sit a handful of worthwhile campervan spots, including Mount Barney Lodge tucked into the Scenic Rim at the base of Queensland’s second-highest mountain. Picture creeks and swimming holes destined for a dip, alongside Heritage-listed rainforest littered with bushwalking tracks galore. But you don’t have to explore by foot - rock climbing, abseiling, and guided mountain expeditions are all equally popular in these parts.
Queen Mary Falls
Satisfy your cravings to go off-grid at Queen Mary Falls Caravan and Tourist Park, tucked into Main Range National Park, just over two hours drive from the Gold Coast. What this place lacks in mobile reception it makes up for in natural wonder - spend your time testing your bushwalking skills along the Queen Mary Falls circuit, navigating your 4WD through the creeks of Condamine Gorge, and getting up close and personal with the abundance of parrots that call this region home.
In the Outback
Big4 Breeze Holiday Parks Carnarvon Gorge
Get off the beaten track with a trip further west to Big4 Breeze Holiday Parks Carnarvon Gorge in Queensland’s central highlands. On the fringe of Carnarvon National Park, this stopover is a gateway to much adored landmark Carnarvon Gorge, though surrounding ancient rainforest means this holiday park is well worth a visit in its own right. The magic is in the details here - spread across 100 acres, expect camp oven pits, free hot showers, and a daily happy hour for guests.
Outback Queensland is made for road tripping (and campervans), so you’ll find campervan hot spots throughout most towns. Here’s a few ideas to get you started:
Winton – Winton Wanderers Caravan Park and Matilda Country Tourist Park
Richmond - Lake Fred Tritton at the Richmond Lakeview Caravan Park
Hughenden – Allen Terry Caravan Park
Barcaldine – Roses ‘N’ Things Caravan Park and Tea Garden and Barcaldine Tourist Park
Charleville - Bailey Bar Caravan Park and Cobb & Co Caravan Park
Julia Creek – Julia Creek Caravan Park
If camping is more your style, you’ll find more Outback camping spots right here.
