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An essential Canberra caravan park and camping guide

Melissa Mason Melissa Mason
Connect with nature at one of these top spots.

Heading to town with the RV in tow or for a relaxed camping trip? There are plenty of caravan parks in Canberra catering to all types of travellers. We’ve rounded up the best options for your next stay, whether you’re after camping spots, caravan and RV sites, cabins or a stylish villa.

In short

Our pick for the best Canberra caravan park from an outstanding list? Cotter Campground will immerse you in the Aussie bush without having to forgo a nice, warm shower and flushing toilet.

1. Alivio Tourist Park

Boronia Villas at the Alivio Tourist Park
Sleep under the stars. (Image: 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 – but it’s just a five-minute drive if that’s more your thing, or you can hire an e-bike on site to tour around.

Sites can be a bit packed, especially during high seasons, and some reviewers found the cabin facilities a little on the older side, but overall the park has everything you’ll need. Think onsite restaurant, clean camp kitchen, full amenities and a water park that could rival a theme park offering, so you know the kids will be entertained for hours. There’s even an outdoor cinema for cosy movie nights with the family, and avid wildlife watchers will love all the Australian critters around the park! Due to all the creature comforts, prices are a little higher than usual, but definitely worth it.

Address: 20 Kunzea Street, O’Connor ACT

2. Capital Country Holiday Park

lakeside cabins at Capital Country Holiday Park, Canberra
Settle into tranquil lakeside cabins. (Image: 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. Our pick? The Lake Villa, which has a balcony perched next to the on-site lake, making it the perfect spot for an evening drink.

Set on 15 hectares, the holiday park recently underwent a renovation of its recreational facilities, and now has an updated putt putt golf course, outdoor games area for basketball, soccer and beach volleyball, a seriously fun and huge futsal dart board, plus a brand new playground for the kids. 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. Discovery Parks – Canberra

The modern, recently developed Discovery Parks – Canberra 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. The location can’t be beat, too – close enough to the city centre to make exploring easy, but in a quiet area for peaceful evenings.

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.

Address: Corner of Federal Highway and Old Well Station Road, Gungahlin ACT

4. Canberra Holiday Village

the BBQ area at Canberra Holiday Village
Fire up the grill in the expansive BBQ area. (Image: Canberra Holiday Village)

Conveniently situated in Symonston, close to Canberra’s CBD, Canberra Holiday 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 (visitors are often impressed with the prices during high seasons), 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

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5. Crestview Tourist Park

a deluxe two-bedroom villa at Crestview Tourist Park
Book a stay in one of the deluxe two-bedroom villas at 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. Nearby Kingston and Manuka have some of the best, like Onzieme, with many dotted along the foreshore of beautiful Lake Burley Griffin.

Powered sites are priced reasonably, and the park also offers self-contained accommodation in the form of villas (some of which can accommodate up to 12 people) 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.

Address: 81 Donald Road, Karabar NSW

6. Eaglehawk Park

the cabins at the Eaglehawk Park Canberra
The cosy cabins are set among lush gardens. (Image: Eaglehawk Park Canberra)

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. One real highlight is the Eagle Hawk Hotel, just a short stroll away, offering great pub fare and entertainment. Don’t miss the Thursday night meat raffle – you could be cooking up a storm in the communal BBQ area all weekend.

Address: 1246 Federal Highway Service Road, Sutton NSW

7. Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park

the scenic Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park
Views don’t get more serene than this.

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, although buses service the area regularly and can drop you right into town. 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, and even the riverside sites are in range of the park’s free WiFi. 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.

Address: 41A Morisset Street, Queanbeyan NSW

8. Exhibition Park

the caravan and campground at Exhibition Park Canberra
Exhibition Park is a central place to camp or caravan in Canberra.

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, and the park is closed for certain events throughout the year.

Address: Corner Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell ACT

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9. Cotter Campground

the entrance to Cotter Campground
Escape from the city noise at Cotter Campground.

Just 25 minutes outside of Canberra, you’ll find Cotter Campground , set on the tranquil Cotter River where it meets the mighty Murumbidgee. With hot showers, potable water, flushing toilets, barbecues and dishwashing facilities, it’s on the more glamorous end of Canberra camping spots, so it’s great if you want to stay somewhere for a while (or just like a few creature comforts).

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.

Address: 1691 Cotter Road, Stromlo ACT

10. Woods Reserve Campground

the lush bushlands at Woods Reserve Campground
Embrace seclusion in the lush bushlands at Woods Reserve Campground.

Note: Woods Reserve Campground is closed until mid-2026 for an upgrade of facilities.

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.

Address: Corin Road, Paddys River ACT

11. Honeysuckle Campground

Known for its clean facilities and proximity to walking trails, Honeysuckle Campground is filled with history, including remnants of an old space tracking station. The Australian Alps Walking Track passes the campsite, so keen hikers can head off to explore nearby Mount Tennent or Booroomba Rocks, too. Entry is free, you just need to BYO firewood and water.

Address: Corin Road, Paddys River ACT

Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
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From coast to bush: these are Gippsland’s best hikes

    Michael Turtle Michael Turtle
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    Video credit: Tourism Australia

    From coast to mountains, hiking in Gippsland offers a stunning array of landscapes, with trails that take you deep into the region’s heritage.

    I step out onto the sand and it cries out underfoot. Kweek! I take another step and there’s another little yelp. Screet! Picking up the pace, the sounds follow me like my shadow, all the way down to the water. It’s obvious how this spot got its name – Squeaky Beach – from the rounded grains of quartz that make the distinctive sounds under pressure.

    For many, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the gateway to Gippsland, and the best way to explore it is by walking its network of hiking trails, from coastal gems such as Squeaky Beach through to the bushland, among the wildlife. But it’s still just a taste of what you’ll find on foot in the region.

    Venture a bit further into Gippsland and you’ll discover the lakes, the rainforest, and the alpine peaks, each changing with the season and offering summer strolls or winter walks. Just like that squeaky sand, each step along these trails has something to tell you: perhaps a story about an ancient spirit or a pioneering search for fortune.

    The best coastal hikes in Gippsland

    sunset at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Wilsons Promontory National Park is a sprawling wilderness with many coastal bushland trails. (Image: Mark Watson)

    Wilsons Promontory National Park (or ‘The Prom’, as you’ll end up calling it) is an easy three-hour drive from Melbourne, but you might ditch the car when you arrive, with much of the park’s 50,000 hectares accessible only by foot. From the inky water of Tidal River (dyed dark purple by abundant tea trees), I like the easy walks along the coast, among lichen-laden granite boulders, to golden beaches and bays.

    a couple on Mount Oberon
    Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Oberon. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    The trail to the panoramic views at the summit of Mount Oberon is a bit harder, up steep timber and granite steps, but it’s a popular 6.8-kilometre return. The more remote hikes are found through the open banksia and stringybark woodland of the park’s north, or along the multi-day Southern Circuit, which ranges from about 35 to 52 kilometres, with sunrises and sunsets, kangaroos and cockatoos, and maybe even whales.

    a golden sand beach at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Walk ‘The Prom’s’ golden sand beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

    You might also see whales on the George Bass Coastal Walk, even closer to Melbourne on the western edge of Gippsland. This dramatic seven-kilometre trail along the clifftops takes in sweeping views of the wild ocean, occasionally dipping down from grassy green hills to coastal gullies and a secluded beach. It also now links into the Bass Coast Rail Trail for an extra 14 kilometres.

    the George Bass Coastal Walk
    George Bass Coastal Walk trails for seven kilometres along clifftops. (Image: Visit Victoria/Time Out Australia)

    Over at the eastern edge of Gippsland, in Croajingolong National Park, you can wander along the lakeshores beneath koalas and around goannas (I keep my distance since one chased me here!). For those who are even more adventurous, the park is also the starting point for the 100-kilometre Wilderness Coast Walk, usually done over seven days.

    the Croajingolong National Park, Gippsland
    Wander along the lakeshores in Croajingolong National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    The best bush hikes in Gippsland

    the Baw Baw National Park
    The alpine heath of Baw Baw National Park. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Deep in the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine at Walhalla, mining guide Richard tells me how this small town in the mountains east of Melbourne boomed when prospectors found gold here in 1862. These days, you’ll find most of the town’s treasure – its heritage – above ground, with the Walhalla Tramline Walk a wonderful way to explore it.

    Just seven kilometres long, the walk takes you through decades of Gold Rush history, following the original rail trail from lush bushland to the mining sites, and through the charming village of just 20 residents with its wooden cottages and old shopfronts adorned with turn-of-the-century advertising posters. Blazing a trail where trailblazers once opened up the region, this is also the starting point for the 650-kilometre Australian Alps Walking Track.

    Nearby, Baw Baw National Park has walks through gnarled snow gums and alpine heaths that show off the colourful wildflowers in summer and the pristine carpet of white in winter. Several trails are perfect for snowshoes, including a 45-minute route from St Gwinear up to vast views across the Latrobe Valley.

    Further up into the mountains, the Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Loop Walk is an easy 2.2-kilometre path that serenades you with the sound of flowing water as you pass mossy rocks and tree ferns en route to two sets of waterfalls cascading over boulders in the remote wilderness.

    The best cultural hikes in Gippsland

    the Mitchell River National Park, Gippsland
    Hike the Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    Across a pool in a natural sandstone amphitheatre, deep within a cave behind a waterfall, it’s said the Nargun has its lair. A fierce creature, half human and half stone, that abducts children and can’t be harmed by boomerangs or spears, the story of the Nargun has been told around the campfires of the local Gunaikurnai people for generations.

    As a culturally significant place for women, hikers are asked not to go into the Den of Nargun, but a 3.4-kilometre loop walk leads you through a rainforest gully to the entrance where you can feel the powerful atmosphere here in Mitchell River National Park, along Victoria’s largest remaining wild and free-flowing waterway.

    the bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park
    Bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    The Den of Nargun is part of the Bataluk Cultural Trail, a series of important traditional Gunaikurnai sites through central Gippsland. Another location is Victoria’s largest cave system, Buchan Caves Reserve, with trails to important archaeological sites of human artefacts up to 18,000 years old. The FJ Wilson Interpreted Walk includes the naturally sculpted white limestone steps of the 400-metre-long Federal Cave, while the Granite Pools Walk goes among tall timber and moss-covered gullies.

    the ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park
    The ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park. (Image: Josie Withers)

    Also important to the Gunaikurnai people is Tarra-Bulga National Park, known for its ancient myrtle beeches and enormous mountain ash trees. Just 40 minutes return, the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk offers a taste of this verdant landscape, while the Grand Strzelecki Track takes you deep into the lost world of forest giants on an epic 100-kilometre trail rich with tradition.

    A traveller’s checklist

    Staying there

    the WildernessRetreats in The Prom
    Wilderness Retreats in The Prom. (Image: Christian Pearson)

    Wilderness Retreats in Wilsons Promontory offers glamping-style tents with luxurious queen beds. Star Hotel is a reconstruction of a Gold Rush-era hotel from 1863 in the heart of heritage Walhalla. Caves House is a historic three-bedroom house with views over the Buchan River.

    Eating there

    the Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    Enjoy a post-hike lunch at Carrajung Estate. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Kilcunda General Store serves great coffee and meals of local produce at the George Bass Coastal Walk. Alpine Trout Farm is located near Toorongo Falls in Noojee. Fish for your own lunch and barbecue it with the provided cookware.

    Carrajung Estate is a short drive from Tarra-Bulga National Park. The winery’s restaurant offers a seasonal menu of regional ingredients and you can stay at The Lodge.

    a seafood feast at Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    The table is set for a seafood feast at the estate.

    Video credit: Tourism Australia