How to Book Campsites in Australia During Peak Season

1. Understanding Peak Seasons & High-Demand Periods

Before you book a campsite in Australia, it’s crucial to understand when demand spikes and why campsites get booked out fast. Peak season in Australia varies by region, but a few general rules apply nationwide.

When Is Peak Camping Season?

• Summer holidays: December to February is peak season everywhere, especially around Christmas and New Year

• School holidays: Each state has staggered breaks, but April, July, and September school holidays are typically busy

• Long weekends & public holidays: Easter, Labour Day, Australia Day, and Queen’s Birthday weekends are extremely popular

• Winter months: Northern Australia (QLD, NT, northern WA) sees peak activity from May to September, especially with grey nomads escaping the southern chill

Why It Gets So Busy

• Australians love camping—it’s a national pastime, and many families book the same sites year after year

• National parks often have limited sites, and some allow bookings only 3 or 6 months in advance

• Festivals and local events (e.g. Bluesfest in Byron Bay, Taste of Tasmania, or Darwin Festival) dramatically increase accommodation demand in nearby areas

Regional Variations

• Victoria & Tasmania: Peak in summer and public holidays; alpine areas also busy in winter

• Queensland & NT: Dry season (May to October) is busiest due to milder weather

• WA: Wildflower season (Aug–Oct) and school holidays are high demand

• NSW & SA: Coastal and wine regions book out in both summer and Easter

Planning around these busy periods and understanding your region’s seasonal quirks will give you a massive advantage when securing that perfect campsite.

2. Types of Campsites in Australia

Australia offers a wide range of campsite types—each with its own booking process, price range, and peak-season demand. Knowing your options helps you plan a trip that matches your budget, rig size, and preferred camping style.

Holiday Parks (e.g. BIG4, Discovery Parks, NRMA)

• Fully serviced campgrounds with powered/unpowered sites, cabins, laundry, pools, and playgrounds

• Ideal for families and longer stays

• Often located near cities, beaches, or major tourist hubs

• Bookable directly via their websites (e.g. https://www.big4.com.au, https://www.discoveryparks.com.au)

National Park Campgrounds

• Run by state/territory park services (e.g. NSW NPWS, Parks Victoria)

• Usually basic: toilets, fire pits, sometimes water

• Close to hiking trails, beaches, or natural landmarks

• Require national park entry passes and advanced online bookings

  • NSW: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

  • VIC: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au

  • QLD: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au

Council-Run or Local Shire Campgrounds

• Managed by local councils or rural communities

• Affordable and often located near showgrounds, sports fields, or rivers

• Facilities vary; some allow bookings, others are first-come, first-served

• Check local council websites or WikiCamps for details

Private Bush Retreats or Farm Stays

• Off-grid experiences on private land

• Often listed on platforms like Hipcamp (https://www.hipcamp.com/en-AU)

• Great for those seeking quiet or nature-based camping

• Can book up fast during peak season due to limited spots

Free or Donation-Based Campsites

• Located on Crown land, rest areas, or managed by local groups

• Usually first-come, first-served

• Limited facilities (drop toilets at best)

• Popular with budget travellers and grey nomads

• Found using WikiCamps or CamperMate apps

Understanding the differences helps you mix and match your route—combining comfort, budget, and availability to suit your travel rhythm.

3. Top Booking Platforms & Apps

Securing campsites during Australia’s peak travel season requires more than just early planning—it demands the right tools. The following platforms and apps are widely used by RVers, campers, and caravanners across the country to find, compare, and book campsites quickly and efficiently.

1. WikiCamps Australia

Website: https://www.wikicamps.com.au

• Australia’s most popular camping app with 130,000+ sites listed

• Covers campgrounds, holiday parks, dump points, water fills, and more

• Offers user reviews, site photos, offline maps, and filters for vehicle type, pet-friendliness, and amenities

• Includes booking links for many sites (but not all)

2. CamperMate

Website: https://www.campermate.com.au

• Easy-to-use app with listings for campsites, petrol stations, and attractions

• Great for last-minute finds, especially in New Zealand and Australia

• Community reviews and integrated navigation

• Some sites can be booked directly through the app

3. Hipcamp

Website: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-AU

• Like Airbnb for camping, Hipcamp lists private campsites on farms, vineyards, and bushland

• Bookings made through the platform

• Popular for off-grid, secluded, or eco-conscious camping experiences

• Many properties fill quickly in peak season due to limited space

4. Holiday Park Websites

• Major networks like:

  • BIG4 Holiday Parks – https://www.big4.com.au

  • Discovery Parks – https://www.discoveryparks.com.au

  • NRMA Parks – https://www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au

• Offer online bookings with calendar views and site maps

• Loyalty programs may offer early access or discounts

5. State & Territory National Park Booking Sites

Each state/territory has its own government-run portal for national park campsite bookings:

• NSW National Parks – https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

• Parks Victoria – https://www.parks.vic.gov.au

• Queensland Parks and Forests – https://parks.des.qld.gov.au

• WA Parks and Wildlife – https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au

• SA Parks – https://www.parks.sa.gov.au

• NT Parks Booking – https://nt.gov.au/parks

These platforms often release limited campsites months in advance, so knowing the booking windows is critical.

4. How Far in Advance Should You Book?

During Australia’s peak camping season, booking early isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Popular sites in coastal areas, national parks, and tourist regions can sell out within minutes of the booking window opening.

General Booking Guidelines

• Holiday parks (BIG4, Discovery Parks): Book 4–6 months in advance for summer and school holidays

• National park campgrounds: Each state has its own system; bookings often open 3–6 months ahead

• Hipcamp/private stays: Can be booked anytime, but peak dates go fast

• Council campgrounds: May offer fixed-date bookings or remain first-come, first-served

Booking Window Examples

• NSW National Parks: Bookings open 120 days (approx. 4 months) in advance

• Parks Victoria: Some parks allow 6-month advance booking, others have seasonal release dates

• QLD Parks: Book 6 months out for popular spots like Noosa North Shore

• SA Parks: Rolling availability, often 3–6 months

• WA & NT Parks: Some require booking only a few weeks out, others release entire season at once

Set Calendar Reminders

For high-demand locations, mark the exact release date in your calendar. For example, if a popular campground opens bookings at 9 AM on a specific day, be online and ready with your details pre-filled.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Waiting until “a few weeks before” will almost always result in no availability

• Public holidays and long weekends require booking as soon as the window opens

• Having a backup site ready can save you from scrambling last-minute

By planning early and knowing when to strike, you dramatically increase your chances of securing your ideal campsite—even during Australia’s busiest travel periods.

5. Insider Tips for Securing a Spot

Even during peak season, experienced RVers and campers manage to find great campsites—because they know how to outsmart the crowds. Use these practical booking strategies to improve your chances of snagging a spot, especially in high-demand areas.

Be Flexible with Dates and Locations

• Avoid weekends—book mid-week stays (Monday–Thursday) when demand drops

• Stay open to lesser-known campgrounds near major locations

• Consider inland or rural options slightly off the coast

Monitor for Cancellations

• Check booking platforms daily for cancellations, especially 24–72 hours before your target date

• Some sites (like Hipcamp and WikiCamps) offer alerts when spots reopen

• Join Facebook groups like “Caravan and Camping Australia Buy Swap Sell” for live availability tips

Call Campgrounds Directly

• If a site shows “full” online, call the reception or ranger office

• Some parks hold a few sites for phone bookings, overflows, or walk-ins

Book Through Loyalty Programs

• Join BIG4 Perks, G’Day Rewards, or NRMA Memberships to access:

  • Early booking windows

  • Member-only discounts

  • Exclusive availability for peak dates

Use Multiple Booking Apps

• Cross-check availability across WikiCamps, CamperMate, and Hipcamp

• Compare photos, user reviews, and facility filters to find hidden gems

Bookmark Seasonal Booking Releases

• For national parks or high-demand areas, mark your calendar for release dates

• Some states (like VIC and NSW) release availability in seasonal blocks, so being ready at launch time helps

By applying these tricks, you’ll not only improve your odds but also discover alternative stays that might be even better than your original plan.

6. What to Do When Campgrounds Are Full

Even with the best planning, sometimes the sites you want are booked out—especially during Christmas, Easter, and school holidays. But don’t cancel your trip just yet. There are still smart ways to find a place to stay without compromising your journey.

Look for Nearby Alternative Sites

• Use radius searches on apps like WikiCamps or CamperMate to find campsites within 10–50 km

• Smaller or lesser-known sites near major attractions often have space

• Example: If Byron Bay is full, try Suffolk Park, Brunswick Heads, or Mullumbimby

Try Low-Cost Council or Showground Camping

• Many regional councils offer basic, affordable sites at showgrounds, sports ovals, or recreation reserves

• Often overlooked by tourists, but great for short stays

• Facilities may include toilets, power, and dump points

Explore Legal Free Camping Zones

• Use WikiCamps to filter for free campsites and rest areas

• Stick to areas that are clearly marked as legal and vehicle-friendly

• Always respect time limits and noise rules to avoid fines

Join Local RV & Camping Groups

• Facebook groups like “RV Australia” or “Camping and Caravanning in Australia” often share live availability tips

• Some travellers post cancellation announcements or site reviews in real-time

Have a Backup Itinerary

• Always build your trip with a Plan B and Plan C in case your top picks fall through

• Don’t rely on turning up without a booking during peak periods—it often leads to frustration or illegal camping

Staying flexible and informed gives you the upper hand when things don’t go to plan. In fact, you might stumble across quieter, better, or cheaper campsites than the ones everyone else is scrambling for.

7. Documents & Info You’ll Need to Book

Booking a campsite in Australia—especially during peak periods—is more than just clicking a “Book Now” button. Having the right information ready will save you time, prevent errors, and increase your chance of securing a spot before it’s gone.

Identification Details

• Full name and contact number

• Email address for booking confirmation

• Driver’s licence or a form of government-issued ID (especially for national parks or if asked onsite)

Vehicle Information

• Vehicle type (motorhome, campervan, caravan, etc.)

• Vehicle registration number

• Dimensions of your RV (length, height, width) – some sites have strict size limits

• Whether you need powered or unpowered access

Number of Travellers

• Adults, children, and infants

• Some sites charge per person or offer child rates

• Campsites also have maximum occupancy limits, so be precise

Pet Details (if applicable)

• Are pets allowed at the site?

• Number and type of pets (dogs only, for example)

• Leash and vaccination requirements (some parks will ask for proof)

Payment Method

• Most bookings require a credit or debit card

• Some national parks use third-party gateways that accept PayPal or prepaid travel cards

• Always double-check if the site charges an additional fee for booking changes

Other Essentials

• Preferred check-in and check-out dates

• Specific campsite requests (e.g. close to toilets, drive-through bay, shade)

• Discount program details (e.g. BIG4 Perks+ ID, G’Day Rewards number)

Having this information saved in a notepad or app makes rebooking faster—especially when spots open up suddenly due to cancellations.

8. Cancellation Policies & Flexible Booking Tips

When travelling during Australia’s peak camping season, plans can change due to weather, delays, or emergencies. That’s why understanding cancellation rules and choosing flexible options is key to a stress-free trip.

Know the Cancellation Window

Each campsite provider has different policies:

• Holiday parks may require 7–30 days’ notice for a full or partial refund

• National parks often charge a small admin or change fee, and may retain the first night’s cost if cancelled late

• Private or Hipcamp stays vary—always check each listing’s terms

Look for Flexible Booking Options

• Choose listings marked as “Free Cancellation” or “Flexible”

• Some providers offer “Pay Later” or “Hold Now, Pay Later” features

• Booking platforms like Hipcamp and BIG4 sometimes allow modifications without penalty

Watch for Weather or Emergency Clauses

• Some parks will offer credit notes or rescheduling if:

  • Natural disasters (fires, floods, cyclones) occur

  • State or regional travel restrictions are in place

• Read their force majeure or emergency policy before confirming

Use Apps to Manage Bookings

• Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate let you store booking references and alerts in one place

• Enable email notifications for changes or cancellations

Tip: Always Read the Fine Print

• Look for conditions such as:

  • Non-refundable deposits

  • Minimum night stays (often during long weekends)

  • Extra fees for date changes

• Save a copy or screenshot of the cancellation policy at the time of booking

A little awareness goes a long way—choosing sites with flexibility gives you breathing room when life on the road throws you a curveball.

9. Booking Tips for Specific Regions

Australia’s vast geography means peak demand varies by location. Booking strategies that work in Victoria might fail in Queensland or the NT. Here’s how to plan smarter by region:

East Coast Hotspots (NSW & QLD)

• Byron Bay, Sunshine Coast, Jervis Bay, Gold Coast: Book 4–6 months in advance for summer and school holidays

• Many parks have minimum stay requirements (e.g. 3+ nights over holidays)

• Popular with both locals and international travellers, so book as early as possible

• Consider nearby alternatives like Pottsville, Caloundra, Huskisson, or Kingscliff

Tasmania

• High demand during Dec–Feb and Easter

• Fewer powered sites available, especially in national parks

• Spirit of Tasmania ferry bookings should be made well in advance—spots sell out fast for vehicles

• Must-book locations include Cradle Mountain, Bruny Island, and Freycinet National Park

Western Australia

• Peak season is May to September in the north (e.g. Exmouth, Broome, Karijini)

• Wildflower season (Aug–Oct) adds demand in the south

• Many remote sites have limited availability and 4WD access

• Book early for Ningaloo Reef, Cape Range, and Kalbarri

Northern Territory

• Peak travel during the dry season (May to October)

• Kakadu and Litchfield fill up quickly; NT Parks require booking before arrival

• Road closures in wet season (Nov–Apr) affect access—check conditions when planning

Victoria

• Alpine areas like Mount Buffalo, Lake Mountain, and Bright are popular year-round

• Summer and long weekends see rush to the Great Ocean Road and Mornington Peninsula

• Parks Victoria bookings for popular sites (e.g. Wilsons Promontory) can open 6 months ahead—and sell out quickly

South Australia

• Demand spikes over public holidays and wine festivals (e.g. Barossa Vintage Festival)

• Sites along the Fleurieu Peninsula and in the Riverland get busy during long weekends

• National parks near Adelaide (like Deep Creek) require bookings in advance

Booking regionally smart allows you to dodge peak congestion while still enjoying Australia’s most scenic locations—without missing out on the essentials.

10. Final Booking Checklist

Before locking in your campsite plans—especially during peak travel times—run through this checklist to avoid last-minute issues, missed opportunities, or booking errors.

Confirm Booking Details

• Have you received a confirmation email or reference number?

• Double-check dates, number of nights, and guest count

• Confirm you booked the correct site type (powered, unpowered, RV-friendly)

Save Everything Offline

• Screenshot or download all confirmations (some remote areas have no internet)

• Print backup copies if you’ll be without power or phone access

• Save national park permits to your phone or cloud drive

Prepare for Arrival

• Know the check-in and check-out times

• Understand gate access procedures (some parks close gates at night or use PIN codes)

• Carry your ID or driver’s licence (may be required at reception)

Ensure Permits and Memberships Are Active

• National park entry passes paid and printed if needed

• Loyalty programs like BIG4 Perks, G’Day Rewards, or NRMA active and linked to booking

• Local council permits if required for free or low-cost areas

Have a Backup Plan

• List at least two nearby alternative sites in case of road closures or overbooking

• Download maps via WikiCamps or CamperMate for offline use

• Know local rules for free camping or roadside overnighting

Communication & Navigation

• Share your itinerary with a friend or family member

• Install offline navigation tools (e.g. Google Maps, Hema Maps)

• Check road and weather conditions, especially in remote or outback areas

Be Ready for Flexibility

• Plans may change—weather, breakdowns, roadworks

• Stay flexible and calm, especially if you miss out on your top site

• Sometimes the hidden gems you find as a backup end up being the best part of the trip

A bit of upfront effort means a lot less stress on the road—allowing you to focus on enjoying your Aussie RV adventure.

Conclusion

Booking campsites in Australia during peak season doesn’t have to be a stressful race—it just takes planning, flexibility, and the right tools. Whether you’re chasing the summer sun along the east coast, exploring the remote outback, or camping under the stars in a national park, early preparation gives you freedom and peace of mind on the road.

By understanding regional demand patterns, using trusted apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate, knowing when to book, and preparing key documents ahead of time, you can avoid last-minute disappointments and secure the best spots—often months in advance.

Even if your dream site is full, there are always alternatives: from showgrounds and Hipcamp stays to legal free camping zones and scenic detours. Keep a flexible mindset, check cancellation windows, and carry a well-prepared checklist to make your RV journey smooth and enjoyable.

In Australia’s competitive peak camping season, those who prepare ahead don’t just get a site—they get the best views, fewer hassles, and a front-row seat to the country’s most stunning landscapes.