Queenslanders love sunshine, rugby league and camping, and for two of those magical things, the season is upon us. Sorry footy fans. So load up the swag, the rod, the eski and some mates, and check out our top picks for camp sites within cooee of Brisbane.
Bigriggen is 100 acres of wild parkland, situated to the west of the Gold Coast. While it’s a popular spot, the local council has wisely capped the number of campers who can stay in the park at one time, meaning you can still capture that ‘gone bush’ feeling. There’s some great hikes from Bigriggen, and you’ll also find luscious swimming holes and plenty of native flora and fauna. It’s truly one of QLD’s best kept secrets.
You can reserve a tent site, powered site, or just about any other kind of camp style accommodation here.
Straddie is an absolute must for any self respecting Queenslander. Or Aussie, for that matter. Obviously the hype train has well and truly arrived at Stradbroke Island, but a midweek trip or even a weekend outside of school holidays are a good way to beat the crowds. There are plenty of campsite options at North Stradbroke, but Cylinder Beach is the ultimate coastal paradise. And while swimming directly in front of your campsite is awesome there are long beach driving roads and more wildlife than you can take in with a one day trip so stay awhile.
You should phone ahead and reserve a site. Find the details here.
Lamington is one of the most beautiful national parks not just in QLD, but in all of Australia. There’s some real stunners in the national park, like the Natural Bridge and Morands Falls, and you’ll also be treated to an abundance of Aussie wildlife. You do need a permit to camp in Lamington National Park, which is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to preserve one of their greatest assets.
Find more info on Lamgington Park and how to camp there, here.
Peach Trees is ideal for a family getaway. Situated beside the picturesque Yabba Creek, there’s stacks of activities to keep the kids busy with bushwalks aplenty, swimming and wide open spaces for a game of cricket. There’s also a super cool suspension bridge across the creek and fire pits and BBQ’s are readily available. In short, it’s the ideal family campground.
More info on Peach Trees can be found here.
Charlie Moreland has plenty to offer the camper who loves to get away from it all. It’s basic, with no showers and drop toilets. But the creek running through the site is good enough for a wash at the end of a long day of hikes and basking in the serenity of the Aussie bush. Speaking of hikes, you can go on a brilliant 9km round trip up to the Mt Allan fire tower for a panoramic view of the Conondale ranges.
Charlie Moreland is usually pretty quiet, but check here for availability.
If you’re keen to get away from the stresses of life in the city, you’ve really got no excuse. QLD is chocka block of great campsites, and they’re waiting for you! So go get amongst it and we’ll see you there.
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