Blog The Definitive Guide to Off Road Camping Within an Hour of Brisbane

As the world’s smallest continent, Australia is home to vast landscapes, with countless adventures just waiting to be uncovered. If you’re looking for some great off-road camping areas, Brisbane is a great starting point as there are no shortage of campgrounds within an hour of the city that require you to go off road.

Wild camping might be illegal in many areas of Australia, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of off-road designated camping areas for you to explore. Let’s take a look at what South East Queensland has to offer.

Sunrise at Poverty Point, Bribie Island. Image by Warren Suley.

Off Road Camping Near Brisbane

There are a lot of claims for off road camping near Brisbane, but when you take a closer look at the spots within an hour drive, the options are a lot more limited. Here are the top spots we recommend.

Samford Valley

Permit: No, but booking in advance may be required.

The Sights: Nestled in the foothills of the D’Aguilar Range, Samford Valley offers a tranquil bush retreat with scenic views, open spaces and plenty of wildlife. It’s a great spot for families or anyone looking to escape the city without venturing too far.

Distance: A quick 35-minute drive from Brisbane makes this an easily accessible option for a short getaway.

Facilities: There are a few options here, which you’ll find with a quick online search, offering off-grid camping with basic amenities, including fire pits and picnic areas. The showgrounds offer camping and toilet facilities, or you can find more remote options on private property.

The Highlights: Samford Valley is perfect for those who enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in nature. The nearby trails offer opportunities to explore the surrounding bushland and swimming holes, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot to unwind.

If you’re willing to travel beyond an hour, D’Aguilar National Park has plenty more camping options, with the likes of Neurum Creek offering flush toilets, tent camping beside your vehicle, and camper trailer (not full size caravan) camping, while Archer Camp features shower cubicles (you’ll need to bring your own shower).

England Creek Remote Camp

D’Aguilar National Park has plenty to offer, whether you want remote with amenities or completely off the grid. England Creek remote camp is the perfect spot if you want to get away from everything. Tent camping only is allowed and be prepared for a bit of a hike because this cozy spot is only accessible on foot (or by mountain bike). It’s open 24 hours, but check-in is after 2 pm, and check-out is 11 am.

Permit: Required

The Sights: Though the creek is often dry, there are a few watering holes along the road near the campsite. Always treat creek water before use.

Distance: Take Route 31, and it’s just a 45-minute drive from the city, tucked into the warmth of the National Park. Prepare yourself for a 10.5-kilometre walk in Australia’s rugged outdoors.

Facilities: None. There are fireplaces provided for open fires, but fuel stoves are recommended. You are not permitted to collect bush wood and generators are prohibited. Always carry drinking water, insect repellent, a first-aid kit and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.  It doesn’t get more off-road than this, so if you are towing, you will need to find a safe spot to park your caravan before you start your walk in.

The Highlights: Escape the crowds and embrace your natural surroundings. This picturesque, secluded locale is ideal for experienced hikers and offers an opportunity to tackle a challenging trail with plenty of wildlife to see along the way.

View from Camp Mountain, D’Aguilar National Park. Image by Figaro at English Wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Lepidozamia Remote Bush Camp

Permit: Camping permit required

The Sights: This remote camp is ideally perched on a ridge to offer elevated forest views of Knobble Creek and beyond. Enjoy breathtaking views as you camp in the wild.

Distance: The drive to D’Aguilar National Park takes just 53 minutes, and once you’re legally parked, the remote bush camp is only accessible on foot or via mountain bike. Unlike England Creek Remote Camp, this is a mere 2.5 km walk.

Facilities: None. There are a few shaded picnic tables and also a storm shelter with untreated water, but there are no toilet facilities. As before, fuel stoves are recommended and collecting bush wood is a punishable offence. Carry drinking water and a first-aid kit and wear insect repellent, appropriate clothing and footwear.  Again, if you are towing, you will need to park your vehicle and caravan safely before making the trek in.

The Highlights: This spot offers unique flora and fauna, as well as stunning views of both the sunrise and sunset. In addition to hikes through the ancient forest, firefly spotting is a popular pastime for campers in this area. Some even report views of Brisbane’s city lights!

Kobble Creek Family Farm

Permit: No, but booking in advance is required.

The Sights: This private farmland is home to an additional 40 acres of bushland, with a spring-fed dam, wildlife in the surrounds, and diverse flora and fauna. You’re sure to enjoy this escape into nature.

Distance: Located just 33 kilometres from Brisbane, close to the Mount Mee area.

Facilities: Off-grid bush camping on private property, there are 16 sites, and 4WD is required for access. There are no toilet areas, so bring a portable toilet or bucket and follow the bush-toileting regulations.

The Highlights: Explore the creek, hop rocks, hike, and enjoy the evening around the fire pit. Just be sure to bring your own wood as none is available on site. There are plenty of bushland trails to explore, whether you’re looking to bird spot or hoping to see some other wild animals. The scenery is tough to beat.

Bribie Island National Park

Permit: Vehicle permit required

The Sights: Bribie Island National Park offers a unique off-road camping experience with its stunning coastal views, sandy beaches and lush bushland. The island is home to a range of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies and a variety of bird species. And keep an eye out between July and November for the annual humpback whale migration passing by.

Distance: Just a 50-minute drive from Brisbane, with a short 4WD adventure to your campsite.

Facilities: There are designated camping areas with basic facilities, including toilets and picnic tables. However, you’ll need to bring your own drinking water and firewood. Generators are not permitted, so bring your solar panels. Fuel stoves are recommended.

The Highlights: Bribie Island is a haven for beach lovers and off-road enthusiasts alike. You can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water. The island’s 4WD tracks are a highlight, offering a mix of beach and bush driving. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway close to the city.

JAWA beach camping on Bribie Island. Image by Warren Suley.

The Rustic Resort in Wamuran

Permit: No, but booking in advance is required.

The Sights: This 90-acre property is ideal for off-road camping and off-grid life! If you’re looking for a secluded getaway surrounded by nature, this is the spot. There’s a dam that is ideal for swimming, kingfishers to spot, and rural views.

Distance: It’s a 51-kilometre drive from Brisbane city to Wamuran, near Caboolture.

Facilities: You will need a 4WD to access the site, and it is pet-friendly, though a working farm is the backdrop and has cattle and goats. There are portable toilets and fire pits to use, but you must bring your own wood.

The Highlights: The Rustic Resort provides a peaceful camping spot to get away from the chaos of life and the busyness of other camp sites. With plenty of room for everyone, it’s a great choice for families who travel with pets. It’s popular due to the wildlife, scenery, and relaxing environment.

Camping Off Road

The general rule of thumb is that state forests and national parks require permits and booking in advance where camping is allowed, and private parks require online bookings in advance and may charge entrance and camping fees. Roadside camping is typically prohibited in the Brisbane area.

Wherever you’re planning to camp, always ensure you have the correct permits and bookings in order before you set off. Many of the private camping areas can be found on Hipcamp, but the Queensland Government website can also be of help. Whether you’re going all the way off-road or heading to a campsite with facilities, always aim for self-sufficiency. Travel with drinking water, a portable toilet and firewood, so you’re ready for any eventuality.

What’s the beauty of off road camping near Brisbane? For locals, the wild is right on your doorstep and ideal for a short overnight or weekend escape. Beach, bush or forest, you can be setting up camp within 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Of course, we think there’s no better way to adventure into the wild than hitting the road with a reliable caravan. If you’re looking for caravans near the Sunshine Coast or caravans near Brisbane, talk to the team at JAWA.