Freedom Camping vs Holiday Parks in Australia: What’s Better?

Australia is one of the best countries in the world for RV travel, offering everything from beachfront sites to red-dirt outback hideaways. But when it comes to where you stay, most travellers find themselves choosing between two main styles: freedom camping and holiday parks. Both offer very different experiences, and the right choice often depends on your travel goals, budget, and vehicle setup.

Freedom camping appeals to those chasing solitude, adventure, and off-grid living. It’s about parking up by a river, watching the sunset without neighbours, and sleeping under the stars—often without paying a cent. On the other hand, holiday parks provide reliable comfort: hot showers, powered sites, laundry, Wi-Fi, and even swimming pools. They’re especially popular with families, grey nomads, and first-time RVers.

So which is better? That depends on who you are, how you travel, and what kind of experience you want on the road. In this article, we’ll compare freedom camping vs holiday parks across all the major considerations: cost, facilities, safety, legalities, and lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a six-month lap of the map, this guide will help you decide which style of camping works best for your Aussie adventure.

What Is Freedom Camping in Australia?

Freedom camping—also known as free camping or wild camping—refers to staying overnight in your RV or campervan outside of formal, paid accommodation like caravan parks or campgrounds. In Australia, it’s a popular and often legal way to explore the country, especially if you have a self-contained vehicle with onboard toilet, water, and waste systems.

Common Freedom Camping Locations

• Rest areas on highways or regional roads

• Council-approved free campsites

• National parks and state forest campgrounds

• Private land camping through platforms like Hipcamp

• Remote bush camps, beach tracks, or outback locations

Legal Considerations

Freedom camping is not permitted everywhere in Australia. Local councils set the rules, and many tourist towns (like Byron Bay, Noosa, or Fremantle) prohibit overnight stays outside designated zones. Fines of $100–$300 may apply if you camp in restricted areas. Always look for signs or consult apps before stopping.

Self-Containment Requirements

In many regions (especially Tasmania, parts of VIC and QLD), you must have a certified self-contained RV to use freedom camping areas. This means:

• A toilet (fixed or portable)

• Greywater tank or sealed container

• Fresh water supply

• Waste disposal capabilities

Tools to Find Legal Freedom Camps

• WikiCamps Australia (paid app, user-reviewed data)

• CamperMate (free app with legal camping zones)

• Hipcamp Australia (private land bookings)

• State or council websites for local rules and maps

Freedom camping can be a highly rewarding way to experience Australia’s landscapes, but it requires preparation, respect for regulations, and an awareness of your environmental impact.

What Are Holiday Parks?

Holiday parks—also known as caravan parks—are professionally managed campgrounds that cater specifically to caravans, campervans, motorhomes, and tent-based travellers. They offer powered and unpowered sites, shared amenities, and a wide range of facilities that make them ideal for comfort-focused or family travel across Australia.

Key Features and Facilities

• Powered and unpowered RV sites

• Toilets, hot showers, and laundry rooms

• Camp kitchens, BBQs, and dining areas

• Dump points and water refill stations

• Wi-Fi, TV rooms, swimming pools, and playgrounds

• Cabin accommodation for non-RV travellers

Many holiday parks are located near popular attractions—like beaches, national parks, or town centres—and are ideal for both short stays and long-term holidaymakers.

Major Holiday Park Chains in Australia

• BIG4 Holiday Parks – Family-friendly parks nationwide with excellent amenities

• NRMA Parks and Resorts – Good for road trippers and coastal stays

• Discovery Parks – Strong presence in tourist hubs and regional areas

• G’day Parks – A large network of independent parks offering consistent service

Booking and Pricing

Most holiday parks allow online reservations, which is particularly useful during peak season. Prices vary by location, time of year, and facilities, but on average:

• Powered site: $35–$60 per night

• Ensuite site: $60–$100+ per night

• Unpowered site: $25–$45 per night

Holiday parks provide a reliable and comfortable base for travellers who value convenience, routine, and access to services—especially for those without a fully self-contained RV.

Pros of Freedom Camping

Freedom camping offers a unique experience that’s hard to match—especially for travellers seeking solitude, nature, and the flexibility to roam without boundaries. For self-contained RV users, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience Australia’s diverse landscapes.

1. Free or Very Low Cost

One of the biggest appeals of freedom camping is the lack of nightly fees. While some sites may request a small donation or gold coin, most are free—making it an ideal option for long-term travellers, grey nomads, backpackers, or anyone road-tripping on a budget.

2. Scenic and Remote Locations

Freedom camping lets you stay in places no holiday park could match—like a beachfront clearing, beside a quiet river, or deep in the bush under the stars. These locations offer uninterrupted views and a stronger connection with the natural environment.

3. Privacy and Tranquillity

Unlike holiday parks, where sites are often tightly packed, freedom camps usually offer more space, peace, and privacy. You can spread out, enjoy the silence, and avoid the crowds—ideal for digital nomads, introverts, or those wanting a true escape.

4. Flexibility and Spontaneity

There’s no need to pre-book or plan your trip months in advance. If you find a beautiful spot on the way, you can stop and stay. Spontaneous travel is much easier with freedom camping.

5. Pet-Friendly and Less Restrictive

Many freedom camps allow dogs or have no restrictions at all, unlike some caravan parks with pet policies or curfews. You also have more freedom to use generators, campfires (where permitted), or choose your arrival/departure time.

For those who are self-sufficient and willing to do a bit more planning, freedom camping offers a deeply authentic and affordable way to experience Australia.

Cons of Freedom Camping

While freedom camping is appealing for its cost savings and scenic locations, it’s not without drawbacks—especially for travellers who rely on modern comforts or are new to RV life. From legal issues to safety concerns, it’s important to understand the potential downsides.

1. Limited or No Facilities

Most freedom camps have no toilets, showers, or drinking water. Unless you have a fully self-contained RV, this can become inconvenient quickly—particularly on longer stays. Without dump points or refill stations nearby, managing waste and water requires planning.

2. Legal Restrictions and Fines

Not all councils allow freedom camping. In many areas—especially around coastal tourist towns or national parks—overnight stays outside designated zones are illegal. Local rangers regularly patrol high-traffic areas, and fines can range from $100 to $300 or more for non-compliance.

3. Safety and Security Concerns

Remote or isolated sites can feel unsafe, especially for solo travellers or young families. Lack of lighting, mobile signal, or nearby help can be a concern in emergencies. While Australia is generally safe, freedom camping carries more risks than staying in a managed park.

4. Environmental Responsibility

Freedom camping relies on campers being respectful—disposing of waste properly, using portable toilets, and avoiding environmental damage. Unfortunately, irresponsible campers have led to crackdowns in many regions, restricting access for everyone else.

5. Stay Limits and Movement

Many free sites have maximum stay limits (usually 24 to 72 hours). You’ll need to keep moving frequently, which may be tiring for long-term travellers or those who prefer to stay settled in one place for a week or more.

While freedom camping suits self-sufficient travellers seeking adventure and savings, it requires more independence, responsibility, and awareness of local rules.

Pros of Holiday Parks

Holiday parks offer a level of convenience, comfort, and community that’s hard to beat—especially for families, new RV travellers, or those without self-contained setups. Whether you’re staying overnight or settling in for a month, these parks are designed to make travel easy and stress-free.

1. Full Amenities and Comfort

Holiday parks typically provide hot showers, flushing toilets, laundry facilities, and camp kitchens—ideal for travellers who prefer home comforts. Many also include extras like BBQ areas, TV rooms, and even ensuite bathrooms on select sites.

2. Great for Families and Kids

With playgrounds, swimming pools, jumping pillows, and games rooms, holiday parks are well-equipped to keep children entertained. This makes them a top choice for family holidays or school breaks, where kids need space and activities.

3. Safe and Secure

Being in a managed environment means you’ll have staff on site, security lighting, and designated check-in areas, providing peace of mind—especially for solo travellers or older guests. Most parks are gated at night, adding another layer of safety.

4. Community and Social Atmosphere

Holiday parks often foster a friendly, social vibe, with communal areas, happy hours, and BBQ gatherings. They’re great places to meet fellow travellers, share tips, and connect with like-minded people—especially for grey nomads and long-term guests.

5. Easy Booking and Long-Term Stay Options

Unlike freedom camping, holiday parks allow advance bookings, which helps during peak seasons. Many offer weekly or monthly rates, especially in regional areas, making them ideal for extended travel or remote work.

For travellers who value convenience, consistency, and access to facilities, holiday parks provide a reliable base across almost every major town and tourist route in Australia.

Cons of Holiday Parks

Despite their many conveniences, holiday parks aren’t for everyone. For travellers seeking solitude, lower costs, or a more rugged experience, there are several downsides to consider—especially when staying frequently or long-term.

1. Can Be Expensive

Holiday parks typically charge $35 to $60 per night for powered sites, and more for ensuite or waterfront spots. In popular destinations during peak season, prices can climb to $80–$100+ per night. Over weeks or months, this adds up quickly and can stretch your travel budget.

2. Less Privacy and More Noise

Sites are often close together, especially in busier parks. This means you’ll hear neighbouring conversations, generator hums, or kids playing early in the morning. For travellers seeking peace and quiet, this can be a major drawback.

3. Booking Required in Popular Areas

In tourist hotspots like Byron Bay, Margaret River, or the Sunshine Coast, you often need to book weeks (or months) in advance. This limits your flexibility and can be frustrating if you prefer spontaneous travel or plan your route on the go.

4. Restrictions and Rules

Holiday parks often come with curfews, pet policies, generator bans, and no-fire rules. While these rules promote safety and harmony, they can feel restrictive to travellers used to more freedom—especially vanlifers and off-grid adventurers.

5. Not Ideal for Remote Travel

Holiday parks are usually found in towns and tourist corridors, not remote wilderness or outback regions. If you’re planning to explore rugged parts of WA, NT, or inland QLD, you’ll need to rely on free camps or national park stays.

While holiday parks offer predictability and comfort, they can also limit spontaneity, cost more than expected, and feel crowded—especially during school holidays or public long weekends.

Where Each Option Works Best in Australia

Australia’s diverse geography, local council rules, and traveller infrastructure mean that freedom camping and holiday parks each have their ideal regions. Knowing where each style works best can help you plan a smoother, more enjoyable trip.

Where Freedom Camping Shines

Freedom camping is best suited to regions with:

• Low population density

• Council-supported free campgrounds

• Accessible rest areas and remote tracks

Best areas for freedom camping include:

• Outback Northern Territory – Plentiful roadside rest stops and bush camps

• Western Australia (outside Perth) – Coastal pull-ins and inland free camps

• Queensland Inland & Gulf regions – Remote, quiet stops with river or bush views

• Tasmania (central and west) – Council-supported camping, especially for self-contained vehicles

• South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula and Flinders Ranges – National park bush camps and station stays

Freedom camping is often ideal when touring regional or remote areas, particularly for self-contained travellers with solar and water storage.

Where Holiday Parks Are the Better Option

Holiday parks are the go-to choice in:

• High-traffic tourist towns

• Urban or suburban areas

• Locations with limited free camping or strict enforcement

Best areas for holiday park stays include:

• East Coast (Sydney to Cairns) – High demand and limited freedom camping

• Great Ocean Road (VIC) – Limited roadside stops; parks provide safe access

• Byron Bay, Noosa, and Sunshine Coast – Heavy council regulation against free camping

• Perth and surrounds – Most free spots are far from the city

• Tasmania’s East Coast – Free camping is limited near tourist beaches

In these locations, staying at a holiday park not only ensures access to facilities but also helps avoid fines or eviction by local rangers, especially during busy seasons.

Cost Comparison: Long-Term RV Travel

If you’re planning an extended road trip around Australia—whether it’s a few months or the full Big Lap—understanding the cost difference between freedom camping and holiday parks is critical for budgeting. While freedom camping appears “free,” there are hidden costs to consider.

Holiday Park Costs

• Powered site: $35–$60 per night (more in peak season or premium locations)

• Unpowered site: $25–$45 per night

• Weekly rates: Some parks offer discounted stays (e.g. $220–$300 per week)

• Monthly stays: Longer-term parks may offer sites from $600–$1,200/month depending on region and site type

Extras to consider:

• Coin-operated showers or laundries

• Wi-Fi access charges

• Seasonal price spikes during holidays and school breaks

Freedom Camping Costs

• Site cost: Usually free or gold coin donation

• Fuel: May need to drive further to reach remote spots

• Water and dump stations: May require detours or small fees

• Solar & battery setup: One-time investment ($1,000–$5,000)

• Toilet and greywater management: Portable toilet + cassette costs, plus chemicals

• Vehicle wear and tear: More rugged roads can impact maintenance costs

Hybrid Travel Strategy: The Best of Both

Many long-term travellers adopt a hybrid strategy, mixing free camping with paid stays. A common approach:

• Freedom camp 4–5 nights, then stay at a holiday park for 1–2 nights to use showers, laundry, refill tanks, and reset

• Estimated monthly cost (hybrid): $600–$900 depending on region, fuel, and vehicle efficiency

Summary

• Budget-conscious travellers can save thousands per year with freedom camping, but need to be self-sufficient

• Holiday parks offer predictable costs and services but can add up quickly on long journeys

• Hybrid travellers enjoy comfort and flexibility while keeping costs manageable

What Type of Traveller Benefits Most from Each Style?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between freedom camping and holiday parks—because the “best” option depends heavily on your travel style, setup, and personal preferences. Here’s how each type of traveller typically benefits from one or the other (or both):

Families with Kids – Holiday Parks

• Access to playgrounds, pools, BBQs, and laundry makes travelling with children much easier

• Predictable routines and security help with family logistics

• On-site amenities allow for easy meal prep, socialising, and keeping kids entertained

• Freedom camping may be too remote, too quiet, or lack child-friendly facilities

Solo Digital Nomads – Freedom Camping

• Prefer peace, space, and nature for work and creativity

• Self-contained setups with solar and Wi-Fi boosters allow for long off-grid stays

• Freedom to move as needed without booking constraints

• Budget-friendly lifestyle supports long-term travel and remote work

Grey Nomads – Hybrid (Freedom + Parks)

• Often well-equipped with self-contained rigs

• Enjoy bush camps during the week, with occasional park stays for facilities and social events

• Value both the savings of freedom camping and the comfort of holiday parks

• Health, mobility, or safety concerns may influence site choices over time

Backpackers and Budget Travellers – Freedom Camping

• Travelling on tight budgets, often in non-self-contained campervans

• Use public rest areas, donation sites, and free council-run grounds

• Prioritise cost savings over comfort

• May need to rotate into paid sites occasionally for amenities

Luxury RV Owners – Holiday Parks (Premium Sites)

• Motorhomes with full ensuites still benefit from powered sites and dump points

• Often choose ensuite sites, water views, or high-end resorts with full services

• Prefer convenience, security, and premium features over remote bush stays

Pet Travellers – It Depends

• Many freedom camps are pet-friendly, with fewer restrictions

• Some holiday parks accept pets (outside peak season), but often with conditions

• Best to check site policies ahead of time—especially near beaches or national parks

In the end, your vehicle setup, comfort needs, social preferences, and route should guide your decision. Many travellers find the ideal balance by alternating between the two as their journey evolves.

Final Verdict: What’s Better for Aussie RV Travel?

The choice between freedom camping and holiday parks comes down to one key question: what kind of RV travel experience do you want? Both styles offer their own unique benefits and limitations, and for many travellers, the best solution is a flexible mix of the two.

Choose Freedom Camping if you:

• Have a self-contained RV and want to be off-grid

• Prefer quiet, remote, or scenic locations over busy parks

• Want to save money on long-term travel

• Enjoy being independent, spontaneous, and self-reliant

• Are comfortable managing water, waste, and limited facilities

Choose Holiday Parks if you:

• Travel with kids or pets and need structured environments

• Don’t have a self-contained setup (e.g. no toilet or solar)

• Want reliable hot showers, laundry, and powered sites

• Prefer to book in advance and settle in for longer stays

• Enjoy community and convenience on the road

Best of Both Worlds: A Hybrid Approach

Many seasoned travellers combine both styles:

• Spend several nights freedom camping in national parks or bush camps

• Then recharge at a holiday park for access to showers, laundry, dump points, and social time

This hybrid strategy offers cost efficiency, comfort, and flexibility, allowing you to fully enjoy both the rugged and relaxing sides of RV life in Australia.

Final tip: Use apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate to plan your route, know local rules, and discover the best campsites—both free and paid. By staying informed and flexible, you’ll make the most of every kilometre.