Camping trips could be quite an expensive affair in Australia but when it is done for free, it could be quite fun. Free camping in Australia is a popular adventurous opportunity for exploring the great Australian outdoors. And for that, the country has some designated campsites for free camping, where one doesn't have to pay a dollar to spend a night.
Being the land of amazing contrasts, Australia comprises exquisite campsites from lakeside views, beachside spots, campsites in between a deep pine forest to many more natural locations that offer soul-stirring views.
 | Campsites in Australia |
Let's look at some famous and beautiful free camping sites in Australia.
1. Newnes Campground
If you want to relax in between the sandstone cliffs, experience the beautiful sunset, watch kangaroos and eucalypt trees, enjoy the campfires, Newnes Campground in Sydney is the spot for you. Located in the north of the Blue Mountains, the campsite offers multiple hikes to explore the Wollemi National Park and come back to the starry skies at night.
Make sure to pack everything before heading out, as the place has no other facilities other than toilets and barbies to toast your marshmallows.
2. Lake Elphinstone
Elphinstone Lake is a natural, pet-friendly campsite in Queensland with lakeside views and activities like swimming, fishing, bird watching, canoeing. You will be mesmerized by inhaling the fresh air that flows at the campsite. Also, ensure taking along fresh drinking water, as it might not be available at the campsite.
3. Blue Pool Campground
Situated in the Briagolong State Forest, the place is ideal for taking a dip in a popular swimming hole, Blue Pool, during hot summers. You can even pitch a tent under the natural shade of the campsite. For exploring above the creek or nearby gully, you can take short hikes at the campsite.
4. Bendeela Recreation Area
Set amidst the natural bushland and on the banks of the kangaroo river, this free, well-maintained campsite is perfect for a family camping trip. The place has large open spaces for pitching the tent and spotting some bare-nosed wombats. Hehe. It also offers activities like swimming, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife spotting.
5. Lake Mackintosh
Located in the small town of Tullah, Tasmania, the campsite is suitable for the ones who are travelling through caravan or motorhome. Irrespective of any facilities, the place is worth a visit for experiencing the stunning view up from Mount Farrell through bushwalking, trout fishing, boating in the lake, and enjoying a picnic or barbecue near the shores. Take along your pet, too, if you have one!
6. Stevenson’s Falls Campground
It might be not easy to book a spot here, as the campsite tends to remain the busiest during peak time. Surrounded by lush forest, the campground is a great pet-friendly place that allows fishing as well. Also exhibits a pathway for walking to beautiful Stevenson’s falls and many other amazing views.
7. Ingar Campground
Ingar campground is a heavenly destination located in Blue Mountains National Park. Perfect for relaxing right next to the fresh creek, enjoying lovely sceneries and going for a hike or mountain biking. Before heading, make sure you have stored enough drinking water with you.
8. Bay of the Fires Conservation Area
Beachside camping is what every Aussie wishes for. And at Bay of the Fires, it is possible. The place allows you to explore beautiful and blue coastlines surrounded by white sand, granite boulders, and turquoise water in the bay. For pitching a tent, there are specific sites along the coast or among the shady trees.
The beach is popular for its beauty and perfect for fishing, swimming, long walks, coastal camping. Once entered this paradise, you would never want to leave.
9. Wingello State Forest
Surrounded by pine forests, the campsite is an enclosed space away from the noise and wind. Campfire is permitted only from Easter to October and offers activities such as mountain biking, horse riding, dog sledding. The place offers a complete barbecue and toilet facilities for camping.
10. Waddy Point Top Campground, Fraser Island
This picturesque area of Fraser Island has gained infamy for dingo attacks. Swimmers might contend with jellyfish and sharks. The occasional saltwater crocodile can be spotted. Even worse, this beautiful island averages one venomous spider every 10 square feet (1 square meter). Some experts say it’s the most dangerous beachfront in the world, but I’ve been to a few places that will top this.
11. Meredith Park Campground
On the edge of Lake Colac, Meredith Campground has several shady and grassy sites to hit your camp. The place has easy access to views, facilities such as water, shade, picnic tables, toilets, boat ramp, walk to the lake and is pet friendly.
Conclusion
Travelling through a caravan or motorhome? No matter how large it is, the floor space inside it will not be enough to walk over again and again. There's a solution for extending your living space; attach an awning! It not only provides extra space but provides shade from rain and the Australian sun, which could ruin your whole camping trip.
Whether you plan for a quick picnic or camping for a few weeks, a caravan awning is a useful addition to your caravan.