Top Remote Campsites in Australia with Incredible Views

Remote campsites in Australia with breathtaking coastal and mountain views for RV travellers

When it comes to unforgettable Aussie road trips, few experiences compare to the solitude and splendor of remote camping. For RV travellers who crave more than just a powered site and a beachside barbecue, Australia offers a wild frontier of off-grid campsites tucked away in some of the most visually stunning and untouched corners of the continent.

From red desert gorges in the Northern Territory to turquoise waters lapping Western Australia’s rugged coast, remote camping isn’t just about isolation – it’s about immersion. It’s where waking up to the sound of rustling gumtrees or waves crashing against ancient cliffs becomes your daily rhythm. Where the night sky spills over with stars undiluted by light pollution, and kangaroos or emus may be your only neighbours for miles.

This guide is for the bold and curious—those seeking more than just convenience, who yearn for raw nature, jaw-dropping landscapes, and the serenity that only distance from civilisation can bring. Whether you’re a grey nomad heading inland with a self-contained motorhome or a young couple tackling dirt roads in a rugged 4WD camper, remote campsites offer a kind of magic that caravan parks simply can’t.

In this article, you’ll discover Australia’s most scenic and secluded campsites—places that reward effort with vistas you’ll never forget. These locations span every corner of the country, from Tasmania’s windswept coastlines to the deep heart of the Kimberley, and are handpicked for their breathtaking beauty, natural ambience, and that elusive feeling of being truly off the map.

So fuel up, prep your gear, and get ready to venture where few go. Australia’s most remote—and most spectacular—campsites await.

What Makes a Campsite ‘Remote’ and ‘Scenic’ in Australia?

Australia is a land of vast, untamed beauty—and its most remote campsites are often the gateway to truly extraordinary landscapes. But what exactly defines a remote and scenic campsite in the Australian context? It’s not just about being far away from towns or roads; it’s about the unique combination of isolation, natural splendour, and that raw, immersive experience of being surrounded by wild terrain.

Distance from Civilization

Remote campsites in Australia are typically hours away from the nearest town, sealed road, or fuel station. Some require a 4WD to access; others are nestled deep within national parks, accessible only by winding gravel tracks or through seasonal river crossings. This remoteness guarantees fewer crowds, minimal light and noise pollution, and a chance to disconnect from modern distractions.

Breathtaking Natural Settings

Whether perched on a clifftop overlooking the Southern Ocean, deep inside a gorge framed by red rock walls, or hidden beside a tranquil alpine lake—these campsites deliver next-level views. Scenic remoteness often means elevation, water, or dramatic geological formations. Think desert sunsets in the Outback, rainforest canopy surrounds in Queensland, or stargazing across a salt lake in South Australia.

Wildlife Encounters and Silence

In remote Australia, you don’t set up camp beside neighbours—you share the land with wallabies, wombats, emus, and even dingoes. Birds provide the dawn soundtrack, and the complete absence of traffic or human noise creates a level of peace that’s nearly impossible to find in urban areas.

Basic or No Facilities

Most of these campsites have little to no facilities—no powered sites, toilets, or water taps. This makes them best suited for self-contained RVs or campers with off-grid capabilities. But what you sacrifice in comfort, you gain tenfold in freedom and connection to nature.

A Sense of Discovery

Perhaps the most defining characteristic is the sense of exploration. These are places that make you feel like you’ve uncovered a hidden treasure. Even well-known remote sites require effort to reach—and that journey itself becomes part of the reward.

In the next section, we’ll reveal some of the top remote campsites across every state and territory, beginning with the wild frontier of Western Australia.

A. Western Australia – Rugged Coastlines & Outback Grandeur

Western Australia is a paradise for remote camping, offering an extraordinary range of landscapes—from the fiery gorges of the Kimberley to the blinding white beaches of the Coral Coast. Its vast size means many campsites are hours or even days from the nearest town, rewarding adventurers with incredible views and a deep sense of solitude.

Mitchell Falls Campground – Mitchell River National Park, Kimberley

What makes it incredible:
Surrounded by one of Australia’s most breathtaking natural wonders, Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu), this remote campground offers panoramic views of ancient sandstone plateaus and cascading waterfalls. The landscape glows red at sunset, and the surrounding wilderness teems with birdlife and Indigenous rock art sites.

Facilities & access:
Unpowered bush camping only. Compost toilets, no water, bring everything with you.
Access is via the Gibb River Road and then the challenging Kalumburu Road—high-clearance 4WD only.

Best time to visit:
May to August (dry season)

Tip:
Book a helicopter flight over the falls or hike the 8.6 km return trail for jaw-dropping aerial or close-up views.

Yardie Creek Campground – Cape Range National Park, Coral Coast

What makes it incredible:
Nestled where Cape Range’s red cliffs meet the turquoise waters of Yardie Creek, this remote beachside campground offers mind-blowing contrast views. You’ll be camping just steps from Ningaloo Reef, where you can snorkel with manta rays, turtles, and reef sharks.

Facilities & access:
Basic bush camping with eco toilets, no power or water. 2WD accessible but remote—located about 90 minutes from Exmouth.

Best time to visit:
April to October

Tip:
Take the Yardie Creek Gorge walk for an elevated view of the canyon and creek mouth—or go for a guided kayak tour up the gorge.

Big Lagoon Campground – Francois Peron National Park, Shark Bay

What makes it incredible:
Big Lagoon is a striking turquoise inlet surrounded by red sand cliffs and white beaches—pure visual magic. This remote campsite sits on the edge of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area and offers serene waterfront views perfect for sunrise paddling or evening campfires under the stars.

Facilities & access:
Unpowered bush sites with drop toilets. No drinking water. 4WD required to access the sandy tracks beyond Peron Homestead.

Best time to visit:
April to November

Tip:
Bring a kayak or paddleboard—Big Lagoon is known for calm waters, dugongs, and dolphins cruising just offshore.

B. Northern Territory – Red Desert Majesty & Timeless Outback

The Northern Territory is home to some of the most iconic and visually arresting landscapes in Australia. Remote camping here means sleeping beneath fiery escarpments, beside sacred waterholes, or under an Outback sky thick with stars. These campsites often sit deep inside national parks and Aboriginal lands, offering powerful connections to the land—and views you’ll never forget.

Trephina Gorge Campgrounds – East MacDonnell Ranges

What makes it incredible:
Trephina Gorge stuns with towering red rock walls, ghost gums, and wide sandy riverbeds that change hues with the light. The campgrounds—Trephina Bluff, Gorge, and Panorama—are set within a dramatic gorge system that’s far less visited than the West Macs.

Facilities & access:
Basic facilities including pit toilets and fire pits. No water. Access via sealed and gravel road—2WD usually sufficient in dry conditions.

Best time to visit:
April to September

Tip:
Don’t miss the Panorama Walk or the Trephina Gorge Walk for sweeping views of the ranges and desert below.

Gunlom Campground – Kakadu National Park

What makes it incredible:
Known for its “infinity pool” perched on a cliff’s edge, Gunlom’s natural rock pools and waterfalls overlook the endless savannah woodlands of Kakadu. The view from the top is one of the most iconic in Australia—especially at sunrise or sunset.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, showers, picnic area. 4WD-only access due to rough road conditions (check current accessibility with Parks Australia).

Best time to visit:
Dry season (May to September)

Tip:
Walk the short but steep track to the top pools. Pack your bathers—the swim with that view is unforgettable.

Redbank Gorge Campground – West MacDonnell Ranges

What makes it incredible:
Set beneath Mt Sonder (one of the Northern Territory’s highest peaks), Redbank Gorge offers a stunning desert gorge with towering cliffs and a permanent waterhole. The sunrise view from Mt Sonder’s summit is a must for hikers, and the gorge itself is a cooling escape in the heat.

Facilities & access:
Drop toilets and fire pits, no water. 2WD accessible but remote—about 150 km west of Alice Springs.

Best time to visit:
May to August

Tip:
Float through the narrow gorge with a pool noodle or inflatable—it’s one of the most surreal desert swims you’ll ever have.

C. Queensland – Rainforests, Ranges & Reefside Solitude

Queensland’s remote campsites span an astonishing variety of landscapes—tropical beaches, ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and wild inland plateaus. For RVers and off-grid campers chasing incredible views, these hidden gems offer unmatched scenery with fewer tourists, raw beauty, and a genuine sense of remoteness.

Cape Tribulation Beachfront Campground – Daintree Rainforest

What makes it incredible:
Where the rainforest meets the reef, Cape Tribulation delivers a postcard-perfect view at every turn. This campground is steps from the beach, flanked by thick jungle and backed by cloud-tipped mountains—pure Jurassic Park vibes.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, hot showers, camp kitchen, limited power. Accessible by 2WD via sealed road and car ferry over the Daintree River.

Best time to visit:
May to October (dry season)

Tip:
Wake early and walk the beach at sunrise—it’s common to see cassowaries in the forest edge or reef sharks in the shallows.

Kalpowar Crossing – Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park

What makes it incredible:
This is true Cape York wilderness—massive wetlands, lily-covered lagoons, and savannah woodland teeming with crocodiles, brolgas, and barramundi. Kalpowar Crossing sits along the Normanby River and offers unfiltered Outback views under an endless sky.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, picnic shelters. No power or water. 4WD access only, especially during or after the wet season.

Best time to visit:
May to September

Tip:
Bring binoculars—Lakefield is a birdwatcher’s dream with hundreds of species in view from your camp chair.

Blencoe Falls Campground – Girringun National Park

What makes it incredible:
One of Queensland’s most spectacular waterfalls, Blencoe plunges 90m into a remote gorge surrounded by tropical forest and rugged peaks. The campground is perched upstream on Blencoe Creek, where you can camp in peace with the distant roar of the falls.

Facilities & access:
Basic bush camping, toilets only. 4WD access required—slow and steep gravel roads through the Kirrama Range.

Best time to visit:
June to September

Tip:
Don’t miss the lookout above the falls—it’s a short hike but the panoramic view of the gorge is next level.

D. New South Wales – Rugged Highlands & Deserted Coastlines

New South Wales isn’t just about the Blue Mountains or coastal holiday parks. Dig a little deeper and you’ll find hidden inland plateaus, red-sand plains, and untouched stretches of wilderness where remote campsites serve up breathtaking scenery. These locations combine dramatic geography, peaceful remoteness, and rich Aboriginal and ecological significance.

Main Campground – Mungo National Park

What makes it incredible:
Set in the heart of the hauntingly beautiful Willandra Lakes Region, Mungo’s landscape is otherworldly—wind-sculpted dunes, ancient lakebeds, and surreal formations known as the Walls of China. The red earth glows at dusk, and the silence is absolute.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, BBQs, picnic tables. No water. Accessible by 2WD in dry weather, but some unsealed roads may become impassable in rain.

Best time to visit:
April to October (cooler weather)

Tip:
Join a guided Aboriginal tour to learn the 40,000-year-old cultural significance of the area. Stargazing here is jaw-dropping due to zero light pollution.

Woko Campground – Woko National Park, Mid North Coast Hinterland

What makes it incredible:
This lush riverside campground is nestled beneath steep forested escarpments and surrounded by subtropical bush. It feels hidden away yet offers brilliant views of misty hills and the tumbling Manning River.

Facilities & access:
Drop toilets, picnic tables, fire rings. 2WD accessible via gravel roads.

Best time to visit:
March to May, September to November

Tip:
Keep an eye out for platypus in the river at dawn or dusk—and enjoy a swim in one of the deep pools on a warm day.

Saltwater Creek Campground – Beowa National Park (Formerly Ben Boyd)

What makes it incredible:
Tucked along the Sapphire Coast between rocky headlands and white sand beaches, Saltwater Creek Campground is a secluded beachfront paradise. Waves crash metres from your tent, while kangaroos graze at your site. The ocean sunrises here are unforgettable.

Facilities & access:
Drop toilets, BBQs. No power or drinking water. 2WD accessible via gravel roads near Eden.

Best time to visit:
October to April

Tip:
Take the coastal walk between Saltwater and Bittangabee Bay for stunning cliff views and whale-watching opportunities in migration season.

E. Victoria – Alpine Valleys & Wild Coastal Beauty

Victoria may be Australia’s most compact mainland state, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to remote and scenic campsites. From high country ridgelines to rugged wilderness coasts, these lesser-known spots offer untamed nature, unforgettable views, and that cherished feeling of being far away from it all.

McKillops Bridge Campground – Snowy River National Park

What makes it incredible:
Towering cliffs, dense forest, and the legendary Snowy River flowing below—this remote riverside campground offers awe-inspiring vistas and a real sense of adventure. It’s a perfect base for canoeing, hiking, or simply soaking in the raw alpine surrounds.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, fireplaces. No power or water. 2WD possible in dry conditions, but access via narrow, winding gravel roads—drive with caution.

Best time to visit:
November to April

Tip:
The Snowy River Canoe Trail starts near here. Even a short paddle delivers postcard-worthy views and true seclusion.

Wilderness Coast Camps – Croajingolong National Park

What makes it incredible:
Stretching along 100 km of undeveloped coastline, this World Biosphere Reserve is as remote and wild as Victoria gets. Coastal hikes, sand dunes, tea-tree forests, and views of the wild Bass Strait await. Campsites like Mueller Inlet, Shipwreck Creek, and Thurra River are all set in sublime isolation.

Facilities & access:
Drop toilets only, no power or water. Mostly 4WD or AWD access via gravel roads. Some camps are walk-in only.

Best time to visit:
Spring and autumn

Tip:
Check road and fire conditions before heading in—this park is vast and prone to seasonal closures.

Blue Pool Campground – Briagolong State Forest

What makes it incredible:
A hidden gem in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, Blue Pool features a deep swimming hole surrounded by rugged rock faces and tall gums. The calm water, gentle river flow, and forest views make it a tranquil escape less than an hour from Sale.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, picnic tables. No power. 2WD accessible year-round.

Best time to visit:
November to March

Tip:
Perfect for families or first-time off-grid campers seeking a “remote feel” without the real distance. Early morning dips are magical here.

F. South Australia – Outback Ranges & Coastal Isolation

South Australia is a land of contrasts—dramatic desert ranges, salt lakes, and rugged coastlines where the land meets the Southern Ocean in epic fashion. Remote campsites here deliver stark beauty, rich Aboriginal culture, and vast, uninterrupted horizons that humble and inspire.

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary – Northern Flinders Ranges

What makes it incredible:
This privately managed sanctuary offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in the entire Flinders Ranges. Think deep gorges, jagged peaks, and colourful mineral-streaked hills with almost no light pollution. The views from any of the campsites are incredible—especially at sunrise and sunset when the Outback glows.

Facilities & access:
Variety of campsites with bush toilets, some powered options near the village. 4WD highly recommended. Fuel and supplies available onsite.

Best time to visit:
April to October

Tip:
Book the Ridge Top 4WD Tour—it’s one of the most visually stunning off-road experiences in Australia.

Yangie Bay Campground – Coffin Bay National Park

What makes it incredible:
Set on a sheltered bay lined with eucalyptus and turquoise shallows, Yangie Bay offers peaceful seclusion and panoramic views over the coast and hills. It’s also a great base to explore the park’s remote 4WD-access-only beaches like Sensation Beach and Black Springs.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, picnic shelters. No power or water. 2WD access to Yangie Bay only—4WD needed to go deeper into the park.

Best time to visit:
March to November

Tip:
Walk the Yangie Bay Loop Trail for elevated views of the bay, with chances to spot kangaroos, emus, and sea eagles.

Wilpena Pound Campground – Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

What makes it incredible:
Located near the natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound, this site places you in the heart of the ancient Flinders Ranges. Red hills, gum-lined creeks, and Aboriginal rock art sites create a profound sense of place and history. Sunsets here, framed by the Pound’s towering rim, are extraordinary.

Facilities & access:
Range of unpowered and powered sites, toilets, showers, camp kitchen. 2WD accessible on sealed roads. Suitable for RVs and off-grid campers.

Best time to visit:
April to September

Tip:
Hike to Arkaroo Rock or take a scenic flight over Wilpena Pound—it’s one of the most unique geological formations in Australia.

G. Tasmania – Alpine Lakes, Wild Coasts & Edge-of-World Views

Tasmania is a treasure trove of dramatic wilderness and remote beauty, from glacial lakes in alpine highlands to windswept beaches at the edge of the Southern Ocean. The island’s compact size means you can reach remote-feeling places without driving for days, but the scenery feels like another world entirely. These campsites are raw, rugged, and spectacular.

Lake Dobson Campground – Mount Field National Park

What makes it incredible:
Sitting at 1,000 metres elevation, this alpine campsite is surrounded by ancient pencil pines, glacial tarns, and misty mountain slopes. It’s one of Tasmania’s few accessible high-altitude camping areas, offering snow in winter and vivid green in spring.

Facilities & access:
Very basic. Toilets, but no power or drinking water. Small vehicle access via steep gravel road—2WD possible but not suitable for large RVs.

Best time to visit:
November to April (snow often blocks access in winter)

Tip:
Walk the Tarn Shelf Circuit for elevated views over alpine lakes, wildflowers, and snow gum woodlands.

Cosy Corner North – Bay of Fires Conservation Area

What makes it incredible:
This free beachfront campground is nestled among orange-lichen-covered granite boulders and clear blue waters that rival the tropics. Set right on the sand, it offers wide ocean views, brilliant sunrises, and the calming soundtrack of waves crashing at your doorstep.

Facilities & access:
Pit toilets, fire pits. No water or bins—leave no trace. 2WD accessible via gravel roads near Binalong Bay.

Best time to visit:
October to March

Tip:
Arrive early during peak months—sites are free and first-come, first-served. Enjoy snorkelling or beachcombing right from camp.

Cockle Creek – South Cape Bay, Far South Tasmania

What makes it incredible:
As far south as you can drive in Australia, Cockle Creek feels like the end of the Earth. Surrounded by forest and open to Recherche Bay’s windswept shores, the campground sits near the trailhead to South Cape Bay—a pristine, remote beach framed by jagged cliffs.

Facilities & access:
Toilets, picnic tables. No power or water. 2WD access but remote—about 2 hours south of Hobart.

Best time to visit:
November to April

Tip:
Hike the 15 km return trail to South Cape Bay—it’s one of Tasmania’s most rewarding day walks, offering true wilderness views over the Southern Ocean.

H. Bonus – Remote Island Campsites with Epic Views

For the truly adventurous, Australia’s offshore islands offer the ultimate in isolation, scenery, and serenity. These remote island campgrounds aren’t just hard to get to—they’re unforgettable once you arrive. Whether surrounded by reef-fringed waters or perched above sheer sea cliffs, these sites are for travellers who want to leave the mainland—and the crowds—far behind.

Dirk Hartog Island Eco Lodge Campground – Shark Bay, WA

What makes it incredible:
Located in the UNESCO-listed Shark Bay World Heritage Area, this rugged island offers raw red cliffs, sweeping dunes, and surreal turquoise lagoons. The views from the Eco Lodge area and Homestead Campground are panoramic and untouched—especially at sunrise when the desert meets the sea.

Facilities & access:
Limited unpowered sites with shared amenities (toilets/showers). 4WD access only via barge from Steep Point, or fly-in options from Denham. Remote and self-sufficient setup is essential.

Best time to visit:
April to October

Tip:
Book early and be prepared—this is true wilderness. Visit Surf Point or Cape Inscription for jaw-dropping ocean cliffs and possible sightings of whales or dugongs.

Neck Reserve Campground – Bruny Island, TAS

What makes it incredible:
Overlooking one of Tasmania’s most photographed landforms, The Neck, this campground is perched between two beaches—Adventure Bay and Simpsons Bay. With sweeping 360° views of rolling hills and sea, it’s one of the most visually rewarding places to park an RV or pitch a tent in Tassie.

Facilities & access:
Pit toilets, picnic tables, no power or water. 2WD accessible via sealed and gravel roads. Reachable by ferry from Kettering, then short drive south.

Best time to visit:
October to March

Tip:
Climb the Neck Lookout for sunset or sunrise—views span both coasts of the island and the Southern Ocean beyond.

Tips for Camping in Remote Australian Locations

Remote camping in Australia is awe-inspiring—but it also demands preparation, respect for the land, and a healthy dose of self-reliance. Whether you’re exploring the red heart of the Outback or settling by a secluded beach miles from the nearest town, the following tips will help you stay safe, legal, and comfortable.

Pack for Complete Self-Sufficiency

Most remote campsites in Australia offer no power, no running water, and sometimes no toilets. You’ll need to bring everything you require:

  • Sufficient drinking water (at least 5 litres per person per day)

  • Fuel, food, and gas refills

  • Waste disposal solutions (especially if no toilets)

  • Fully charged batteries or solar panels

  • First-aid kit and fire extinguisher

If you’re in a self-contained RV, make sure your grey water tank is empty before you head in.

Respect the Land and Its Traditional Owners

Many remote campsites lie on or near Aboriginal land or sacred sites. Always:

  • Research any required permits (especially in NT, WA, and QLD)

  • Stay on designated tracks

  • Avoid touching or photographing culturally sensitive sites unless invited

  • Leave everything exactly as you found it

Use official channels to learn the cultural stories behind the land—you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the places you visit.

Prepare for the Unexpected

Remote doesn’t just mean peaceful—it can also mean unpredictable. Here’s how to stay prepared:

  • Check road and weather conditions in advance, especially during wet or fire-prone seasons

  • Carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) where there’s no mobile coverage

  • Let someone know your plans and estimated return date

  • Pack extra food and fuel in case of delays or track closures

Also, be aware of wildlife such as snakes, spiders, dingoes, or crocodiles—particularly in tropical or desert areas.

Follow Fire and Waste Guidelines

Remote areas are especially vulnerable to environmental damage. Always:

  • Obey fire bans and use designated fire rings if available

  • Take all rubbish with you, including food scraps and hygiene products

  • Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole well away from water sources

  • Don’t wash in creeks, rivers, or lakes—use biodegradable soap and dispose of grey water responsibly

Stay Connected Without Signal

When there’s no reception:

  • Download offline maps from WikiCamps, Hema Maps, or CamperMate before you leave

  • Use printed maps or GPS for backup

  • Consider a UHF radio for convoy travel or to contact local rangers

The less signal, the more you’ll find connection with nature instead.

How to Find More Remote Campsites

While this article highlights some of the most stunning remote campsites in Australia, there are hundreds more scattered across the country—often unmarked, less visited, and equally breathtaking. With the right tools and a bit of adventurous spirit, you can discover hidden gems that rarely appear on tourist maps.

Use Reliable Camping Apps

Apps are a modern bush traveller’s best friend—especially when you’re offline. These allow you to search by location, amenity, 4WD access, and even scenery ratings:

  • WikiCamps Australia – The most popular and comprehensive database of campsites, offline maps, reviews, and filters for remote/off-grid sites.

  • CamperMate – Useful for navigation, free campsites, dump points, and nearby facilities.

  • Hema Maps – Best for serious 4WD and Outback explorers, with detailed topographical maps and remote track guidance.

Tap Into Local Knowledge

Once you’re on the road:

  • Visit visitor centres in rural towns—they often know of little-known spots not listed online

  • Talk to other travellers at free camps or rest stops—word of mouth is golden in the bush

  • Join Facebook groups like “Free Camping Australia” or “Aussie 4WD Adventures” to get up-to-date site reports and photos

Follow Responsible Camping Blogs & Guides

Several experienced Aussie travellers share detailed insights about remote camping:

  • ExplorOz – Offers trip reports, GPS files, and long-form content on Outback and desert routes.

  • Offroad Adventure Show – TV-based series and online content with campsite recommendations.

  • Australia by Camper – Personal blogs with honest reviews of hard-to-find campsites.

Try Printed Atlases & Books

Digital tools are great—but batteries run out. Invest in:

  • Camps Australia Wide guidebooks (now in their 12th edition)

  • Boiling Billy camping series for each state

  • Hema’s Australia Road & 4WD Atlas for navigation without signal

Conclusion

Remote camping in Australia isn’t just a way to travel—it’s a way to reconnect. With the land. With yourself. With a slower, more meaningful rhythm of life. Whether you’re perched atop a red desert ridge in the Northern Territory or waking to crashing surf along Tasmania’s untamed coast, these remote campsites offer experiences that powered sites and tourist parks simply can’t match.

Yes, it takes more preparation. And yes, you’ll trade convenience for solitude. But what you get in return—star-filled skies, wild landscapes, total silence, and that sense of being completely out there—is priceless.

These places remind us that Australia’s beauty isn’t found in crowds or cities, but in its vast, untamed spaces. And while they may be hard to reach, that effort makes them even more rewarding.

So fill your water tanks, download your maps, and hit the dirt roads. Because once you’ve camped in these remote corners, you’ll never see travel the same way again.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

What is the most scenic remote campsite in Australia?

While “scenic” is subjective and varies by preference, Mitchell Falls Campground in WA’s Kimberley consistently ranks among the most breathtaking. Surrounded by red sandstone cliffs and cascading waterfalls, it offers dramatic terrain that feels ancient and cinematic. For coastal views, Cosy Corner North at Bay of Fires, TAS, is a standout—with white sand, turquoise waters, and lichen-covered granite boulders right outside your camper.

Other top contenders include Gunlom in Kakadu, known for its natural infinity pool view, and Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges, where geological wonder meets Outback isolation. Ultimately, the “most scenic” campsite depends on whether you crave desert, alpine, rainforest, or ocean—Australia has a top-tier option in each.

Yes, many remote campsites in Australia are safe for solo travellers—with proper preparation. The key risks aren’t crime or people—they’re environmental: isolation, weather extremes, wildlife, and access to emergency help. If you’re solo:

  • Always let someone know your itinerary and return time

  • Carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB)

  • Bring extra water, fuel, and food

  • Avoid high-risk areas during fire or flood seasons

Campgrounds within national parks like Redbank Gorge or Lake Dobson are often well-used and patrolled, offering safer options for first-time solo campers. With awareness and planning, remote solo camping can be deeply empowering and peaceful.

Not always—but many do, especially the most secluded and visually dramatic sites. For example:

  • Mitchell Falls, Big Lagoon, and Kalpowar Crossing require high-clearance 4WD

  • Wilpena Pound and Cosy Corner are 2WD accessible (with caution on gravel)

  • Blencoe Falls or Dirk Hartog Island are strictly 4WD territory

If you’re travelling in a 2WD RV or van, you’ll still find gorgeous remote-feeling sites—just choose carefully. Apps like WikiCamps let you filter by access type. Keep in mind, even some 2WD-accessible roads can become impassable after rain.

Absolutely. Australia is rich in free or low-cost campsites with jaw-dropping scenery—especially in national parks, forests, and conservation zones. Standout examples include:

  • Cosy Corner North (Bay of Fires, TAS)

  • Blue Pool Campground (VIC)

  • Main Campground in Mungo NP (NSW)

These places often have minimal or no facilities, and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. While some may ask for small fees (like park entry or vehicle permits), they still provide immense value—and views worth far more.

Free doesn’t mean lawless, though. Always practice Leave No Trace and check local regulations to ensure you’re camping legally.

Packing for remote camping means being self-reliant. Essentials include:

  • Water: 5–7 litres per person per day, especially in dry areas

  • Food & fuel: Plan for extra days in case of delays

  • Navigation: Offline maps (WikiCamps, Hema), paper backups

  • Power: Battery packs or solar chargers

  • Toilet: Portable toilet or digging tools + waste bags

  • First aid kit: Include snake bite bandage, burn cream, antihistamines

  • Communication: PLB or satellite phone

  • Tools: Recovery gear, tyre repair kit, and shovel (especially for 4WD)

Also bring appropriate clothing—nights can be freezing in the desert, even in summer. Always check local fire bans and road conditions before departure.

When venturing remote, expect to lose mobile reception completely—sometimes for days. To stay safe and navigate confidently:

  • Download offline maps via WikiCamps, CamperMate, or Hema before leaving

  • Use a GPS or UHF radio for convoy or group comms

  • Carry a PLB or satellite communicator (like a Garmin InReach) to contact emergency services if needed

Telstra has the widest rural coverage, so if any phone will work, it’s likely that one. But even Telstra won’t reach deep into the Outback—plan to be offline, and prepare accordingly.

Yes—but with rules. Most national parks in Australia allow remote or bush camping in designated areas only. These often require:

  • Booking in advance (especially in NSW, QLD, WA, TAS)

  • Camping permits or vehicle passes

  • Compliance with fire regulations, wildlife protection, and waste rules

For example, Coffin Bay NP, Lakefield NP, and Croajingolong NP all offer remote bush camps—but only at marked zones. Free camping in undesignated spots within parks is usually not allowed and can attract fines.

Check the relevant park authority’s website (e.g., Parks Victoria, Parks SA) before heading out, and always leave your campsite as pristine as you found it.

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