11 sublime places to go camping on the Gold Coast

With an average of 300 sunny days a year, camping on the Gold Coast unleashes lucid exploration in a nature lover’s playground.

Campervan, caravan, trailer, cabin or tent. Whatever your weapon of choice, camping on the Gold Coast offers laidback unwinding amid natural splendour. Spanning kitted-out holiday parks perfect for tireless families, far-reaching campsites flanked by natural wonders and hidden hideaways opening to mountainous views, our pick of the best locations guarantees fun-filled adventure right across the Glitter Strip.

1. Binna Burra Campsite

an aerial view of the mountains surrounding Binna Burra Lodge — Escape to the mountains. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Lamington National Park, 1040 Binna Burra Road, Beechmont
Distance from city centre: 1 hour
Price: $

Amenities: Full shower and toilet facilities that are cleaned every day, coin-operated washing machines, fire pits, electric barbeques, microwave and a communal fridge, plus you can grab milk and ice from the on-site Binna Burra Tea House.

Perks: This ECO-certified paradise is the perfect base camp for people of all ages to explore the Lamington National Park within the Gold Coast hinterland. Wake to the sounds of the rainforest, which encompasses this Gold Coast campground, before taking in breathtaking views from the hinterland to New South Wales’ Tweed. The campsite welcomes tent and swags while a handful of powered drive-on sites invite small campervans. Elsewhere onsite, there’s some of the best Gold Coast glamping, too.

2. The Settlement

The Settlement Camp, Gold Coast — Experience outback living at the Settlement Camp.

Where: Carricks Road, Springbrook National Park
Distance from city centre: 1 hour
Price: $

Amenities: Toilets (but be warned, they don’t flush), a cooking shelter, electric barbeques, and picnic tables. There are no showers or rubbish bins, with campers encouraged to take their rubbish home, or to the Carricks Road community waste and recycling centre. You’ll also need a camping permit, and you’ll need to pay a camping fee, which is $7.25 per night.

Perks: This popular spot offers the only accommodation in Springbrook National Park, hence why it’s often booked out weeks in advance. There are 11 sites for tents, camper trailers and campervans, while caravans are not allowed. Spend your days exploring one of the many hiking trails in the area and evenings getting acquainted with the local glow worm population that put on a show for visitors each night. Avoid the sites closest to the entry if you can because they’re sloped, but no matter where you set up, much-needed shade is readily secured.

3. Ocean Beach Tourist Park

Where: 22 Hythe St, Miami
Distance from city centre: 15 minutes
Price: $

Amenities: Showers and flushable toilets, parents’ bathroom, camp kitchen, accessible bathrooms, coin-operated laundry, kiosk, barbecues and a dump point.

Perks: Location, location, location. Ocean Beach Tourist Park sits on prime real estate in one of the Gold Coast’s most booming locales, within a few minutes’ drive from both Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach while offering its own gorgeous stretch of sand and surf. In terms of holiday park excess, this place is fairly stripped-back (no kids’ club and swimming pool, unfortunately) but its proximity to a patrolled beach makes it a hit all year round. Tents, trailers, campers and caravans are all welcome and you can choose from powered and unpowered sites.

4. Broadwater Tourist Park

kids playing in the pool at Broadwater Tourist Park, Gold Coast — Broadwater Tourist Park has two swimming pools with a shallow area for toddlers to safely play and swim.

Where: 169 Marine Parade, Southport
Distance from city centre: 10 minutes
Price: $

Amenities: Showers and flushable toilets, accessible bathrooms, barbeques, a boat ramp, bouncing pillow, dump point, Foxtel in the recreation room, kiosk, laundry, playground, two swimming pools, tennis court, gas exchange and a camp kitchen.

Perks: Broadwater Tourist Park offers those laid-back camping vibes the Gold Coast is famous for, all while providing endless entertainment options via Surfers Paradise which is just five kilometres away. There are self-contained air-conditioned cabins, as well as camping and caravan facilities on site, all located off the protected shores of the Gold Coast Broadwater. A stack of water sports is also on hand, plus there are waterfront paths to wander. The Rockpools at Broadwater Parklands is an awesome day out for the little ones, too — a splash park within walking distance from the campsite that’s dotted with fountains, a cascading water feature (even the big kids struggle to leave it), shallow wading area and grass made for picnic rugs and snoozing.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

5. Woonoongoora Walkers’ Camp

Where: Numinbah Conservation Area, Springbrook
Distance from city centre: 45 minutes
Price: $

Amenities: Hybrid toilet system and nothing else. You’ll also need a camping permit, and you’ll need to pay a camping fee, which is $7.25 per night.

Perks: Have tent, keen to crash? The Woonoongoora Walkers’ Camp is a walk-in camping site on the Gold Coast that invites hikers tackling the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk (a 54-kilometre stretch that links Lamington and Springbrook National Parks) to stay the night. Just 10 sites are up for grabs, with a maximum of 24 campers on-site per night, and it’s just plain old grass to settle into — no concrete. The payoff is sensational views over the cliffs of the Lamington Plateau, a breathtaking corner of the Gold Coast hinterland.

6. Bigriggen Camping and Caravan Park

the Bigriggen Camping and Caravan Park, Gold Coast — Book your own camper trailer or 4WD caravan and stay in the middle of nature.

Where: 196 Bigriggan Road, Scenic Rim
Distance from city centre: 1.5 hours
Price: $

Amenities: Coin-operated hot showers, flushable toilets, dump point, tank water, open fire pits (BYO firewood) and ice for a fee.

Perks: If your perfect camping on the Gold Coast dream entails simply existing in nature with the background hum of wildlife, you’ll love Bigriggen Camping and Caravan Park. Located in the Scenic Rim, between the Gold Coast and Brisbane, the grounds invite visitors to choose their own spot across 60 acres.

30 powered sites are on hand in addition to the tent space, and all will ensure you wake to views of the Logan River before exploring the serene river-hugging surrounds at your leisure.

7. Spring Gully Stays

camping in the Scenic Rim, Spring Gully Stays — Set up camp within the lush Scenic Rim. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: 334 Sarabah Road, Sarabah
Distance from city centre: 50 minutes
Price: $

Amenities: Toilets, showers and a barbeque area.

Perks: Another hidden secret of the Scenic Rim, Spring Gully Stays accommodates campervans, trailers, tents, and motorhomes, plus there’s a collection of safari tents — perfect for those who fatigue at the thought of setting up shop from scratch. Activities include fishing in the creek, dipping into a freshwater swimming hole, wildlife spotting and spacious grassy lazing.

8. Tamborine Mountain Glades

the Tamborine Mountain Glades retreat, Gold Coast — Invigorate your deep connection to nature at the Tamborine Mountain Glades retreat.

Where: Tamborine Mountain Rd and Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain
Distance from city centre: 50 minutes
Price: $

Amenities: Six private ensuites (unveiled in early 2025) with open-air rain showers and toilets, a traditional amenities block, camp kitchen with electric grill barbeques and a microwave, dining area, and laundry facilities.

Perks: Tamborine Mountain Glades sits on the same site as the Thunderbird Park adventure attraction, where zip-lining, horse riding, a sky-high Tree Top Challenge, mini excavator park and more beckon. The camping grounds are close enough for you to stroll to it all, making it a no-brainer for families looking to fill the morning before unwinding amid beautiful sub-tropical rainforest. The excellent shops and eateries of Tamborine Mountain are also within a short drive, while Cedar Creek Falls is ready to be explored three minutes around the corner. In even more exciting news, the forthcoming SOL Elements, a Japanese-inspired bathhouse that’s set to open in the second half of 2025, will be housed within walking distance from the campgrounds, on the other side of the property. Both powered and unpowered sites invite tents, caravans and everything in between.

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9. BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

cabin exterior at BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park — The family-friendly cabins are well-equipped.

Where: 66-86 Siganto Drive, Helensvale
Distance from city centre: 20 minutes
Price: $

Amenities: Where to begin? There’s a water park, waterslide, outdoor pool with shaded cabanas, table tennis, barbecues, kids’ club, basketball court, hireable go-karts, car track for remote control cars, bocce, amenities block, licensed restaurant and more. December 2024 also saw the addition of dog kennels and dog grooming facilities — so they’ve really covered it all.

Perks: It’s the closest caravan and camping spot to the southern cluster of Gold Coast theme parks (that’s Movie World and Wet’n’Wild), making it heavily booked out by families, aka, serious new-friend-making territory, all year round. The powered sites are set on expansive grasslands large enough to accommodate caravans, large rigs, motorhomes, and tents, plus there are creek-facing unpowered sites.

10. Nightfall

an aerial view of Nighfall camping grounds on the Gold Coast — A luxe glamping retreat at Nightfall in Lamington National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: 3009 Christmas Creek Road, Lamington National Park
Distance from city centre: 1 hr 40 min
Price: $$$

Amenities: It’s glamping on steroids so expect twin bathtubs, a rotating fireplace, rain showers, timber floors, plush bedding, chef-prepared organic meals, hammocks, spa treatments, yoga sessions and more.

Perks: While many love a good old-fashioned campout amid the elements, some prefer going a little extra. Enter Nightfall, a camping experience on the Gold Coast perfected for couples looking to indulge while reconnecting to nature. In the ultimate overnight under the stars, the glamping experience is capped at just eight guests, set beside the crystal-clear tumbling headwaters of Christmas Creek and Queensland’s ancient Lamington National Park rainforest.

11. Tweed Holiday Parks Fingal Head

Where: 9 Prince Street, Fingal Head
Distance from city centre: 40 minutes
Price: $

Amenities: Direct beach access, barbeques, a children’s playground, laundry, toilets, showers, and Wi-Fi.

Perks: While it technically sits just outside the Queensland border in NSW, Tweed Holiday Parks Fingal Head is a popular choice for Gold Coast holidaymakers who skip back and forth across the ditch to make the most of their escape. Perhaps it’s the plain old proximity to perfect white sand and ocean waves, too.

You’re a stone’s throw from stunning Fingal Head beach and Cook Island (a great snorkelling spot), and just around the headland from Fingal Head Lighthouse. If you’re in the mood for retail therapy or non-barbecued food, Tweed Heads’ main shops are also just a 10-minute drive away.

Feeling fancy? Discover the best luxury accommodation on the Gold Coast

There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

With Victorian-era and traditional Queenslander buildings, an abundance of manicured gardens and the famous Carnival of Flowers painting the streets in vibrant colours each spring, Toowoomba is one of the most charming regional cities in Queensland Country.

While its beauty alone is reason enough to visit, there are lesser-known sides to Toowoomba that locals love most, from its burgeoning culinary scene to its artistic flair. Located just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane (or a direct flight from Sydney), it’s all too easy to discover on a long weekend away.

1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

tour group walking in front of toowoomba street art — Find incredible works of art around Toowoomba’s streets. (Credit: Nathan McNeil)

Australia’s second largest inland city is a flourishing arts and culture hub waiting to be discovered. Over 100 vibrant street art murals and graffiti works decorate the city, and they’re best viewed along Bank Lane and Searles Walk.

Regional Queensland’s oldest public art gallery can also be found in Toowoomba – it’s home to 20th-century Australian works created by Queensland artists and those connected to the Toowoomba region.

2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

rosalie house aerial toowoomba secrets — Stop into Rosalie House to wine and dine.

As a regional city, Toowoomba has direct access to incredibly fresh produce that’s shaping its culinary scene. At sunset, head to the verandah at Rosalie House Cellar Door Restaurant for a grazing-style dining experience and to discover Queensland’s underrated wine scene. Indulge in dishes such as Warilba lamb rump and roasted pumpkin with ginger-roasted potatoes and lime yoghurt, paired with their delicious cool-climate wines.

For a more relaxed affair, sweet tooths should make a beeline for award-winning The Baker’s Duck. Be sure to try their cult favourite strawberry cheesecake danish; you’ll learn why 35,000 of these treats are sold annually.

3. Small bars are doing big work

table spread at Uno Más small bar in toowoomba secrets — Pop into small bars like Uno Más.

Toowoomba doesn’t disappoint with fantastic pubs, but discerning drinkers can take happy hour to the next level at one of the city’s impressive small bars. Savour Spanish-style bites paired with a thoughtful line-up of wines at the newly opened Uno Más Tapas & Wine Bar. On Thursdays, head to Cork & Lever to tap your feet to live music over creative cocktails made with their all-Australian gin collection. And enjoy elevated toasties and premium drops at the cosy Press’d Coffee & Wine. Or try newly opened The Book Pour.

4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

Whether you prefer the buzz of the city centre or retreating to the hinterland, there are stylish stays aplenty to settle into in this idyllic corner of the world. Apartment-style living can be found at Quest Toowoomba; partly housed in a heritage church building in the city, it’s a comfortable and convenient base. And at The Arbour Boutique Apartments, spacious rooms are injected with old-world charm.

In the hinterland, enjoy bucolic bliss at the boutique Bunnyconnellen, where an 1880s farmhouse and self-contained cottage are backdropped by rolling hills. And at the secluded Ravensbourne Escape, one-bedroom studios, two-bedroom chalets and three-bedroom holiday homes overlook Ravensbourne National Park and the Brisbane and Lockyer Valleys.

5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain — Tackle Table Top Mountain. (Credit: Ariana Potamianakis)

Toowoomba is hugged by national parks, making it a haven for nature lovers. On its doorstep you’ll find the extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain, where keen hikers can tackle the challenging two-kilometre return trail which rewards them with 360° views of the Lockyer Valley and surrounds.

For a more gentle experience, Ravensbourne National Park offers peaceful walking trails within lush rainforest. It’s a top spot for bird watching as there are over 110 bird species that call the area home, including the paradise riflebird. Crows Nest National Park is home to platypus and koalas, and its refreshing natural swimming spots, like Kauyoo Pool, are a great place to beat the heat.

6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

Toowoomba’s cool and calm energy lends itself to a wellness-focused getaway. Slated to open in August 2026, soak in the serenity at Vikasati Toowoomba, a bathhouse oasis with outdoor hot and cold magnesium pools, ice baths and Finnish saunas. Rest and recharge at City Cave Toowoomba, which offers float therapy, infrared sauna and massage services, or visit Kalm Springs for LED therapy, cryotherapy and float therapy.

7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

inside Queensland Museum Cobb + Co — Learn all about the history of Cobb+Co.

History buffs can step back in time at Toowoomba’s fascinating cultural and historical museums.

Explore 50,000 years of Darling Downs and Toowoomba history at the Queensland Museum Cobb+Co; it’s known for its impressive National Carriage Collection of 47 restored horse-drawn vehicles, which were put to use for Queensland’s urban expansion. Visitors can also try their hand at blacksmithing or leadlighting in heritage workshops, refuelling with traditional scones at the onsite cafe.

Train enthusiasts can celebrate the golden era of rail travel on a heritage steam locomotive thanks to the volunteer-driven, community-led organisation DownsSteam Toowoomba. Vintage train rides range from a two-hour journey between Toowoomba Station and DownsSteam Railway Museum to an overnight adventure from Toowoomba to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found

Whether it’s to pick up a unique piece for your home or a one-of-a-kind accessory for a loved one, you’re guaranteed to find something special in one of Toowoomba’s antique and vintage stores. Range Antiques sells everything from furniture, rugs and lamps to fine porcelain, jewellery and art, while Toowoomba Antiques & Collectables is a treasure trove of Art Deco, farmhouse, retro and mid-century modern pieces.

Start planning your weekender of a lifetime in Queensland Country region at queenslandcountrytourism.com.au.

11 sublime places to go camping on the Gold Coast

With an average of 300 sunny days a year, camping on the Gold Coast unleashes lucid exploration in a nature lover’s playground.

1. Binna Burra Campsite

2. The Settlement

3. Ocean Beach Tourist Park

4. Broadwater Tourist Park

5. Woonoongoora Walkers’ Camp

6. Bigriggen Camping and Caravan Park

7. Spring Gully Stays

8. Tamborine Mountain Glades

9. BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

10. Nightfall

11. Tweed Holiday Parks Fingal Head

The Gold Coast’s newest luxury penthouse is made for group getaways

12 of the most dazzling Broadbeach accommodation picks

9 heavenly places to go glamping on the Gold Coast

Australia’s first Mondrian hotel is now open for bookings

Wine, dine and vintage gems: 8 things you didn’t know about Toowoomba

There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

3. Small bars are doing big work

4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found

With an average of 300 sunny days a year, camping on the Gold Coast unleashes lucid exploration in a nature lover’s playground.

1. Binna Burra Campsite

2. The Settlement

3. Ocean Beach Tourist Park

4. Broadwater Tourist Park

AI Prompt

5. Woonoongoora Walkers’ Camp

6. Bigriggen Camping and Caravan Park

7. Spring Gully Stays

8. Tamborine Mountain Glades

9. BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

10. Nightfall

11. Tweed Holiday Parks Fingal Head

The Gold Coast’s newest luxury penthouse is made for group getaways

12 of the most dazzling Broadbeach accommodation picks

9 heavenly places to go glamping on the Gold Coast

Australia’s first Mondrian hotel is now open for bookings

There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

3. Small bars are doing big work

4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found