Australia's Best-Kept Secrets: Campervan-Friendly Hidden Attractions

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Planning a road trip Down Under with Britz and want to include a few of Australia’s best-kept secrets, specially curated for your campervan adventures? Well, buckle up because, in this guide, we're going beyond the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, and the bustling city vibes of Melbourne. If you're interested in the best-kept secrets and things you need to know before an Australia campervan holiday, look no further. Whether you're looking to rent a van to travel to the untouched freedom camping spots throughout Australia or looking to enjoy the finer things in life at holiday parks on an Australia road trip, grab a cuppa, and let's take a journey through campervan-friendly destinations that promise experiences beyond the ordinary.

Oysters Family at the beach Salad

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Pinnacle Desert, Western Australia

The Pinnacle Desert is a true marvel of nature. Located in Western Australia, this unique desert is home to extraordinary limestone formations that pierce the landscape, creating an otherworldly – almost extraterrestrial – terrain. These formations are like nature's sculptures, standing as tall as 3.5 meters and dating back millions of years. The desert is not only visually striking but features a driving loop route which makes this park incredibly convenient to explore with van travel.

Where to stay: Cervantes Pinnacles Caravan Park 

Located just a short drive from the mystical Pinnacle Desert, RAC Cervantes Caravan Park offers spacious, powered sites to park your campervan. The caravan park also features clean shower and toilet facilities, a camp kitchen, and barbeque areas, making it a cozy and convenient base for your desert adventures.

 

Esperance, Western Australia

The coastal town of Esperance in Western Australia is a paradise that somehow still manages to fly under most tourists' radar. Think of a coastal road trip leading you to a national park dotted with a series of hidden beaches, each more picturesque than the last. One of the campervan-friendly spots you'll come across in the neighbouring Cape Le Grand National Park is Lucky Bay, where you can literally camp right next to the beach. Here, kangaroos are often spotted lounging in the sun, adding a unique Aussie touch to your beach experience. Want to get a little further away from it all? Climb Frenchman Peak to soak up these glistening waters from above! With so many hidden gems of Australia nearby, Esperance is the perfect base to explore this dazzling coastline with its secluded coves, pure white sands, and inviting turquoise waters.

Where to stay: Lucky Bay CampgroundThis is the crème de la crème of beachside camping near Esperance. Lucky Bay offers campervan sites right next to the stunning, kangaroo-frequented beach. The campground also includes toilet facilities and picnic tables, ensuring you can comfortably enjoy your beachfront stay.

 

Image: Instagram @theramblerco

 

Bay of Fires, Tasmania

If untouched beauty is what you seek, the Bay of Fires in Tasmania should be on your Australia road trip bucket list. Known for its stunning glistening coastline adorned with orange-hued lichen-coated rocks, it offers a unique coastal beauty only seen in a few places throughout Australia. What makes this place extra special is the availability of campsites right along the beaches. You can park your campervan, unfold your chairs, and sip on your morning coffee as you watch the brilliant blue waves gently lap the shore. For those who are avid nature enthusiasts or water activity junkies, the Bay of Fires also has plenty of lesser-known spots dotted along the northern reaches of this region that are perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, and bird-watching. Try snorkelling at Seatons Cove, surfing at Eddystone Point, or grabbing a bite to eat at Meresta’s in Binalong Bay for a taste of what this region has to offer. 

Where to stay: Cosy Corner North Campground

Positioned beautifully along the Bay of Fires, Cosy Corner North offers campervan-friendly spots right next to the beach. Basic amenities such as toilets and picnic areas are available, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this pristine, colourful coastline. 

 

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

Bitter Springs, Northern Territory

Bitter Springs is more than just a natural hot spring; it's a hidden oasis. Tucked away in the far reaches of Mataranka, Northern Territory, are the crystal-clear, warm waters of Bitter Springs. These naturally flowing springs are surrounded by lush vegetation and the calls of native wildlife – it's like bathing in nature's own Jacuzzi. What’s more, you can park your campervan at the nearby campground and spend the day soaking up the rejuvenating powers of these thermal springs. It’s an ideal way to add some relaxation to any Outback Australia road trip adventure. 

Where to stay: Mataranka Homestead Tourist Resort

A mere five-minute drive from Bitter Springs, this resort provides powered campervan sites and amenities, including a bar and restaurant. It's a comfortable stay that offers the best of both worlds: natural beauty and modern convenience.

 

Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), Northern Territory

A trip to Karlu Karlu, also known as the Devil’s Marbles, is like stepping into an alternate reality where gravity is suspended. These enigmatic rock formations look to be floating, and their presence is even more intriguing after driving through hours of flat, barren desert. These rocks appear to have dropped from the heavens. Unsurprisingly these perplexing rock formations hold significant spiritual importance for the Aboriginal people. Regardless of how they came to be, watching their ochre-red hues transform into luminescent, vibrant reds during sunrise and sunset is a universally magical phenomenon not to be missed! 

Where to stay: Devils Marbles CampgroundLocated just a short drive from the Devil's Marbles, this campground provides powered sites and toilets and is the perfect base close by this Australian must-see.

 

Coober Pedy, South Australia

The name Coober Pedy usually conjures images of miners hard at work underground mining for opals, and rightly so. In this little outback mining town, you can visit opal mines, buy one-of-a-kind gemstone jewellery, and even stay in an underground “dugout” if you choose. However, if you're on a campervan road trip, you'll find convenient camping options above ground as well. Besides the opal fascination, nearby attractions like the Moon Plain and the Breakaways offer a lunar-like landscape that’s incredibly photogenic and utterly unique. It’s as if you’ve landed on another planet, making it a must-visit spot in South Australia.

Where to stay: Stuart Range Outback Resort

This resort offers powered campervan sites perfect for a campervan stay. It also comes with additional perks like free WiFi, laundry facilities and a convenient on-site water re-fill station (incredibly important in these Outback regions). It makes for a unique and comfortable base to explore the Outback wonders of Coober Pedy.

 

Image: SATC Media Gallery

 

Millaa Millaa Falls, Queensland

The Millaa Millaa Falls in Queensland is a tranquil escape in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands. The serenity of campervan camping near the falls and surrounding rainforest is like a balm to the soul. A drive to see this hidden gem in Australia is a perfect opportunity for a refreshing dip in the waterfall's natural pool. For those looking for an extended adventure through Queensland’s lush landscapes, Milla Milla is also the perfect kick-off point to explore the numerous falls dotted along the Waterfall Circuit, including the lesser-known Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls.

Where to stay: Millaa Millaa Tourist Park

Tucked away within the lush Atherton Tablelands, Millaa Millaa Tourist Park offers powered campervan sites, a well-maintained amenities block, and even a camp kitchen perfect for exploring the nearby swimming holes. 

 

Lamington National Park, Queensland

Stepping into the ancient World Heritage-listed rainforests of Lamington National Park is akin to entering a living museum of flora and fauna. Walking through hidden trails, you’ll encounter beautiful waterfalls, vibrant birdlife, and ancient beech trees. The park also offers excellent campervan facilities, making it easy for travellers to spend several days discovering this park’s immense biodiversity. While here, don't miss the Tree Top Walkway, a suspended bridge hovering 15 meters above the forest floor that allows you to walk amongst the treetops, giving you a bird's-eye view of the lush, green forest below. And be sure to set aside some time to discover hidden walking trails such as Elabana Falls and Box Log Falls. 

Where to stay: O’Reilley’s Campground

Nestled within Lamington National Park, this campground (formerly known as Green Mountain campground) offers powered campervan sites and is a stone's throw away from some of the park’s most stunning walking trails. Amenities include picnic tables, barbeque facilities, and toilets, making it ideal for nature lovers looking to get the most out of this gorgeous outdoor region. 

 

Lake Tyrrell, Victoria

The surreal landscape of Lake Tyrrell in Victoria is an experience that defies description. As Victoria's largest salt lake, it has become revered for its incredible reflective views that mimic the sky – a true photographer’s dream. While the lake itself is an Australian must-see, the real draw is staying overnight for the spectacular stargazing opportunities. There is no better way to experience this Australian gem than by parking your campervan at the nearby camping facilities and spending the evening gazing up at the Milky Way – what a dream!

Where to stay: Sea Lake Caravan Park

Close to the ethereal Lake Tyrrell, this caravan park offers campervan sites along with shower and toilet facilities. A community kitchen is also available, giving you the freedom to cook up a meal before you head out for some lakeside photography, no matter your campervan hire setup. 

 

Grampians National Park, Victoria

Grampians National Park is renowned for its dramatic mountain ranges and epic hiking opportunities. Whether you are looking to hike the Pinnacle for the dramatic views or explore hidden waterfalls like Mackenzie Falls and Silverband Falls, the park is incredibly well-equipped for campervan visitors. While the iconic lookout points and trails are a must, be sure to take some time to discover some of the lesser-known treasures in the park, such as the Aboriginal rock art sites and secluded picnic spots dotted throughout the park. 

Where to stay: Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist ParkWith powered campervan sites surrounded by nature, this tourist park is a gateway to the Grampians. Amenities include a solar-heated swimming pool, modern camp kitchens, and a children’s playground, ensuring an enjoyable stay for travellers of all ages. 

 

Campervan-Friendly Travel Around Australia FAQs

Whether you're a seasoned road trip warrior or this is your first time considering a campervan adventure, you might still have some lingering questions about the nitty-gritty details of campervan travel. In this section, we tackle those burning queries to make your campervan journey around Australia as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

 

Can I sleep in my campervan anywhere in Australia?

Not quite. While ultimate freedom would be thrilling, there are some limitations to where you can camp in Australia. As such, it's essential to be aware of local camping laws when it comes to freedom camping in Australia

 

Which part of Australia is best for a campervan?

Each state has its unique attractions and things to see and do in a campervan. For more information, check out our state-by-state guides: 

 

Can I park my motorhome on the street in Australia?

It varies by location, so always check local regulations. To get the lowdown on where to stay in Australia, check out the full guide to freedom camping in Australia.  

 

 

Ready to Explore Australia's Hidden Gems?

There you have it—your exclusive guide to Australia's lesser-known marvels, each more campervan-friendly than the last. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Britz campervan today. Then all that's left to do is pack that van and explore Australia, one Australia must-see hidden gem at a time. For more insights on how much it costs to rent a campervan in Australia and other tips, check out the Britz blog.