Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure under the stars on the stunning Gold Coast! With its pristine beaches and lush hinterland, the Gold Coast offers nature enthusiasts some of the best camping spots. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, we’ve rounded up the top spots that guarantee a memorable outdoor experience – so grab your tent, and let’s explore the best camping the Gold Coast offers!
Mount Barney Lodge Campground
Mount Barney National Park beckons for the seasoned adventurer, with its campgrounds accessible only by foot. Located in a picturesque 90-minute drive from the Gold Coast, Mount Barney Lodge Campground provides a safe haven for those eager to explore the stunning natural beauty of Mount Barney.
In addition, unpowered sites offer a chance to admire the sentinel-like presence of Mount Barney. You can also see the peaks of the neighbouring McPherson Range. With a capacity capped at 100 people, the campground allows open fires (conditions dependent) for an authentic camping experience.
Mount Warning Rainforest Park
Discover the beauty of Mount Warning National Park and fulfil your desire to experience the sunrise hike without enduring a 3 am wake-up call. Opt for a camping adventure at Mount Warning Rainforest Park in the Northern Rivers region, where you can hone your camping skills while enjoying excellent facilities. The park offers amenities such as coin-operated barbecues, a camp kitchen, a wifi zone, and a refreshing swimming pool for a post-hike splash. Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings, explore the nearby Tweed region, and relax with a swim in Currumbin Creek, all within reach.
Binna Burra Campgrounds
Explore the wonders of Springbrook National Park by setting up camp at Binna Burra Campgrounds. Located on the doorstep of Lamington National Park, Binna Burra is among the Gold Coast’s iconic camping grounds. Experience camping under the stars, with non-powered campsites for up to four people. Also, there are only a few powered drive-on spots for small caravans. Gather around shared fire pits during winter or visit the nearby Tea House cafe for basic supplies and the best hot chocolates. The campground provides easy access to hundreds of walking tracks, making it an ideal base for adventure.
Thunderbird Park
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Mount Tamborine by camping at Thunderbird Park. This property is shared with an adventure playground and Cedar Creek Lodges.
Moreover, this camping spot offers proximity to Tamborine Mountain’s spoils. It has powered and unpowered sites available. Standard facilities, an onsite restaurant and kiosk, and the opportunity to engage in activities like horse riding, ziplining, and the Tree Top Challenge make Thunderbird Park an excellent camping destination. Explore the subtropical rainforest, indulge in the spring-fed creek, and venture into town for various dining options and attractions.
Stradbroke Island Camping
Elevate your camping experience on North Stradbroke Island through Minjerribah Camping, where basic beachside campgrounds await at Amity Point, Point Lookout, and Dunwich. Escape to this island paradise, shaded by Pandanus palms and she-oak trees, and enjoy the salty sea breezes.
Moreover, embrace a camping getaway without the exotic price tag. Explore the beaches and treating yourself to afternoon beverages at the Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel. Avoid the school holiday crowds for a more peaceful experience.
Fingal Holiday Park
Experience the rhythmic sound of crashing waves as you fall asleep at Fingal Holiday Park. This well-established campground is located in Fingal Head and provides essential amenities like wifi, BBQs, and laundry facilities. Take advantage of the proximity to Litita Spit and Kerosene Inlet’s wild and hidden beaches. This creates the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy moments.
Bigriggen Park
Embark on a scenic 90-minute drive from the Gold Coast to reach Bigriggen Park in the Scenic Rim. This 60-hectare campsite nestled in the foothills of Mount Maroon offers a bush camping experience surrounded by towering gums, babbling brooks, and native wildlife. Enjoy activities such as bush bashing, hiking, river swimming, and fishing in the nearby Maroon Dam. While there is power, choosing non-powered options in the expansive grassy fields is recommended, allowing you to select your own spot and relish the extra space.
Nightfall Wilderness Camp
Indulge in luxury camping at Nightfall Wilderness Camp in Lamington National Park. Limited to only eight guests at a time, this glamping experience offers a perfect blend of secluded wilderness and upscale amenities. Each tent features hand-carved stone basins, timber floors, a wood fireplace, a rain-head shower, and organic bedding. Enjoy chef-prepared organic meals, Australian sparkling wine, hammocks, forest explorations, and an outdoor creek massage. Spoil yourself with a unique glamping adventure that may forever change your perspective on traditional camping.
Hipcamp
Explore camping options beyond traditional campgrounds with Hipcamp, a platform offering access to dream camping locations. Whether you prefer basic camping or luxurious glamping, Hipcamp provides a range of choices, from free-range camping experiences to interactive farm stays. Escape the grid, enjoy a creek-side oasis, or immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature. Consider Hipcamp for your next Gold Coast camping trip, ensuring a diverse and personalized camping experience.
Seize the Outdoors in these Camping Spots on the Gold Coast
In conclusion, the Gold Coast offers a diverse array of camping experiences for both seasoned adventurers and those seeking a more relaxed getaway. From the lush rainforests of Mount Warning to the beachside serenity of North Stradbroke Island, each camping spot presents a unique opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you prefer traditional camping under the stars or the luxurious comforts of glamping, the Gold Coast’s best camping spots cater to every camper’s preference, promising unforgettable moments in the great outdoors.
Also read: Unwind in Nature: The Top 5 Campgrounds on the Gold Coast