Let’s not beat around the bush. Christmas is a lot of work, especially when you have children. It usually involves hours spent in the kitchen, catering to extended family crowds, and then dealing with over-stimulated kids with nowhere to burn off their energy! By comparison, caravanning with kids during the festive season is a great way to get back to basics and reconnect as a family. So why not trade in tradition and turkey for a more relaxed BBQ lunch in a new location? With some forward planning and careful packing, there’s no reason it can’t be even more magical than a Christmas spent at home.
But a word of warning: securing the perfect Christmas camping location is almost a competitive sport for families. In fact, popular caravan parks fill up so fast that some savvy campers book their stay for next Christmas as soon as they return home from the current one! But, if you’re quick, you may still be able to nab a site this Christmas.
Family-Friendly Caravan Parks for Christmas Camping
Australia boasts over 2,400 caravan parks, ranging from small and basic to sprawling parks with modern amenities. We recommend doing your research online and reading reviews left by previous guests, so you have a good idea of what to expect before you arrive.
To get you started, we’ve made a list of caravan parks around the Sydney, Brisbane, Townsville, and Perth areas that run festive-themed activities and events over the Christmas period that are great fun for kids.
This caravan park is popular with families for its beachfront location, water park and pedal karts. During the festive season, it offers various Christmas-themed events and activities, including family BBQs and craft sessions.
Guests at the Ingenia Holiday Park in Sydney Hills can look forward to a whole host of family-friendly events, such as pool parties, festive tennis tournaments, and other playground games. The cosy communal camp kitchen is perfect for festive gatherings and socialising with other campers.
A favourite with many families caravanning with kids, this park located in Umina Beach hosts a tent and caravan decorating competition, festive arts, crafts and games, and kids can meet Santa and have their photo taken.
From its resort-style pool, play areas and BBQ spaces, the Brisbane Holiday Village is made for family fun! During the silly season, it puts on various Christmas events, including a visit from Santa, themed arts and crafts sessions, and pool games.
Situated in Tanah Merah, approximately 20 minutes from Brisbane City, the Galaxy Caravan Park features a pool, tennis courts and a playground. The park brings the Christmas spirit to campers with Christmas carol singing, Christmas-themed movie nights, and a visit from the big man himself, all the way from the North Pole.
Escape the city for Christmas and enjoy beachfront BBQs, themed treasure hunts for the kids, and water-based activities – and all of this just 1 hour from Brisbane!
Availability: Please check with the park directly by phone (07) 5496 8077
Children will love the festive events offered at Tasman Holiday Park – arts and crafts, face painting, and a visit from Santa. With its playground, swimming pool and direct access to the beach, this is a top spot to celebrate Christmas in your caravan.
Renowned for its giant jumping pillow and splash park, the Townsville Discovery Park hosts a range of Christmas-themed activities throughout the festive season, including arts and crafts, movie nights and a meet and greet with Santa.
In addition to the giant chessboard, tennis and basketball courts, swimming pool and stunning beachfront location, the Rowes Bay Holiday Park hosts a variety of family-friendly Christmas events to bring the holiday cheer.
Families camping over the Christmas period at Big 4 Perth Midlands Tourist Park will be delighted with the festive movie nights, Christmas Eve BBQ, games and activities, and a visit from Santa.
Situated in the heart of the Swan Valley wine region, this Discovery Parks location offers something for the whole family. Ring in the festive season with Christmas carols, craft workshops, themed treasure hunts, movie nights and a big Christmas Day lunch.
The RAC Busselton Holiday Park is a favourite with families who enjoy Christmas camping for the festive community vibes. The park provides a variety of Christmas activities, including decorating competitions, Santa visits, games, and a whole host of other special events throughout December.
Availability: Limited spots available
What to Pack for a Christmas Caravanning Holiday with Kids
Spending Christmas in a caravan instead of at home doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to old family traditions. With careful planning and packing, you can still maintain the magic. Here’s a list of essential Christmas camping items you’ll want to pack.
Outdoor Christmas lights to decorate your campsite/caravan (check that the park allows them)
Christmas decorations, e.g. small tree, tinsel, ornaments
Portable speaker and a Christmas playlist
Christmas stockings containing small, easy-to-store gifts such as vouchers, gift cards, books, and travel games.
Lightweight, disposable Christmas-themed tablecloth, plates, cups, napkins, etc.
Christmas bon bons/crackers
Traditional Christmas treats and snacks such as Christmas pudding, mince pies, cookies, gingerbread, etc.
Christmas-themed pyjamas, hats, rashies, etc.
Download Christmas movies (or pack DVDs) to watch together before bed.
Done right, Christmas camping is a chance for the whole family to recharge their batteries – even mum and dad! So don’t delay – book your caravan park site now and get ready to create a new festive family tradition.
JAWA Off Road Campers is a 100% owned and operated Australian company based on the beautiful Sunshine Coast in Queensland. With the significant growth in our brand over the last few years, we have recently branched out and opened a new showroom and service centre in Sydney NSW, so even more Aussie
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