The Best Budget-Friendly Campervan Campsites/Holiday Parks in Australia

Welcome to the ultimate guide to finding the best budget-friendly accommodation when exploring Australia’s stunning landscapes in a campervan. In this guide, we are diving deep into the best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Australia - aka your best friend when exploring in a campervan hire.

We’ll cover all the best affordable accommodation locations, from the pristine beaches of Queensland to the rugged-red beauty of the Western Australia Outback, all accessible from the comfort of a campervan. So grab a cuppa and get ready to explore Australia's camping hidden gems with this ultimate list of budget-friendly accommodations!

Why you should go camping in Australia

Australia is a camper’s paradise. It is renowned for its iconic landmarks, expansive national parks, sun-kissed beaches, and quiet hinterlands. Camping gives you an up close and personal experience of these iconic Aussie landscapes in a way that other types of stays don't offer. 

Plus, with the sheer variety of camping options—from coastal getaways like Byron Bay to the adventurous Outback terrains of the Kimberley— there is no shortage of stunning campsites to explore!

What’s the best way to road trip Australia?

There’s no better way to discover the hidden gems of Australia than with campervan hire. A campervan hire is the ultimate travel hack (aka. it gives you the freedom to explore vast landscapes without the constraints of hotel bookings or tight schedules!)

Not only does campervan travel allow you to craft your own itinerary, but it also allows you to immerse yourself fully in these landscapes, waking up to ocean sounds in Queensland or the serene silence of the desert in the Outback of central Australia. Whether it’s spotting kangaroos at dawn or stargazing in the world’s clearest skies, camping gives you a front-row seat to the best locations Australia has to offer.

What's more, camper travel allows you to maximise your budget as you experience Australia. Travelling off-peak or being flexible with your dates can lead to significant savings, giving you more to spend on unforgettable experiences.

The best budget-friendly campsites/holiday parks in Australia

Get ready to dive into our curated list of the top budget-friendly campsites across Australia, perfect for unforgettable Aussie road trips. From coastal retreats to inland havens, each location and accommodation option combines affordability with amenities to enhance your camping experience.

The best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in NSW

New South Wales offers a variety of camping experiences, from coastal beauty to bushland serenity and vibrant city scenes. Exploring NSW in a campervan, you’re never far from a spectacular view or a unique adventure, especially along the south coast with its dazzling coastline and bush-edged towns.

From the iconic beaches of Byron Bay to the picturesque peaks of the Blue Mountains, NSW’s budget-friendly holiday parks are ideally situated to explore everything this state offers. Whether you’re looking to surf the waves, hike through lush forests, or indulge in local food, these campervan campsites make the perfect base or road trip stopover.

NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Resort

Nestled near the tranquil Coffs Harbour in New South Wales, NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Resort is a top contender for a pit stop on campervan road trips on the East Coast. This affordable holiday park offers top amenities like mini-golf, a water splash park, a swimming pool, a tennis court and direct beach access, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and fun. Plus, kangaroos are known to frequent the park, so you may have the chance to see one up close in the wild!

BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park

Located in the charming town of Kiama, BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park is famed for its stunning coastal views and access to the famous Kiama Blowhole. This park is an ideal base to explore the natural beauty of the Illawarra region, with excellent local attractions, including the impressive Sea Cliff Bridge that juts out over the ocean!

NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort

Perched on the edge of the Sapphire Coast, NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort is a haven for beach lovers. With facilities like a heated pool and easy access to local attractions, it’s an idyllic backdrop for your coastal adventures and a perfect location for exploring the nearby Booderee National Park.

BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park

For those who are looking for a serene escape in the north of NSW, BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park in Tweed Heads South is a gem. Known for its unique billabong fed from the Tweed River, this park offers a natural aquatic playground ideal for fishing, kayaking, and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of northern New South Wales.

NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort

Experience beachfront camping at its best at NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort on the Central Coast, just 90 minutes north of Sydney. A range of family-friendly activities and facilities, including a water park and resort-style pools, and its proximity to Sydney makes it a popular choice for weekend getaways and longer stays alike.

The best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Victoria

Victoria, with its diverse landscapes ranging from rugged coastlines to lush forests, is an ideal destination for campervan travellers. Exploring this state in a campervan offers the flexibility to discover secluded spots and iconic attractions and road trips like the Great Ocean Road at your own pace. From the cultural hub of Melbourne to the scenic Great Ocean Road, here’s a look at some of the best budget-friendly campervan hire campgrounds in Victoria.

BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park

Located just a short drive from the city's heart in Coburg, BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park is the perfect base for exploring Melbourne’s bustling streets and vibrant arts scene. The park offers a variety of caravan sites and modern amenities, making it easy for travellers to park their camper and enjoy the sights using affordable public transport. Whether you're looking to explore the city's renowned food hotspots and boutiques or its lush gardens and historic architecture, this park puts all of Melbourne within reach.

Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park

Looking for a little more nature around your road trip campground? Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park is in the heart of the Grampians and delivers a breathtaking backdrop of mountain views. In the cooler months, visitors can even enjoy the sight of snow-capped mountains!

This park is a haven for hikers and wildlife watchers, with access to some of the best hiking trails in Australia, traversing through majestic landscapes and past ancient Aboriginal rock art. The sound of native birds and the chance to spot kangaroos at dusk add to the park’s rustic charm, making it a true escape into Aussie nature.

BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park

Steeped in the rich history of the Gold Rush, BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park offers a comfortable stay with a touch of historical charm for the history buffs. Located near the famous Sovereign Hill and the Gold Museum, you have plenty of activities to fill your days. The park itself also features a heated indoor pool and a play area for kids, ensuring that everyone has something to enjoy after a day of exploring Ballarat’s heritage.

Phillip Island Caravan Park

Just moments away from the soft sands and gentle waves, Phillip Island Caravan Park offers an exceptional beachfront camping experience in Australia. Its appeal doesn't end there! This campground is the perfect base for visitors planning a visit to the famous Penguin Parade or exploring the nearby Seal Rocks. Furthermore, the park’s facilities, including free Wi-Fi and BBQ areas, provide a convenient and serene base to return to.

Great Ocean Road Tourist Park

Nestled in the quaint town of Peterborough, Great Ocean Road Tourist Park is a strategic starting point for anyone looking to drive along Australia's iconic Great Ocean Road. This park offers powered sites that accommodate campervan hire travellers and is just a few minutes drive from the majestic Twelve Apostles and other breathtaking coastal formations.

Its proximity to both forested areas and the ocean of the Great Ocean Road makes it a perfect base to explore the local hiking, fishing, and surfing in this corner of Australia.

Image: Visit Victoria

The best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in South Australia

South Australia, with its stunning coastlines, world-famous vineyards, and vibrant city life on the south coast, offers a huge range of experiences that are best explored with the freedom of a campervan. Touring this diverse state, you can enjoy the scenic drives through the wine country, explore the historic charm of Adelaide, or relax on the serene beaches along the coast.

Below, we have outlined some of the best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in South Australia to add to your South Australia itinerary. Each provides unique amenities and is located in close proximity to SA's best local attractions.

Marion Holiday Park - Adelaide

Marion Holiday Park in Adelaide is a top pick for those starting their next holiday in Adelaide city. With facilities including an outdoor bar, cinema, splash zone, water park, gym, and games room, this park delivers in spades for a fun-filled stay. Close by, you also have access to world-class wineries in the Barossa Valley, the Art Gallery of South Australia, Haigh’s Chocolate Factory tour for a little sweet fix, and it's only a short ferry ride to access Kangaroo Island for a little nature immersion.

BIG4 Naracoorte Holiday Park

Set near the world-heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves, BIG4 Naracoorte Holiday Park is perfect for a fun-filled escape. The park boasts giant games, mini golf, frisbee golf, a swimming lake, and pedal kart hire. Plus, there is plenty to do close by, including exploring the ancient Naracoorte Caves, paddling in the Naracoorte Swimming Lake, and stepping back in time at Pioneer Park. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so even your furry friends can join the fun.

Port Broughton Tourist Park - Yorke Peninsula

Located on the picturesque Yorke Peninsula, Port Broughton Tourist Park offers an array of facilities, including a monkey bar ninja course, a toddler wading pool, waterslides, a splash park, and even a pizza oven for family meals. Local activities include fishing on the nearby jetty, picnicking on the foreshore, or taking a scenic walk from Port Broughton to Fisherman’s Bay. This park is also dog-friendly, ideal for visitors who don’t want to leave their pets behind.

Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park

Tucked away near the vibrant neighbourhood of Glenelg, Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park provides direct access to the beach and features facilities such as bike hire, BBQ areas, a games room, and mini golf. Family-friendly attractions nearby include swimming and playing at Glenelg Beach, discovering space at the Australian Space Discovery Centre, and encountering native wildlife at Cleland Wildlife Park. The park’s dog-friendly policy ensures that no family member is left behind.

Berri Riverside Holiday Park

In the heart of the Riverland, Berri Riverside Holiday Park is a tranquil getaway with all the campervan conveniences as well as a pool, basketball court, café, and firepit. With easy access to local attractions, including picnicking beside the picturesque Murray River, dining at the local Mallee Fowl restaurant, and letting the kids loose at Monash Adventure Park, this is a perfect addition to any South Australia campervan hire road trip.

The best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Western Australia

Exploring Western Australia in a campervan allows you to immerse yourself in some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, from the remote Kimberley region to the bustling city life of Perth.

What's more, WA's vast expanse makes it the perfect setting for a road trip, with holiday parks, national parks, and campsites along the coast and inland offering a huge variety of experiences—from beachside escapes to adventures in the rugged Outback. Here are some top picks for budget-friendly accommodations when travelling through WA in a camper hire.

Big4 Tasman Holiday Parks

Located at Ledge Point, Big4 Tasman Holiday Parks offers a unique desert landscape and serene getaway with its proximity to the stunning coastlines of Western Australia. It has facilities that are perfect for a family vacation or a quiet retreat, including a swimming pool, camp kitchen and kids activities.

The park’s coastal location is ideal for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Australian coastline and for anyone planning a road trip adventure to explore the nearby Lancelin sand dunes or the remarkable Pinnacles Desert.

Cosy Corner East

Cosy Corner East is a tranquil spot perfect for those seeking a picturesque setting along the Western Australia south coast, without the frills. This basic but beautiful campground provides essential amenities such as toilets and picnic tables, and it's a haven for swimming, fishing, and snorkelling.

The unspoiled coastal views and easy access to the beach make it a favourite among campers looking for a peaceful escape into nature. Plus, it is a perfect stop for those tackling a longer road trip across the Nullarbor Plain.

BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks, Busselton

Big4 Breeze Holiday Parks in Busselton is a fantastic, family-friendly location just 3 hours south of Perth that offers a variety of campervan and recreational facilities, including a splash and play zone, pedal carts, adventure playgrounds, and a toddler pool. Nearby, families can enjoy whale watching, explore the historic Busselton Jetty, or have fun at Aquatastic. This park is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for those on road trips with pets.

RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort

RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is renowned not just for its comfortable accommodations but also for its accessibility to meeting the famous dolphins of Monkey Mia. This resort also welcomes dogs, ensuring no family member is left behind (although please note that pets aren't welcome at the dolphin experience). This is a perfect addition to a camper hire on a west coast road trip heading to explore the magic of Ningaloo Reef and beyond.

BIG4 Taunton Farm Margaret River

Set in the heart of the renowned Margaret River region, BIG4 Taunton Farm provides a rustic farm experience with modern comforts a few hours south of Perth. Facilities include animal feeding, a giant jumping pillow, and a playground.

Plus, nearby, you can explore Cowtown, indulge in local produce at the Margaret River Dairy, and enjoy the lush landscapes. This park is also dog-friendly, perfect for visitors who travel with their pets.

Image: Tourism Western Australia

The best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in the Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is a land of rugged beauty and ancient culture, tucked away in northern central Australia. From the dramatic landscapes of the Red Centre in Central Australia to the lush wetlands of the Top End, the NT offers a variety of campgrounds that allow you to connect with this region's unique nature and explore Indigenous heritage sites.

Whether you're venturing to the iconic Uluru or cruising along the Katherine Gorge, the Northern Territory's holiday parks provide a perfect base for those looking to experience the tranquillity of the Australian Outback.

Merl Campground, Kakadu National Park

Merl Campground is located within the vast expanse of Kakadu National Park, offering a serene setting to discover some of Australia's most ancient wonders. This campground is a perfect location for those looking to dive into an authentic Outback experience with access to some of the park’s most famous attractions, such as the breathtaking Jim Jim Falls and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites.

Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park

Set in the heart of Litchfield National Park, the Wangi Falls camping area is a tropical haven ideal for nature lovers. This picturesque site allows campers to immerse themselves in a lush monsoon rainforest environment.

You can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the falls, relax by the scenic waterfall, or explore unique geological formations like the magnetic termite mounds. This campground is perfect for those who are self-sufficient and looking for a peaceful retreat in one of the Northern Territory’s most beloved national parks.

Berry Springs Nature Park

Located just a short drive from Darwin, Berry Springs Nature Park offers a delightful free camping experience in Central Australia. Campers can enjoy the clear, cool waters of the park’s natural swimming holes and spot local wildlife, such as colourful birds and agile wallabies.

The park is an excellent spot for a relaxing day amid natural springs and tropical woodland, providing a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Nearby attractions include the Territory Wildlife Park and the historical sites of the Darwin region, as well as a great launch point to venture south to explore Alice Springs.

The best budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Queensland

Offering some of the best road trips in Australia, Queensland, with its sun-kissed beaches, tropical islands, and lush rainforests, a paradise for campervan travellers. Offering a mix of adventure and beachside relaxation, Queensland’s holiday parks provide the perfect base to explore everything from the bustling nightlife of Brisbane to the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Here are some of the top budget-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Queensland that combine great location, amenities, and access to iconic Queensland attractions.

BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Located in Helensvale on the east coast of Australia, BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park is a gateway to the thrills of the Gold Coast and its iconic theme parks, such as Movie World, Wet'n'Wild, and Dreamworld.

This campervan accommodation offers diverse amenities, including a large pool, cafe, and dog-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay. This campground is the perfect way to enjoy the vibrant local dining scene or take a short drive to the beaches or the nearby Brisbane city that makes the Gold Coast so famous.

Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort

Located in the north of Queensland in Cairns, Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort is set amidst lush tropical gardens. It offers an array of family-friendly amenities, including SPLASH waterpark, mini-golf, and outdoor movie screenings.

Most importantly, this is the perfect base to explore the Great Barrier Reef or venture into the Daintree Rainforest for a day of iconic East Coast adventure. The resort is conveniently located within driving distance from the Cairns Cheapa Campa branch, making it an excellent starting point for a northern Queensland road trip.

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort in Airlie Beach is your dream base for exploring the Whitsunday Islands. This resort offers a range of facilities, including a massive water park, pedal carts, and an outdoor cinema.

Its proximity to the ocean allows easy access to sailing and snorkelling excursions. Whether you're starting from Brisbane or Cairns, this park is a fantastic addition to any Queensland road trip.

NRMA Capricorn Yeppoon Holiday Park

Tucked away in the sleepy seaside town of Yeppoon, the NRMA Capricorn holiday park is a haven on the Capricorn Coast with easy access to Great Keppel Island and the surrounding coastal wonders. The park features a modern pool, a children’s playground, and a spacious camp kitchen.

Discover Australia's local beauty with nearby coastal walks, a visit to the Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary, or a visit to the local beaches and community markets.

Bargara Beach Caravan Park

Located in Bargara, near Bundaberg on the East Coast of Australia, Bagara Beach Caravan Park offers beachfront views and direct beach access, perfect for those who love the ocean and outdoor adventure. The area is super friendly and known for its relaxed lifestyle and is a gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Nearby attractions include the Mon Repos Turtle Centre and Bundaberg Rum Distillery, providing plenty to do on your next adventure.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

Think camping in Australia sounds like fun?

Ready to experience Australia's national parks, vast Outback and open road for yourself with a motorhome hire? Book your Cheapa camper online today and pick it up from any Cheapa branch to begin your unforgettable camper hire road trip across Australia. From the tropical rainforests of Queensland to the rugged Outbacks of the Northern Territory, there's a campsite to match your next adventure!