The Gold Coast is a surfer and hot climate lovers’ paradise. It’s easy to spend unnumbered days strolling around this tropical heaven, exploring the rainforest hinterlands, admiring the skyscrapers along the coast, or indulging in some nightlife fun. Whether you’re a raw nature lover or keen on commercial centers, the Gold Coast has it all. Due to being a major touristic center, good free camps are sadly a rarity. Here are some picks I would recommend if you’re looking for a free stay along this part of your Big Lap.

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1. Mt Joyce Base Camp

One of the best-kept secrets of the Gold Coast is the Ngumbi or Mt Joyce Base Camp. Not your typical campsite – it’s accessible only by foot or kayaking through the dam. It’s located two hours from a car park where you can leave your vehicle. The camp is equipped with all the necessities; you can stay in your tents or at the base house. From here you can reach Mt Joyce summit in an hour, for some unforgettable views. Campfires are forbidden, but nights can get chilly so bring warm clothes.

Where: Wyaralong, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: No
Pet-friendly: No
Maximum Stay: 7 days
Big Rig Access: No
Getting There: Located within the Mt Joyce Recreation Park, accessed via the Wyaralong Dam area.

Image: Instagram (@bens_gone_bush)

2. Bicentennial Park

The city of Boonah offers a small caravan parking spot for up to three vehicles next to the City Informational Centre. It’s a short stay camp with facilities and very close to town. Camping in tents is forbidden as well as fires. Great spot for an overnight stay while you explore the area.

Where: Kalbar, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 48 hours
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located in the heart of Kalbar, near Fassifern Street.

Image: Instagram (@queensland)

3. Hugh Muntz Park

Hugh Munz Park is settled in the RV-friendly town of Beenleigh, which is conveniently located between the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Right off the Pacific Motorway, this campsite offers three nights stay for self-contained vehicles. Hugh Munz Park is within walking distance of many sites in town that deserve to be visited. Convenience stores and services are right across the street. Roof tents are allowed, but floor tents are not.

Where: Beenleigh, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 48 hours
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located off Logan River Road in Beenleigh.

Image: Instagram (@budianeryao)

4. Fassifern Reserve

A rest area right beside a busy highway with essential, clean facilities ideal for an overnight stay. Large open space with grass and shades. You can stay in a tent or your vehicle. There is no time limit, but due to the location and noise, it’s not the place for an extended stay.

Where: Aratula, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 14 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located along Lake Moogerah Road, near Aratula.

Image: Instagram (@herveybaytouristcentre)

5. Mt Alford Hotel

A campground with limited flat campsites in the rear back of Mt Alford Hotel for fully self-contained vehicles. The hotel has an authentic country pub, and it’s located just 10 minutes from Boonah. While camping is free, you should support the pub by purchasing meals or drinks, which are reasonably priced. The park adjacent to the hotel has clean public toilets.

Where: Mount Alford, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 7 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located near the Mount Alford Hotel, accessible via Mt Alford Road.

Image: Instagram (@linda_richards1972)

6. Gladfield Rest Area

Good stop while driving the Allora-Goomburra Road right off the highway; you’ll find this grassy rest area. Driver Reviver is located on-site for a java juice cup to get you going and an excellent spot to stretch your legs. The backside next to the church is quieter if you plan on spending the night.

Where: Gladfield, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 24 hours
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located on Cunningham Highway, Gladfield.

Image: Instagram (@gingernomads_aus)

7. Crown Hotel

A highly recommended camp when circulating the Gold Coast region, the Crown Hotel offers its backside for fully self-contained camp vehicles. You can find a green grassy area, helpful, welcoming staff, and excellent pub food on site. The locals will make you feel very welcomed and help you get to know the area!

Where: Maryvale, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 7 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located near the Crown Hotel, along Warwick Road in Maryvale.

Read Next: 42 Things You Need To Know About Living In A Caravan Full Time During Your Big Lap

Image: Instagram (@hayleyk1lkenny)

8. Tully Memorial Park

Located only 35km from Brisbane, this can be a popular campsite, but it’s a vast area, so it doesn’t get packed. It only accommodates fully self-contained vehicles. It’s a beautiful place to spend three nights, with shops and markets just 5 kilometers away. It’s close to the road, but the road noise goes down with the sun.

Where: North Maclean, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 48 hours
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located along Old Logan Road, near the Logan River.

Image: Instagram (@triparoundaussie)

9. Dalrymple Creek Park

Dalrymple Creek Park offers a campground for up to eight vehicles for a maximum stay of 24 hours. Due to the limited spots, make sure you arrive early to stay here. Camping in tents is also allowed. Fantastic scenery around, lovely river walks, and cycling trails to fill out your day. Only 10 minutes away and you’re in a town where you can find pubs, a swimming pool, convenience stores, and a golf course.

Where: Allora, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 14 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located along Dalrymple Creek Road, Allora.

Image: Instagram (@feoe_hiker)

10. Nobby Town Camp

A free camp area opposite, but not related to Rudds Pub in Nobby. Lovely camp area, clean facilities, and a great pub conveniently located for a late-night meal or a beer. Four powered sites are available for a donation of $5. There’s a donation box on-site and a box for receipts for everything you spend in town. Large campground so you can choose the perfect spot.

Where: Nobby, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 48 hours
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located in Nobby, near the Nobby Cemetery.

Image: Instagram (@cruisin_straya)

11. Passmore Reserve

Secluded and serene campground with no facilities so ideal for self-sufficient campers, located along the river bank. The river runs seasonally so if you visit in the wet season you can enjoy a swim or catch some fish. Plenty of spots, flat, shaded, or sunny. Perfect for escaping the crowds and relaxing for a few days.

Where: Leyburn, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 14 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located near Leyburn, along the Leyburn-Cunningham Road.

Image: Instagram (@delmae_n_tedsaddo)

12. Leyburn Recreational Ground

Campground located on council reserve with basic facilities. Roomy, so you don’t have to rush to get a spot. Situated in a lovely little town with a rich history that will have you intrigued. Convenience store and a pub within walking distance and showers behind the nearby tennis courts. Each Saturday morning, you can buy firewood from a local visiting the camp.

Where: Leyburn, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 14 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located within the Leyburn Sports Grounds, accessible from Leyburn Cunningham Road.

Image: Instagram (@bunnylulu_queenie)

13. O’Shanley’s Irish Bar & Restaurant

A superb spot to camp behind the pub with welcoming staff and a friendly local town. Shady and sunny camp spots available, free power, and 24/7 open toilets. The pub offers some fine traditional Irish stew and the obligatory Guinness. If you support the pub, you get a free shower too!

Where: Clifton, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 48 hours
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located near Clifton, along the main highway.

Image: Instagram (@lonanl)

14. Telstra Tower Overnighter

A quiet campground on Telstra property with enough space for up to four caravans. Shaded area with unnoticeable road noise and no facilities. Good for an overnight stay. Ironically no phone service since the tower is not a 4G cell.

Where: Greenmount, Queensland
Toilets: No
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 24 hours
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located near the Telstra Tower, accessible via Greenmount-Hirstglen Road.

Image: Instagram (@wanderlust73)

15. Sandy Creek Pub

Free camping is available (only for Queenslanders at the moment) at this small country pub. The owner is very friendly and accommodating, as well as the locals. Large level grassy area, great facilities, and excellent food. Camping in tents

Where: Sandy Creek, Queensland
Toilets: Yes
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 7 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located near the Sandy Creek Pub, along Sandy Creek Road.

Image: Instagram (@bigandlittleadventures)

16. Victoria Hill Bush Camp

A nice, secluded bush camp on Condamine River with no facilities but fabulous scenery. Ideal for self-sufficient campers and adrenaline seekers. If you’re coming with a 4WD, you can secure yourself a good spot right next to the river. Make sure not to leave a trace behind.

Where: Victoria Hill, Queensland
Toilets: No
Camp Fires: Yes (BYO wood)
Pet-friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 14 days
Big Rig Access: Yes
Getting There: Located along Victoria Hill Road, accessible via the Cunningham Highway.

Image: Instagram (@campsaustraliawide)

Read Next: 96 Things To Know About Your Big Lap