Looking for a place to camp for free in Queensland? Look no further than your own backyard! With so many beautiful natural places to explore, you can easily find a free campsite to suit your needs. Just be sure to pack your bug spray and sunscreen!
Camping in national parks
If you love the great outdoors, one of the best ways to experience everything that Queensland has to offer is by camping in one of our national parks. There are over 1000 national parks in Queensland, so you’re sure to find one that suits your interests and camping style.
Most national parks allow camping, but there are a few that don’t so it’s always best to check before you go. You can do this by visiting the Queensland National Parks website or contacting the relevant park authority.
There are three main types of camping in Queensland national parks:
- Bush camping: this is where you get back to nature and camp in the bush, away from facilities like toilets and showers. You will need to be self-sufficient when bush camping, so make sure you come prepared.
- Powered sites: these campsites have electricity sockets that you can use to power your appliances. Powered sites are generally located near amenities like toilets and showers.
- Unpowered sites: these campsites don’t have electricity, but they may be located near amenities like toilets and showers.
Camping on beaches
Beaches in Queensland are some of the most popular camping spots in the state. With over 6,000 kilometers of coastline, there are plenty of options for beach camping. Most of the beaches in Queensland are free to camp on, but there are a few exceptions.
Free campsites on beaches are usually found on national parks or conservation areas. These areas are typically well managed and offer amenities such as toilets and showers. Some popular beaches for camping include Fraser Island, Inskip Point, and Double Island Point.
Before you set up camp on a beach, make sure to check the local tide times. Camping too close to the water’s edge can be dangerous if the tide comes in overnight.
Camping in state forests
You can camp for free in Queensland’s state forests, provided you follow the basic common sense rules outlined below. Please remember to take your rubbish with you when you leave.
The general camping area is located near the day-use area, which has picnic tables, water and toilets.
You can camp in your tent or camper trailer, or hire a caravan from the office. However, there are no powered sites available.
Generators are allowed between 8am and 10pm only. Please be considerate of other campers when using generators.
Camping in national parks during off-peak times
You can camp for free in some national parks in Queensland, but only during certain times of the year. The off-peak season usually runs from early April to mid-November, and the dates can vary depending on the park. To find out if free camping is available in a specific park, check the Queensland National Parks website or contact the park directly.
Please note that free camping is only permitted in designated areas, and you must follow all fire restrictions and other regulations. Camping fees may still apply during peak season or for group bookings.
Camping in remote areas
Camping in remote areas is only allowed with a permit from the relevant land manager. This includes national parks, state forests and conservation areas. Camping on private property is only allowed with the express permission of the landowner.
Camping in designated camping areas
Camping in designated camping areas is allowed only in specific areas that have been set aside by the relevant local governments. You can find a list of these areas on the Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing website.
Before you go camping, make sure you:
- get permission from the landowner
- check for any fire bans that might be in place
- take your rubbish with you when you leave
- comply with any other requirements that are specific to the area
Camping in public spaces
You can camp for free on any unoccupied land in Queensland that is not under a forestry lease, national park, state reserve, conservation park or within the boundaries of an incorporated city or town. If you are planning to camp in a public space for an extended period, you should obtain permission from the local council.
Camping on private property
You can camp on private property with the owner’s permission. This includes rest areas, broom grass plains, private land (with the owner’s permission) and unsealed roads. If you’re planning on camping on private property, make sure you get the owner’s permission first.
Campbelltown City Council : You can camp for free in council-operated camping areas in red gum forests at Seven Hills Bushland Reserve and Ingleburn Reserve. There are also some council-operated campsites in Cumberland State Forest.
Clarence Valley Council : You may be able to camp for free on council-owned land, depending on the area and the time of year. Contact the council for more information.
Cooma-Monaro Shire Council : You can camp for free at any of the three Cooma Showgrounds. Camping is also allowed at Koorangari Lagoon (subject to fire bans).
Eurobodalla Shire Council : You can camp for free at Mogo Campground,Jindabyne Youth Campground or Moruya Showground (for self-contained vehicles only). There are also some council-operated campsites in Murramarang National Park.
Lismore City Council : You can camp for free at Cawongla Campground or East Lismore Recreational Reserve.
