Best RV Parks: Big4 vs Discovery Parks vs Local Council Parks

Australia’s RV culture is built on freedom — the freedom to roam, to explore remote coastlines or inland deserts, and to sleep under the stars wherever the road takes you. But even the most self-contained travellers need a reliable place to pull in, plug in, and rest. That’s where RV parks come in — and across Australia, three types dominate the scene: Big4 Holiday Parks, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks.

Each of these park types offers a different experience. Big4 is known for its resort-style amenities and family focus. Discovery Parks, part of the G’day Group, blend convenience with a touch of comfort in both touristy and regional areas. Then there are the often-overlooked Local Council Parks — budget-friendly, community-run stays that prioritise value and simplicity over bells and whistles.

So, which one is right for you? That depends on your vehicle, your travel style, your budget, and even the season.

In this guide, we’ll compare Big4 vs Discovery Parks vs Local Council RV Parks across all the key categories that matter to travellers — from facilities and prices to atmosphere, locations, and booking experience. Whether you’re a grey nomad doing the Big Lap, a family on school holidays, or a digital nomad looking for a peaceful base, you’ll find everything you need here to choose the best RV park in Australia for your journey.

What Are the Key Differences Between Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks?

While all three options serve the same purpose — providing a safe, legal place to park your RV or campervan — Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks vary significantly in their approach, pricing, consistency, and overall travel experience. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right park depending on your travel goals, vehicle type, and lifestyle.

Big4 Holiday Parks

Big4 is Australia’s most recognisable commercial RV park network, with a strong focus on premium facilities and family-friendly holiday environments. These parks often feel more like mini-resorts than simple campgrounds. They typically include well-maintained powered and ensuite sites, as well as a wide range of amenities designed to entertain kids and support longer stays.

The brand is consistent — while each park is independently owned, they follow standard quality benchmarks. You’ll often find extras like jumping pillows, splash zones, camp kitchens, laundry rooms, and even cafes or convenience shops on site.

Big4 also offers a Perks+ membership program, which provides a 10% discount on bookings, priority deals, and bonus night incentives. While this makes repeat visits more appealing, Big4 parks are often the most expensive option per night.

Discovery Parks

Discovery Parks sits slightly below Big4 in branding but competes strongly on location and comfort. With over 85 parks nationally, Discovery has a strong presence in regional centres, coastal tourist spots, and even Outback hubs like Darwin, Alice Springs, and Broken Hill.

Facilities at Discovery Parks can range from basic powered sites with shared bathrooms to full-service tourist resorts. Many locations offer cabins, communal firepits, pools, and pet-friendly zones. Some parks cater well to families; others are tailored toward grey nomads or contract workers in regional towns.

Discovery operates under the G’day Parks umbrella, which includes more than 300 partner parks around Australia. The G’day Rewards program offers similar benefits to Big4’s Perks, with discounts and access to partner deals. The quality between locations can vary more than Big4, so reading recent reviews is important.

Local Council Parks

Local Council Parks are run by regional shires or municipal governments and are found all over Australia — from coastal caravan stops to rural showgrounds. These are often the most affordable and low-key places to stay, with rates that suit long-term travellers, grey nomads, and budget-conscious explorers.

Facilities at council-run parks tend to be basic: expect powered sites, shared toilets and showers, a dump point, and occasionally a small laundry or BBQ shelter. However, some newer or better-funded parks offer upgraded amenities and even small cabins.

Most council parks don’t have online booking systems — you often call ahead, pay at the shire office, or just turn up and pay via honesty box. Despite the lack of flashy extras, these parks are beloved by travellers who value peace, simplicity, and great local hospitality.

In short, Big4 caters to families wanting features, Discovery offers flexibility and convenience across a wide footprint, and Local Council Parks deliver practical, affordable stays with a more community-driven atmosphere.

Facilities and Amenities Compared

When choosing an RV park, facilities can make a big difference — especially if you’re staying for more than a night or travelling with kids, pets, or a larger vehicle. The level of comfort, cleanliness, and convenience offered by a park often determines whether you’ll want to return. Here’s how Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks compare when it comes to amenities.

Big4 Holiday Parks

Big4 parks are known for their resort-style infrastructure. These parks typically offer the most comprehensive facilities of the three options, particularly in popular tourist areas like coastal towns, alpine villages, or near national parks.

What you’ll commonly find at Big4 parks includes:

• Clean, modern amenities blocks with hot showers

• Large, fully equipped camp kitchens

• Free or paid laundries with washers and dryers

• Family bathrooms and accessible facilities

• Entertainment areas like jumping pillows, games rooms, movie nights

• Swimming pools, splash parks, or water play zones

• Playgrounds, BBQ shelters, and picnic areas

• Ensuite sites for added privacy

• Onsite shops, cafes, or reception lounges

If you’re travelling with children, need Wi-Fi access, or simply prefer a high-comfort stay, Big4 is designed to meet those expectations. Many locations also offer pet-friendly sites, though this varies.

Discovery Parks

Discovery Parks offer similar facilities to Big4, though they tend to be more variable across the network. Some Discovery Parks are nearly indistinguishable from Big4 in quality, especially those in tourist-heavy areas. Others, especially in regional or Outback towns, are more utilitarian — designed for practicality over luxury.

Common amenities include:

• Powered and unpowered sites with access to shared bathrooms

• Basic but clean amenities blocks and laundry facilities

• Camp kitchens, BBQ shelters, and undercover seating

• Pet-friendly options at select parks

• Some locations include pools, playgrounds, or communal firepits

• G’day Rewards perks, like early check-in or discounted cabin upgrades

Discovery Parks often strike a balance between comfort and affordability, appealing to both families and full-time RVers. If facilities matter but your budget has limits, Discovery offers a solid middle ground.

Local Council Parks

Local Council Parks are typically more modest in what they provide, but they cover the essentials for self-sufficient RVers. These parks don’t aim for luxury — they focus on affordability, practicality, and access to basic services.

Amenities you can typically expect include:

• Powered and unpowered sites

• Toilet and shower blocks (may be older in design)

• Basic laundry (sometimes coin-operated)

• Dump point and water refill station

• Sheltered BBQ area or picnic tables

• Access to nearby town facilities like local pools, cafes, or libraries

Very few council parks offer Wi-Fi, playgrounds, or entertainment zones. However, they’re often located within walking distance of small town centres or visitor hubs. For those travelling in self-contained rigs or looking to save money, these parks tick the right boxes without unnecessary extras.

Price and Value for Money

Price is often a deciding factor for RV travellers — especially those on long-term trips or working within a set weekly budget. But value isn’t just about the dollar figure. It’s also about what you get in return: facilities, location, site quality, and overall experience. Here’s how Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks stack up when it comes to price and perceived value.

Big4 Holiday Parks

Big4 is the premium-priced option among the three. Powered sites at Big4 parks typically range from $50 to $80 per night, with prices rising during school holidays or in coastal tourist hotspots. Ensuite sites or waterfront locations may cost more.

What you’re paying for is consistency, comfort, and convenience. The cost is often justified for:

• Families needing facilities like playgrounds, pools, and laundry

• Travellers who value clean, modern bathrooms and spacious, landscaped sites

• Those using the Big4 Perks+ membership, which provides a 10% discount and occasional bonus nights

Big4 isn’t the best fit for ultra-budget travellers, but for those who want an easy, feature-rich stay without sacrificing quality, the price often feels worthwhile.

Discovery Parks

Discovery Parks generally fall just below Big4 in pricing, with powered sites usually ranging from $40 to $70 per night, depending on location and season. Coastal Discovery Parks tend to charge more, while inland or regional parks can be significantly cheaper.

The network also supports longer stays, often with multi-night discounts or G’day Rewards member offers, which include:

• 10% off nightly rates

• Exclusive partner deals on local attractions

• Priority booking benefits at some parks

In terms of value, Discovery Parks are highly competitive — especially for couples, grey nomads, or anyone looking for a balance of comfort and affordability.

Local Council Parks

Local Council Parks are the most budget-friendly option and offer excellent value for the price. Nightly rates usually range from $20 to $40, with some rural or showground-based parks offering even cheaper stays. Discounts for weekly or longer-term bookings are common, making them especially attractive for:

• Grey nomads doing the Big Lap

• Budget travellers with self-contained RVs

• Digital nomads or seasonal workers seeking quiet, low-cost stays

What you won’t get are luxury facilities — but what you will get is a clean, basic, and peaceful place to stay, often near small town services. If value means stretching your dollar further without sacrificing essentials like power, water, and safety, local council parks are hard to beat.

Locations and Coverage Across Australia

When planning an RV trip around Australia, accessibility matters just as much as amenities. The type of park you choose may come down to where you’re travelling — and how easily you can find a suitable site when you need it. Here’s how Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks compare in terms of national coverage and convenience for Aussie road trippers.

Big4 Holiday Parks

Big4 parks are strategically located across most of Australia’s major tourist regions. With more than 180 member parks nationwide, their footprint covers:

• Coastal holiday corridors in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland

• Popular family destinations like Phillip Island, Port Fairy, Port Macquarie, and Cairns

• Inland regions near national parks and lakes, including areas like the Grampians, Dubbo, and Bright

• Select Outback stops, though coverage thins in remote WA, NT, and far-north QLD

While not every town has a Big4, you’ll often find them near high-demand destinations, especially those within a few hours of capital cities. The trade-off is that some of these parks can book out fast during peak travel times.

Discovery Parks

Discovery Parks maintains a strong national presence with over 85 locations, many of which are strategically placed along key travel corridors, regional highways, and outback gateways. Their distribution includes:

• Coastal hotspots such as Byron Bay, Hobart, and Broome

• Inland towns like Broken Hill, Katherine, and Alice Springs

• Remote mining centres where long-term accommodation is needed

• Iconic travel routes including the Nullarbor, Stuart Highway, and Great Ocean Road

Discovery Parks often shines in regional and remote Australia, making them a favourite among full-time RVers, contract workers, and long-haul road trippers. While not as densely packed as Big4 in the east, they’re easier to find in central and northern regions.

Local Council Parks

Local Council Parks offer the widest coverage across Australia — not by branding, but by volume and geographic spread. Nearly every rural town, inland hub, or country village has some form of council-operated park, showground, or community-run campsite. You’ll find them:

• Along lesser-known inland routes and rural byways

• In towns bypassed by major highways, ideal for slowing down

• Near local recreation reserves, racecourses, or showgrounds

• In seasonal tourism towns that don’t attract major brands

They may not be advertised widely, but tools like WikiCamps, CamperMate, and local visitor centres are invaluable for locating them. If you’re looking to explore off-the-beaten-path Australia, council parks give you access to places that commercial chains simply don’t reach.

Atmosphere and Traveller Experience

Beyond price and facilities, the feel of an RV park can make or break your stay. Some travellers prefer a lively, social environment. Others seek solitude, minimal interaction, and a quiet place to unwind. Whether you’re a family with kids, a solo digital nomad, or a grey nomad chasing peace and space, the atmosphere across Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks differs significantly.

Big4 Holiday Parks

Big4 parks are typically vibrant, energetic, and activity-driven — especially during school holidays and long weekends. These parks cater heavily to families, with an emphasis on fun and engagement. You’ll often hear kids playing on jumping pillows, see groups gathered around camp kitchens, or find holiday events and games taking place.

For parents, this atmosphere is a major bonus: your children are entertained and safe within the park while you unwind. However, for couples or solo travellers seeking tranquility, this environment may feel too busy during peak periods.

The energy is welcoming, professional, and community-focused — ideal for those who want a classic holiday park experience with all the extras.

Discovery Parks

The atmosphere at Discovery Parks varies more than Big4 — and that’s not a bad thing. Some locations feel just as lively and family-friendly, with pools and play areas buzzing with activity. Others are quieter, especially those located in regional towns or near major highways where they double as convenient overnight stops.

What sets Discovery apart is its balance. Grey nomads will often find peaceful areas to park without being surrounded by crowds, while families can enjoy the central facilities. Most parks have a relaxed tone, friendly staff, and a community feel without the overwhelming buzz that comes with larger holiday parks.

If you enjoy meeting fellow travellers but still value your personal space, Discovery strikes a good middle ground.

Local Council Parks

Local Council Parks are generally peaceful, simple, and unobtrusive — exactly what many full-time RVers and long-distance travellers are looking for. There are no water slides or kids clubs. Instead, you’ll find:

• Long-term travellers enjoying a quiet site

• Grey nomads setting up for a week or more

• Seasonal workers or digital nomads looking for stability

• A slower pace, especially in small-town or outback settings

The community vibe here is often understated. People tend to keep to themselves, but it’s easy to strike up a chat at the laundry or dump point. Many council parks are located close to town, giving visitors a chance to walk to local pubs, bakeries, or weekend markets — adding a local charm you don’t always get in commercial chains.

For travellers seeking solitude, affordability, and a connection to regional Australia, council parks offer an atmosphere that’s simple, safe, and welcoming without any pretence.

Booking Process and Online Tools

In the world of RV travel, how easily you can book a site — especially at short notice — can dramatically affect your experience. Some travellers book every stop in advance, while others prefer to stay flexible. That’s why it’s important to understand the booking systems and tools available across Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks.

Big4 Holiday Parks

Big4 offers one of the most streamlined and user-friendly booking systems in Australia’s holiday park industry. Their official website allows you to search by location, date, and accommodation type (powered site, ensuite, cabin, etc.), and even apply your Perks+ member discount automatically.

They also provide:

• A free mobile app for on-the-go bookings

• Integrated Google reviews and park photos

• Loyalty member logins for tracking previous bookings and benefits

• Email confirmations with clear check-in/out instructions

Big4 parks tend to be in high demand, so booking ahead — especially during school holidays or summer — is recommended. For those who like planning their journey weeks in advance, Big4 offers peace of mind and reliable availability.

Discovery Parks

Discovery Parks also provides a robust online booking system, accessible via their main website or through the G’day Parks app. This app includes not only Discovery Parks but also hundreds of affiliated G’day Parks around the country.

The booking platform allows:

• Searching by map or state

• Instant reservation confirmations

• Filtering for pet-friendly, accessible, or ensuite sites

• Integration with G’day Rewards for discounts and perks

The system is fast, modern, and reliable — particularly helpful for travellers who want to keep plans flexible while still having visibility into site availability. In many locations, bookings can even be made the same day.

Local Council Parks

This is where things change considerably. Most local council parks do not use standardised online booking systems. Instead, the process often involves:

• Calling the local council office or visitor information centre

• Paying at a kiosk, honesty box, or on-site caretaker

• First-come-first-served arrivals — especially in small towns or at showgrounds

Some councils now offer limited online bookings through regional tourism websites or third-party platforms, but this is still the exception rather than the rule. Apps like WikiCamps, CamperMate, and Hipcamp are invaluable for locating council parks, checking reviews, and identifying contact details — but you’ll often still need to call ahead or turn up early to secure a spot.

While the lack of booking convenience may frustrate some, it also adds to the low-key charm and spontaneity that many travellers love about these parks.

Which RV Park Type Is Best for You?

Choosing between Big4, Discovery Parks, and Local Council Parks often comes down to the kind of RV experience you want — and the kind of traveller you are. Each park type appeals to a different lifestyle, budget, and set of expectations. Below, we break down who each park is best suited for based on real-world travel styles across Australia.

Families with Kids

If you’re travelling with children, Big4 is the clear winner. These parks are built with families in mind, offering:

• Water parks, pools, and playgrounds

• Kids’ activity programs during school holidays

• Safe, enclosed spaces for children to roam

• Family bathrooms and cabins if needed

Discovery Parks also caters well to families, especially in tourist destinations, but Big4 generally has more consistent family-focused amenities.

Grey Nomads and Retirees

For grey nomads seeking long-term affordability, community connection, and peace and quiet, Local Council Parks are often the best fit. These parks tend to be:

• More affordable for weekly or monthly stays

• Located in small towns with nearby services

• Calmer and less crowded, especially outside school holidays

• Welcoming to repeat visitors and long-term RVers

Many Discovery Parks also cater to grey nomads, especially in the shoulder season, with off-peak discounts and quieter vibes than family parks.

Budget Travellers

If saving money is your top priority, Local Council Parks and showgrounds are unbeatable. You won’t find jumping pillows or fancy bathrooms, but you will get:

• Clean powered sites at half the price of commercial parks

• A safe, legal place to camp in or near town

• Friendly environments with less tourist turnover

These parks are ideal for long-term travellers, backpackers in vans, or anyone doing the Big Lap on a tight budget.

Pet Owners

If you’re travelling with a dog, Discovery Parks generally offer the best pet-friendly network, with many sites having designated pet areas and some even including fenced sites. Big4 has pet-friendly parks too, but it varies more widely and restrictions apply.

Local council parks are often pet-tolerant but may not have fenced or designated off-lead areas — so it’s best to check local rules or call ahead.

Couples, Digital Nomads, and Solo Travellers

For travellers seeking peace, a balance of affordability, and easy access to town services, Local Council Parks or smaller Discovery Parks are excellent. These offer:

• Quiet spaces for work or writing

• Lower prices for solo travellers not needing large sites

• Close proximity to libraries, cafés, or public Wi-Fi

Big4 can also work for this group, but the cost and family-oriented atmosphere may feel mismatched unless travelling in off-peak seasons.