HOW TO FIND RV-FRIENDLY FREE OR LOW-COST CAMPSITES IN AUSTRALIA

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You’ve got your RV or campervan kitted out, and you’re ready to hit the road. The question is, where are you going to park it? Sure, there will be times when you’ll crave the comforts of full-service holiday parks—hot showers, electric hook-ups, kitchens, swimming pools—the works. But on other days, you’ll be on the lookout for something more budget-friendly, especially if you’re on longer trips or that coveted Aussie lap.

The great news is that travelling by RV or campervan in Australia opens up a whole world of low-cost, free camping sites. These often secluded spots not only help you save money but can off er quieter and more authentic experiences, allowing you to connect deeply with nature.

Wondering ‘where can I camp for free?’ This is our guide to finding free places to camp in Australia.

Before you choose your campsite

  • Check the access: Make sure the campsite is actually RV-friendly (and doesn’t require a 4WD to access). The last thing you want is to rock up and find out your rig won’t make it in
  • See if you need to book ahead: Some ‘free’ campsites, like National Park sites in NSW, now charge a booking fee (around $6) and must be reserved in advance
  • Check the camping facilities: Most free or low-cost campsites have limited (or no) facilities like toilets, showers, kitchens, shelters, or BBQs. For example, free camping with toilets might be harder to fi nd. If you need certain comforts, make sure they’re available before you head off
  • Arrive early: This is especially important for free campsites with no bookings. They tend to fill up quickly, so getting there early increases your chances of snagging a spot
  • Have a backup plan: In case your chosen site is full or unexpectedly closed, having a second option means you won’t be left scrambling last  minute
  • Stay flexible: Sometimes, the best campsites can’t be found in an app or on a website. Fellow budgettravellers and friendly locals will often tip you off to hidden gems along the way
  • Respect the rules: Only camp where it’s allowed, follow any signage (or risk a fine!), and stick to Leave No Trace principles. Being a responsible RV-er isn’t just about you—it helps keep free camping open and welcomed by local communities

Five ways to find free or cheap campsites in Australia

1. Download these camping apps

There are plenty of apps out there to help you fi nd free campsites or free campervan parking, but these are some of our favourites.

  • Camps Australia Wide: Known as the ‘traveller’s bible’, this resource lists over 5,000 free and budget-friendly campsites and caravan parks. Available as both a guidebook and an app, it provides detailed site information, amenities, and user reviews
  • WikiCamps Australia: This user-driven app has a massive database of campgrounds, caravan parks, points of interest, and more. Features include user reviews, photos, and a trip planner. Plus, you can filter by ‘free’ to help find those budget gems
  • Hipcamp: Often dubbed the ‘Airbnb of camping’, Hipcamp connects travellers with private landowners, offering unique camping experiences on farms, vineyards, and secluded natural spots. The platform allows filtering based on amenities, location, and price, making it easier to find affordable options. There are also plenty of glamping options too, so make sure you use those filters wisely

2. Explore State Forests and National Parks

Australia’s state forests and national parks offer some of the most beautiful low-cost and free camping spots in the country.

  • State Forests: If you’re looking for totally free, camping in state forests is a great place to start. In NSW, they’re all 100% free to stay at and there are more than 250 free State Forest campsites in Victoria. Wherever you’re headed, research local state forestry websites to find suitable bush camps along your route
  • National Parks: Pricing for National Park campsites is usually dependent on the State, the popularity of the park, and available amenities. Some National Park campsites will be totally free, others will have a booking fee only (like in NSW). At other spots (especially beach front ones) you could easily find yourself paying $40+ per night depending on how many people you have. Do your research though and you’ll definitely unearth some free and low-cost options that’ll blow your mind with their beauty

Did you know? Victoria is offering free campsites at over 100 (yes, you read that right) National Park campsites until June 2025? Find out more here.

 

3. Stay at RV-Friendly Towns (and rest stops)

Many Aussie towns have recognised that welcoming RV travellers is a surefire way to boost local businesses. From restocking at the local IGA to enjoying a meal at the pub or grabbing your morning coffee, RVers contribute significantly to the local economy.
Some towns have officially declared themselves RV-friendly (keep an eye out for the signs/symbols), offering amenities such as designated parking areas, dump stations, potable water, and sometimes even free campsites. Websites like RV Friendly Towns Australia provide directories of these towns, making it easier to plan your route. Plus, the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) has a handy RV-friendly map available on its website.
Another option is roadside rest areas. These vary from state to state but are a good option if you’re stuck and there’s no signage saying you can’t camp there. In Queensland, there are over 450 rest stops available for you to camp at.

4. Don’t forget showgrounds, sports, and recreation grounds

Local showgrounds and recreational areas can be saviours for budget-conscious travellers:

  • Showgrounds: Often located near town centres, showgrounds provide spacious areas for camping, usually at a lower cost than traditional caravan parks. They offer basic amenities like power, water, and restroom facilities
  • Sports and recreation grounds: Similar to showgrounds, these areas sometimes permit overnight camping, especially during off-peak times

5. Use social media and Google

There are so many different ways to search for free or low-cost camping options online.

  • Google search: Keep it simple. Punch in ‘free camping near me’ along with your desired location, and you’ll uncover a heap of campsites that might not pop up through other methods
  • Google Maps: Use the ‘search along route’ feature to find free campsites around your destination. Again, you’ll quickly find options that you’re unlikely to find any other way
  • Social Media: Facebook has groups such as Free Camping Australia and Free Camping Around Australia, each with hundreds of thousands of members. These communities actively share locations, reviews, and tips on the best free campsites across the country. Dive in by posting questions or searching within these groups to gather first-hand info. Don’t forget Instagram and TikTok either. Heaps of influencers share their camping adventures, offering visual reviews and suggestions. We’re loving Terrain Scout at the moment, who is dedicated to uncovering Australia’s top camps
  • On the road: Don’t forget those IRL interactions too! Chat with fellow RV-ers at campgrounds, rest areas, or fuel stations. Many travellers are happy to share their favourite spots (in exchange for yours, of course!)

So, there you have it, our complete guide to finding free campsites in Australia.

What ways have we missed? Let us know over on Instagram @supexproducts.

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