Beachfront Beauties: Australia's Best Coastal RV Campsites

There’s no better feeling than leaving the office, packing the car, and hitting the open road. With warmer weather emerging, it’s a perfect time to start thinking about the next camping trip. Australia’s diverse continent presents natural wonders and wildlife sure to appeal to anyone. The vast continent has plenty to explore if you are looking for hiking, diving, fishing, or wildlife sightings. But with over 12,000 beaches in Australia and millions of miles to cover, where to start?

Whether you’re looking for a spot in Perth, Queensland, or New South Wales, we’ve got you covered. Here are some top coastal RV campsites to check out this summer. 

The Finest Coastal Campsites Australia Has to Offer 

There are campsites for tents, caravans, or glamping options scattered throughout Australia. While some need simply a fee, other locations will require a permit for camping. Be sure to research and make reservations well in advance. Most sites will have powered and unpowered options; many provide basic facilities such as showers, bathrooms, and fresh water.

From the rugged southern coastline to the tropical beaches of Queensland, these are some of the best camping spots to get away from it all and immerse yourself in the Australian scenery.

• Lucky Bay (Cape Le Grand), Perth – Located just outside of Perth, Lucky Bay is on the western coast of Australia, prized for its pristine beaches. Stunning white sands give way to turquoise water, a picturesque location for any camper enthusiast. This area has various water-based activities, including swimming, snorkelling, canoeing, fishing, and more. Because it is so close to Perth, plenty of family-friendly ventures are nearby, such as the Perth Zoo and Kings Park and Botanic Garden. The campsites start at $15, and bookings are essential as Lucky Bay is a popular destination. Flush toilets, picnic benches, gas barbecue, and showers are all provided at the site. The campsites are unpowered, so plan accordingly for this gorgeous spot. 

• Mission Beach, QLD – Mission Beach is on the eastern coast of Australia, but it could just as easily be Thailand or Fiji. Deep blue waters and luscious palm trees give the effect that you’ve stepped into another world. Colourful, large cassowary birds wander the region, making their way through gardens and rivers. Mission Beach is the closest point to the Great Barrier Reef from the mainland, which makes it the perfect place for distinctive snorkelling or diving sites. More adventurous folks might enjoy the skydiving or white-water rafting options available. The Mission Beach Caravan Park offers powered and unpowered grounds, so there are plenty of options once you arrive. The park has many amenities, including bathrooms, outdoor gas cooking, and a large camp kitchen. The unpowered sites start at $45 a night, while the powered sites start at $60.
• Cape Hillsborough National Park, QLD – South of Mission Beach is Cape Hillsborough National Park, an equally impressive site with much to provide. Located on a secluded cape, this stunning region is a tranquil place to unwind and enjoy abundant Australian wildlife. Most notable within this national park are the golden, fiery sunrises, complete with wallabies. These furry marsupials feed on seaweed that washes up on the shore in the morning, providing a unique experience. The tourist park close by hosts multiple walking and hiking trails, and fishing, boating, and sailing are all accessible on the cape. The Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park has powered and unpowered areas, although the prices vary throughout the seasons. Booking is recommended for these sites, and a deposit will be necessary. There are BBQs, kitchen amenities, laundry options, a shop, and a pool on the grounds.
• Trial Bay, NSW – Nearly mid-way between Sydney and Brisbane is Trial Bay, a pristine bay with a fascinating history.  A must-stop in Trial Bay is the Trial Bay Gaol, a 19th-century prison no longer in use today. The grounds are open to walk around and learn about the history of the prison and surrounding area. The Smoky Cape Lighthouse is also worth visiting on the bay, offering breathtaking shoreline views. Bring food for a picnic, and watch for whales migrating near the waters. Take a short drive to the Yarrahapinni Wetlands National Park for a peaceful day of wandering through the wetland reserve. The Trial Bay Gaol campgrounds provide a welcoming space for RV campers. The expanse holds nearly 100 sites, some powered. Unpowered sites start at about $35, with powered sites starting around $45. Toilets, showers, and BBQs are all available at this location.
• Cave Beach, Jervis Bay– South of Sydney, Jervis Bay has plenty of beaches and campsites, but Cave Beach stands out amongst the rest. Like most beaches in the area, expect sparkling water and excellent surf. During the low tide, the caves that give this beach its name begin to appear. These rocky crevices make for magnificent views of the surrounding areas. Cave Beach is also home to friendly kangaroos that dot the shoreline. The Booderee Botanic Gardens are close to the campgrounds for a peaceful stroll through the local flora and fauna of the region. The Cave Beach Camping Ground is a superb spot for beachside accommodations. Bookings start at $13, and the ground has cold showers, water, wooden BBQs, and toilets. Reservations are necessary, as this secluded area is highly prized by travellers and locals alike. 
• Crowdy Bay, NSW – North of Newcastle is Crowdy Bay National Park, a pristine stretch of land with powdery sand, crashing waves, and forested mountains. This bay is ideal for individuals who want to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy life. The pristine beaches present sweeping views of the shore, and the Diamond Head Loop walk is a relatively easy 4.5km loop, showcasing rugged coastlines and jagged cliffs. Keep a keen eye out on this walk for whales or dolphins, as both are known to migrate through the area. There are a few different campsites, but the Crowdy Gap campground is a good spot for your RV if you desire a coastal viewpoint. There are ten unpowered sites, each with its fire ring. You will need to book a reservation for this location. The sites hold small caravans and start around $25.
• Johanna Beach, Victoria – Southern Australia holds some of the most spectacular views and should be at the top of your list if your explorations take you through the Great Ocean Road. Located southwest of Melbourne, Johanna Beach is an excellent blend of surfing, fishing, and wildlife-watching. The Great Ocean Walk, a 100 km trek between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles, is most notable at Johanna Beach. This walk can be done independently or with a group, and viewers love the sprawling beaches, luscious rainforests, and staggering cliffs. The Johanna Beach Campground overlooks the beach and has plenty of RV campsites available. Reservations are required; a camping spot costs roughly $15 a night. It’s best to prepare for this campsite—there is no drinking water provided at the site, and fires are not permitted. You will need to bring a fuel stove or gas barbecue to cook. 
• Yorke Peninsula, South Australia – Just northwest of Adelaide is the Yorke Peninsula, home of coastal walks, cycling, fishing, and more. The outstanding coastline boasts over 500 km of walking and cycling trails, where viewers can participate in the unique Yorke environment. Download the Walk the Yorke app and choose from hand-selected routes from locals who know the area best. There is a wide range of history waiting to be discovered, from the lighthouses to the museums, and even a glimpse of the mining life that captures the essence of Yorke. There are over 30 RV campsites located throughout the Yorke Peninsula, one of the more popular being the Burners Beach Bush Campground. These sites are right on the water, with a bin and toilet provided. These spots start at $20 but can fill up very quickly.

The coastlines of Australia are far-reaching, but with the right RV and equipment, you’ll soon be ready for the adventure of a lifetime. 

Caravan Camping Essentials

There are specific essentials for camping safely, such as a first aid kit, extra blankets, a toolbox, and a flashlight. It is also wise to carry updated maps when possible. More remote areas have less cell service, so a hard-copy backup will be handy. Maintaining these basic materials will ensure you are still well-prepared to handle these difficulties easily if anything goes wrong.

Before settling into your newest campsite and home, ensure you are well-prepared for the rugged outback present in Australia. While many camps provide basic amenities, each site is different, and there is no guarantee that you will have everything you require. With this in mind, here is a list of essentials to deck out your caravan and camp in style.

1. An Electric BBQ – This is Australia; we love our BBQ options! However, that can pose a problem when camping is involved. What if there is no fit pit? What if you can’t have an open flame in a campsite? Solve these problems effortlessly with an electric BBQ. Many double as a BBQ and a hot pot and have non-stick surfaces for easy cleaning. 
2. A Grill Plate – What’s more accessible than an electric BBQ? A grill plate to quickly turn your firepit into a BBQ haven. Steel grills are light, portable, and easy to set up at any firepit, depending on the size. Many come with a half grill, half flat plate option for unrestricted cooking.  
3. An Adjustable Awning – Sometimes, there’s no beating the Australian heat. The outback can reach record temperatures, and keeping cool during camping trips is necessary. Adjustable awnings are a great addition to your RV. They can be easily stored but used often for any needed shade or shelter at a given moment. 
4. A Portable Table and Chairs – Your caravan is equipped with kitchen gear, but what do you do when you crave a meal on the beach? Enter a camp cooler table. These nifty inventions feature a cooler for food storage attached to a collapsible table and chairs. Simply pack in your food, pack up your table, and head to the shore. Now you can enjoy your meals anywhere you lay the table. 

Australian summer days consist of beautiful weather, late sunsets, and endless new shorelines to explore. When planning your route, make reservations or check for permit status at campsites to ensure you have a place to stay. With your fully-stocked RV and list of top camping destinations, you’re all set for a summer to remember.