Although there are no camping spots within Brisbane city limits, you need only venture a short distance to discover the finest camping options in the area. In fact, within just 2 hours (or sometimes even 1 hour if you’re fortunate), you can find incredible camping experiences near Brisbane.
To save you the trouble of searching for these campsites yourself, we’ve rounded up a list of 20 of the best camping spots near Brisbane that you can use as a guide to planning your next camping adventure!
In this list, we’ve included camping sites that are approximately 2 hours’ drive from the center of Brisbane. The list also includes the best beach camping and bush camping spots, as well as the best family- and dog-friendly campsites.
Without further ado, let’s dive into 20 of the best camping sites that Brisbane has to offer!
20 of the Best Camping Sites Near Brisbane
Listed below are 20 campsites near Brisbane that you can reach in 2 hours or less. To make things a little easier, we’ve divided the camping grounds into the following 3 categories:
- Beach camping near Brisbane
- Bush camping near Brisbane
- Lake camping near Brisbane
Beach Camping Near Brisbane
1. BIG4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort
How long it takes to get there: 42 miles/ About 1 hour by car
A fairly new resort set on the shores of the Pumicestone Passage overlooking Moreton Island; BIG4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort is one of the best beachside camping spots for families with children.
It offers a plethora of family-friendly amenities, including a massive water play park, playground, tennis court, jumping pillow, and swimming pool. Of course, its location on the Pumicestone Passage also provides the perfect backdrop for a range of water-based activities like fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking.
You also have no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation either, with a choice between a variety of self-contained cabins, campsites, van sites, and safari tents. Other on-site conveniences include hot showers and toilets, as well as a laundry, camp kitchen, licensed pool bar, restaurant, and BBQ facilities.
Overall, if you’re looking for a camping trip that’s filled with activities for the entire family without having to sacrifice too many creature comforts, then the BIG4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort across from Moreton Island could be for you!
2. Bribie Island
How long it takes to get there: 51 miles / About 1.5 hours by car
Located just an hour and a half’s drive from the Brisbane CBD is Bribie Island, the smallest and most northerly of the three sand islands surrounding Moreton Bay. It has several great beachside camping spots, but note that some are only accessible by boat, and others you will need a 4×4 to reach.
This means that Bribie Island has some of the most secluded camping spots; often with hardly any amenities, although there are some that offer the basics like toilets and cold showers. Some of the most popular camping sites on Bribie Island include Mission Point, Ocean Beach, Poverty Creek, Lime Pocket, and Gallagher Point.
Most of Bribie Island is National Park, making it the perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s no shortage of things to do here either, with ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the Pumicestone Passage and plenty of walking trails to enjoy too.
For campers looking for more remote beach camping spots who don’t mind roughing it a little, Bribie Island is a great choice.
3. Coolum Beach Holiday Park
How long it takes to get there: 76 miles / About 1.5 hours by car
Offering one of the best camping grounds around Brisbane, Coolum Beach Holiday Park is a great option for campers looking for a laid-back camping adventure that’s less than 2 hours away by car.
It’s also situated right on the beach and adjacent to a variety of shops and restaurants, so you’ll have plenty of dining options to choose from.
There’s also a range of accommodations, with a choice between powered sites and cabins. Some sites are also dog-friendly, while others are just steps away from the beach. On-site amenities include hot showers and toilets; a modern camp kitchen, laundry, and a kiosk.
4. Cotton Tree Holiday Park
How long it takes to get there: 65 miles / About 1.5 hours by car
Set on the banks of the tranquil Maroochydore River on the Sunshine Coast is Cotton Tree Holiday Park. This is a great camping spot for families with young children since the kids can safely swim, kayak, and boogie board in the river’s calm waters, while the beach is also a hop, skip, and a jump away.
Campers can choose between 93 powered and 29 non-powered sites. Also available at Cotton Tree are 280 powered van sites as well as a variety of cabins. The sites are small, so you can expect to be near your neighbor, but the scenic location more than compensates for the limited space.
Additionally, Cotton Tree offers a range of amenities for a hassle-free camping experience. There are warm showers and toilets, plus a camp kitchen and a kiosk where you can buy the basics.
So, if a quick and easy beach escape near Brisbane is what you’re after, Cotton Tree Holiday Park is an excellent choice.
5. Moreton Island
How long it takes to get there: About 2 hours (this includes the drive to the Brisbane Harbor and the barge across to the Island).
Situated between Bribie Island and its southern neighbor, North Stradbroke Island, Moreton Island offers several great beachside camping spots close to Brisbane. Here, you’ll find nothing but unspoiled sandy beaches with enormous dunes, shimmering creeks, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
One of Moreton Island’s main attractions is the Tangalooma Wrecks, a group of sunken ships that make for excellent scuba diving and snorkeling. Dolphins are also frequently spotted here since there is a feeding spot nearby. Other must-see attractions include the Blue Lagoon, Champagne Pools, and the breathtaking Honeymoon Bay.
Getting to Moreton Island can be challenging given its remote location, so you’ll either need a 4×4 to be able to drive on the beach or be able to transport all your gear to and from the ferry on foot.
Note that if you choose the latter option, you’ll be limited to The Wrecks camping site. Those with a 4×4, on the other hand, have the run of the island and can choose between The Wrecks, North Point, Ben-Ewa, Blue Lagoon, and Comboyuro Point. Also note that amenities are quite limited at all the campsites on Moreton Island, although most have showers and toilets at the very least.
That said, those who don’t mind roughing it to the extreme can opt to camp beyond the campgrounds in areas called camp zones. These “zones” have absolutely no amenities, but are set in the most spectacular locations and are great for anyone looking for the most secluded camping spots near Brisbane.
Of course, there are also those on the opposite end of the spectrum who prefer to be pampered while on vacation. If you fall into this group of people, Castaways on Moreton Island offers glamping, which allows you to enjoy the unspoiled nature without having to sacrifice too many creature comforts.
6. North Stradbroke Island
How long it takes to get there: About 2 hours (this includes the drive to Cleveland and the ferry across to the Island)
Known as a camper’s paradise, North Stradbroke Island (colloquially Straddie or North Straddie) offers numerous beautiful campsites to choose from, with the majority being either on the beach or beachfront. Some of the most popular include Cylinder Beach, Flinders Beach, Adder Rock, Home Beach, Adams Beach, Bradbury’s Beach, Main Beach, and Amity Point.
Flinders Beach and Main Beach are dog-friendly, but require a 4×4 to reach, while the rest are all perfect for a family beach camping trip. There’s also plenty to do at each campsite, with opportunities for boogie boarding, kayaking, and swimming in Moreton Bay. Most are also within easy reach of a local store plus a handful of eateries, making for an easy camping experience.
Additionally, the majority of campsites offer a choice between powered and non-powered sites, as well as a few cabins. Amenities include toilets and showers. Most also have laundries, camp kitchens, and playgrounds for the kids.
Attractions on North Stradbroke Island include Brown Lake and Blue Lake, two massive freshwater lakes located in the heart of the island. You’ll have to travel inland by car to reach them, but they’re well worth the trip!
To get to North Stradbroke Island, you’ll first need to make your way from Brisbane to Cleveland. This is about an hour’s drive. From there, it’s a 45-minute journey by ferry to the island. Once you’ve docked, it’s just a short drive to your preferred campsite.
One thing to note about camping on North Straddie is that it’s not the cheapest camping Brisbane has to offer. That said, if you’re looking for some of the best beach camping within 2 hours of Brisbane, staying on this island is definitely worth every last penny.
7. NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort
How long it takes to get there: 43 miles / About 1 hour by car
Situated on Australia’s Gold Coast, this laid-back resort has everything for a comfortable stay, as well as being just minutes away from the beach.
You’ll also have lots to keep you occupied here, with a waterpark, 4 on-site swimming pools, a jumping pillow, go-karts, mini golf, and more. Another plus is that the resort is just a short drive away from multiple attractions, like Sea World and Surfers Paradise, as well as within walking distance of the Harbour Town shopping district.
NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort offers a range of accommodations to choose from, including safari tents, powered sites, and over a hundred self-contained cabins. You can even find some dog-friendly options here too. On-site amenities include a casual restaurant and licensed bar, a fitness center, camp kitchen, laundry, and kiosk, plus hot showers and toilets.
If you’re looking for a camping site near Brisbane that has it all, NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort will not disappoint.
Bush Camping Near Brisbane
8. Bestbrook Mountain Farmstay
How long it takes to get there: 75 miles / About 1.5 hours by car
A popular choice among locals and visitors alike; the Bestbrook Mountain Farmstay is a mere 90-minute drive from the center of Brisbane and offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery, with spectacular views of the Great Dividing Range.
You’ll also find plenty to do here for campers with all kinds of interests, as well as ample opportunities for interacting with all the animals on the farm.
Get up early to milk the cows, climb on a horse to get closer to all the beautiful scenery, go on a wagon ride, or sample some damper (unleavened bread made of flour and water baked in wood ashes) with a mug of billy tea. Looking for a place to cool off? Go for a dip in the creek that runs through the campgrounds, or try your hand at catching yabbies. There are also extensive walking tracks nearby where you can ride a bike or go bushwalking.
You can choose to stay at one of the powered or non-powered sites or rent one of the cabins available at the farm. On-site facilities include a swimming pool and a restaurant, as well as hot showers and toilets.
With so many activities aimed at families, it’s no wonder why so many choose to camp at Bestbrook Mountain Farmstay.
9. Bigriggen Park
How long it takes to get there: 69 miles / Around 1.5 hours by car
Located in the Scenic Rim, on the outskirts of the Mount Barney National Park, Bigriggen Park offers acres upon acres of high hilltops, bushland, and winding rivers to explore.
The gorgeous campground features powered and non-powered sites, and if you’re looking for dog-friendly camping spots near Brisbane, you’ll be happy to know that dogs are allowed at Bigriggen Park. On-site amenities include coin-operated showers (with hot water), toilets, and a kiosk where you can buy firewood for your campfire plus some essentials.
You’ll have no shortage of outdoor activities to keep you occupied here either, with fishing and swimming in the nearby river and bike riding through the forests. There’s also an abundance of local wildlife, so you’ll always have a chance to spot kangaroos, possums, kookaburras, and parrots.
So, if you’re looking for great bush camping within 2 hours of Brisbane, Bigriggen Park could be for you!
10. Darlington & Burgess Parks Camping Grounds
How long it takes to get there: 59 miles / Around 1.5 hours by car
Located just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane, these two campgrounds make a great place to base yourself if you want to explore the Lamington National Park and Lost World Valley.
While there are no powered sites available here, the campgrounds’ setting among the trees more than makes up for the lack of electricity; offering a tranquil retreat in which to unwind.
Both campgrounds are also dog-friendly and come equipped with fire rings, toilets, BBQ facilities, and a kiosk. The only downside is that there are no showers.
In terms of things to do, the Darlington and Burgess Parks Camping Grounds offer no shortage of family-friendly activities. There’s swimming at Christmas Creek or in Albert River, plus a playground and plenty of grassy areas for kids to blow off some steam. The campgrounds also offer fun activities during the school holidays to keep the little ones busy and entertained.
Overall, the Darlington and Burgess Parks Camping Grounds are excellent options for those looking for more quiet and simple places to camp near Brisbane.
11. Flanagan Reserve Bush Camping
How long it takes to get there: 71 miles / Around 1.75 hours by car
Occupying over 10 hectares of natural bushland on the banks of the Logan River, Flanagan Reserve offers some of the best bush camping near Brisbane. Although it’s just under 2 hours from the city by car, the beauty of the natural surroundings will make you feel like you’re a million miles away.
Besides offering breathtaking views, the campsites are dog-friendly and come with fire rings. Other on-site facilities include coin-operated showers, toilets, BBQs, and a kiosk where you can buy basic groceries.
Given its location just outside the Mount Barney National Park, Flanagan Reserve also offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming and kayaking. You’re also likely to see an abundance of local wildlife while you’re here, which is just another reason why this is one of the best bush camping experiences you’ll find near Brisbane.
12. Kenilworth Camping
How long it takes to get there: 93 miles / Around 2 hours by car
Set on the banks of the Mary River on a quaint dairy farm is this family-friendly campsite with lots to do.
It encompasses more than 500 acres and stretches for around 3 miles along the Mary River, so there’s plenty of space to spread out. All camping spots are off the grid (i.e., unpowered) and you’re allowed to light campfires. The grounds are also dog-friendly and there are toilets on-site (but no showers).
In terms of activities, the kids will enjoy interacting with the cows and swimming and kayaking in the river, where there’s a chance to catch a glimpse of a platypus. Camping here also provides an opportunity for families from the city to experience life on a working farm.
In addition, Kenilworth Camping is within walking distance of the local town where you can find a variety of dining and shopping options.
From its picturesque setting to the wide range of activities available at the farm, there are plenty of reasons to stay at Kenilworth Camping on your next camping trip.
13. Mount Barney Lodge Country Retreat
How long it takes to get there: 75 miles / Around 1.75 hours by car
Located in the Scenic Rim near the entrance to Mount Barney National Park is this tranquil retreat that offers spectacular views of the mountains.
Its idyllic location, coupled with the extensive walking tracks in the area, make the Mount Barney Lodge Country Retreat any outdoorsman’s paradise (not to mention a great place to retire after a long day of hiking).
There are also plenty of other great things to do here besides hiking, such as swimming in the creek that runs right through the property or in other nearby swimming holes. The lodge also offers interactive activities for kids during the school holidays, while the surrounding area is full of cafés, wineries, and farm gates.
Guests have several accommodation options to choose from at these Scenic Rim Camping grounds, including non-powered sites and cabins. The campsites themselves are stunning; offering some of the best camping near Brisbane for the views alone. Each one also comes with a fire ring for making campfires.
On-site amenities include a washing-up area, toilets, and free hot showers. There is also a small kiosk where you can buy basic groceries like bread, milk, and ice. Please note that there is limited mobile coverage here and that no dogs are allowed.
Overall, Mount Barney Lodge is a great choice for those seeking a peaceful getaway near Brisbane with plenty to do in the surrounding area.
14. Neurum Creek Bush Retreat
How long it takes to get there: 57 miles / About 1.5 hours by car
If what you’re after are bush camping sites near Brisbane north, look no further than Neurum Creek Bush Retreat! These dog-friendly camping grounds are located near the Stanley River, Lake Somerset, and D’Aguilar National Park, so there are plenty of opportunities for getting out into nature.
Neurum Creek also offers a range of activities that cater to campers with all kinds of interests, including hiking, biking, swimming, and kayaking in the nearby swimming holes. One of the benefits of camping next to a creek is that it draws a large number of wildlife, so there’s a good chance of spotting one of the 80 species of bird that live in the region, as well as butterflies, wallabies, kangaroos, and deer. Fancy a friendly game of cricket or bocce? Reception has a variety of games you can borrow, so you’ll never be bored here!
All the campsites are powered and amenities include free showers, toilets, and fire rings, as well as a small kiosk where you can buy the essentials.
For campers looking for some of the best camping Brisbane has to offer, Neurum Creek Bush Retreat will not disappoint.
15. Thunderbird Park Camping
How long it takes to get there: 42 miles / About 1 hour by car
Tucked away in a beautiful subtropical rainforest, Thunderbird Park is yet another awesome campsite near Brisbane, especially for families. It’s located on the outskirts of the Tamborine National Park, which means there are ample opportunities for outdoor activities here.
There’s also a creek running through the property that empties into a series of rock pools that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The camping grounds are also within easy reach of several larger rock pools and a lookout point. Of course, you have direct access to all the natural wonders in the Tamborine National Park as well.
In addition, Thunderbird Park has a variety of exciting activities to choose from, including horseback riding, ziplining, thunderegg fossicking, laser skirmish, and mini golf.
Regarding accommodation, Thunderbird Park offers a choice between powered and unpowered sites, plus a range of cabins. Facilities include toilets, fire rings, BBQs, tennis courts, a volleyball court, camp kitchen, laundry, bar, restaurant, and kiosk. Dogs are also welcome here.
So, if you’re looking for bush camping in a subtropical rainforest near Brisbane with plenty of things to do with the kids, Thunderbird Park is an excellent option.
16. Sharp Park River Bend Country Bush Camping
How long it takes to get there: 52 miles / About 1 hour by car
Situated just a 1-hour drive away from the city center, Sharp Park River Bend makes for the perfect weekend getaway near Brisbane. It’s set on 15 acres of well-maintained grounds overlooking the Coomera River, creating the perfect backdrop for a plethora of outdoor activities.
Things to do here include fishing, swimming, and kayaking on the river. It’s also only 3 miles from the quaint town of Canungra, which is home to several shops and eateries. There are several wineries in the area as well.
It should be noted that facilities are limited here, with just toilets and BBQs available, and that sites are small. Dogs are welcome here, however, and campfires are also permitted.
If you’re looking to get back to nature and don’t mind roughing it with just the basics, Sharp Park River Bend Bush Camping could be for you!
17. Yarramalong Park
How long it takes to get there: 59 miles / About 1.25 hours by car
Set on the banks of Reynolds Creek near Lake Moogerah in the Scenic Rim is this sprawling campground that offers more of the best camping near Brisbane.
Boasting 160 acres, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation at Yarramalong Park. Activities here include fishing, swimming, and kayaking year-round in Reynolds Creek, as well as bushwalking and observing the local wildlife, such as wallabies, possums, bilbies, koalas, and platypus.
All the campsites at Yarramalong Park are unpowered and amenities include hot showers, toilets, BBQ facilities, fire rings, and a kiosk.
If camping near a creek surrounded by beautiful nature is what you’re after, consider staying at Yarramalong Park.
Lake Camping Near Brisbane
18. Captain Logan and Lumley Hill Campgrounds at Lake Wivenhoe
How long it takes to get there: 50 miles / About 1 hour by car
Set on the shores of Lake Wivenhoe, these two campgrounds are ideally situated being surrounded by beautiful bushland. The campsites themselves are nestled among the trees and provide ample opportunities for local wildlife viewing since the forest is filled with kangaroos, koalas, possums, and an abundance of birds.
Campers can spend time out on the water where they can go fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. There’s also a small beach and several grassy areas for playing games like cricket. There are even a few playgrounds for the kids.
Other amenities include toilets, showers, campfires, and BBQ facilities. Campers can also choose between non-powered and powered sites.
19. NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park
How long it takes to get there: 70 miles / About 1.5 hours by car
Encompassing over 100 acres, this sprawling campground on the north side of Lake Somerset is 90 minutes away from the center of Brisbane and a short distance away from the towns of Woodford, Kilcoy, and Esk.
Being situated on the lakeshore means this is an excellent spot for campers who enjoy water sports like fishing, swimming, and tubing, although you’ll also find plenty of activities here for those who prefer to stay on dry land, including basketball and mini golf. There are also kids’ activities available for the duration of the school holidays.
Regarding accommodation, there are both non-powered and powered sites, safari tents, and cabins. Facilities include a laundry, camp kitchen, kiosk, playground, fish-cleaning station, BBQ areas, and boat ramps.
If you’re interested in lake camping near Brisbane, NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park is one of the many great options that the area has to offer.
20. Lake Moogerah Caravan Park
How long it takes to get there: 62 miles / About 1.5 hours by car
You can’t get much better camping within 2 hours of Brisbane than right on the shore of Lake Moogerah! Perfect for those who enjoy water sports, the Lake Moogerah Caravan Park is also an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Campers can spend their days fishing, swimming, and kayaking or exploring the lavender farm, bushwalking trails, and wineries that are just a short drive away.
There are both powered and non-powered sites to choose from at Lake Moogerah Caravan Park, as well as one cabin and one large guesthouse. On-site facilities include hot showers, toilets, fire pits, boat ramps, a camp kitchen, a small playground for the kids, and boat and kayak hire.
Located just 90 minutes away from Brisbane by car, the Lake Moogerah Caravan Park is one of the best camping spots in the area for a weekend camping trip.
Summary of Best Camping Sites Near Brisbane
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway and some of the best camping Brisbane has to offer?
Here are our top 20 picks:
- BIG4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort
- Bribie Island
- Coolum Beach Holiday Park
- Cotton Tree Holiday Park
- Moreton Island
- North Stradbroke Island
- NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort
- Bestbrook Mountain Farmstay
- Bigriggen Park
- Darlington & Burgess Parks Camping Grounds
- Flanagan Reserve Bush Camping
- Kenilworth Camping
- Mount Barney Lodge Country Retreat
- Neurum Creek Bush Retreat
- Thunderbird Park Camping
- Sharp Park River Bend Country Bush Camping
- Yarramalong Park
- Captain Logan and Lumley Hill Campgrounds at Lake Wivenhoe
- NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park
- Lake Moogerah Caravan Park
