National Parks in Australia

South Australia: Flinders Chase National Park

Discover the wild beauty of Flinders Chase National Park on Kangaroo Island. Home to some of South Australia's most iconic natural beauty, the park features the awe-inspiring Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, sculpted naturally by wind and waves. A ferry ride from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw and a subsequent drive will take you to this wilderness haven. Here you will find a huge selection of adventure trails that lead you through the diverse wilderness, where you can encounter playful fur seals, kangaroos, and a host of bird species; experience the magic of immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the landscape. If you're a history enthusiast, don't miss the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, a remarkable testament to the region's maritime past.  For more tips on campervan travel and things to do in South Australia, check out our guide to campervan travel in South Australia. 

Top attractions: 

• Stop by Remarkable Rocks

• Admire Admirals Arch

• Visit the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse

• Go mountain biking or hiking 

Where to stay: Harvey Return Campground is a great spot to camp with your van, nestled amidst the park's breathtaking wilderness. This campsite is an intimate campground with only 8 campsites. Safe to say, be sure to book a site in advance. This is 2WD accessible but can become corrugated after rain, so be sure to check the weather before arriving. 

 

Image: SATC Media Gallery

 

Queensland: Lamington National Park

Experience the serene beauty of Lamington National Park in Queensland's hinterland. Designated as a World Heritage site, the park is a biodiverse wonderland featuring ancient rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and an array of exotic wildlife. Walking tracks wind through the lush landscape, leading to dramatic lookouts and stunning natural attractions such as Morans Falls and the Natural Bridge. This is also a bird watcher's paradise, with the park being home to a variety of species, including the rare albert's lyrebird. Try the Tree Top Walk at O'Reilly's for a unique bird's eye view of the forest. And, of course, a road trip to Lamington wouldn't be complete without experiencing the true spirit of camping in this magnificent park. From Brisbane, the park is just a two-hour drive away, providing easy access for those seeking a quick escape into nature. For more tips on campervan travel and things to do in Queensland, check out our guide to campervan travel in Queensland. 

Top attractions: 

• Morans Falls 

• The Natural Bridge

• Go birdwatching for the rare Albert's lyrebird

• Tree Top Walk at O'Reilly's 

Where to stay: O’Riley’s Camping Area (formerly known as Green Mountains Camping Area) offers facilities for campervan stay, including sites with power, and an amenities block, making it a perfect base to explore this lush paradise. 

 

Western Australia: Nyinggulara National Park

Nyinggulara National Park, more commonly known as Ningaloo, is a marine life enthusiasts' playground. Boasting a vast coral reef just a short swim from the shore, the park is one of the few places globally where you can easily access such a diverse marine ecosystem. Snorkel alongside a stunning array of marine creatures, including colourful fish, turtles, and even manta rays. On land, explore the rugged limestone ranges, wildflower-covered plains, and gorges that add to the park's charm. If you're visiting between March and July, don't miss the chance to swim with the gentle giants of the sea – the whale sharks. The park, approximately 13 hours drive from Perth, offers a truly immersive experience of Western Australia's enchanting marine life and coastal landscapes. For more tips on campervan travel in WA and things to do in Western Australia, check out our guide to campervan travel in Western Australia. 

Top attractions: 

• Go snorkelling at Tourquoise Bay

• Swim with whale sharks 

• Hike Yardie Creek 

Where to stay: Osprey Bay Campground, located close to the park, is an ideal spot for campervan camping, featuring beautiful beachfront sites and toilet blocks. 

 

Image: Toursim Western Australia

 

Northern Territory: Mary River National Park

In the heart of the Northern Territory lies the secluded Mary River National Park. Just a two-hour drive from Darwin, this national park offers an unrivalled outback experience. This unique landscape, woven with billabongs, forests, and wetlands, hosts an astounding array of wildlife. Birdwatchers will find themselves in paradise, with over 250 species calling the park home. Don't miss the chance to embark on a thrilling crocodile cruise and catch sight of the legendary saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat. Anglers, too, will love the world-class barramundi fishing that can be found here. For more tips on campervan travel and things to do in the Northern Territory, check out our guide to campervan travel in Northern Territory. 

Top attractions: 

• See a saltwater croc on a crocodile cruise 

• Go birdwatching 

• Go fishing for barramundi 

• Watch the sunset at Couzens Lookout

Where to stay: Both Shady Camp Campground and Couzens Lookout Campground offer excellent facilities for campervan camping in Mary River National Park. 

 

Tasmania: Narawntapu National Park

Narawntapu National Park, often referred to as Tasmania's Serengeti is a wildlife haven. As you explore the park, you'll find yourself in the company of wombats, wallabies, and kangaroos, particularly around dusk when these creatures venture out. Take a serene beach walk, or follow the walking trails through the bushland to discover this park's true spirit. Don't miss the Springlawn Nature Walk, a trail that winds through wetlands bustling with birdlife. To truly appreciate the beauty of Narawntapu, consider an overnight stay. The park is just a short 30-minute drive from Devonport, making it an easily accessible Tasmanian gem. For more tips on van travel and things to do in Tasmania, check out our guide to campervan travel in Tasmania. 

Top attractions: 

• Explore the Springlawn Nature Walk

• Visit Archers Knob 

• Go swimming at Bakers Beach

Where to stay: There are four campsites within the Narawntapu National Park. Springlawn Campground, however, is home to a number of powered sites, a shower block and is conveniently located near the visitor centre, so is perfect for a comfortable campervan stay.

 

Australian Capital Territory: Namadgi National Park

Experience tranquillity and heritage in Namadgi National Park, located in the Australian Capital Territory. The park, a significant cultural site, is filled with Aboriginal heritage artefacts, including rock shelters and ceremonial stone arrangements. For the active traveller, the park offers excellent hiking opportunities with trails such as the Mount Tennent Walk and the Yankee Hat Rock Art Walk. Take the time to visit the Namadgi Visitor Centre for an insight into the park's rich cultural and natural history. 

Top attractions: 

• Explore Aboriginal sites like Yankee Hat Rock Art Walk

• Hike along the Mount Tennent Walk 

• Enjoy a host of recreational activities, including mountain biking and hiking

• Explore the historic huts

Where to stay: Cotter Campground is an ideal spot for a campervan stay, nestled amongst towering trees on the banks of the Cotter River, about 25 minutes drive from Canberra. This campsite has shelters, picnic tables, hot showers and flushing toilets – everything you need for a relaxing campervan holiday. 

 

Victoria: Grampians National Park

Immerse yourself in the wild and powerful landscapes of Grampians National Park with a three-hour Victoria campervan road trip from Melbourne. Home to rugged mountain ranges, panoramic lookouts, and an array of Australian wildlife, it's an iconic stop on any Australia road trip. Trek up to the Pinnacle, one of the highest points in the park, or discover the park's cultural heritage on the Aboriginal Rock Art Trail. Witness the cascading beauty of Mackenzie Falls, Victoria's largest waterfall, or soak in the panoramic views from Boroka Lookout. For more tips on a road trip to explore the best things to do in the Grampians as well as a comprehensive guide to camping in this magnificent wilderness, check out our ultimate guide to camping in Grampians National Park. 

Top attractions: 

• Hike to the Pinnacle

• Explore the Aboriginal Rock Art Trail 

• See the cascades of Mackenzie Falls

• See the Grampians from above at Boroka Lookout

Where to stay: For camping, we recommend Smiths Mill Campground, where you can enjoy a magical campfire under a canopy of twinkling stars. This campground is located just 1km from Mackenzie Falls and within a short drive of Boroka Lookout. It has over 28 sites, five of which are drive-in sites, perfect for a campervan. 

 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Top Tips for Staying in Australia’s National Parks

Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth national park camping experience:

• Ensure you have a parks pass: While access to some national parks in Australia can be free, many are accessed for a small fee park pass. Furthermore, camping fees will vary depending on the state you are visiting, so be sure to check the state's national park website for more information about camping fees and how to book your camping in these national parks. 

• Queensland

• New South Wales

• ACT

• Victoria

• Tasmania

• South Australia

• Western Australia

• Northern Territory

• Research in advance: In addition to park entry and camping information, it's a good idea to research the national park you're planning to visit. Each park has its unique attractions, trails, and wildlife. By doing your homework, you'll ensure you don't miss out on any must-see sights and understand the park's layout, available amenities, and any potential hazards. A little bit of research ahead of time will ensure you get the most out of your stay. 

 

• Check campground facilities: Before choosing your campground, be sure to investigate the available facilities. Not all campgrounds are equipped with amenities like electric hookups, fresh water, and dump stations. For those travelling in a campervan, it's recommended to plug into mains power at least every second day to ensure onboard facilities like the fridge continue to run smoothly. If you’re not sure about the facilities, it’s always a good idea to contact the park or campground directly for the most accurate information.

 

• Be mindful of fire safety: Bushfires are a significant risk in Australia, especially during the drier summer months (december to march). Some parks may have fire bans or restrictions in place depending on the season, so always check the park's fire safety regulations before lighting a campfire, BBQ, or stove.  And, of course, be prepared to use alternative cooking methods if needed. Regardless of the fire danger level, remember never to leave a fire unattended and always completely extinguish it before leaving your site or going to bed.

 

• Follow park rules: Each national park has specific rules designed to preserve its unique ecosystem and ensure the safety of all visitors. This can include guidelines around waste disposal, noise levels, pets, wildlife interactions, and more. Following these rules is not just a legal obligation but also shows respect for the environment and other visitors. You can typically find these rules on the park's official website or at the park's visitor centre.

 

• Leave no trace: Following the "Leave No Trace" principles is critical to preserving Australia's beautiful natural spaces for future generations. This means you should leave your campsite as you found it, or better yet, cleaner than you found it. Dispose of all waste in designated bins, or if unavailable, take it with you when you leave. Stick to marked trails to prevent soil erosion and harm to native vegetation. Also, avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife – remember, we are visitors in their homes.

For more information on camping at national parks in Australia, check out the official Parks Australia website for more information. 

 

Ready to Stay at Australia’s National Parks?

There's a world of experiences awaiting in Australian national parks. The question is - are you ready to hit the road and experience everything these Australian national parks have to offer? Rent a van to travel through Australia’s national parks with Britz today. 

For more help planning your road trip, our thlRoadtrip itinerary planner is the perfect app for an unforgettable campervan journey across Australia. For more tips on camping in national parks, freedom camping around Australia, as well as fun things to do in Australia on your road trip, check out the Britz blog and start planning your next camping national parks adventure today!