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Australia’s Top 5 Campsites

Exactly where to pitch your tent this Easter

BAY OF FIRES, TAS

Some say the Bay of Fires’ name comes from the bright orange lichen that clings to the rocks, scattered around its pristine sandy beaches. That certainly is one of the elements that makes this conservation area one of the most beautiful in Australia (pictured above). There are two main campsites located in the middle and southern end of the bay. What makes the Bay of Fires so special is the rocky gullies that dominate the coastline, enclosing many tiny secluded beaches and inlets that are perfect to explore. The region’s main beach is Binalong Bay, a stunning stretch of snow- white sand and crystal-clear water – a prime spot for swimming, snorkeling, surfing or just relaxing. See discovertasmania.com.au.

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Osprey Bay, WA (Credit: Getty Images)

OSPREY BAY, WA

Just north of the world-famous Ningaloo Reef in WA is Osprey Bay, a rock shelf that features small sandy enclaves that are exposed at low tide. The campgrounds sit on the ridge above the water and feature 44 campsites, and toilet facilities, available for a small fee on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll have the freedom to roam trails leading into Sandy Bay and Ningaloo Marine Park. Snorkeling and bushwalking are an absolute must. Visit parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/site/osprey-bay.

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Grampians (Credit: Getty Images)

THE GRAMPIANS, VIC

Deep in Victoria’s stunningly scenic Grampians is the Lakeside Tourist Park at Halls Gap. It’s the perfect spot for fishing, canoeing and swimming. The whole lake is surrounded by pristine bushland, brimming with wildlife. The park is fully hooked up for all kinds of camping, offering powered and unpowered sites, shower and kitchen facilities, a woodfire-heated pool and free wi-fi. Less accustomed to camping? Check out the glamping. Visit hallsgaplakeside.com.

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Stradbroke Island (Credit: Getty Images)

STRADBROKE ISLAND, QLD

Love the great outdoors but hate roughing it? Then Stradbroke Island should be on your holiday wish list, as the pop-up mini-village known as the Flash Camp is now a permanent feature. Located just outside Point Lookout, the island’s most popular tourist spot, this glamper-friendly collection of bell tents come complete with high-quality bedding, towels, bamboo chairs and power, plus the use of nearby communal facilities. Your tent is all set up and ready to go, and all you have to do is decide what to do first! It could be the North Gorge Headlands walk to spot dolphins and manta rays, a spot of scuba diving or fishing, a 4WD tour or maybe just sitting back and taking in a sensational sunset. See minjerribahcamping.com.au.

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Kakadu (Credit: Getty Images)

KAKADU NATIONAL PARK, NT

Right across the seven regions of Kakadu National Park, you’ll find camping facilities to satisfy a range of tastes. This World Heritage-listed park is renowned for its natural wonders and stunning scenery. There’s rough and ready bush camps, managed campsites with showers, and resorts. Kakadu Lodge offers powered campsites with access to resort pools, restaurants and other facilities. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with enough options to satisfy the fussiest of glampers. Visit parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/stay/camping.

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