Distance: 1,800kms Time: 9 Days / 8 Nights When: All Year Round
Put together an awesome playlist, stock up on snacks, and hit the great open road on your way to some of Australia's best east coast camping destinations.
Forget the motorhome or 2WD camper, this road trip will take you on a 4WD adventure from Cairns to Brisbane (or vice versa) where you'll get to explore hidden gems and spectacular beach camping.
Stretching over 1,800kms from the southern Queensland boarder to the far north, this must-do Australian road trip is full of spectacular scenery and loads of things to do and see. Along the way you'll discover Kangaroos & Cassowaries, luxury islands, remote beaches, incredible natural beauty, and towns bursting with character and local produce.
Discover hidden camp spots and amazing beached, that are only accessible by 4WD.
We recommend renting a 4x4 and driving from Cairns to Brisbane in at least 9 days, allowing you to get a really good taste of north Queensland. However some travelers may prefer a much more immersive experience and spend a couple of weeks on the same route. The time you take to complete the trip will depend on how long you have and what must-see things you have on your list.
Where to start
Collect your vehicle from our local agent in Cairns. Allow at least 45 minutes (or as long as you need) for us to show you around and get you comfortable with your camper.
In this post, we'll focus on the main route which, via the Bruce Highway A1 however you can take inland routes, which we will cover in other blogs.
What provisions you will need
The drive to Brisbane has lots of towns and cities along the way so you'll never need to worry too much about fuel, water and provisions. However keep in mind that some of our epic camp spots are remote, so you'll need to stock up on supplies before heading out.
Your 4WD Camper
The benefit of having a 4x4 camper for this road trip is that you are fully self-contained, carry your bed with you everywhere you go and most importantly it will get you to some hidden, out of the way places, not accessible by 2WD vehicles (we'll let you in on these later in the article).
We include all camping gear, from chairs, tables, cookware and dinnerware to fridge/freezer, lantern, first aid kit, shovel and shower.
20 Epic camps between Cairns and Brisbane
Our team of intrepid travellers here at Overlander have put together their must do and see list of 20 epic places to visit and camp between Cairns and Brisbane.
Starting in Cairns and heading south (or vice versa), we'll take you along the coast, onto rugged beaches, accessible only by 4WD and back inland where you'll discover ancient rainforests, remote bush camping and breathtaking waterfalls. Along the way, we'll get you up close and personal with some of Australia's most iconic wildlife.
Our 20 epic camps are not ranked, they are listed in order of their distance from Cairns and keep in mind that they are located both on the coast and inland, with some being a distance west of the Brice Highway. So make sure you choose your stays carefully and allow enough time to get between locations.
Crocodiles inhabit coastal waterways in north Queensland from Gladstone to Cape York. Please Click HERE to read everything you need to know and always stay Crocwise.
Finally, not all of these places require a 4WD however many do, so with a 4WD from Overlander, you'll be able to tick everyone one of them off your list. Enjoy!
New to Beach Driving? You'll just need a little info to keepyou safe. Please Click HERE to read our Beach Driving Safety Guide.
1. RUSSELL RIVER NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 100kms from Cairns | 1,650kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Secluded camping right on the beach
Facilities: Campfires allowed. No toilets or other facilities
Bookings and Info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/russell-river/camping/graham-range
Paperbarks and mangrove forests line the many creeks and rivers in tranquil, unspoiled Russell River National Park. This is a good place to whet your appetite for beach camping and is not too far from Cairns.
First things first. Please be Croc aware here and at any other coastal location along the route.
Russell River is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage area, the park sits near the estuary of the Russell and Mulgrave rivers and is a fisher’s paradise.
Set up camp on the beach, surrounded by paperbark and mangrove forests, in the shadow of the Graham Range. Sit back and watch a brilliant sunrise before heading out to fish in the mouth of Bluemetal Creek and in the nearby rivers and tributaries.
2. MURRAY FALLS
Distance: 175kms from Cairns | 1,560kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Magnificent waterfall with great camp ground with good facilities
Facilities: Toilets, cold shower, Campfires allowed (BYO Wood), Swimming
Bookings and Info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/girramay/camping/murray-falls
Located just 42kms west of Cardwell, Murray Falls Murray Falls, within Girramay National Park, is one of north Queensland’s prettiest waterfalls, with large volumes of water racing over naturally sculpted granite boulders. The gravel road in is a little rough for the last 3 kilometers, however it won't be a challenge for your Overlander 4WD,
Rain forested mountains and tropical lowlands meet in the attractive foothills of the Kirrama Range. The clear waters of the Murray River cascade over boulders into rock pools in this picturesque spot, within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Camp in the well maintained camp ground (book using the link above) or enjoy a picnic in the grassy and shaded day-use area by the river. Stroll along the boardwalk to a viewing platform near the falls or go for a refreshing swim in the waterholes.
For the more adventurous, take moderately graded 1.8 kilometre return walk through a cool rainforest gully, and then up into open forest and spectacular views over the falls and Murray Valley. Look for wallabies, possums and a variety of reptiles. Bring binoculars and watch for many colourful birds.
3. BLENCOE FALLS
Distance: 240kms from Cairns | 1,590kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Spectacular, remote camping with 100kms of bush walking tracks
Facilities: Toilets, Campfires allowed (BYO Wood)
Bookings and Info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/blencoe-falls
Blencoe creek plunges 90 meters into a pool before cascading a further 230 meters to the bottom of Blencoe Gorge and into the Herbert River.
Set up camp at the camping area and enjoy the short walks and lookouts around Blencoe Falls.
The gateway to the Wet Tropics Great Walk also starts here, with a network of 110 kilometres of tracks offering short walks and overnight walks.
Blencoe Falls is remote and visitors must be self-sufficient. Take adequate communication equipment and be careful around cliffs, steep slopes and rock faces along the tracks and at the lookout.
4. MUNGULLA STATION
Distance: 240kms from Cairns | 1,475kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Aboriginal cultural tours
Facilities: Camp kitchen, toilets, showers and communal campfire
Bookings and info: https://www.mungallaaboriginaltours.com.au/
Discover the Culture and History of Mungalla Station and the Nywaigi Aboriginal People of North Queensland. Meet the Nywaigi Aboriginal people, the traditional owners of the lands around Ingham in North Queensland. Experience their rich culture and history.
Learn of the often brutal conflict between Nywaigi Aboriginal people and European settlers that shaped the destiny of North Queensland. Explore the property established by James Cassady, who fled the potato famine of Ireland and created a pastoral dynasty as well as advocating for Aboriginal people.
Visit the birthplace of the world famous mighty Drought master cattle, the original homestead, the graves of James Cassady and his son as well as the wetlands that have been regenerated by the traditional owners.
5. COOLBIE BAY, CRYSTAL CREEK CAMPING
Distance: 340kms from Cairns | 1,420kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Camping right on the beach
Facilities: Free camping, campfires allowed, no toilets or showers
Bookings and info: https://wikicamps.com.au/site/Queensland/Campground/Crystal+Creek+Camping+Reserve/71726
Crystal Creek Beach Camping, North of Townsville just made our list because it is a remote free camp not far from Townsville. It is a shady dispersed bush camping area north of Crystal Creek set between wetland area and the ocean beach. There's a boat ramp at Crystal Creek for the anglers.
The campsite is easy to access however it can get busy on the weekend however during the week it is nice and quiet.
There are no facilities so campers will need to come full equipped. Lot's of room for caravan's, trailers and tent based camping. The site is FREE and Pet Friendly.
Be Crocwise in croc country!
6. MAGNETIC ISLAND
Distance: 350kms from Cairns | 1,350kms from Brisbane (40min ferry from Townsville)
What we love: Breakfast with Koala's at the Koala park
Facilities: Caravan parks, shops, accommodation and more
Bookings and info: https://www.townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au/destinations/magnetic-island/
We reckon you shouldn't take a trip down the east coast and go past this magical island gem.
Magnetic Island is a nature lovers paradise just 40 minutes from Townsville, North Queensland. There is plenty of accommodation on Magnetic Island and there are camping options at 'The Forts' or Bungalow Bay.
Explore West Point and Radical Bay Road which are 4WD only and then head to the Bungalow Bay Koala Village for an up close and personal meeting with Australia's cutest wildlife.
Magnetic Island has something for everyone: 23 bays and beaches, kilometres of bushland hikes, the largest colony of koalas in Northern Australia, fringing coral reefs, world-winning tour operators, an emerging foodie scene, spectacular natural surrounds, and 320 days of sunshine each year.
Whether you want to unwind in the wilderness at an eco-resort or chase those laid-back resort vibes, prepare to create your dream escape on Magnetic Island.
7. AIRLIE BEACH
Distance: 620kms from Cairns | 1,115kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Heart Reef flyover and Whitehaven beach
Facilities: Airlie beach is a regional centre with all facilities
Bookings and info: https://www.australia.com/en/places/whitsundays-and-surrounds/guide-to-airlie-beach.html
Airlie Beach is the gateway to the world famous Whitsunday Islands and skipping past this iconic destination would be a missed opportunity.
Australia’s tropical paradise is made up of 74 islands and a sprawling mainland teeming with rainforest and beaches, and bustling coastal town of Airlie Beach at its heart.
Spend sun-drenched days careening around the nearby islands on a high-speed boat, exploring national parks blanketed by lowland tropical rainforest, and wallowing in the warm waters of the Airlie Beach Lagoon before heading out for cocktails and a slap-up seafood dinner.
Click HERE for the ultimate 3 day, get-to-know Airlie Bach itinerary.
Stay at Hideaway Bay, just 40 minutes out of town for spectacular beach swimming and sunset drinks and music at nearby Montes Reef Resort.
When it comes to camping in or around Airlie the options consist mainly of caravan parks however they are all of really high standard. We recommend the following:
8. MUSHROOM VALLEY ECO RETREAT
Distance: 660kms from Cairns | 1,040kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Funky, artsy and very welcoming farmstay
Facilities: Toilets, cold showers and campfires
Located on the beautiful O'Connell River, this camp site is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes including a mountain range and the river. The property boasts many areas to go for walks, enjoy the wildlife and relax.
You can enjoy spacious camping choices either along the river or on other selected areas throughout the property. There are always a limited number of campers so you get the space and tranquility you deserve on your camping trip.
There is access to a large number of compostable toilets and 4 cold showers on site. Wildlife is in abundance throughout the property and includes grazing wallabies, ducks and birdlife which are an everyday occurrence.
The property is also the home of our Festival - Mushroom Valley, throughout the site you will find different pieces of artwork, decor and permanent structures that bring artistic life to the site.
9. FINCH HATTON GORGE
Distance: 740kms from Cairns | 1,030kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Lush plants, waterfalls, ebbing creeks and amazing rocks
Facilities: Basic drop toilets and campfires. No showers.
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/eungella
A wonderful landscape of waterfalls, lush flora and volcanic boulder formations make Finch Hatton Gorge a must-see attraction. Camp in the national park at Broken River camping area or Fern Flat camping area. Both have basic drop toilets and campfires are allowed. Alternatively you can camp at wonderful Platypus Bushcamp, a privately owned farmstay with great facilities.
There are many walking tracks which weave through sub-tropical rainforest. One of the most popular trails starts at the Finch Hatton picnic area and takes you on a 1.6 kilometre journey to the beautiful Araluen waterfall.
The granite boulders and surrounding vegetation make this an ideal place to take in the scenery. Take a refreshing dip in one of the nearby rock pools, a cooling haven favoured by locals in summer.
Continue 1.4 kilometres to reach the Wheel of Fire Cascades, another beautiful waterfall with a large rock pool at its base, popular for swimming. This second part of the walk is more challenging, with uphill segments and stairs to climb, but the views are well worth it.
Keep an eye out among the rainforest for rare and unusual flora and fauna, such as the rare gastric brooding frog, the orange-sided skink, Mackay tulip oak, Eungella spiny cray and Eungella honeyeater.
Adventure opportunities are plentiful, with rainforest walks, gorge swims or the chance to zip-line through the tree-top canopy.
10. CAPE HILLSBOROUGH NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 710kms from Cairns | 1,000kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Kangaroo feeding on the beach click HERE for more info
Facilities: Caravan parks, shops, accommodation and more
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/cape-hillsborough
Cape Hillsborough National Park, approximately 50 kilometres north of Mackay, is a natural paradise where rainforest meets the ocean. The rugged scenery, picturesque walking tracks and native wildlife make it a perfect destination to explore.
Watch the sunrise on the beach and meet friendly wallabies and kangaroos as they bound along the sand and feast on the water’s edge. This is the perfect opportunity to get beautiful photos of the sunrise over the national park and get up close to these iconic Australian animals.
Explore nearby walking tracks to view a plethora of colourful birds and butterflies, including the vivid Ulysses butterfly. Meander through a mangrove community, eucalypt open forest and vine thicket along the Diversity Boardwalk, or discover the 1.6 kilometre Juipera Plants Trail for a fascinating insight into local Aboriginal history.
A nearby nature resort offers a variety of accommodation options from caravan and camping to beachfront huts and motel units; the ideal location to prepare for the morning beach sunrise. There’s also camping available at Smalleys Beach nearby.
11. BYFIELD NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,150kms from Cairns | 730kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: 4WD haven with endless landscapes and things to see.
Facilities: Toilets at most camp grounds, showers at some, campfires allowed.
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/byfield
Lose yourself among Queensland’s luscious native foliage with a getaway to Byfield National Park. Camp at one of the many amazing camp grounds, including right on the beach.
IMPORTANT: You'll need to be ready for beach driving at Byfield. Click HERE to read our Beach Driving Safety Guide.
Just an hour from Rockhampton, or 25 minutes north of Yeppoon, this place is jam-packed with rainforests, rugged mountains, rolling sand dunes, and more. In fact, Byfield forms one of the largest unspoiled eco-systems on the east coast of Australia.
Picture a heaving collection of plant-life, from plantation pine forests to swamplands galore, mingling with massive sand dunes, rugged pinnacles (like The Peaks and Mount Atherton), and endless stretch of coastline, including four beautiful beaches. It’s these beaches which tend to hold most appeal for visitors, and their accompanying 4WD potential.
Five Rocks Beach is one of the most popular, a 4WD-only getaway favoured by locals and visitors alike thanks to its reliable surf break and ample fishing. Nine Mile Beach is another much-loved swimming spot, and fellow 4WD favoured break, nestled in the foredunes.
12. BLACKDOWN NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,100kms from Cairns | 800kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Breathtaking Rainbow falls.
Facilities: Drop toilets, campfires allowed.
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/blackdown-tableland
Brace yourself for a visit to one of the Sunshine State’s hidden gems; Blackdown Tableland National Park.
This oasis sits perched high up on a plateau in Central Queensland, around 2 hours from both Rockhampton and Emerald, and forms a highly recommended component of the Capricorn Way drive.
A green-laden escape, Blackdown Tableland National Park covers 47,950 hectares and is the traditional homeland of the Ghungalu people. A diverse landscape of gorges, lookouts, and waterfalls litter this region, alongside significant Indigenous sites galore.
When it comes to how to do Blackdown Tableland National Park, you can’t go past the stand-out, Gudda Gumoo lookout track. This 4 kilometre return walk takes an hour or two to complete but is considered one of the region’s highlights, leading you through a fern-laced gorge, down through to a rock pool where you can cool off with a quick dip.
While Blackdown Tableland National Park isn’t a 4WD-only destination, a terrain-suitable vehicle does come recommended. There are two separate loops on which to explore the area - while the entrance and campground site are easily accessible by 2WD, the 19 kilometre scenic loop drive is 4WD-only.
13. KROOMBIT TOPS NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,240kms from Cairns | 600kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Sandstone escarpments, gorges, creeks and waterfalls.
Facilities: Campfires allowed, no toilets
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/kroombit-tops
Standing above surrounding farmlands the sandstone escarpments, gorges, creeks and waterfalls of Kroombit Tops National Park provide a cool retreat. Explore intriguing natural and cultural wonders hidden among a mosaic of woodlands, rainforests and scrublands.
Take a bushwalk and explore forests on four-wheel-drive roads. Open forests dominated by Sydney blue gum, pink bloodwood and rough-barked apple trees flourish on the park’s eastern slopes. See the remains of a WWII Liberator bomber that crashed at Kroombit Tops in 1945 and remained hidden in the forest until it was discovered nearly 50 years later.
This is the domain of the hardened all-terrain traveller who thrives on a challenge and isn’t afraid to take on the rough stuff. Only suitable in dry conditions, traversing the park via the Razorback Track and Loop Road will take you across rivers and deep ravines to the heights of wild country. These tracks less travelled are best left to experienced drivers with high clearance vehicles.
Tackle some self-sufficient camping at one of several camping areas where you can find a cool grassy spot close to a creek.
14. CURTIS ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,200kms from Cairns | 530kms from Brisbane (Ferry From Gladstone) click HERE for directions
What we love: Secret fishing spots, sparkling ocean and beach camping
Facilities: None
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/curtis-island
This is rugged exploration at its best - Four Wheel Drive tracks to remote and secret fishing spots, back to basics bush camping, beaches, sparkling ocean, wilderness and wetlands.
Curtis Island is accessible by private boat or by a regular ferry service; although once on the island and camping you will need a Four Wheel Drive to get around.
Camping is permitted halfway up the east coast at the sand blow at Yellow Patch, not far from the Cape Capricorn lighthouse. More accessible for campers (just one kilometre from the barge landing point) is the grassy campground on the outskirts of the community of Southend.
Southend has some accommodation and eating options available for day trips or longer stays.
15. LADY MUSGRAVE ISLAND
Distance: 1,300kms from Cairns | 485kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Uninhabited great barrier reef wonderland
Facilities: Composing toilets on the island
Bookings and info: https://www.bundabergregion.org/lady-musgrave-island
OK, we're not going to lie. This is not a 4WD only location, in fact you can't even drive there. However it's an absolute must see destination and one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most accessible and beautiful coral cays, teaming with bird and sea life, ready for you to explore.
Lady Musgrave Island’s untouched beauty extends from land to sea. Located only 52km from Bundaberg, this tiny coral cay measures just 19.45 hectares in size. But what Lady Musgrave Island lacks in land size, she makes up for off-shore with a vast surrounding reef that’s brimming with marine life and colourful coral.
Just a 4.5 hour drive from Brisbane and a two hour boat ride from Bundaberg, Lady Musgrave Island offers the perfect island getaway from those looking for an off-grid adventure packed with nature, wildlife and a whole lot of peace and quiet.
Unlike many other islands which offer a multitude of resorts, activity menus and well, fellow man, Lady Musgrave’s only full-time inhabitants are 22 breeding seabird species such as the white-capped noddy terns that nest in abundance in the Pisonia trees, and the silver gulls and black-naped terns on the ground closer to the beach.
Accommodation on the island is limited to camping however you'll have to carry all of your gear on the ferry and book camping in advance. Click HERE for more info.
Otherwise, the best way to explore Lady Musgrave is to base yourself on the mainland and take a daytrip. We've listed a couple of tour operators below. Click on each one for more information.
16. DEEPWATER NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,600kms from Cairns | 470kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Leatherback turtle nesting (Oct - Feb) and hatching (Jan - Apr)
Facilities: Toilets, cold showers, campfires allowed
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/deepwater
Discover the magic of Deepwater National Park—an unspoilt coastal landscape with long sandy beaches, freshwater creeks and great fishing spots.
Jump in your four-wheel-drive and take a scenic drive through eucalypt woodlands looking for the local residents including wallabies, emus and a myriad of other bird life.
You can enjoy a picnic, explore the rock pools or try a spot of fishing on the beach near the Wreck Rock and Flat Rock day-use areas.
Feeling more adventurous? Go for a paddle in your kayak and see what marine life you can spot or take a relaxing beach walk, soaking in the sea air.
Local tip: take the inland scenic route via Kilcoy
Sleep under the stars at Wreck Rock or Middle Rock camping areas—both just a short walk from the protected waters of the Great Barrier Reef. If you are lucky, you might witness one of nature’s most fascinating spectacles as the beaches from Wreck Rock to Agnes Waters are the only places (on Australia’s mainland) where the endangered leatherback turtle returns each year to nest. Look for nesting turtles on the beach from October to February and hatchlings making their perilous journey to the sea from January to April.
17. MOUNT WALSH NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,400kms from Cairns | 330kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Sunrise over rugged granite outcrops
Facilities: None
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/mount-walsh
Spectacular exposed granite outcrops and cliffs rise to 703 metres above sea level in this rugged park. Mount Walsh and The Bluff Mount at the northern end of the park are prominent landmarks in the Biggenden area.
The exposed granite outcrops, rugged ridges and steep forested slopes support a range of vegetation—from vine forests in sheltered pockets to scrubland and heath on rock pavements and open eucalypt and woodlands. Look for peregrine falcons soaring overhead, lace monitors sunning on rocks and saw-shelled turtles in the creeks.
Head to waterfall creek and swim at the amazing Utopia Rock Pools.
Have a picnic barbecue below The Bluff Mount and, if you're well-prepared and experienced, you can hike to the various summits and rocky outcrops. If you're after something a little less strenuous, explore the park via four wheel drive or on foot. There is some amazing countryside to discover.
18. BURRUM COAST NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,450kms from Cairns | 300kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Camping right on the beach
Facilities: Toilets and cold showers
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/burrum-coast
Flowering heaths, quiet beaches and abundant wildlife make this park a place to retreat, relax and appreciate the splendour and peace of the natural environment.
Explore the park on one of the several walking tracks and discover diverse coastal habitats. Burrum Coast National Park is spread over four sections, south of Bundaberg.
You will find mangrove-lined riverbanks, wallum heath with spectacular wildflowers and tea tree dominated wetlands where huge cabbage palms reach through the canopy. Areas of deeper soil support eucalypt forests, including the vulnerable Goodwood gum Eucalyptus hallii.
In the Kinkuna section enjoy the narrow picturesque beach, low coastal dunes, tea-coloured waterways and flat sandy plains.
Explore the Woodgate section on a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk across a melaleuca swamp (look for the cabbage palms) or along walking tracks to viewing and fishing platforms, and a bird hide. Canoe across the river, go birdwatching your try your luck at fishing.
Enjoy camping at Burrum Point or behind the dunes at Kinkuna (both four wheel drive access only). In late winter and spring, delight in the wallum heath wildflower 'show'.
19. COOLOOLA RECREATION AREA
Distance: 1,600kms from Cairns | 150kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Fantastic beach camping and Double Island point lagoon
Facilities: Toilets and hot showers ($2 coin operated)
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/cooloola
A favorite with locals and iconic feature of the Cooloola Recreation Area in Great Sandy National Park, Double Island Point is a scenic headland offering mesmerising views along the beach and out to sea.
The easiest way to visit Double Island Point is by four-wheel-drive vehicle along Cooloola's beach drive between Noosa North Shore and Rainbow Beach. Explore the Double Island Point lighthouse walk for great views or launch a canoe from the sheltered northern beaches of Double Island Point.
Epic Ocean Adventures Noosa offer unique National Park adventures including Dolphin View Sea Kayak Tours, Surf Lessons on Australia's longest wave and Stand Up Paddle Eco Tours at Noosa's hidden tropical paradise, Double Island Point.
If you are camping overnight in Cooloola's Teewah Beach (we recommend zones 3 to 6) or Freshwater camping areas, take the short drive or walk along the beach to explore the scenic headland. Take the inland, Freshwater 4WD track through ancient rainforest into the idyllic town of Rainbow Beach and loop back along the beach to Double Island point (beach loop low tide only and if only conditions allow. Beware Mudlow rocks),
Note that you will need to book camping and a beach driving vehicle permit online prior to heading to and camping at Teewah beach. You will also need to carry a portable toilet (available from BCF or a similar outdoor store)
If you are feeling energetic, consider the Double Island Point walk, a full day hike from Rainbow Beach. Follow the historic lighthouse telegraph line along the high coastal dunes, looking for old telegraph posts still standing among the blackbutt trees. Then splash in the calm lagoon at the base of Double Island Point headland and watch surfers catching the long, rolling waves.
As an alternative to beach camping, we highly recommend a stay at Noosa North Shore camp grounds.
With first class facilities, the camp grounds are right on the beach, just before the 3rd cutting ramp to drive down onto Teewah beach for the run up to Double Island point. It's a great place to base yourself to explore Cooloola and is easily accessed by crossing the Noosa River by ferry at the township of Tewantin, and its bitumen all of the way!
20. CONONDALE NATIONAL PARK
Distance: 1,600kms from Cairns | 150kms from Brisbane click HERE for directions
What we love: Amazing Australian bush camping close to Brisbane
Facilities: Toilets, campfires allowed
Bookings and info: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/conondale
We reckon a visit to Conondale National Park the perfect way to start or end your trip to or from Cairns, on your way to or from the beach and is probably the best family camping anywhere around Brisbane.
Conondale is a quintessential Aussie bush setting awash with over 35,000ha of soaring eucalypt forests and hooping pine, rugged creeks and cliff faces and picture-perfect watering holes.
A hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast, as National Parks go, it’s considered easy reach of civilisation; an hour west of Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast, two hours north west of Brisbane, and just 15kms from the achingly pretty country town of Kenilworth.
Avid hikers and adventurers, this one’s for you; here’s why you should visit the majestic Conondale National Park.
Camping is in one of three beautiful campgrounds, each offering different outlooks and facilities.
Well that concludes our 20 epic camping locations from Cairns to Brisbane. We really hope you find some value in this and most importantly get to explore and have fun in some amazing, out-of-the-way places on your east coast road trip.
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