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An essential Canberra caravan park and camping guide

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

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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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8 Northern Territory secrets the locals don’t want you to know

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
    Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

    Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

    Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

    1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

    Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park, just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

    Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory.
    Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

    2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

    Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole, open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

    Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park
    Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

    The Tiwi Islands, a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

    Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

    A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space.
    Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

    4. Dine in Darwin

    Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets, Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets.

    Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

    A bowl of Laksa.
    Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

    5. Up close with Uluṟu

    The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

    There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

    A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory.
    Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

    6. Drive the Red Centre Way

    From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

    Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

    SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT).
    Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

    7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

    Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa. This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

    Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

    The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden.
    Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

    8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

    Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen.

    Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory.
    Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

    Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com

    An Essential Canberra Caravan Parks & Camping Guide | Australian Traveller