An Essential Canberra Caravan Parks & Camping Guide

Heading to town with the RV in tow? There are plenty of caravan parks in Canberra catering to all types of travellers.

Whether you’re a road-tripper looking for a tranquil riverside retreat or an active family needing plenty of activities to keep the kids occupied, Canberra’s caravan parks are plentiful and diverse.

When it comes to camping, there are a lot of free campsites around the city’s outskirts. However, prices for caravan parks in Canberra are competitive, and there are several options for all travels, from budget to comfortable. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the best of Canberra’s caravan parks and campsites.

1. Alivio Tourist Park

Offering a mix of caravan and RV sites, cabins and stylish villas, Alivio Tourist Park is all about proximity – just four kilometres from Canberra’s city centre, keen walkers won’t even need to take the car.

The park has everything you’ll need, with an onsite restaurant, clean camp kitchen, full amenities and water park. There’s even an outdoor cinema for cosy movie nights with the family. Due to all the creature comforts, prices are a little higher than usual, but definitely worth it.

an aerial view of Alivio Tourist Park — Alivio Tourist Park offers great family-friendly facilities.

Address: 20 Kunzea Street, O’Connor ACT

2. Capital Country Holiday Park

A little further out, you’ll find Capital Country Holiday Park , which caters to everyone from tent campers to larger groups. Still close to Canberra’s attractions (a 20-minute drive at most), this holiday park has unpowered and powered sites, en suite sites, cabins and lodges.

Set on 15 hectares, this is also a dog-friendly caravan park, so your furry friend can come on holiday too. There are two bungalows that accept pets, plus four ‘dog freedom’ sites that feature full fencing around your RV or caravan.

Address: 47 Bidges Road, Sutton NSW

3. Canberra Park

The modern, recently developed Canberra Park might be the most stylish caravan park in the region. The state-of-the-art camp kitchen is definitely a highlight, with large, modern fridges, cooking facilities and ample space to sit and enjoy a meal.

Prices are still on the reasonable end, too. However, we wouldn’t recommend this tourist park for those with active little ones looking for entertainment – it is more of an accommodation-focused caravan park suited for couples or families with older children.

a modern kitchen at Canberra Caravan Park — Find a well-equipped communal camp kitchen for use.

Address: 26 Old Well Station Road, Gungahlin ACT

4. Southside Village

Conveniently situated on the outskirts of Narrabundah close to Canberra’s CBD, Southside Village is a popular Canberra caravan park with powered and unpowered sites, plus a range of cabins for those travelling without an RV.

Prices are competitive and affordable, but this is definitely no-frills, budget accommodation – reviews mention sites are on the smaller side and cabin interiors are a little dated. Still, small dogs are allowed in the park, and reviews rave about the friendly staff and clean amenities.

Address: 250 Canberra Avenue, Symonston ACT

5. Crestview Tourist Park

Situated at the south end of Canberra near Queanbeyan, Crestview Tourist Park is a great option if you’re less interested in being close to action and more looking for a relaxing holiday with proximity to some great Canberra restaurants.

Powered sites are priced reasonably, and the park also offers self-contained accommodation in the form of villas and budget-friendly cabins. There is a lovely swimming pool onsite, as well as free coffee at reception, a playground for little ones and wi-fi throughout the park.

a two-bedroom villa at Crestview Tourist Park — Opt for a stay in one of the park’s deluxe villas.

Address: 81 Donald Road, Karabar NSW

6. Eaglehawk Park

Outside town, you’ll find Eaglehawk Park , which offers some of the cheapest accommodation near Canberra for those travelling with caravans and RVs. This doesn’t mean you’ll skip out on style and comfort though.

The park has all kinds of properties, including powered and en suite sites, budget-friendly cabins, cosy cottages and fully furnished villas. there is also an outdoor pool, playground, barbecue area and plenty of green space.

Address: 1246 Federal Highway Service Road, Sutton NSW

7. Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park

Staying at Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park is a good option if you’re arriving with a caravan in tow, although the distance from the CBD will mean ideally, you have a car you can detach for getting around in. A real plus are the riverside caravan sites, which sit on the banks of the Queanbeyan River for an idyllic spot to set up.

All sites have access to power and water, including the designated camping spots. There’s a well-appointed camp kitchen and clean toilets, as well as laundry and drying facilities. The park is also pet-friendly and close to Queanbeyan shops and cafes.

Queanbeyan Riverside Holiday Caravan Park — Views don’t get more serene than this.

Address: 41A Morisset Street, Queanbeyan NSW

8. Exhibition Park

Canberra’s showground, Exhibition Park (or EPIC), offers caravan sites on a sprawling 75-hectare lot just eight minutes from the CBD. The pet-friendly park is a great option for families, with a local farmers market held every Saturday morning on the grounds.

The prices may be considered a little steep, but you’ll be in the centre of town, plus the park has full amenities including toilets, showers and laundry facilities. Bookings are essential.

Exhibition Park campground — Exhibition Park is a central place to camp or caravan in Canberra.

Address: Corner Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell ACT

9. Cotter Campground

Just 25 minutes outside of Canberra, you’ll find Cotter Campground , set on the tranquil Cotter River. With hot showers, potable water, flushing toilets, barbecues and dishwashing facilities, its a Canberra camping spot that can’t be beaten.

If you’re looking for nature experiences, Brindabella Range and Namadgi National Park, are nearby, plus there are walking tracks, fishing and kayaking opportunities within the campground itself. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a platypus splashing about in the river. No dogs allowed.

the signage of Cotter Campground — Escape from the city noise at Cotter Campground.

Address: 1691 Cotter Road, Stromlo ACT

10. Woods Reserve Campground

Not too far from Cotter Campground is Woods Reserve Campground , a dog-friendly site that is also in close proximity to Namadgi. It’s a good option if you’ve brought along the furry family member, but they must remain on leash to protect native wildlife.

It may be a little less luxurious, with no drinking water and no bins, but there are toilet and shower facilities, fire pits, washing amenities and picnic tables onsite. Take a stroll to nearby Gibraltar Falls for a refreshing wild swim.

a scenic view of Woods Reserve Campground in Canberra — Embrace seclusion in the lush bushlands at Woods Reserve Campground.

Address: Corin Road, Paddys River ACT

For more recommendations on where to stay, read our guide to Canberra accommodation for everything from hotels to Airbnbs.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

An essential Canberra caravan park and camping guide