Camping lets kids get close to nature and try all kids of new experiences, like storytelling around a campfire, cooking off the grid and exploring the great Australian bush.
Here are ten of the best Aussie camping spots for families, as voted by you in the OAWK Readers’ Choice Awards. From Australia’s fabulous family holiday parks to beachfront campgrounds and secluded spots in remote National Parks, there’s something for every family here.
However, there’s one thing all these camping destinations have in common: you’re sure to make memories that last a lifetime. Read on to find out which campsites made the shortlist!
1. BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Airlie Beach, QLD
Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and all its enchanting sights. Nestled in lush garden surroundings, powered sites at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort create a private, peaceful escape for a camping or caravan holiday.
This family-owned and run resort delivers everything you can imagine for a fabulous holiday with kids: an animal park, mini golf, outdoor movies, sensory room, kids’ craft club and a giant waterpark with 13 slides.
As well as the fully-equipped camp kitchen to make mealtimes easy, there’s also an on-site food truck and over 50 eateries nearby. Ensuite sites include a spacious shower, toilet, vanity and storage area for an ultra-convenient camping getaway.
This multi-award-winning resort also offers self-contained cabin and villa accommodation, including accessible cabins that sleep up to six guests. With options for all budgets, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is the number one place to pitch your tent in 2025.
2. The Grampians, VIC
Pitching a tent or parking your campervan in The Grampians is the best way to truly appreciate the region’s natural attractions, including sandstone mountains, wildflowers and wildlife including echidnas and wallabies. The starting points for many great walks are a short stroll from your campsite. You can choose to stay in a national park or holiday park with modern facilities, like NRMA Halls Gap Holiday Park.
3. Blue Mountains, NSW
It may only be two hours from Sydney, but the Blue Mountains offer a true escape from busy city schedules. Highlights include the famous Three Sisters, Scenic World and Jenolan Caves, as well as family-friendly bushwalks throughout the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area to discover hidden waterfalls and scenic valleys. Cosy towns like Katoomba and Leura offer a quick retreat back to civilisation for coffee or a lazy breakfast.
4. K'gari, QLD
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of UNESCO World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) to explore crystal-clear lakes, pristine beaches and rainforest trails. Camping areas with dingo-deterrent fences are recommended for families with children under 15, including Central Station, Dundubara, Lake Boomanjin and Waddy Point. Fenced camping areas are also available at One Tree Rocks, Cornwells, Wongai and Eli Creek.
5. Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, NT
As well as being a spectacular natural formation, Uluṟu is a deeply spiritual place for families to experience. Kids can learn about bush tucker, rock art, and the Tjukurpa creation stories from Uluṟu- Kata Tjuṯa’s Traditional Owners. Book a tour led by an Indigenous ranger or take part in activities such as dot painting workshops.
6. Byron Bay, NSW
Byron Bay may be a trending destination, but we definitely think it’s worth the fanfare. The North Coast hippie haven has come a long way from its counter-culture roots, and while it still remains popular with surfers today, more and more families are flocking to Byron as well.
As well as the beautiful beaches and chic eateries, it’s worth taking the time to explore the lush hinterland and swim in the natural pool at the bottom of Minyon Falls. Byron Bay’s family-friendly attractions also include Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and the gardens at the Crystal Castle.
Discover more: A local mum shares her favourite things to do in Byron Bay
7. Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park, SA
Drive along dusty red roads and walk amongst towering ancient cliffs and craters in the Flinders Ranges, around five hours’ drive north of Adelaide. You can also visit Aboriginal rock art sites and weave your way through settlers’ ruins. Wilpena Pound — a large amphitheatre created through erosion over millions of years — is a must visit, as is William Creek Hotel, located in a small town that is surrounded by the world’s largest cattle station.
8. Jervis Bay, NSW
Located around 200 km from Sydney, Jervis Bay on the NSW South Coast offers an ideal base for a wide range of activities in a pristine natural setting, including swimming, fishing, snorkelling, bushwalking, cycling and boating. Managed in partnership with the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, Booderee National Park offers a range of beachside campgrounds with walk-in and drive-in options.
9. Wilsons Promontory National Park, NSW
On the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, Wilsons Promontory has remote coastal bushland trails and pristine beaches dominated by granite tors. Camp in comfort at Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite. Either way, the local wombats, kangaroos and emus are waiting to meet you. Swim at Norman Beach, just a few minutes’ walk from Tidal River Campground, or go snorkelling in Victoria’s largest marine national park.
Discover more: 11 fantastic Gippsland camping spots and caravan parks
10. Minjerribah - Stradbroke Island, QLD
Local favourite ‘Straddie’ is actually made up of two sand islands: North and South Stradbroke. Head out on a beach camping trip here to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature. There’s no better way to spend some downtime with family than to fill your days fishing, swimming, kayaking or even just sunbathing.
More OAWK Readers' Choice Awards winners for 2025
Keen for more travel inspiration? Check out the winners of these categories in the annual Readers’ Choice Awards:
Opening image: Airlie Beach Lagoon © Tourism and Events Queensland
