Queensland camping tips: how to ace being a first time camper
How-to
By Danielle Reckless
Pitching a tent in the great outdoors can be a little daunting for first-timers, but it needn't be.
Here in Queensland, our vast landscapes and national parks are open to everyone. And you don't need to be an intrepid adventurer, or have all the backpacking bells and whistles, to do it. Follow these simple Queensland camping tips and you'll be soaking up the serenity of our natural playground in no time.
Choose your campsite wisely
First time camping? Pick somewhere that’s going to make it really easy on you, because you don't need to go from zero to Bear Grylls overnight.
A little research goes a long way here. Find out what facilities you’ll have before you jump in the car. Some campgrounds will have all the mod-cons, from shower/toilet blocks to camp kitchens and potable water. Others won’t be more than a bare patch of ground to pitch your tent.
These national park campgrounds are perfect for beginners. It might also help to pick somewhere close to home for your first adventure: luckily, there are plenty of secret and locally-loved campgrounds near Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
Just remember that well-equipped locations tend to be popular, so if you’re going on a weekend or during school holidays, book ahead or get there early to secure a prime spot.
Set yourself up for a good night's sleep
You’re going to need a few things to get through the night: a tent, your pillow, a sleeping bag and sleeping mattress.
When choosing a tent, think about how many people will be sharing it. A simple pop-up tent is great, but an extra layer of cover over the top (a fly) will really help keep you dry ithrough dew or rain.
Outdoor gear can be expensive, so consider borrowing some of the bigger ticket items from your more outdoorsy friends while you dip a toe in. Then, invest in good quality weather-durable gear that will stand the test of time.
Bring your chefs hat
Not literally, but you can put down that dehydrated meal kit. Setting up camp doesn't mean throwing out your tastebuds, so bring your feast to the outdoors. Easy to cook meals like barbeques, salads and one-pan meals are great, unfussy options.
Count out your meals before you go so you don't carry more than you need. Consider splitting meals amongst your fellow campers so each person is responsible for bringing the food for one mealtime. A car-fridge or good esky is perfect for keeping food cool on a camping trip.
But the ultimate car-camping hack? Cook a curry or chilli a few days before you leave, and pop it in the freezer. Not only will you have an easy-to-heat-up meal ready to go, it'll act as an extra ice brick in your esky until you eat it.
Don't forget your cooking oil, pan, utensils, and detergent and a cloth to clean up after each meal. Cut down on single-use waste and try to bring your picnicware rather than buying disposable plates and cups.
Practice makes pitch-perfect
Photo by @larissadening
It’s amazing how easy it is to put up a tent these days. That said, sometimes those ‘five minute tents’ can take a little more than five minutes to get right; and you don’t want to be fumbling with the instructions in the dark or as rain hits.
Practice before you go camping: set up the tent in your backyard or a local park. This also helps to double check that you have all the right parts with you; a missing peg or pole can really dampen your spirits - and your night.
Know what you need to be comfortable
There’s no prize for who can rough it the most. While you shouldn’t pack everything plus the kitchen sink, if you know what makes you comfy – bring it. Tend to feel the cold? Bring an extra blanket for around the fireplace. Grumpy without your morning coffee? Pack a camp kettle and your favourite brew. Instant coffee will do, but a French Press and a little pre-ground coffee will elevate your breakfast (and make you a favourite amongst your fellow campers).
Here’s a handy camping checklist to get you started.
Light your fire
Sitting around a crackling campfire, sharing stories, and toasting s'mores is one of the best bits of a camping trip. But first thing’s first: check the campground rules, local restrictions and only use designated campfire spots. Double check for any fire bans that might be in place, particularly in summer months.
If you're new to lighting your own campfire, make sure you have a lighter, fire-starter, kindling and firewood with you for the best chance of success. And remember, never leave a fire unattended and ensure its properly extinguished before you head home.
And definitely don't forget the marshmallows.
Leave it as you found it
Be conscious of the environment and take your rubbish with you. Pack garbage bags in your camp kit, and only leave them at designated waste stations or take them home with you.
Speaking of good neighbours, keep in mind that wild birds, koalas, kangaroos and wallabies are probably also enjoying your campsite, so be sure to share the space respectfully and don't leave food out that they can nibble.
Make the most of the adventure around you
Odds are that there's plenty to do and explore right on the doorstep of your campground. It might be a lake perfect for fisjhing and kayaking. A quiet beach calling for a morning swim. Or bushwalking trails waiting to be explored, that lead to a freshwater swimming hole or a lookout for serious stargazing.
Read up on what to do in the area before you set off, and get ready for a great time in the great outdoors.
Once you’ve found your feet, you’ll be amazed where camping in Queensland can take you: from wild off-the-grid campsites, to islands the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, deep into national parks or backpacking along these Great Walks.
