Forget crowded caravan and holiday parks. We’ve hand-picked these 10 scenic camping spots on the Sunshine Coast to help you plan a total nature escape.

 

10 Scenic Sites for Nature Lovers:

1. Booloumba Creek Camping
2. Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area Camping
3. Teewah Beach Camping Area
4. Amamoor Creek Camping Area
5. Noosa North Shore Beach Campground
6. Kenilworth Bluff Creek Campground
7. Boreen Point Campground
8. Log Dump Camping Area
9. Charlie Moreland Camping Area
10. Coochin Creek Camping Area

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Gubbi Gubbi and Jinibara Nations, the traditional Country of the Gubbi Gubbi and Jinibara people who have occupied and cared for this land and water for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Also Read:

The Perfect Sunshine Coast Camping Trip

Whether it’s on the coast or in the hinterland, the Sunshine Coast has plenty of options for chilled, quiet, and secluded camping vibes. For avid and passionate campers, we’re sure your idea of camping paradise isn’t busy caravan sites. We found 10 equally impressive camping spots to satisfy your craving for a nature getaway.

Of course, we mean no offence to the brilliant Sunshine Coast holiday parks. Their campgrounds are positioned in beautiful locations and have great facilities. But, for those wanting a more tranquil experience, these ten Sunshine Coast campsites will make for a stellar camping trip away from the crowds.

 

1. Booloumba Creek Camping

Where: Conondale National Park
Camping type: Tents, campervans, camper trailers, camping short walk from car
Facilities: Toilets, fire rings

A picturesque creek, breathtaking cascades, turquoise rock pools and luscious sub-tropical rainforest. That’s what’s waiting for you at Booloumba Creek Camping.

You can even choose what natural setting you’d prefer when deciding where to camp. Camping areas 1 and 3 (tent-only) will have you set among the rainforest, whilst area 4 (tents, caravans and campervans allowed) is set in the open grassy forest. In fact, Rachel Lewis, co-founder of Wild Swimming Australia, recommends pitching at area 1, situated right next to a gorgeous turquoise pool that’s perfect for a dip!

Read more: 14 Wild Swimming Holes Near Brisbane

Booloumba Creek is set in Conondale National Park. This remote area in the hinterland is definitely a crackin’ spot for a nature fix. What’s the catch then? Well, it’s only accessible with a high-clearance 4WD. This means, if you don’t 4WD, it’s time to learn how or befriend a 4WDer!

Anyway, assuming you’re successful in getting there, make sure you do the brilliant circular 3km Booloumba Falls Walk.

 

Photo thanks to Scott Higgins

 

2. Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area Camping

Where: Cooloola Recreation Area
Camping type: Tents, campervans, camper trailers, motorhomes, both camping beside vehicle and camping a short walk from car
Facilities: Toilets, fires permitted

If you’d like to camp in the Cooloola Recreation Area (otherwise known as Double Island Point) in Great Sandy National Park, but don’t have a 4WD, don’t worry as we have a solution. There are camp sites in the Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area, just north of the Cooloola Recreation Area, that are accessible for all cars. These include the SS Dorrigo and MV Sarawak camping areas.

Otherwise, 4WDers have five other campsites to choose from. We recommend the MV Natone and MV Beagle camping areas because they’re located along the spectacular Inskip Point, similar to the SS Dorrigo and MV Sarawak camp sites.

In fact, these four camp sites are located behind the foredunes, which provide excellent beach access. There are no defined sites; better get in early for the camping spots with ocean views! Given the remote location, this campsite is a top-notch option if you want a city escape.

For those keen to just hang out at camp, there’s ample opportunity for swimming and fishing. You also have Rainbow Beach, Pelican Bay, K’gari (Fraser Island) and Tin Can Bay on your doorstep if you’re down for exploring the wider area.

Read more: Taking It Easy At Rainbow Beach

 

 

 

3. Teewah Beach Camping Area

Where: Cooloola Recreation Area
Camping type: Tents, campervans, camper trailers, camping beside vehicle
Facilities: Fires permitted (head to the nearby Freshwater day-use area for toilets, picnic tables, BBQs and cold showers)

If you’re looking for a secluded camping spot on the Sunshine Coast, look no further than Teewah Beach Camping Area. As one of the few beachfront campsites on this list, expect to be woken by the sound of crashing waves and then properly woken up by jumping in the ocean, that’s only a short walk from your tent.

During the day, there are magnificent sand dunes to explore, an abundance of birdlife to appreciate and beautiful walking tracks such as the Double Island Point Lighthouse Walk to enjoy. It’s also a great place for kayaking, surfing, and fishing.

The Teewah Beach Camping Area is also set in the Cooloola Recreation Area. Just a heads up though, it’s another 4WD only accessible campsite.

Read more: The Perfect Escape to Double Island Point

 

 

4. Amamoor Creek Camping Area

Where: Amamoor State Forest
Camping type: Tents, campervans, camper trailers, motorhomes, both camping beside vehicle and camping a short walk from car
Facilities: Toilets, wood BBQ, fire rings, pet-friendly

Another excellent Sunshine Coast camping spot is the Amamoor Creek Camping Area. Set by the gorgeous creek, there are plenty of cascades, waterfalls and other stunning water features. Oh, and make sure to keep an eye out for frogs and platypus whilst you’re chasing those waterfalls.

Located in the pristine Amamoor State Forest, there are quite a few walking and bike trails to explore near camp. Once you’ve smashed out the trails, give yourself enough time to sit back and relax. Surrounded by beautiful gum trees, it’s time to simply do nothing and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Amamoor Creek Camping is set right on the northern border of the Amamoor State Forest, with Marys Creek State Forest just a stone’s throw away. Did someone say day trip?

 

 

 

5. Noosa North Shore Beach Campground

Where: Cooloola Recreation Area
Camping type: Tents, caravans, camper trailers, camping beside vehicle
Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, drinking water, camp kitchen, kiosk, laundry, BBQs, electricity

For hardcore nature lovers, it’s hard to beat a beachfront campsite. Similar to Teewah Beach Camping Area, your days camping at the Noosa North Shore Beach Campground will be filled with swimming and any water-based activities your heart desires.

But, once your skin is wrinkly and ears blocked, make sure you do the incredible Coloured Sands Beach Walk. The multi-coloured cliffs are a spectacular natural wonder.

Unlike the other Sunshine Coast camping spots listed so far, Noosa North Shore Beach Campground is well-equipped with many lavish facilities like a modern camp kitchen. And yes, we admit it, this campground is run by a holiday park company (the great people at Noosa Holiday Parks). But, don’t let this fool you. This is no typical holiday park.

Most sites are unpowered and set amongst natural vegetation. You’ll have sweeping views of the beach and campsite facilities will be out of sight and out of mind. For the nature-loving campers who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of a typical holiday park, Noosa North Shore Beach is the real deal!

 

 

6. Kenilworth Bluff Creek Campground

Where: Kenilworth (Sunshine Coast Hinterland)
Camping type: Tents, camping beside vehicle
Facilities: Hot showers, toilets, drinking water, laundry, camp kitchen, BBQs, fire pits, pet-friendly

Another highly-rated Sunshine Coast camping spot is Kenilworth Bluff Creek Campground. This is the place to camp if you like big open spaces, surrounded by sweet, sweet nature. The camp site is set on a 100-acre field with creek front views, the Mary River close by and an abundance of trees. Spend your days swimming, kayaking, fishing, hiking and enjoying river and bike trails.

With only unpowered sites and tent camping, it’ll be easy to reconnect with nature. You’ll have mountain views and the rhythmic sound of the flowing creek to keep the good times rollin’ during your getaway to Bluff Creek.

Located in the serene Sunshine Coast hinterland, expect chilled camping vibes and a relaxed atmosphere.

 

 

7. Boreen Point Campground

Where: Lake Cootharaba
Camping type: Tents, caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, camping a short walk from car
Facilities: Hot showers, toilets, drinking water, camp kitchen, kiosk, gas/wood BBQs

For a relaxing nature getaway, head to Boreen Point Campground, located on the edge of the tranquil Lake Cootharaba. Covered by large areas of bushland, you’ll simply chill out in the shade while admiring the superb lakefront views. This Sunshine Coast camping spot is a great place to unwind and recharge.

But, if you’re up for some activities, there are plenty of things to do on the calm shallow lake. With the largest lake on the Noosa River at your disposal, there’ll be plenty of space to do whatever you fancy. Indeed, Boreen Point Campground is one of the most peaceful camping experiences you can have on the Sunshine Coast.

There are powered and unpowered sites located amongst the bush and even on the sandy foreshore. Better yet, Boreen Point Campground is really straightforward to get to with a 2WD. Take that 4WD only accessible camp sites!

 

 

8. Log Dump Camping Area

Where: Tuan State Forest
Camping type: Tents, caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, camp beside vehicle
Facilities: Toilets, fire rings

Yes, we know what you’re thinking, ‘how good is the name of this camp site?!’ Brilliant campground name aside, the Log Dump Camping Area is a wonderfully secluded camping spot on the Sunshine Coast.

Located on the banks of Kauri Creek, this campsite is an absolute winner for those keen on fishing, kayaking, swimming and marine life spotting. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of turtles, dugongs, and dolphins. There are also bike and walking tracks ready to be explored.

Set on the water’s edge in Tuan State Forest, this campground has a calming feel to it. You won’t find any powered sites here, and there are no defined camping areas. You have the absolute freedom to disconnect from the world and find your own patch of camping paradise.

 

9. Charlie Moreland Camping Area

Where: Imbil State Forest
Camping type: Tents, campervans, camper trailers, small motorhomes, camping beside vehicle
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, BBQs, fire pits

This list wouldn’t be complete without a campground on the pristine Yabba Creek. The Charlie Moreland Camping Area is one of the best creekside camping spots on the Sunshine Coast. Of course, pack your swimmers and get ready to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Yabba Creek. But, bring your hiking boots too. There are many fantastic walking trails winding through the open eucalyptus forest.

When considering other campsites on the shores of Yabba Creek, there are two other obvious options. There’s the Borumba Deer Park, which is just about the perfect family camping spot. Then there’s the free Little Yabba Creek Park with a one-night maximum stay. But, both of these campsites can get crowded on the weekend, and may not suit your need for a quiet camping experience. Step forward, Charlie Moreland Camping Area.

Located in Imbil State Forest in the hinterland, we definitely recommend exploring beyond the campsite. The area has vast gorges, awesome viewpoints and scenic drives with your name on it!

 

Photo thanks to Kevin Byrnes

 

10. Coochin Creek Camping Area

Where: Beerburrum and Beerwah State Forests
Camping type: Tents, campervans, camper trailers, small motorhomes, camping beside vehicle
Facilities: Toilets, fires permitted

The Coochin Creek Camping Area is another great Sunshine Coast camping option, particularly for those keen to explore the Glass House Mountains National Park. Without being able to actually camp in the national park, Coochin Creek provides a solid base to explore the mountains.

But, Coochin Creek is more than just a base. Once you arrive, you may even feel compelled to abandon your plans to explore the nearby mountains and simply chill out at the camp site. No judgement here. With the serene Coochin Creek set among the stunning forest, woodlands and surrounded by mangroves, you may just want to put your feet up and soak in the nature vibes.

Camping at Coochin Creek also puts you in a fantastic position for other water-based activities. Flowing into the Moreton Bay Marine Park, you’ll have excellent boating and fishing opportunities.

Located in the Beerburrum and Beerwah State Forests, it’s a convenient nature getaway, particularly for Sunny Coast residents.

 

Photo thanks to Scott Higgins