Australia is the world’s best country for camping – here’s why

Elizabeth Whitehead Elizabeth Whitehead
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A study has confirmed what we always suspected…

Listen up, happy campers! A study comparing the quality of camping around the world has ruled that Australia tops the list, beating out the USA, Canada and South Africa. It’s a big call to make, but we’ve broken down the reasons why Australia was awarded top gong, plus some of the best campsites the country has to offer.

Why Australia is the best country for camping

The study, carried out by Asilia Africa Lodges , focused on eight different criteria, collectively used to assign each country a rating. These criteria were:

– Wildlife and plant species diversity
– Light pollution levels
– Annual rainfall
– Number of national parks
– Urbanisation rates
– Availability of outdoor activities
– Population density

Australia was awarded a score of 82.25/100, the highest of any country. We shone in all categories, but truly triumphed in our sheer number of national parks – 685 to be exact – covering 28 million hectares total. In particular, the study highlighted the UNESCO-listed Kakadu National Park in the NT, as well as Blue Mountains National Park in NSW as standouts. (Psst, we’ve rounded up the best camping spots in the Blue Mountains here, and the best Kakadu camping here).

a couple sitting, drinking and reading a book outside their tent in Kakadu
Camping in Kakadu is a chance to unplug and unwind. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

The study also noted Australia’s diverse plant and wildlife species and ample places to roam as factors that make the country a camper’s paradise. And we’re inclined to agree.

Mini bubbletent Mirumiru
Camp in a mini bubbletent in the Capertee Valley. (Image: Sera Wright)


Where to camp in Australia

We’ve already rounded up the best campsites in Australia, from camping on the white sands of Lucky Bay WA to Tasmania’s luscious Mt Field National Park. We also have a guide to the best places to camp in winter, from laid-back coastal camping adventures to far-flung outback stations. We also have guides on the prettiest places to camp in Tasmania and luxury glamping in the NT, if you prefer a bit of extra comfort.

Camping Francois Peron National Park
The West Australian Coast is home to an abundance of camping spots. (Image: Getty/dm2912)

Camping can take on many forms, and it doesn’t have to mean roughing it or carrying heavy gear through remote stretches of wilderness. But whether you’re trekking with a tent or parked up by the beach in a comfy campervan, camping close to nature is a thousand-star experience that no luxury resort can replicate.

Elizabeth Whitehead
Elizabeth Whitehead is a writer obsessed with all things culture; doesn't matter if it's pop culture or cultures of the world. She graduated with a degree in History from the University of Sydney (after dropping out from Maths). Her bylines span AFAR, Lonely Planet, ELLE, Harper's BAZAAR and Refinery 29. Her work for Australian Traveller was shortlisted for single article of the year at the Mumbrella Publishing Awards 2024. She is very lucky in thrifting, very unlucky in UNO.
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Incredible day spas and hot springs to visit in Victoria

    Katie Carlin Katie Carlin
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    From geothermal pools and luxury spa sanctuaries, Victoria’s mineral-rich waters and restorative landscapes offer total renewal.

    I pass waving coastal spear-grass and coast saltbush as I follow the curving path through 15 hectares of thoughtfully curated gardens at the Mornington Peninsula’s Alba Thermal Springs & Spa . I hang my robe at the entrance and slip into the first sunken geothermal pool I find – feeling the tension from the 90-minute drive from Melbourne melt away as I watch steam dance across the surface in the late afternoon light. There are 31 pools, a mix of geothermal, cold plunge and botanical, that range in temperature and design, spread over six regions.

    a woman relaxing at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa on the Mornington Peninsula
    Alba Thermal Springs & Spa on the Mornington Peninsula. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    I gravitate toward The Hemisphere, with its dry sauna, steam room, cold plunge and dreamy open-air pool called The Hide. But it’s Alba’s brand-new Sanctuary that really elevates the experience. The five luxurious stand-alone villas and two additional studio rooms opened in June 2025 and feature an indoor fireplace, oversized bathtub with views across the bay, a deck and extensive all-inclusive (minus the cocktails) mini-bar.

    After dining at Alba’s Thyme restaurant, I return to my villa, content to fall asleep early listening to the fire crackle, feeling thoroughly restored. While Alba is one of the newest in the region, it’s certainly not the only place to enjoy a soothing soak. Here are others to book for a wellness weekend.

    Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

    A woman bathes in the new Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa private bathing room with marble tiled walls
    The marble private bathing room is one of five new designs. (Image: Supplied)

    Nestled in the Daylesford region, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has been welcoming guests to its historic bathhouse for 130 years. With a $1.7 million renovation now complete (part of the 21st season of Channel 9’s The Block), find five new private bathing rooms, an apothecary experience where guests blend a custom body scrub and all-new spa treatment menu.

    There are three bathing areas: Bathhouse for communal bathing for all ages, adults-only Sanctuary and a private bathing space for a personalised experience – try the skin-softening Mineral Milk Bath.

    Lake House Daylesford

    the pool at Lake House Daylesford
    The main pool at Lake House Daylesford. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Inciting deep exhales, the spa at Alla Wolf-Tasker’s iconic Lake House has long been a beacon of wellness in the region. Tucked into the cottage gardens that wind down to the lake’s edge, the spa is beautifully and deliberately cloistered away from guests and diners visiting the celebrated on-site restaurant.

    From Ayurvedic facials and hydrotherapy that makes use of Daylesford’s mineral waters, to cocooning thermal rituals and massage, treatments here promote tranquillity. While a day spa experience is delightful on its own, staying on the property adds a luxe layer to your corporeal renewal, especially if you’re in your own private spa villa.

    Metung Hot Springs

    the Metung Hot Springs' glamping tents by the river
    Glamping tents at Metung Hot Springs. (Image: Emily Godfrey)

    Imagine immersing yourself in a barrel overflowing with geothermal water, all while taking in views of Gippsland Lakes. It’s one of several unique bathing experiences available at Metung Hot Springs .

    There’s also a floating sauna and a Reflexology Walk constructed with carefully placed stones designed to stimulate the acupressure points in your feet as you walk. The 12-hectare site opened in 2022 with three bathing areas – Bathing Ridge, Lagoon Precinct and Hilltop Escarpment – and premium glamping tents that feature king-size beds and private bathing barrels.

    Four more blissful day spas to visit

    Lon Retreat & Spa is an award-winning, adults-only retreat on the Bellarine Peninsula.

    Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs features sensory caves and cleansing waterfalls in Warrnambool.

    Peninsula Hot Springs renews with 70 bathing and wellness experiences.

    The Benev is an indulgent spa and luxury accommodation in Beechworth.

    the Peninsula Hot Springs
    Bathe in beautiful surroundings at Peninsula Hot Springs. (Image: Tourism Australia/Harry Pope/Two Palms)