20 of the Best Outback Camping Destinations in Australia

Whether you are chasing freedom camping sites, paid camping spots or powered camping sites, you are bound to find an outback destination you love for your upcoming road trip around Australia. Let’s dive in!

 

Why go camping in the Australian Outback? 

NSW Outback Camping Destinations

Queensland Outback Camping Destinations

Western Australia  Outback Camping Destinations

Victoria Outback Camping Destinations

South Australia Outback Camping Destinations

NT Outback Camping Destinations

Tasmania Outback Camping Destination

10 top tips for camping in a campervan in the outback

 

Why go camping in the Australian Outback?

Camping at a remote campsite or caravan park is a must-do when exploring Australia. It really is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the wild and unplug and get away from it all. 

Heading to the outback in a Britz self-contained campervan or a 4WD camper means you will always have the comfort of home on board. These weatherproof adventure rigs will ensure you also save loads of set-up time, leaving more time for exploring and enjoying the great outdoors!

Reasons to choose a 4WD for camping in the Australian outback

Many outback sites, both paid and free camping sites, can be reached via sealed roads, but some may require 4WD.  As such, a 4WD may be the best choice if you are hoping to access some more off-the-beaten-track sites. 

As our 4WD fleet is limited to certain Britz locations, be sure to check the locations where 4WDs are available before booking your trip:  

• Safari Landcruiser 4WD is available from Broome and Darwin

• Safari Auto 4WD is available from Perth, Broome, Darwin, Alice Springs, Cairns and Brisbane

• Outback 4WD is available from Perth, Broome, Darwin and Alice Springs

NSW Outback Camping Destinations

With breathtaking panoramas, rich indigenous culture and world heritage wilderness, outback NSW camping is the perfect way to experience a different side of this popular state.

1. Mungo National Park

Mungo National Park is a place of desolate desert, stunning scenery and ancient beauty. The park is best known for the mungo man and woman or the world’s most ancient cremations. Mungo National Park is also home to a stunning remote campsite which is a perfect base to explore the area.  

• Price: $8 per vehicle per day for entry to the national park and $24 for a campsite 

• Facilities: 33 sites suitable for campervans and includes access to the Mungo Shearers’ quarters, including toilets, picnic tables, barbeque facilities and showers

• Getting there: This is a six-hour drive from the Adelaide Britz branch and is suitable for 2WD. However, the road may be impassable in wet conditions. 

2. Lake Arragan and Red Cliff campgrounds

Lake Arragan and Red Cliff campgrounds offer a range of ocean-side campsites just outside the popular coastal town of Angourie. This coastal lagoon ecosystem is perfect for birdwatching, swimming, fishing and canoeing. 

• Price: $8 per vehicle for park entry and $24 per night for camping

• Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, car park and drinking water

• Getting there: Located 7 hours south of the Britz Sydney branch

3. Broken Hill Tourist Park

Broken Hill Tourist Park is a popular stop to explore the beating heart of the NSW outback: Broken Hill. Marvel at the living desert sculptures and learn about the mining history of the town from this outback oasis. 

• Price: $49 per night for a powered site

• Facilities: Toilets, laundry, drive-through sites, laundry, and pool. 

• Getting there: 5 hours and 40 minutes from the Britz Adelaide branch 

4. Comeroo Station Farm Stays

Experience a true outback bush experience with a Comeroo Station Farm Stay. Here you can spend your days exploring this 100,000-acre working sheep and cattle station. hen, relax in the artesian bore baths on-site by night - the ultimate bush getaway. 

• Price: $25 per night for unpowered or $120 for dinner, accommodation and breakfast

• Facilities: Artesian bore baths, toilets, showers, and powered sites

• Getting there:  Located 10 hours and 40 minutes northwest of the Britz Sydney branch

Queensland Outback Camping Destinations (H2) 

Ready to go outback camping in QLD? Discover the stunning diversity of Queensland’s outback with its range of wetlands, gushing rivers and desert dunes on your upcoming campervan trip. 

5. Isla Gorge National Park 

Isla Gorge Camping Area is a tranquil campground set amongst open woodland and a stunning sandstone gorge. It is easily accessible by 2WD.

• Price: $7 per person per night 

• Facilities: Woodfired BBQ, drop toilets, and picnic tables 

• Getting there: 6 hours from Brisbane Britz branch

6. Cobbold Gorge Campgrounds

Settle into sleep with the sound of birds and breeze as you set up camp at Cobbold Gorge Campground. Discover the local gold mining history, go fossicking or simply enjoy the stunning wildlife and hiking in this outback bushland campground. 

• Price: $44 for a powered site

• Facilities: Toilets, potable water, and firepit (BYO wood)

• Getting there: 6 hours from Cairns Britz branch

7. Cunnamulla Tourist Park

Cunnamulla Tourist Park is another top destination base camp for outback adventures. Enjoy some late-night star gazing, soak in a local artesian bore bath and more in outback Queensland. 

• Price: $40 per night for a powered campsite 

• Facilities: Wifi, town water, BBQ area, and amenities block.

• Getting there:  9 hours and 50 minutes from the Brisbane Britz branch

8. Baffle Creek Nomad Caravan Park

Baffle Creek Nomad Caravan Park is located on one of the largest estuaries in Queensland - perfect for a waterport-filled outback adventure. This is a popular destination for swimming, kayaking, and 4WD exploring in Deepwater National Park. 

• Price: $180 / week for a powered site 

• Facilities: Private boat ramp, river frontage, potable water, laundry, and amenities block

• Getting there: 5 hours and 30 minutes from the Brisbane Britz branch

Western Australia  Outback Camping Destinations

Western Australia’s outback is some of the most unique in Australia. Here you can experience the ochre reds as they meet the vivid blues of the Indian Ocean. This is an outback experience like none other. 

9. Yardie Homestead Caravan Park

Yardie Homestead is a quaint caravan park located around 30 minutes outside of Exmouth. This is the perfect base to explore the beauty of the Ningaloo Reef. This is the world’s largest fringing reef where you can come up close to whale sharks, turtles and more. 

• Price: Starting at $50 per night for a powered site

• Facilities: Toilets, showers, live music area and an onsite cafe

• Getting there: Located 13 hours north of the Britz Perth branch

10. Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park

Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park is ideally located on the Lake Kununurra foreshore. This holiday park is just perfect for exploring this outback town and the nearby Lake Argyle. 

• Price: $40 per night for a powered site 

• Facilities: Toilets, showers, laundry and camp kitchen 

• Getting there: Located 8 hours and 30 minutes from the Britz Darwin branch

11. Violet Valley Campground

Violet Valley campground is just 36km from the entrance to the Purnululu National Park. The area is the iconic backdrop to the panoramic Bungle Bungles. 

• Price: $18 per night 

• Facilities: Hot showers, toilets and BBQ facilities

• Getting there:  Located 10 hours and 30 minutes from Britz Darwin branch. We recommend a 4WD as you will need a 4WD to explore the bungle bungles.

12. Dales Gorge Campground

Dales Gorge Recreation Area is filled with cascading waterfalls, budding ferns and a vibrant backdrop of red terraced cliffs. Tucked away in the oasis of Karajini National Park, this is the ideal base to explore this stunningly wild and ancient park. 

• Price: $11 per adult and $7 per child 

• Facilities: Toilets and BBQ area

• Getting there: Located 10 hours and 10 minutes from the Britz Broome branch. Much of this park is inaccessible by 2WD, so we recommend a 4WD. 

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Victoria Outback Camping Destinations

The remote Victorian ‘outback’ is filled with an array of stunning rainforests and riverways to explore. Let’s dive into the top places to go camping in rural Victoria.

13. Tidal River Campground

Tidal River Campground is the perfect base to explore the wild and stunning Wilsons Promontory National Park. Swim, surf, hike, or simply relax in this rugged corner of Victoria. 

• Price: starting at $56 per night for an unpowered site

• Facilities: Amenities (toilet and shower) and BBQ area

• Getting there:  Located 3 hours and 15 minutes from Britz Melbourne branch

14. Wonga Camping Area

Wonga Camping Area is tucked away in the southern end of the Wyperfeld National Park. This private bush oasis is perfect for bushwalking and enjoying the great outdoors. 

• Price: Check the website for updated prices

• Facilities: BBQ, toilets and untreated water

• Getting there: Located 4 hours and 50 minutes from Britz Melbourne branch

15. Halls Gap Holiday Park

Halls Gap Caravan Park is located in the valley of the famed granite beauty of the Grampians. The spot is the perfect base to enjoy local hikes and wildlife. 

• Price: $47 per night for a powered site

• Facilities: BBQ hut, camp kitchen, volleyball court, and amenities block.

• Getting there: Located 2 hours and 50 minutes from the Britz Melbourne branch

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South Australia Outback Camping Destinations

South Australia is home to a number of beautiful remote hinterlands and sandy desert camping destinations. Let’s dive into the top places to go camping in outback South Australia.

16. Second Valley Caravan Park

Second Valley Caravan Park is nestled in the beautiful coastal refuge of Second Valley on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Wander the beach, pop over to Kangaroo Island and more at this coastal paradise park. 

• Price: Starting at $30 for a powered site

• Facilities: Playground, cafe, fish cleaning area, laundry, and amenities block

• Getting there: Located 1 hour and 20 minutes from the Britz Adelaide branch

17. Munga-Thirri–Simpson Desert National Park

Munga-Thirri-Simpson Desert National Park is a bucket list 4WD adventure destination. This park is located in the centre of the Simpson Desert - Australia’s largest national park. Its red rolling sand dunes span hundreds of kilometres and three states: South Australia, Queensland and Northern Territory. o, you won’t run out of places to explore. 

• Price: Check the website for updated fees

• Facilities: The closest facilities are at Mount Dare

• Getting there: Access may be restricted due to roads. Best to hire a 4WD from the Britz Alice Springs branch

Northern Territory Outback Camping Destinations

Northern Territory has some of the most rugged deserts in Australia. Let’s dive into some of the best places to explore and camp in this ‘red centre’ of Australia. 

18. Big 4 Alice Springs

Alice Springs Holiday Park is located in the heart of Alice Springs. This outback park is the perfect place to camp and explore the local attractions. Some top things to do and see include heading out to the stunning gorges in the West MacDonnell Ranges and admiring the wildlife at Alice Springs Desert Park.  

• Price: $46 for a powered site 

• Facilities: Activities room, camp kitchen, gym and more 

• Getting there: Just five minutes from the Britz Alice Springs branch

19. Lorella Springs Wilderness Park

Experience the true solitude of the outback at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park. This untouched one million-acre cattle station offers a Top End experience like no other, with 30km of coastline, waterholes, gorges and 1000km of 4WD tracks to explore. 

• Price: Starting at $25 per night 

• Facilities: Fishing, hot springs, licenced bar and shop

• Getting there: Located 11 hours and 45 minutes from Britz Darwin branch. Best reached with a 4WD. 

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Tasmania Outback Camping Destination

While Tasmania doesn’t have an ‘outback’ in the traditional sense, it is overflowing with rugged wilderness begging to be explored in a campervan. Let’s dive into the top places to go camping in the wild sides of Tasmania.

20. River’s Edge Wilderness Camping

Rivers Edge Camping is located in the heart of the Huon Valley, just a short drive south of Hobart. Experience the rugged wild beauty, all while treating yourself to the local artesian delights and temping wines and ciders.  

• Price: $18 per person per night + $8 for power connection

• Facilities: Toilets, showers and communal kitchen

• Getting there:  Located 1 hour and 30 minutes from the Britz Hobart branch 

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10 top tips for camping in a campervan in the outback

There are a few things to consider when camping in a campervan in the outback: 

1. Pick the right vehicle for your adventure

Is a 4WD or 2WD going to suit better? Do you need to have water and toilet storage? All things to consider to ensure you choose the right campervan. 

2. Be selective about where you park up

When choosing a site, consider the weather, proximity to amenities, proximity to neighbours and so on.

3. Camp away from crocs

Stay 100m from the water edge when camping in crocodile territory. 

4. Only camp in permitted areas

Adhere to no camping signs to avoid fines.

5. Cool your engine after a long day of driving

Popping the bonnet after a long drive can prevent rodents from seeking warmth inside your bonnet at night. 

6. Pack everything away

Clean up after cooking and keep everything inside your camper to avoid attracting wild animals. Dispose of all rubbish in designated spots or be prepared to take it home with you.  

7. Be mindful of wildlife

Stay away and don’t disturb wildlife.

8. Book ahead or get to popular sites early to avoid disappointment 

This is important when travelling in summer or other peak seasons. This also prevents having to find a spot late at night. 

9. Ensure you have enough charge

Travelling in a campervan you will need to ensure you have enough charge to power lights and more.

10. Ensure you have enough water (and bring extra)

Water in the outback is scarce. Every car should have at the absolute minimum around 20 litres of emergency water. As well as five litres of water per person per day. 

Hire a Britz Camper for your outback adventure

Australia’s outback is one of the quintessential experiences (and underrated) destinations of a road trip in Australia. Whether you prefer disconnecting at freedom camping sites or plugging in at powered camping sites, camping in the outback is a bucket list experience for anyone looking to rent a travel van. 

Ready for your own outback adventure? Book your Britz camper today at a branch or online. For more travel inspiration, check out our blog. Curious to learn more about your 4WD options? Check out our 4WD hub for resources and ideas for your upcoming trip.