Queensland is the kind of place where the road stretches ahead like an invitation — and RV travel is the perfect way to answer it. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Gold and Sunshine Coasts to the ancient rainforests of the Daintree and the vast silence of the Outback, this state has more road trip variety than anywhere else in Australia. And whether you’re a seasoned grey nomad chasing the winter sun, a couple exploring the coast in a campervan, or an international visitor eager for a real Aussie experience, Queensland delivers.
What makes RVing here so special is how seamlessly you can go from reef to rainforest, from surf towns to cattle country, all with the comforts of home on wheels. The infrastructure is well-developed, the campgrounds are scenic and welcoming, and the spirit of the road is alive and well. With so much open space, friendly locals, and places that can’t be reached any other way, a Queensland RV journey is as much about freedom as it is about destination. Whether you’re planning a week or a few months, this is a state where your wheels can take you somewhere unforgettable every single day.
Table of Contents
ToggleWhat Makes Queensland a Great RV Destination?
A State Built for Road Trippers
Queensland is one of Australia’s most RV-friendly states — and for good reason. It’s massive, stretching from the tropical tip of Cape York down to the border with New South Wales, and packed with an incredible diversity of landscapes. Whether you want coastal breezes, rainforest retreats, mountain escapes, or Outback solitude, Queensland delivers it all. The state also boasts one of the highest densities of holiday parks, dump points, and public RV amenities, making it especially easy to plan long-term road trips with minimal stress.
Add to that a relaxed local culture, caravan-savvy towns, and consistently good weather, and it’s no wonder Queensland sees thousands of vanlifers, grey nomads, and road trip families crossing its highways every year.
Best Times to Travel by RV in Queensland
-
May to October (Dry Season)
Ideal for most of Queensland, particularly the north. Clear skies, cooler nights, and comfortable humidity make this the best time for places like Cairns, Cape York, and the Outback. -
November to April (Wet Season)
The Wet brings heat, tropical storms, and high humidity in northern and central regions. While southern Queensland (Gold Coast, Brisbane) is still pleasant, northern roads may flood, and national parks like Daintree or Cape Tribulation can become inaccessible. -
School Holidays & Festive Periods
Holiday parks fill quickly during Christmas, Easter, and Queensland school holidays. It’s wise to book ahead and expect higher site fees and more crowded roads.
Local Vibe & Travel Rhythm
Queensland is a mix of laid-back beach towns, thriving regional centres, and remote inland hubs where the pub is the heart of the community. The state feels both open and welcoming — you’ll find friendly locals in places like Bundaberg, Townsville, and Mareeba who are used to seeing RVers pull in and stay a while. There’s a strong road trip culture here, supported by good signage, helpful visitor centres, and well-maintained routes.
Whether you’re coasting past banana farms in Innisfail, soaking up tropical breezes in Airlie Beach, or navigating red-dirt tracks near Longreach, you’ll never be far from that classic Queensland spirit — relaxed, friendly, and built around the outdoors.
Where to Rent an RV in Queensland
Queensland is a top-tier location for RV and campervan rentals, thanks to major pickup hubs like Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, and Townsville. Whether you’re looking for a compact camper for coastal cruising or a fully self-contained motorhome for a long-haul Outback expedition, you’ll find a wide range of reliable options.
1. Apollo Camper – Brisbane & Cairns
-
Locations: Eagle Farm (Brisbane), Portsmith (Cairns)
-
Vehicles: 2-6 berth campervans, motorhomes, 4WD campers
-
Why Choose: Australia’s largest RV rental company with nationwide support, one-way hires, and 24/7 roadside assistance
-
Visit website: https://www.apollocamper.com
2. Cruisin’ Motorhomes – Brisbane
-
Location: Eagle Farm, Brisbane
-
Vehicles: Modern 2-6 berth motorhomes and campervans
-
Why Choose: Well-maintained fleet, good mid-range pricing, unlimited kilometres
-
Visit website: https://www.cruisinmotorhomes.com.au
3. Britz – Cairns, Brisbane & Gold Coast
-
Locations: Cairns, Eagle Farm (Brisbane), Coomera (Gold Coast)
-
Vehicles: 2WD and 4WD campers, family motorhomes
-
Why Choose: Reputable brand with flexible travel routes, solar-powered campers, pet-friendly options
-
Visit website: https://www.britz.com.au
4. JUCY Rentals – Brisbane & Cairns
-
Locations: Fortitude Valley (Brisbane), Cairns North
-
Vehicles: Budget campervans (2-4 berth)
-
Why Choose: Great for younger travellers or couples, affordable rates, quirky branding
-
Visit website: https://www.jucy.com.au
5. Let’s Go Motorhomes – Brisbane
-
Location: Eagle Farm, Brisbane
-
Vehicles: Luxury 2-6 berth motorhomes and campervans
-
Why Choose: Premium finishes, on-road support, modern tech and comfort
-
Visit website: https://www.letsgomotorhomes.com.au
Helpful Tips for Hiring an RV in Queensland
-
Licensing: You can legally drive most motorhomes and campervans on a standard Australian car license (Class C). International visitors can use their home country license (in English or with an official translation).
-
Tolls: Brisbane and surrounding regions use a toll road system. Your rental may include a toll pass, but confirm beforehand. See: https://www.linkt.com.au
-
One-Way Hires: Many providers allow one-way hires (e.g. Brisbane to Cairns), but fees may apply — always check conditions.
-
What to Check:
-
Vehicle age and mileage
-
Inclusions (linen, cookware, insurance excess)
-
Off-road restrictions (especially for 4WDs)
-
Kilometre limits (some rentals have daily caps)
-
Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Queensland
Queensland is incredibly well set up for RV travellers, with hundreds of campgrounds ranging from beachfront holiday parks to quiet bush retreats. Whether you prefer powered sites with full facilities or more rustic, nature-based stays, there’s something here for every type of traveller — and every budget.
Below are six standout RV parks and campgrounds, covering a variety of regions across the state.
1. BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park – Helensvale (Gold Coast)
Why Stay Here: Located just 2 minutes off the M1, this family-friendly park is ideal for those visiting the Gold Coast’s beaches and theme parks.
Facilities: Resort pool, licensed café, jumping pillow, dog wash, dump point, free Wi-Fi
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/qld/gold-coast/gold-coast-holiday-park
2. Palm Cove Holiday Park – Palm Cove (Cairns Region)
Why Stay Here: A lush, quiet beachfront park near the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, perfect for tropical relaxation.
Facilities: Camp kitchen, powered/unpowered sites, laundry, tour bookings, BBQs
Pet-Friendly: Yes (except during school holidays)
Visit website: https://www.holidayparkcairns.com.au
3. NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park – Near Kilcoy (SEQ Hinterland)
Why Stay Here: Lakeside camping in the beautiful Somerset region, ideal for boating, fishing, and nature lovers.
Facilities: Boat ramp, fire pits, playground, dump point, unpowered bush sites
Pet-Friendly: Yes (conditions apply)
Visit website: https://www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au/lake-somerset/
4. Island View Caravan Park – Kinka Beach (Capricorn Coast)
Why Stay Here: A peaceful seaside retreat with views of Great Keppel Island, halfway between Rockhampton and Yeppoon.
Facilities: Pool, camp kitchen, shady powered sites, dump point
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://www.islandviewcaravanpark.com.au
5. Discovery Parks – Airlie Beach
Why Stay Here: Your ideal base for exploring the Whitsundays. Lush surrounds, short drive to town and marina tours.
Facilities: Lagoon-style pool, BBQs, tour desk, laundry, full RV amenities
Pet-Friendly: Yes (seasonal restrictions)
Visit website: https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/qld/airlie_beach/airlie_beach
6. Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park – Near Mackay
Why Stay Here: Wake up to kangaroos on the beach in one of the most photogenic locations on the QLD coast.
Facilities: Beachfront powered sites, wildlife encounters, pool, kiosk, bushwalks
Pet-Friendly: No (due to national park proximity)
Visit website: https://capehillsboroughresort.com.au
Tips for Staying in QLD Campgrounds
-
Booking Advice: Peak seasons (June–August in the north; December–January in the south) require advance bookings — especially coastal parks.
-
Public Transport Access: Many urban parks (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns) are close to bus or train routes. Rural ones often require private transport.
-
Legal Camping Guidance:
-
Avoid roadside camping near towns unless it’s a designated rest area
-
Use WikiCamps or CamperMate to find legal free camps and rest stops
-
National parks require permits and bookings: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au
-
RV Facilities and Essentials in Queensland
Travelling by RV across Queensland is generally smooth thanks to the abundance of well-maintained facilities and a strong road trip culture. Whether you’re topping up your water, emptying waste, fuelling up, or fixing a minor issue, Queensland has you covered — especially along the major touring routes and in RV-friendly towns.
Dump Points
Proper waste disposal is essential for all RV travellers, and Queensland offers plenty of options across its regions.
-
Public Dump Points: Found at visitor information centres, rest stops, and council-maintained areas in towns like Hervey Bay, Toowoomba, Mackay, and Mount Isa
-
Campground Dump Stations: Most holiday parks and caravan parks include dump points for paying guests
-
Directory: Find up-to-date locations via:
-
WikiCamps: https://www.wikicamps.com.au
-
CamperMate: https://www.campermate.com.au
-
Fresh Water Refill Stations
Safe drinking water is widely available across Queensland:
-
Free Refill Points: Visitor centres, highway rest areas, and public parks
-
Caravan Parks: Offer refills to paying guests, often with filtered water
-
Note: Always check signage to confirm if water is potable or bore water
RV-Friendly Fuel Stations
Diesel and unleaded are available throughout the state, but long-haul travellers should plan ahead in remote regions.
-
Highway Stops: Shell, BP, Caltex, and Puma service stations dominate major routes like the Bruce Highway and Capricorn Highway
-
Outback Areas: Fuel up whenever possible — distances between stations can exceed 200 km
-
App Tip: Use FuelMap Australia to locate stations and compare prices
Repairs & Accessory Shops
Breakdowns or upgrades can be handled in most regional hubs. Key retailers and services include:
-
Supercheap Auto: https://www.supercheapauto.com.au
-
BCF (Boating Camping Fishing): https://www.bcf.com.au
-
Jaycar Electronics (solar panels, 12V gear): https://www.jaycar.com.au
-
Mobile Mechanics: Available in major towns like Townsville, Bundaberg, and Cairns
-
Specialist RV Repairs:
-
RV Solutions (Brisbane): https://www.rvsolutions.com.au
-
Tropical Auto Group (Rockhampton): https://www.tropicalauto.com.au
-
Recommended Travel & Fuel Apps
-
WikiCamps Australia – Campgrounds, dump points, rest areas
-
CamperMate – Real-time site info + fuel and service directories
-
FuelMap Australia – Diesel/unleaded station locator with prices
-
QLDTraffic – Road closures, incidents, and traffic info: https://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au
-
ParkAlert – City and regional parking restrictions
Parking, Driving & Local Regulations in Queensland
Driving an RV through Queensland is generally straightforward, but it pays to understand local rules and regional quirks — especially if you plan to enter busy CBDs or explore remote roads. Knowing where you can park, how tolls work, and what regulations apply will help you avoid fines and drive with confidence.
Can You Drive an RV into Queensland CBDs?
-
Brisbane: Yes, but parking is very limited. Avoid peak hour and use dedicated RV parking near South Bank or ferry terminals. Some multi-storey car parks have height limits under 2.1 m.
-
Cairns & Townsville: RVs can access CBDs, but parking is easier in surrounding streets or designated bays near Esplanades and Marinas.
-
Tips:
-
Always check height restrictions before entering a car park.
-
Use satellite view in Google Maps to preview large parking areas.
-
Day Parking & Overnight Laws
-
Free Camping: Legal only in designated rest areas, showgrounds, or council-approved spots.
-
Urban Areas: Most towns prohibit sleeping in vehicles within city limits unless signed otherwise.
-
Enforcement: Councils issue fines (up to $266) for illegal overnight stays.
-
Tips:
-
Use WikiCamps and CamperMate to find legal day-use and overnight locations.
-
Look for signage — “No Camping” zones are clearly marked.
-
Local Driving Rules & Road Hazards
-
Toll Roads: Primarily in South East Queensland (Brisbane area). Use Linkt e-pass or ensure your rental vehicle is fitted with a toll tag.
-
Toll info: https://www.linkt.com.au
-
-
Speed Limits: Usually 100–110 km/h on highways, 50 km/h in urban zones unless signed otherwise.
-
Wildlife Hazards: Kangaroos, cattle, and emus are active at dawn/dusk — particularly inland.
-
Fatigue Zones: Rest stops are well-spaced along highways, often with signage promoting “Stop, Revive, Survive.”
-
Tunnel Restrictions: Brisbane’s Clem Jones and Legacy Way tunnels allow motorhomes under 4.3 m height.
Parking Fines to Avoid
-
Illegal Camping: As above — avoid sleeping in streets or public parks unless permitted.
-
Loading Zones: Don’t use these for RVs, even briefly.
-
Blocking Driveways or double parking = instant fines
-
Beach Driving: Only allowed in designated zones (e.g., Fraser Island with permit) — never drive onto unmarked beaches.
RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do in Queensland
From the Great Barrier Reef to ancient rainforests and red-dirt Outback, Queensland offers RV travellers a diverse mix of natural wonders, scenic drives, local events, and family-friendly fun. Many destinations are highly accessible by road and offer nearby campgrounds, making them ideal for those travelling on wheels.
National Parks & Nature
-
Great Barrier Reef (Cairns, Airlie Beach, Bundaberg access)
Park your RV in coastal hubs and join reef tours via boat or snorkel trips. Cairns, Port Douglas, and Lady Musgrave Island (via Bundaberg) are popular launching points. -
Daintree Rainforest
Drive north from Cairns to reach the oldest rainforest in the world. The ferry across the Daintree River is RV-friendly, and there are campsites near Cape Tribulation. -
Bunya Mountains
Inland from the Sunshine Coast, this cool-climate rainforest is home to wallabies and walking trails. RVs welcome at Dandabah campground. -
Carnarvon Gorge
A striking Outback national park west of Rockhampton, with dramatic sandstone cliffs and walking trails. Limited RV camping is available at nearby stations and seasonal national park sites.
Scenic Drives
-
Pacific Coast Way (Brisbane to Cairns)
One of Australia’s great coastal RV routes, taking in beaches, hinterlands, and national parks. -
Great Tropical Drive (Cairns & FNQ)
Loops through rainforest, reef, and waterfalls, with plenty of camping options. -
Outback Way
Cross the desert heart of QLD from Winton to Boulia, with remote roadhouse camping and classic country charm. -
Savannah Way
Explore the Gulf country between Cairns and NT border — great for experienced RVers with self-contained rigs.
Pet-Friendly Places
-
Sunshine Coast Beaches: Check for off-leash areas like Marcus Beach or Moffat Beach
-
Pet-Friendly Parks: Most Discovery and BIG4 parks allow pets, often with dedicated play zones
-
Hinterland Walks: Many short trails and waterfalls in Maleny, Montville, and Atherton Tablelands are pet-permissible (outside national parks)
Family-Friendly Activities
-
Australia Zoo (Beerwah) – Plenty of parking for RVs, wildlife shows, and crocodile action
-
Kuranda Skyrail & Scenic Railway (Cairns) – Ride above the rainforest and explore markets
-
Hervey Bay Whale Watching (Jun–Oct) – Family-safe tours and waterfront RV parks
-
Reef HQ Aquarium (Townsville) – Educational and interactive marine exhibits
Markets, Local Food & Events
-
Eumundi Markets (Sunshine Coast) – Massive artisan and foodie market, held Wed & Sat
-
Airlie Beach Markets – Saturdays on the foreshore, right near beachfront campgrounds
-
Brisbane Festival (Sept) – Outdoor art, music, and fireworks — base in outer suburbs for RV parking
-
Noosa Eat & Drink Festival – Culinary events and riverside flair (book RV parks early)
Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Queensland
Whether you’re cruising the coast or heading deep into the Outback, travelling by RV in Queensland is both rewarding and straightforward — if you’re well prepared. These practical tips will help make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
1. Travel in the Dry Season for Comfort
The dry season (May–October) offers the best road conditions and most comfortable weather, especially in northern Queensland. Humidity and flooding during the wet season can impact road access in places like Cairns, Cape York, and inland towns.
2. Use WikiCamps & CamperMate Daily
Both apps are essential for finding campsites, dump points, water refill stations, rest stops, and local tips. Use filters to identify pet-friendly, low-cost, or self-contained-only sites.
3. Book Ahead for Coastal Areas
Queensland’s coastal caravan parks fill up fast during school holidays, winter (June–August), and events like whale season in Hervey Bay. Book early for places like Noosa, Mission Beach, or Airlie Beach.
4. Take Your Time on Scenic Drives
Don’t rush. The Pacific Coast Way and Great Tropical Drive have loads of worthy detours — small beach towns, hikes, waterfalls, and produce stalls. Aim for shorter daily drives to really enjoy the route.
5. Watch for Wildlife on Inland Roads
Kangaroos, emus, and even wandering cattle are common in Outback areas — especially at dawn and dusk. Avoid night driving in remote areas and keep your headlights dipped for better visibility.
6. Carry Extra Fuel & Water Inland
Inland Queensland can have long gaps between towns. Always fill up when you can and carry extra water — especially when heading west of Longreach, Mount Isa, or north toward Cape York.
7. Respect Free Camping Rules
Only stay overnight in designated areas. Illegal camping near urban parks or beaches can lead to heavy fines. Look for signage and use official directories.
8. Check Road Conditions Before You Leave
The QLD Outback is subject to sudden road closures and unsealed sections. Check live updates via the QLDTraffic app or visit: https://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au
9. Keep an Eye on Fire & Weather Alerts
Use the QLD Rural Fire Service (https://www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au) and Bureau of Meteorology (https://www.bom.gov.au/qld/) to track weather warnings, cyclone threats, or bushfire risks during summer months.
10. Bring Sun Protection & Insect Repellent
Queensland’s sun can be intense — even in winter. A good hat, sunscreen, and DEET-based insect spray will go a long way, especially in tropical zones.
How Queensland Compares to Other RV Destinations
Queensland stands out for its sheer scale, natural variety, and well-developed RV infrastructure — but how does it compare to other popular RV travel states in Australia? Here’s a side-by-side comparison of what makes Queensland unique, and how it stacks up against key destinations.
Queensland vs. New South Wales
-
Weather: Queensland is warmer year-round, especially in winter. NSW has more distinct seasonal shifts.
-
Nature Access: Queensland offers more tropical and reef experiences; NSW excels in alpine and coastal bushland.
-
Free Camping: NSW has more regulated free camping areas. Queensland offers many bush stays but often requires self-containment.
-
Vibe: Queensland feels more relaxed and expansive, while NSW has a faster pace, especially near Sydney.
Queensland vs. Victoria
-
Driving Conditions: Queensland has long-haul coastal and Outback drives; Victoria offers denser, more compact touring routes.
-
Climate: Queensland is tropical to subtropical; Victoria is temperate and colder in winter.
-
RV Infrastructure: Both states are well-equipped, but Queensland has more tropical beachside campgrounds.
-
Events & Culture: Victoria has more cultural festivals; Queensland leans into natural attractions and relaxed outdoor lifestyles.
Queensland vs. Western Australia
-
Remoteness: WA is more isolated; Queensland is better connected with frequent towns and services.
-
Nature: Both boast stunning coastlines and reefs — WA’s Ningaloo vs. QLD’s Great Barrier Reef.
-
Cost: Travel costs are comparable, but fuel and food in WA’s remote areas can be pricier than Queensland’s coastal towns.
Queensland vs. Northern Territory
-
Tourist Flow: Queensland gets more travellers overall, especially along the coast.
-
Driving Difficulty: NT is more remote and rugged — ideal for 4WDers. Queensland offers more sealed roads.
-
Camping Options: NT has epic Outback camps, while QLD offers a broader mix of beach, bush, and mountain stays.
Final Word
Queensland is perhaps the most balanced RV destination in Australia — offering tropical beaches, Outback plains, lush rainforests, and friendly towns, all within a state that’s made for road trips. If you’re after variety, comfort, and easy accessibility, Queensland should be at the top of your list.
Conclusion / Final Thoughts
Queensland is more than just a sunshine state — it’s an RV traveller’s dream, rich with diversity, freedom, and endless opportunities for discovery. From the tropical north to the wide Outback west, and all the breezy coastal gems in between, Queensland delivers a uniquely Australian road trip experience that suits every type of traveller.
Whether you’re a grey nomad chasing the winter sun, a young couple on a vanlife journey, or a family seeking unforgettable nature-based adventures, Queensland makes it easy. The state offers reliable infrastructure, well-maintained roads, pet-friendly stays, welcoming towns, and more campsites than you can count.
Plan well, travel smart, and give yourself time to explore — because in Queensland, the journey is just as incredible as the destination. With your camper packed and the highway calling, you’ll quickly understand why so many RVers fall in love with the freedom of the open road here.
So fuel up, download your travel apps, and hit the bitumen. Queensland is waiting — and it’s built for people just like you.