2012 Readers’ Choice Awards: Best Campsite or Caravan Park

Big4, Adventure Whitsunday Resort

Surrounded by 26 acres of botanical gardens and boasting the biggest lagoon-style pool in Airlie Beach, this Big4 outpost was always going to be a top contender.

With accommodation ranging from budget camp sites to self-contained three-bedroom cabins, entries consistently credited the property for being clean, convenient and great value for money.

But it seems young families are the resort’s biggest customer, particularly impressed by the children’s playground facilities.

One reader voted for the resort for its “lush tropical grounds, modern cabins with Tim Tams on arrival, loads of activities for the kids and easy access to Airlie Beach’s main street”, while another said it was “huge with loads of playgrounds, water activities and entertainment such as movie nights for the whole family.” adventurewhitsunday.com.au

Finalists

It was a close call with Ayers Rock Campground (ayersrockresort.com.au) nipping at the winner’s heels, while Big4 Cania Gorge Caravan and Tourist Park (cania-gorge.qld.big4.com.au) proved a big hit for young families. Clarkes Beach Holiday Park (clarkesbeach.com.au) on Byron Bay’s beachfront was again a favourite after taking the title last year, as was newcomer Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort (coconut.com.au).