Brisbane:
Camping spots
Whether you’re waking up beside a freshwater lake, falling asleep to the sound of the ocean or swapping your tent for a luxury glamping stay, the Brisbane Region has a camping experience for every type of adventurer. From national parks and bush retreats to island escapes and beachfront campgrounds, here’s where to spend a night – or more – under the stars.
Scenic Rim
Lake Moogerah and Moogerah Peaks
Located in the Scenic Rim, Moogerah Peaks National Park is about 90 minutes South West of Brisbane. Framed by rugged volcanic peaks, the area is a favourite among experienced bushwalkers and climbers. Take it easy by booking a spot by the lake at Lake Moogerah Caravan Park or stay in the national park at the Frog Buttress camping area at Mount French. Spend your days, paddling, fishing, simply soaking up the views, or launch your own vessel on the lake and explore the length of the lake.
Lamington National Park
Welcome to Yugambeh Country. Lamington National Park is home to the Gondwana Rainforests of Australian World Heritage Area, protected subtropical rainforest filled with unique flora and fauna. Explore waterfalls, ancient trees and an extensive network of walking tracks before settling in for a night beneath the rainforest canopy. Lamington National Park has two campgrounds, the public O’Reilly’s Campground and a private site managed by Binna Burra Mountain Lodge, where you’ll wake to birdsong located moments from some of the park’s most spectacular walking trails.
Mount Barney National Park
Rising from the heart of the Scenic Rim, Mt Barney National Park is easily distinguishable for its rugged mountain landscapes and natural beauty. Located about 120 kilometres South-West of Brisbane, the park features dramatic peaks, rare animals, plant species and a network of hiking trails that weave through ancient rainforest. All camping areas are accessed on foot, making it an ideal destination if you love a good adventure! A friendly reminder – be sure to apply for a camping permit before pitching your tent.
Bigriggen Park
Tucked beside a creek in the foothills of the Scenic Rim, Bigriggen Park is a favourite among families, with spacious campsites, swimming spots and easy access to walking trails. Spend the day exploring the surrounding countryside, cooling off in the creek or spotting local wildlife before settling in around the campfire for the evening. With powered and unpowered sites available, it's an easy-going camping destination for everyone, from first-time campers to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.
Moreton Bay Region
Bribie Island
Just 65 kilometres North of Brisbane, Bribie Island is filled with several scenic beachside camping spots. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, the expansive Bribie Island National Park and Recreation Area offers the chance to wake up just steps from the sand, with many quiet campsites accessible by 4WD. Campsite locations are dotted throughout the park including Poverty Creek, Ocean Beach, Lime Pocket, Mission Point and Gallagher Point, each with different vistas of the island scenery. If you’re after more seaside relaxation and less off-road adventure, Bribie Island Caravan Park offers campsites close to town. Whether you are casting a line in Pumicestone Passage or exploring the coastline by kayak, there is plenty to do once you have set up camp. Create a full itinerary with our guide to things to do on Bribie Island!
D’Aguilar National Park
With remote gorges, pockets of subtropical rainforest, expanses of eucalypt woodland and spectacular views of Moreton Bay, D’Aguilar National Park is an easy way to swap city streets for the great outdoors. Beginning just 10 kilometres from Brisbane’s City Centre this sprawling 36,000-hectare park is interwoven with walking trails and an abundance of campsites. From Neurum Creek and Archer campgrounds to England Creek and Light Line Road you can choose from off grid to glamping style. A network of trails wind through the park and link to the mountain villages of Mount Nebo and Mount Glorious – it's easy to spend a weekend exploring this natural playground on Brisbane's doorstep.
Moreton Island/Mulgumpin
Just a short and scenic island hop from Brisbane is Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island) National Park is a true island camping escape. Take the barge or ferry across Moreton Bay to discover kilometres of beautiful beaches, tall sand dunes, crystal clear creeks and lagoons, wild marine life and abundant wildflowers. Scattered across Moreton Island are several beautiful camping spots including North Point, Blue Lagoon, Ben-Ewa, The Wrecks and Comboyuro Point, with facilities ranging from fire pits to amenities blocks. Spend your days sandboarding, snorkelling around the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks or exploring the island's vast network of 4WD tracks before settling in for a night beneath the stars.
Neurum Creek Bush Retreat
Nestled in the Moreton Bay hinterland, bordering D'Aguilar National Park near Mount Mee, Neurum Creek Bush Retreat offers a different side of the Moreton Bay region. The 300-acre property features creek swimming holes, walking tracks and campsites for everyone from swag campers to caravan travellers. Beyond the campground, you're within easy distance of, the Stanley River and the country town of Woodford, making it a great base for uncovering the region's rural charm.
Redlands Coast
North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah
Few camping trips come with ocean views quite like North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah. Just a ferry ride from the mainland, the island pairs scenic headlands, rolling surf and endless white sandy beaches. Between the island’s three townships, it’s easy to fill a few days exploring beaches, local cafes and scenic lookouts. Head to Point Lookout for world-class whale watching, while you’re there, experience some of the best views on the island from The Gorge Walk or take a dip in one of the islands freshwater lakes. All camping on the island is managed by Minjerribah Camping with hundreds of campsites available – plus, you can even camp with your dog at Flinders or Main beaches, so your furry travel companion doesn’t have to miss out!
Glamping
Love the idea of sleeping beneath the stars but not so much the idea of pitching a tent? Glamping delivers the best of both worlds. Wake up by the beach on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah where Minjerribah Camping manages glamping sites at Cylinder Beach, Adder Rock, Amity Point and Bradbury’s Beach or settle into a stylish cabin at Castaways Moreton Island on Moreton Island/Mulgumpin, complete with queen size beds, private ensuites and verandas. For a luxurious experience immersed in nature in the Scenic Rim, book glamping accommodation at Ketchup’s Bank Glamping, Mount Barney Lodge, Nightfall or Spicers Canopy Luxury Tents. Here are the best places to go glamping near Brisbane.
Camping tips
A few things to remember before you set off on your next camping adventure:
- Book campsites before visiting. You may also need a vehicle access permit to reach certain campgrounds. Check the Queensland National Parks Booking Service for more information.
- This information should be used as a guide. If staying in a national park, be sure to book and check the park alerts for planned burns, temporary closures or other notices.
- Remember to pack the essentials: water for drinking, cooking and washing, gas stove or firewood (such as untreated mill off-cuts, not bush timber), rubbish bags and insect repellent. Visitors camping away from facilities are encouraged to bring portable toilets to help reduce bush toileting.
