Enjoy a romantic getaway, quality time with your family, or escape into tranquillity with unobstructed views. Best of all, with a camper you have the freedom to explore these secluded spots at your own pace.
Where you can park a campervan in Australia
There are so many options to park up for a good night’s sleep. While you can’t just park anywhere, there is a huge array of holiday parks and freedom camping spots available all around Australia.
A few considerations when deciding where to park:
- Be mindful of ‘no camping’ and time-limited parking signs to avoid parking fines.
- Be respectful of Aboriginal culture: some sites are frowned upon for camping.
- Follow the leave no trace rules.
- Help keep parks and reserves in good shape by maintaining respectful and tidy shared spaces, especially remote spots that aren’t monitored as often.
Where you can find secluded camping spots in Australia
In Australia, secluded or remote areas are sometimes the best places to find the best secret camping spots. Deep in the outback and the small remote lesser-known towns, you are bound to find a great little spot to park up. However, ensure you know exactly what you need for your trip before hitting the open road. Here is a list of things to consider when you’re planning a remote camping trip:
Always research your destination and route
When travelling to secluded destinations, it is important to research your route to check the proximity to the nearest fuel stations and shops. That way, you can make plans to stock up on supplies when they are more affordable and available. The thl Roadtrip app is a great tool to help you plan out your travel itinerary and ensure you are well prepared for your trip.
Pack appropriately
A great advantage to motorhome travel is that you always have your travel essentials with you. Pack a diverse range of clothes and other essentials so that you're prepared for the ever-changing Australian weather. And, don’t forget to pack sun protection and bug spray!
Download offline maps
Having a good map to navigate to your secluded spot is essential when travelling to some of the top-secret camping spots in Australia. The thl Roadtrip app is a perfect companion with its offline map capabilities. Create your itinerary and have it available on your phone at all times (download for iPhone here or Android here).
Explore the surrounding areas
Secluded spots will often be tucked away from city centres in natural landscapes. Get the most out of these spots by getting out and exploring surrounding areas. These can include anything from local beach areas, national parks and surrounding smaller towns.
Explore your campsite options
While websites can be a great resource for finding the best camping spots, sometimes you will find local secluded secret spots by chatting to the locals or other travellers. Chances are they may know an even better place to explore or park up for the night.
The best secret camping spots in Australia (by state)
Best secret camping spots in Victoria
1. Tarra Valley Caravan Park, Victoria
Tarra Valley Caravan Park is located near the beautiful Tarra River, only a short 2-hour drive from Melbourne; this is Gippsland's best-kept secret. Affectionately known as ‘Fernholme’ by the locals, this is the perfect place to go hiking, mountain biking, and explore the beauty of Tarra Bulga National Park.
- Cost per night: $50 AUD for a powered site for 2 people.
- What’s on-site: Powered site for 2 people, facilities, fire drums on sites (fire restriction permitting).
- Things to do: Explore Cyathea Falls, surf Ninety Mile Beach, take in the spectacular views from Wilsons Promontory, play a round of golf at Yarram golf club.
2. Wakiti Creek Holiday Park, Victoria
This resort oasis is located just 30 minutes from the border town of Echuca and the Murray River. Wakiti Creek Holiday Park is the perfect natural bushland home base to explore the beauty of the Murray and surrounding area. With plenty of room to spread out, you can spend your days exploring and then come back to relax and unwind in the tranquillity this spacious property has to offer.
- Cost per night: $32-$44 (depending on time of year) for a powered site for 2 people.
- What’s on-site: Facilities include camp kitchen, campfires, canoe hire, tennis court, playground, swimming pool.
- Things to do: Go for a mountain bike ride, explore local wineries, head to the Murray River to go fishing, head to markets in Moama.
3. Happy Wanderer Resort, Victoria
Happy Wanderer Holiday Park is dubbed ‘A place to stay… for more than a day’, with so much on offer it’s easy to see why. Located in the Grampians National Park, this resort gives the perfect base to experience the beauty of the Grampians. Meet the local kangaroos and emus as they wander around the campsite head out for bushwalks to explore the waterfalls and lookouts.
- Cost per night: $34 AUD (or $40 for an ensuite) for a powered site for 2 people.
- What’s on-site: Powered site, laundry facilities, BBQ nearby, swimming pool tennis court, playground, general store, petrol, liquor store.
- Things to do: Explore the unparalleled beauty of the Grampians National park, hike to MacKenzie Falls (one of the largest waterfalls in the state), check out the Balconies (cliff line overlooking Victoria Valley), visit the Brambuk Living Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
Best secret camping spots in South Australia
4. Cable Bay Campground, South Australia
Cable Bay Campground is located near the entrance to Innes National Park, this peaceful campsite on the Yorke Peninsula offers magnificent views of the rugged South Australian coastline. With only 8 camp spots in total, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. Wander down to the beach to take advantage of the incredible fishing or unwind with a book seaside.
- Cost per night: $16 for an unpowered site (+$10 car entry to the park).
- What’s on-site: Drop toilet, wood barbeques.
- Things to do: Fishing, head into Innes National Park to West Cape Lookout, visit the Ethel shipwreck.
5. Talia Caves Campground, South Australia
The rustic Talia Caves Campsite is the perfect overnight rest stop to experience this must-see tourist attraction on the Eyre Peninsula. Enjoy a morning coffee perched on the edge of these stunning limestone cliffs before heading out to enjoy the day rock fishing or exploring Talia caves and the surrounding rock pools.
- Cost per night: Free.
- What’s on-site: No amenities on site (must be self-contained).
- Things to do: Explore Talia Caves, head into Elliston to enjoy their famed sunsets.
Image Source: Tourism Australia Image Library
6. Clare Valley Camping Park, South Australia
Tucked away on the banks of Burra Creek, Clare Valley Camping Park is the perfect secluded spot to explore Clare Valley. After a peaceful night on the banks, head into Clare Valley to rent a bike and enjoy the eucalypt lined paths as you explore the many wineries on offer in this famed wine region.
- Cost per night: From $30 for a powered site for 2 people
- What’s on-site: BBQ, laundry facilities, dump point, camp kitchen
- Things to do: Tour the Clare Valley wineries and head into town to explore the boutique shops
Best secret camping spots in Western Australia
7. Lucky Bay, WA
Lucky Bay is widely known for its stunning white beach, turquoise water, and friendly kangaroos. Experience it all at your fingertips at this oceanfront campsite in Cape Le Grand.
- Cost per night: $15 per person ($3-9 for children under 16 yrs).
- What's on-site: Toilets, showers, gas barbeques, picnic tables.
- Things to do: Spend a day at the beach meeting the locals (the kangaroos here are very friendly!), explore the surrounding attractions in Cape le Grand National Park like Hellfire Bay and Frenchman Peak.
Image Source: Tourism Australia Image Library
8. Kurrajong Campground, WA
Tucked away in the sand dunes of Cape Range National Park, Kurrajong Campground offers a secluded base to explore the beauty of this Heritage Listed region. With only a short 150m walk to the beach from camp, you can spend your days swimming, snorkelling and fishing, or jump in your motorhome to drive around and experience the very best of the Ningaloo region.
- Cost per night: $11 per person ($3 per child).
- What’s on-site: Drop toilets.
- Things to do: Fishing, snorkelling, swimming, take a drive out to Yardie Creek gorge and see the wildlife (see if you can spot the rock wallabies), go swimming with the whale sharks.
9. Pemberton Caravan Park, WA
Pemberton is South-Western Australia’s best-kept secret. When driving into this little town, you may not expect to find it filled with hidden gems like walking trails, natural swimming pools, and mountain biking trails. Pemberton Caravan Park is just another one of the gems in this area. Located amongst the trees of the forest park, you can access the beautiful walking trails and bike park right from your site.
- Cost per night: Starting at $30 for a powered site for 2 people.
- What’s on-site: Powered site, facilities.
- Things to do: Go mountain biking, walk in the forest, enjoy a meal at one of the cafes in town, head to explore the Valley of the Giants or go and marvel (or even climb) the 51-metre-high Gloucester tree.
Best secret camping spots in New South Wales
10. Red Cliff Campground, NSW
Red Cliff Campground, a nature based campsite in the Angourie precinct of Yuraygir National Park is a great spot for fishing and swimming, as well as seeing the vibrant birdlife and flora on display.
- Cost per night: $24.60 for two people for an unpowered site.
- What’s on-site: Picnic tables, BBQ facilities, drinking water, toilets.
- Things to do: Go for a picnic at Sharks Bay, walk the freshwater track, paddle along the Esk River.
11. Camp Wambelong, Warrumbungle National Park, NSW
Camp Wambelong is the perfect base to enjoy the spectacular views of Belougery Split Rock. This creekside refuge on the banks of Wambelong Creek. Come to unwind, immerse yourself in nature, and explore the network of walking and bike riding trails of the Warrumbungles.
- Cost per night: $16.40 AUD (for up to 6 people in one vehicle).
- What’s on-site: Toilets and campfire BBQ.
- Things to do: Walk Bluff Mountain, enjoy a picnic at the Canyon picnic area, take in the views from White Gum lookout.
12. Emu Lake campground, NSW
Emu Lake Campground in Kinchega National Park is a true-blue bush adventure. Spot emus stalking around the campsite, visit the historic Kinchega Woolshed and marvel at the incredible sunsets and birdlife. Finish the day by heading to the Shearers’ Quarters close by to make use of the hot showers and bore water.
- Cost per night: $12.30 (for up to 6 people in one vehicle).
- What's on-site: Unpowered site, toilets and showers at Shearers Quarters.
- Things to do: Walks in Kinchega National Park, learn about the local history at Kinchega Visitor Centre, enjoy a picnic at Morton Boulka picnic area.
Best secret camping spots in Queensland
13. Babinda Boulders Camping Area, Queensland
Babinda is a certified RV friendly town 60km south of Cairns. Babinda Boulders Camping Area is a free camping spot nestled between Queensland’s two highest peaks (Mt. Bartle Frere and Mt. Bellenden Ker) and only a short walk to Babinda Boulders. Enjoy the crystal-clear mountain streams, pristine rainforests, and spectacular waterfalls that this region is known for.
- Cost per night: Free.
- What’s on-site: Cold showers, toilets.
- Things to do: Babinda Boulders, swim and slide at Josephine Falls, hike the Two Peaks.
Image Source: Tourism Australia Image Gallery
14. Elphinstone Lake Campground, Queensland
Elphinstone Lake Campground is a top destination for unwinding lakeside, fishing, and kayaking in the Mackay region. Meet ‘Book Book’ the resident rooster, as you pull up to relax at this lakeside campsite and use this as a touchpoint to explore the surrounding area.
- Cost per night: Free.
- What’s on-site: Toilets, showers, wood BBQ, picnic tables.
- Things to do: Enjoy a day on the water, head to Eungella and Finch Hatton Gorge to see Platypus.
15. Moogerah Lakeside Bush Retreat, Queensland
Moogerah Lakeside Bush Retreat is located only a short drive inland from the Gold Coast. At Moogerah you can enjoy bushwalking, water sports, fishing or simply to relax in this Queensland bushland retreat.
- Cost per night: From $35 AUD for a powered site for 2 people.
- What’s on-site: Powered site, toilets, showers.
- Things to do: Bushwalking, fishing, relaxing, watersports.
Best secret camping spots in Northern Territory
16. Karlu Karlu/Devil’s Marbles, NT
Karlu Karlu, otherwise known as Devil’s Marbles, is an internationally recognised symbol of the Australian outback. The Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve is the perfect rest stop along long drives up and down the Stuart Highway. Come here to enjoy the outback scenery, take a walk around to learn about history and marvel at the transformation of the granite of Karlu Karlu into a glowing red as the sun sets over the horizon.
- Cost per night: Starting at $6 AUD per person.
- What’s on-site: Toilets.
- Things to do: Take advantage of the many walks in the area and take a photo with Karlu Karlu.
Image Source: thl Content Hub
17. Gungurul campground, NT
Gungurul Campground is bush camping at its best and one of the quietest campsites to base yourself as you explore the beauty of Kakadu National Park. Kakadu is a one-of-a-kind place to come experience one of the oldest living cultures on earth through rock art as well as to see the saltwater crocodiles and much more.
- Cost per night: $6 per adult and $3 per child.
- What’s on-site: Toilets, picnic area, firepit.
- Things to do: Walk up to South Alligator Valley lookout, enjoy a Kakadu sunset, spot a saltwater crocodile.
Best secret camping spots in Tasmania
18. Spring Bay Hotel, Tasmania
Spring Bay Hotel is located in the marina of a quaint little fishing town, just a short one-hour drive north of Hobart. Tucked behind the hotel is a paddock available for overnight camping for self-contained vehicles. It is a great base to explore everything from Bicheno to Wineglass Bay within only a short drive to these incredible local attractions.
- Cost per night: By donation (contribution supports local fire and ambulance volunteers).
- What’s on-site: Unpowered site.
- Things to do: Wineglass Bay lookout, see the penguins at Bicheno, explore the local fishing spots in Spring Bay.
19. Mount Field National Park, Tasmania
Mount Field is Tasmania’s first national park and has been popular with nature lovers for over a century. Located at the entrance to the park, this camp spot is a great place to explore the fern forests, enjoy a walk, meet the wildlife, and see the abundance of waterfalls.
- Cost per night: $20 for a powered site for 2 people.
- What's on-site: Showers, toilets, coin-operated laundry machines, cooking area, hot water.
- Things to do: Russell Falls, summit Mount Field, visit Lady Barron Falls and Horseshoe Falls, search for platypus at Lake Dobson.
Image Source: Tourism Australia Image Gallery
20. Cosy Corner, Tasmania
Featuring oceanfront views of the iconic white sand beach and orange granite boulders of the Bay of Fires, Cosy Corner is arguably one of the most beautiful camping spots in Tasmania. Spend the day down by the water swimming, fishing, or with a perfect summer read in hand.
- Cost per night: Free.
- What’s on-site: Drop toilets.
- Things to do: Bushwalking, fishing, kayaking, boating, birdwatching.
Ready to find your own piece of camping paradise?
There are so many hidden gems all around Australia ready to be explored. If you’re ready to start exploring these secret spots at your own pace in a motorhome, take a look at our range of premium vehicles and book your motorhome today. Or, if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our travel guides.