Ultimate Brisbane Camping Guide - SEQ Camping by Paddy Pallin

Adventure doesn’t have to mean venturing a million miles from home. From lush, green bushland to long stretches of crystal clear water, Brisbane’s natural surroundings have something to offer every type of camper. To help plan your next adventure, we’ve pulled together a guide on the best camping spots within two hours of Brisbane. This Ultimate Brisbane Camping Guide includes the best places to camp in the Scenic Rim Region, a rundown of D’Aguilar National Park and surrounding areas, and the best locations for coastal camping near Brisbane.

CAMPING IN THE SCENIC RIM REGION

The wide area of lush bushland that is the Scenic Rim Region stretches from 80km south of Brisbane all the way down to the state border. One of the most diverse areas to camp near Brisbane, there are a range of different national parks and types of camping to experience in this region.

SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK

You simply cannot camp in the Scenic Rim without experiencing the impressive World-Heritage listed Gondwana Rainforests, and there are two main options. Located around an hour and a half from Brisbane, Springbrook National Park boasts incredible lush greenery and waterfalls for nature enthusiasts to explore. The Settlement is the only campsite in the national park, nestled in the heart of the forest and connected to a short walking track that provides access to one of the most impressive waterfalls in the whole national park.

LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK

Just a short drive away you’ll find Lamington National Park, home to some more epic waterfalls and equally beautiful flora and fauna. The larger O’Reilley’s campsite is situated in the Green Mountains section of the park, with a private campsite on the Binna Burra side. There are also lots of remote walk-in sites dotted around the park if overnight hiking is your jam. Situated between Springbrook and Lamington is Natural Bridge, where you can head to see the glow worms put on an impressive light show at night. There are a number of private campsites here, too.

MOUNT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK

Head further west and you’ll reach Mount Barney National Park. For the adventure-seekers, a tough yet rewarding hike to the summit of Mount Barney via South-East Ridge cannot be missed during a visit to the Scenic Rim. We’d recommend summiting the mountain over two days and camping at one of the bush campsites en route, where you’ll almost certainly be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset and sunrise. If multidays aren’t your thing, try the peaceful Flanagan Reserve or Mount Barney Lodge, both offering impressive views of this epic peak.

Other awesome camping options to explore in the Scenic Rim Region include the secluded Lake Moogerah for watersports lovers, or various campsites near Tamborine Mountain for short yet sweet hiking trails and proximity to the Gold Coast.

Mount Barney Scenic Rim — Mount Barney National Park

CAMPING NORTH OF BRISBANE

D’AGUILAR NATIONAL PARK

Stretching just 30 minutes north of Brisbane’s CBD all the way up to the base of the Sunshine Region, D’Aguilar National Park is a firm favourite for outdoor lovers who want to escape the city for the weekend (or even just for a day). Rainforest, gorges, and creeks populate this gorgeous stretch of green bushland, with plenty of trails to explore and watering holes to cool off in. The accessibility of D’Aguilar means that it is well equipped for campers, with a number of grounds to choose from. The two official grounds, Neurum Creek and Archer Creek, are situated in the north of the park and have all the amenities you might need if you have kids in tow. For those who prefer an adventure to a more remote setting, there are a total of nine secluded bush campsites that are connected by a network of walking trails in the south of the park. For ultimate views, we’d recommend the Northbrook Mountain loop and an evening spent on the ridge at Northbrook Mountain Summit campsite.

SOMERSET DAM & LAKE WIVENHOE

Situated on the western edge of D’Aguilar National Park, the Somerset Dam region is one of the most peaceful and underrated camping spots near Brisbane. In under an hour, you’ll reach an impressive network of tranquil lakes and waterways, offering up a peaceful serenity that feels a million miles away from the bustle of Queen Street. Whether you love a morning dip in the lake or some fast-paced watersports, there are plenty of campsites surrounding the water’s edge. For a spot with incredible sunset views over the Lake, try Captain Logan or Lumley Hill, both situated on the west side of Wivenhoe.

GLASSHOUSE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Just before you reach the Sunshine Coast, take a left off the M1 to reach the truly magnificent Glasshouse Mountains National Park. Listed on the Queensland and National Heritage Register as a landscape of national significance, the Glasshouse Mountains comprises thirteen craggy peaks that contrast with an otherwise flat landscape. Camping here allows you to bask in the energy of this spectacular National Park, with one site nestled in the park itself, and another found in the nearby town of Beerwah. The Mountains are culturally significant for the Traditional Owners of the land, the Gubbi Gubbi people, and many of the peaks are protected from public entry. You can enjoy sweeping views of the Glasshouse Mountains from several vantage points, or hiking either of the permitted trails: Mount Tibrogargan or Mount Ngungun.

D'Aguilar National Park — D’Aguilar National Park

COASTAL CAMPING NEAR BRISBANE

BEACH CAMPING

Falling asleep to the sound of the waves and waking up for a sunrise surf? Count us in. When it comes to camping by the water, Brisbane isn’t short of options. Whether you want to kick back on the coast or experience a weekend of island life, there’s something to suit every type of camper. For holidaymakers, Noosa North Shore offers up laid back beach side camping just a half hour drive away from the bustling centre of Noosa Heads, whilst the Gold Coast has site options aplenty for those who want a little more luxury and home comfort.

ISLAND CAMPING

If a secluded camp spot is what you’re after, why not cross the water? There are three main islands off the coast of Brisbane that guarantee an unforgettable camping experience. Moreton Island is perhaps the most textbook beautiful of the three, with sprawling white sand coastlines, crystal clear lagoons, and ancient shipwrecks for some epic snorkelling. There are many incredible beachfront campsites located across Moreton (4WD only) – check out Comboyuro Point for a secluded slice of paradise. Further north you’ll find Bribie Island and heading south will take you to North Stradbroke Island, both of which are easily accessible from Brisbane and offer some great island camping opportunities.

When it comes to scenic spots to pitch a tent, South East Queensland has you covered. Whether you’re drawn to the lush landscapes of the Scenic Rim, the tranquil settings of D’Aguilar National Park, or the stunning coastline of the neighbouring islands, there’s always an adventure waiting just a short drive from the city. So grab your gear, gather your mates, and set off to explore one of these incredible camping spots near Brisbane.

Inspired to get out there? Shop Camping gear at Paddy Pallin.