Every year, thousands of Aussies flock to a campsite near, or far, and enjoy the great outdoors. The simple pleasures of a roaring open fire, rough home-cooked meal and swapping camp stories are the highlight of many childhood summers.

Camping offers not just an escape to nature, but also a platform for your children to let loose – use their outside voices as well as their imagination!

To help kickstart your camping plans, here’s our pick of some of the best campsites for kids around the country:

1) Barrington Tops (NSW)

Discover crashing waterfalls, beautiful rainforest, unique flora and fauna as well as long, picturesque bushwalks. Just over three hours’ drive north of Sydney; spend some time exploring the outdoors with a family picnic near the Gloucester Falls picnic area or go for a swim at Woko National Park.

2) Yalgorup National Park (WA)

Lying just a few short hours south of Perth, Yalgorup is made up of ten lakes that run in a chain. There are great bushwalking tracks, as well as fishing and swimming at Preston Beach. Take the kids for a walk to check out The Thrombolites; unique rock-like formations made up of tiny micro-organisms – truly incredible!

3) Fraser Island (QLD)

A big camping must-do is the famous; world-heritage listed Fraser Island. It’s not only world’s biggest sand island, it’s also made up of a unique and stunning landscape that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Rent a 4WD car, or go for a guided-tour to check out all the sites, or simply take a stroll along the walking tracks through the rainforest and across the sand dunes. There’s something for every member of the family!

4) Lake Eidlon National Park (VIC)

Lake Eildon, lying in the foothills of the Victorian Central Highlands is only a 2 hour drive north-east of Melbourne. Camp along the edge of Lake Eildon and let your kids be adventurers! Try your hand at water-skiing and mountain bike riding, or take a load off with a relaxing boat-ride, fishing trip or bushwalk through the stunning open woodlands.

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5) Barmah National Park (VIC)

An Aussie camping gem, the Murray River, is an absolute favourite amongst camping families. Home to countless picturesque camping grounds, the Murray winds its way throughout Victoria and New South Wales and offers fun-filled activities like horseback riding, bushwalking, swimming and canoeing in the lakes.

Try pitching your tent at the Barmah National Park, part of the largest Red River Gum forest in the world, and soak in all the beautiful wildlife and scenery.

6) Oasis Tourist Park (SA)

One of our ultimate South Australian camping spots is nestled among The Flinders Range and Coober Pedy, known as the opal capital of the world. Chill out at the Oasis Tourist Park which is especially outfitted with a baby’s bath and a children’s play area so perfect for families of all ages. Try your hand at noodling for your own opal, or check out the Wadlata Outback Centre to learn about the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden.

7) Alice Springs (NT)

Take the whole family to experience unforgettable Alice Springs, Australia’s spiritual heart and connect with nature. Share this once-in-a-lifetime experience with your kids and spend your days exploring famous landmarks like the Larapinta Trail and cooling off in one of the many breathtaking swimming holes along the MacDonnell Ranges.

8) The Blue Mountains (NSW)

Famous for their cool climate and breath-taking scenery, there’s plenty of great camping spots just a short drive from Sydney. Take the kids horse-riding, on a tour of the Jenolan Caves, or to feed the kangaroos at the Featherdale Wildlife Park!

The cooler temperate means you can all snuggle together in a tent and tell bedtime stories, and don’t forget a visit to the iconic Three Sisters!

9) Myrtle Park (TAS)

Nestled along the banks of St. Patricks River, Myrtle Park in Tasmania will entertain your whole family with a picnic area, showers and a play area for the kids. Get out and about with some with bushwalking and spend an evening fishing for fresh trout. Keep your eyes peeled for some platypus watching and soak in the beautiful Tasmanian scenery!

10) The Grampians (VIC)

The Grampians is one of the most popular camping destinations for seasoned campers and we can certainly see why.

With incredible waterfalls and scenic hikes, your whole family will fall in love with this Victorian gem. Rent some bikes, try your hand at rock-climbing or go for a fish – there’s something for everyone!

Make sure your camping gear is all up to date for your next family adventure!

Do you have any fantastic camping spots to add to this list? Please share in the comments below.

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