12 school holiday camping destinations parents won't regret
Activities and new adventures for the kiddo’s, the opportunity to unwind and relax in nature for you!
Luckily, with more than 80 parks nationwide, Discovery Parks has got what it takes to do both - in style.
Consider this state-by-state list of school holiday destinations that have something for every member of the family!
QLD| SA| TAS| VIC| NT| NSW| WA
DISCOVERY PARKS IN QUEENSLAND
Still beautiful one day, perfect the next, Queensland is Australia’s very own tropical paradise.
With beaches, rainforests and some of Australia’s most famous attractions to play on, why wouldn’t you take the family?
Discovery Parks - Airlie Beach
Fairly described as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, the resort vibe of this Far North Queensland holiday park will have you wanting to stay well beyond the holidays.
Accommodation in Airlie Beach
The perfect base for a well-earned poolside recovery session, the Standard Studio Cabin is the park’s most popular accommodation option, sleeping up to 4 people in one Queen-size bed and two bunks.
Perfectly self-contained, it includes a fully-equipped kitchen with cooktop, oven, fridge and microwave. It also has an ensuite bathroom and air conditioning throughout!
If cabins aren’t your thing, Airlie Beach offers space enough for a 6-man tent on either of it's ensuite powered sites or spacious unpowered sites under the stars!
All guests get access to the communal Camp Kitchen, BBQs, Waterpark, Swimming Pool and Activity Room.
Activities around the park include Hamilton Island Nature Escapes, Ocean Rafting, Reef Tours and general beach and island-hopping!
Discovery Parks - Townsville
Located in the dry tropics and only a short sail from the koalas of Magnetic Island, this resort style property is an oasis among the Queensland palms.
Whether your family prefers to take it easy or get into activities like Scuba Diving or Snorkelling, there’s so much to explore from here.
A solar-powered Deluxe 2-Bedroom Cabin sleeps 5 in one Queen size, one double bunk bed and one single bed.
All linen is provided and kitchen facilities include a full-size stove with oven, dishwasher and microwave. The cabin is airconditioned throughout and has its own large balcony with outdoor setting. The bathroom includes a modern shower with toilet and vanity unit.
READ ALSO: The Best Holiday Accommodation in Australia
All guests to this pet-friendly park get access to our Swimming Pool, Waterpark, BBQs and Camp Kitchen.
Aside from watersports like diving and snorkelling, there are Wildlife Sanctuaries to explore, community markets and a Street Arts Trail of murals by local artists.
DISCOVERY PARKS IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Even as more people wise up to how good South Australia is, the southern state is still the place to explore the great outdoors at your own pace.
The only highway you need. Credit: SATC
Here you can witness native Australian wildlife, enjoy wide-open coastlines that are as dramatic and beautiful as anywhere in Australia, and have an amazing time discovering South Australia's reputation for incredible food and wine.
READ ALSO: Discover SA's Amazing Epicurean Way
Discovery Parks - Robe
Take the chance to explore one of SA’s favourite holiday spots on one of SA’s most loved coastlines - the Limestone Coast!
Accommodation in Robe
Only a short walk from white sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, surfing and paddling, Discovery Parks - Robe is also within range of local brewpubs, fish and chippies and of course, ice-cream shops to round out the perfect day!
By securing our Deluxe Waterfront 2-Bedroom Cabin, you can sleep up to 6 people in one Queen-size bed and 2 double-bunks, all within earshot of the ocean.
Each cabin comes with a fully functioning kitchen, bathroom with walk-in shower, a balcony with outdoor setting and air-conditioning throughout.
Large Ensuite Powered Sites and Wide Open Unpowered Sites are also available. All guests get access to our heated indoor Swimming Pool, communal Camp Kitchen, Adventure Playground and Activity Room.
Nearby attractions include Beachport Conservation Park, the Coonawarra Wine region, Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake and Naracoorte Caves National Park.
READ ALSO: A Quick Guide to the Coonawarra Wine Region
Discovery Parks - Lake Bonney
Another destination for water lovers with a huge range of family-friendly watersports on offer.
Swimming, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, skiing, boating and fishing are all possible! There are also over a dozen different national parks nearby, meaning walking and hiking trails are easy to find.
Accommodation in Lake Bonney
Most popular with families are the Deluxe 2-Bedroom Cabins which sleep 6 on one Queen size bed and 2 sets of single bunks.
Including a kitchen with microwave, cooktop, oven and a full-size fridge, the bathroom has a walk-in shower and there is a verandah with outdoor setting. Each cabin also has air-conditioning throughout.
Lakefront Ensuite Powered and Unpowered Sites are popular, meaning booking early for Lake Bonney is imperative during busy periods.
All guests get access to our Swimming Pool, Bicycle Pump Track, Waterpark, Activity Room,Camp Kitchen and all conveniences.
Nearby attractions include Monash Adventure Park, Barmera’s Main Street Market and the Banrock Wine and Wetland Centre.
DISCOVERY PARKS IN TASMANIA
Nature at its best in Tasmania. Credit: Tourism Tasmania
In a country full of frontier wilderness and incredible landscapes, Tasmania delivers over and above when it comes to natural beauty, adventure, and food and wine experiences.
Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain
You simply have to see Cradle Mountain to believe it, as it is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the world.
The famous Overland Track begins here and delivers a wild experience on your Tasmanian doorstep!
Accommodation in Cradle Mountain
Booking a Standard Cabin means you can sleep up to 6 comfortably on one Queen size bed and two double bunks.
Inclusive of all bed linen, an electric blanket on the main bed, a kitchenette with microwave, fridge and fry pan, this is the perfect place to recharge the batteries after a full day exploring the Tasmanian wilderness.
READ ALSO: 6 Reasons to book a Tasmanian Getaway
All guests get full access to our Camp Kitchen, BBQs and Laundry area. There is Wi-Fi throughout the park and so much to see and do nearby.
Activity-wise, you can indulge the family at Cradle Mountain Lodge’s award-winning day spa. Go Horse Riding for a full, half or multi-day experience in the stunning Mersey Valley.
Meet the famous Tassie Devil at the Cradle Mountain Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary or push yourself further by canyoning Cradle Mountain!
DISCOVERY PARKS IN VICTORIA
Don’t wait another second to explore the incredible National Parks and Gardens of Victoria.
Already famous for its capital city, Melbourne, Victoria’s regional centres, coastlines and hidden bays are what family road trips are made of!
Credit: Visit Victoria
Discovery Parks - Geelong
The coastal town of Torquay (just down the road from our park) nearly triples in size during school holidays, so booking early here is key!
Well known by surfers who flock to take on the swell at world-famous Bells Beach, this part of Victoria is one of Australia’s great summer playgrounds.
Accommodation in Geelong
By booking the Standard 3-Bedroom Cabin, you’ll be able to sleep up to 8 people on one Queen size and two double beds with overhead bunks.
There’s a functioning kitchen with a full size fridge, cooktop, oven and microwave as well as a bathroom with walk-in shower and toilet. There’s also a spacious verandah with outdoor setting and air-conditioning throughout.
READ ALSO: 5 Farmer's Markets Victorians Love
Ensuite Powered and Unpowered Grass Sites are also available and all guests get access to the indoor heated Swimming Pool, BBQs, Camp Kitchen and Playground.
By staying with us you also put yourself within spitting distance of the Great Ocean Road, boutique wineries and the Great Otway National Park.
Discovery Parks - Nagambie Lakes
Ideal for families who love being on the water, Nagambie Lakes sits on the banks of the picturesque Goulburn River in the heart of Victoria's original gold-rush country.
The park is well set up for young travellers with an Adventure Playground, Bicycle Pump Track, Tennis Court and Swimming Pool to enjoy.
Accommodation in Nagambie Lakes
The Superior Riverside 2-Bedroom Cabin sleeps up to 6 on one Queen size bed and two bunks. A fully functioning kitchen includes a small fridge, microwave and 4-burner gas hot plate.
The bathroom features a walk-in shower, baby bath and separate toilet, while the cabin also has a spacious balcony with outdoor setting, ceiling fans and airconditioning throughout plus a panoramic 4-panel lockable sliding door.
Nearby activities include the Goulburn River, a number of world-famous wineries and the opportunity to fish for your supper! Nagambie is also at the heart of Victoria’s horse racing industry, with a number of high-profile horse studs to explore.
DISCOVERY PARKS IN NORTHERN TERRITORY
The Northern Territory is a place every Australian should have on their travel bucket list.
Explore our ancient Indigenous culture, be immersed in world-famous nature and enjoy the hospitality of this incredibly diverse part of Australia.
Discovery Parks - Darwin
There’s no better place to start exploring the Top End than its capital city.
Not only is Darwin an excellent base from which to visit the world-famous Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, there are so many activities to get the family into like fishing, boating and swimming. There is also a great waterfront dining scene to treat your family right!
Accommodation in Darwin
A Standard 2-Bedroom Cabin is the ideal retreat for you and your family after a busy day.
Able to sleep 5 on one Queen size bed, 2 single bunks and one single bed, the kitchen includes a full-size fridge, stove top, microwave, electric frypan and cooking utensils. A balcony with outdoor furniture is included, as is a lounge and dining area with flat screen TV.
READ ALSO: 8 more reasons to visit the Top End
All guests get access to our Swimming Pool, Camp Kitchen, BBQ area and famous Bouncing Pillows!
Activities not to be missed include the Crocosaurus Cove where you can swim (safely) with these incredible animals, the Darwin Aviation Museum where a world of history awaits, and the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, a great place to meet like-minded travellers and enjoy an eclectic mix of craft, food and fashion.
DISCOVERY PARKS IN NEW SOUTH WALES
The great state of New South Wales offers every type of landscape you can imagine in Australia. Most famous for its stretch of coastline north of Sydney, any trip inside New South Wales is likely to be an iconic destination.
Discovery Parks - Byron Bay
Sun, sand, surf ‘n’ turf - what a place to explore!
Go celebrity-spotting between beach sessions and dive into the local arts, culture, community markets and designer boutiques!
At Byron Bay you can experience the high life, but more importantly, soak up those Byron vibes with friends or like-minded neighbours.
Accommodation in Byron Bay
Book a Deluxe 2-Bedroom Cabin and sleep 6 with one King-size and two sets of bunks in the second bedroom. Take advantage of a fully equipped kitchen, dining area and modern bathroom with a walk-in shower and bathroom. Also features a large balcony with outdoor setting and airconditioning throughout.
READ ALSO: The Best Cabin Accommodation in NSW
While there are many things to do around Byron, first-timers should not miss Cape Byron Lighthouse, Cape Byron Marine Park and the nearby hinterland, where brewpubs and artisanal food-makers await!
Discovery Parks - Pambula Beach
Located in the heart of the New South Wales Sapphire Coast, Pambula Beach is in proximity to some of Australia’s most beautiful bays, the Ben Boyd National Park and nearby Pambula Village, where loads of family-friendly activities await.
Accommodation in Pambula Beach
By staying in one of our Superior 2-Bedroom Cabins (1 Queen size bed + 1 single and 1 double bunk) up to 5 guests can enjoy the total relaxation of a full kitchen including a microwave, gas cooktop, oven and large fridge.
Also featuring a bathroom with walk-in shower and toilet, the property has a verandah with outdoor setting, a TV and air-conditioning throughout.
All guests get access to both of our Swimming Pools (1 indoor heated & 1 resort style outdoor) and Spa, Waterpark, Mini-golf, Adventure Playground and Camp Kitchen.
DISCOVERY PARKS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Western Australia is so vast and beautiful that there are no bad choices when it comes to taking a family trip.
From south to north there are beaches, wineries, ancient geographic landscapes, Indigenous culture and incredible journeys to be had.
Credit: @4boysandacaravan
Discovery - Rottnest Island
This is your family holiday to remember in one of Western Australia’s most idyllic locations in accommodation that blows ‘ordinary’ out of the water.
Located a short ferry ride from Perth, Discovery Rottnest Island is nestled sweetly behind the dunes of Pinky Beach and offers safari-tent style glamping that will immerse you in nature and keep you above the elements in style.
Accommodation on Rottnest Island
Even our Standard Tents for two adults include all the creature comforts with an ensuite bathroom, pillow-topped bed, fly-screened windows, ceiling fans and an outdoor deck to enjoy your included breakfast.
Always popular at any time of the year, booking early for school holidays is imperative on Rotto.
A Superior Family Tent sleeps up to 5 people with one King size bed, a set of single bunks and one rollaway, and includes a kitchenette, bed linen and beach and bath towels.
Discovery Rottnest features a Swimming Pool, BBQ area, Pinky’s Beach Club and access to the ocean from your door.
We highly recommend meeting the islands famous Quokka population, going snorkelling and exploring at least some of the 45 kilometre Wadjemup Trails, which take walkers through cross-coastal headlands, inland lakes and showcase the rich flora and fauna of the island.
READ ALSO: Husbands That Travel Review Discovery Rottnest Island
Discovery Parks - Woodman Point
Just a stone’s throw from the charming port town of Fremantle and within spitting distance of Coogee Beach, Woodman Point is the perfect oasis for families looking for a getaway or relaxing short break.
After a few days enjoying the beach, don’t forget to explore Fremantle’s bustling streets, famous for their Victorian and Georgian era landmarks.
Accommodation in Woodman Point
Our Superior 2-Bedroom Cabin sleeps up to 6 guests on one Queen size bed and two sets of single bunks.
A kitchenette includes a cooktop, microwave and full-size fridge and the bathroom has a walk-in shower and separate toilet. A verandah with outdoor setting is a nice place to relax in the evening and there is reverse cycle air-conditioning throughout.
All guests get access to our Swimming Pool, Nature Playground, Camp Kitchen and an Activity Room that features a table tennis and billiards table.
Ask about movie nights, cooking classes and regular magic shows! Not far from Woodman's Point there is the opportunity to catch a ferry to Rottnest Island for the day, explore the WA Maritime Museum or even take a ghost tour of the Fremantle Prison!
