The top 5 camping spots in Australia

Camping is popular in Australia and it’s not hard to see why. The extraordinary light, scenery and space combine to almost overpowering effect, from the rust-red expanses of the Outback, to the rainforest wilderness of Tasmania. And since supply meets demand, the number of campsites is immense. So to help you narrow down the options of the best places to pitch a tent Down Under, here are the highest-rated campsites in Australia.*

BIG4 Ulverstone Holiday Park, Ulverstone, Tasmania

This campsite is often used as a springboard from which to explore the Tasmanian wilderness. From its accessible location on the north-west coast, you can easily reach waterfalls, ancient forest and deserted, romantic beaches. Or take a day trip to the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

Karijini Eco Retreat, Karijini, Western Australia

A combination of glamping and eco-friendly accommodation, Karijini Eco Retreat is a rare find. Each deluxe canvas hut is a semi-permanent fixture in the glowing red earth of the Joffre Gorge bushland, part of the Karijini National Park. With linen bedding, wooden floors and natural ventilation, these ‘eco tents’ are very comfortable but unimposing. Everything is designed and operated with the environment in mind, ensuring sustainable management of this precious hinterland. A stay here allows you to witness the unparalleled light and openness of the Australian Outback, immersed in and in harmony with nature.

Talo Retreat, Moama, Victoria

Quietly blending in with the swaying red gum trees, Talo Retreat is a collection of six luxury yurts in some of Australia’s most enchanting bushland. The gentle Murray River glistens silver here and the yurts are kept cool in the dappled shade. Each has its own hammock and outdoor hot tub for relaxing amid birdsong and the aroma of eucalyptus. During the day, you can hire canoes or bikes to explore the area.

Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie, Mannering Park, New South Wales

An hour’s drive north of Sydney lies the coastal salt water lagoon of Lake Macquarie and the Ingenia Holidays campsite. Along the same stretch of coastline you’ll find the Home and Away filming location, national parks and hundreds of powder-fine sandy beaches with substantial surf. But the lake at the campsite is the real draw – visitors can boat across this deep blue beauty all day and there is a selection of waterfront cottages, cabins and villas.

Cowes Caravan Park, Cowes, Victoria

This Caravan Park on Phillip Island is right on the beach. Covering ten acres, there’s a mix of tent pitches, camper vans and caravans, many with timber verandahs for al fresco dinners and evening drinks. It’s particularly appealing as a family campsite, given the pristine shallows that provide a brilliant beach playground for children. It’s also popular for swimming, wind surfing and fishing.

**The data analysts at Booking.com looked at the best-reviewed campsites in Australia. Segmenting global traveller data into Australian locations, the list was filtered to include campsites that have an 8.5 review score or above and more than 50 reviews.