Mt Barney National Park  

If it’s a challenge you’re after, head to Mt Barney National Park. Rugged mountain peaks rise above the surrounding landscape where all camping areas can only be reached on foot. Located about 120km south-west of Brisbane, the ancient forest is popular with bushwalkers and home to many rare animals, plant species and communities. There are no facilities at the campsites and whatever you take in you must take out. You must also apply for a camping permit before pitching your tent. Hiking trails throughout Mount Barney National Park range from moderate to very steep – consider yourself warned! 

Bribie Island 

Just 65km north of Brisbane, Bribie Island is home to several scenic beachside camping spots. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, the expansive Bribie Island National Park and Recreation Area is home to quiet campsites with good facilities but you need a 4WD to reach them. Campsite locations are dotted throughout the park including Poverty Creek, Ocean Beach, Lime Pocket, Mission Point and Gallagher Point and each has different amenities and vistas of the island. The Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service has also put together this handy visitors guide to Bribie Island. If you’re after more seaside relaxation and less off-road adventure, Bribie Island Caravan Park offers campsites close to town. Boating and fishing in Pumicestone Passage are popular recreational activities and the island also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. 

Lamington National Park  

Welcome to Yugambeh country. With lush rainforests, ancient trees, spectacular views, extensive walking tracks, exceptional ecological importance and natural beauty, Lamington National Park is where you’ll find the Gondwana Rainforests. The Australian World Heritage Area is an undisturbed and now protected piece of subtropical rainforest filled with unique flora and fauna. Lamington National Park has two campgrounds, the public O’Reilly’s Campground and a private site managed by Binna Burra Mountain Lodge. There are several smaller, remote, walk-in bush camping sites throughout the park but they are closed in December and January to allow the area to regenerate. 

North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah 

North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah is home to some of the most spectacular scenery found anywhere in Australia. Gather your family or friends and get the barge to the island famous for its scenic headlands, rolling surf and endless white sandy beaches. Three little townships provide a relaxed village atmosphere and you can whale watch from Point Lookout, the best land-based whale-watching site in the world. 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 island’s freshwater lakes. All camping on the island is managed by Minjerribah Camping with access to hundreds of campsites at Adder Rock, Bradbury’s Beach, Flinders Beach, Cylinder Beach, Main Beach, Thankful Rest, Home Beach or Amity Point. You can even camp with your dog at Flinders or Main beaches. 

Moreton Island/Mulgumpin 

Just a short and scenic island hop from Brisbane is Moreton Island National Park. Take the barge or ferry across Moreton Bay to discover miles of beautiful beaches, tall sand dunes, crystal clear creeks and lagoons, natural flora, wild marine life and abundant wildflowers. Moreton Island is home to several beautiful camping spots including North Point, Blue Lagoon, Ben-Ewa, The Wrecks and Comboyuro Point, with facilities ranging from fire pits and drinking water stations to amenities blocks. 

D’Aguilar National Park  

D’Aguilar National Park starts just 10km from Brisbane’s city centre and stretches north into the Moreton Bay Region. Only a short drive from The City you’ll discover remote gorges, sheltered pockets of subtropical rainforest, expanses of eucalypt woodland and spectacular views of Moreton Bay. Covering 36,000 ha, the park has endless walking trails and outdoor activities plus an abundance of campsites. Both Neurum Creek and Archer campgrounds have cooking and bathroom facilities or, if you want to rough it, test your bush camping skills at eight secluded walk-in sites at Dundas Road, South Kobble, Middle Kobble, North Kobble, Northbrook Mountain, Scrub Road, England Creek and Light Line Road. A network of trails provides access to hikers and links to the townships of Mount Nebo and Mount Glorious.   

Glamping  

If the idea of camping in the lush surrounds of nature is appealing but the reality of bush toilets and sleeping on the ground is a deterrent, add a touch of luxury to your outdoor stay with a glamping experience. Minjerribah Camping manages glamping sites at Cylinder Beach, Adder Rock, Amity Point and Bradbury’s Beach while Castaways Moreton Island has beautifully furnished glamping cabins complete with queen size beds, private ensuites and verandas. For a luxurious experience immersed in nature at Scenic Rim, book glamping accommodation at Ketchup’s Bank Glamping, Mount Barney Lodge, Nightfall or Spicers Canopy Luxury Tents. Looking for more inspiration? 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.