Australia’s east coast is one of the most popular caravan routes in the country, stretching from tropical Queensland down through New South Wales and into Victoria. The good news? You do not need to spend a fortune on accommodation.
1. Deepwater National Park, Queensland
Located 80km south of Gladstone, Deepwater National Park offers beachfront camping with basic facilities. Sites are $6.50 per person per night through the Queensland Parks booking system.
2. Crowdy Bay National Park, NSW
Crowdy Bay sits between Port Macquarie and Taree and is a free camping gem. The Diamond Head campground offers stunning coastal scenery with kangaroos grazing at dawn. Composting toilets on-site, no power.
3. Burrinjuck Waters State Park, NSW
Set on a reservoir in the Snowy Mountains foothills, Burrinjuck is perfect for families. Free camping zones along the foreshore with swimming, kayaking and fishing available.
4. Grampians National Park Dispersed Camping
Parks Victoria allows dispersed camping in designated zones of the Grampians. Check the Parks Victoria app for current open zones.
Tips for Free Camping Success
- Always carry at least 20 litres of fresh water beyond your daily needs
- Download offline maps via Hema Explorer or WikiCamps before leaving mobile range
- Use the Camps Australia Wide app to find verified free sites with GPS coordinates
- Check fire restrictions daily via your state fire authority website
- Leave no trace – pack out everything you bring in
Protect Your Camping & Landowner Journey
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