Amazing caravan stays near rivers and creeks in Australia

The beachside is cruisy, the outback is an adventure and the mountainside is bliss, but you just can’t beat a peaceful caravan site near a beautiful river, right?

Here are seven amazing private caravan sites near rivers and creeks in Australia to add to your river camping bucket list.

Blue Gums River Retreat, Queensland

Perched around 240 kilometres north of Brisbane near Maryborough in Queensland, Blue Gums River Retreat features grassy caravan sights right on the freshwater river banks of the Mary River.

Swim, kayak, canoe, boat, leap off the pontoon or catch a bass for dinner. When you’ve had enough of the water, cook up a storm on the BBQ or relax on the deck chairs.

Facilities: Toilet, tables and chairs.

Suitable for: Accessible by 2WD and suitable for all size caravans and camper trailers. A 4WD is required to launch your boat from the gravel boat ramp.

Dogs: Dogs are allowed but must be kept with you at all times.

Glenmoore River Camp, New South Wales

Located in the Chichester Valley, Glenmoore River Camp can be found around 260 kilometres northeast of Sydney. Set on 250 acres, take your pick of the campsites overlooking the Chichester River.

One of the best things about Glenmoore is the relaxing peace and quiet; you’re truly among nature. Plus, there’s no phone reception – a bonus for those looking for a digital detox. The property grows chemical-free vegetables and farm cattle you can say hello to while you’re there. Firewood can be purchased on-site or you can bring your own to keep stay extra cosy.

Facilities: No amenities so campers must be self-contained.

Suitable for: Accessible by 2WD and suitable for caravans, camper trailers, tents, and motorhomes.

Dogs: Not allowed due to livestock.

Kielock Homestead, Victoria

Around 360 kilometres northeast of Melbourne, Kielock Homestead can be found in the beautiful Kiewa Valley. Relax and camp right on the bank of the Kiewa River, taking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Fish for trout or cod, swim, head out on a bushwalk or bike ride, or even join in farm activities such as feeding the animals, collecting eggs and harvesting fruit and vegetables. Check out the small market garden to purchase some freshly grown seasonal produce.

You’ll be pleased to hear that the surrounding mountain ranges are abundant with 4WD tracks. Some people like to try their hand at panning for gold here!

Facilities: No amenities so campers must be self-contained. Campers will be required to show they have a camping toilet prior to being escorted to the campsite.

Suitable for: Accessible by 2WD and suitable for caravans, camper trailers, tents, and motorhomes.

Dogs: Not allowed for biosecurity reasons.

River View Farm Waterloo, Western Australia

An operating beef farm, River View Farm Waterloo can be found near Eaton, around 165 kilometres south of Perth. There are six campsites to choose from right on the riverbanks of the Collie River.

Kayak, fish, walk among the trees or stroll along the river for a laid back getaway. You can even bring your boat and launch it from here. The river is known to be quite silty so it’s not the best for swimming. However, you can still swim if you wish.  

Facilities: Toilets.

Suitable for: Accessible by 2WD and suitable for caravans, camper trailers, tents, motorhomes etc. 

Dogs: Furry friends are welcome!

Bynoe Riverside Paradise, Northern Territory

Located around 110 kilometres southwest of Darwin, Bynoe Riverside Paradise is set on the Bynoe Harbour. With 20 acres of parkland right on the banks of the river, visitors have direct access to a boat ramp.

Make the most of the great fishing and crabbing, head out on a walking trail or just relax in your camp chair while you watch for birds and wallabies. 

Facilities: No amenities so campers must be self-contained.

Suitable for: Accessible by 2WD and suitable for caravans, camper trailers, tents, motorhomes etc. 

Dogs: Yes but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Rusty Pheasant RV Retreat, Queensland

Around 85 kilometres northwest of Cairns, Rusty Pheasant RV Retreat offers RV only sites on the banks of the beautiful Barron River. 

Swim, walk the tracks, bring your own canoe and bike, and enjoy a campfire in the evening to finish off the day. For those who have brought a canoe, the owners can drop you off upstream for a peaceful two-hour paddle back to your caravan.

Facilities: Picnic table. No other amenities so campers must be self-contained.

Suitable for: Accessible by 2WD and suitable for caravans and motorhomes. 

Dogs: No.

Bolinda Vale Farm, Western Australia

Located in the foothills of the Darling Range around 68 kilometres south of Perth in Keysbrook, Bolinda Vale Farm is a family-run beef and sheep farm. Set up your caravan in a shady spot right next to the brook and watch the red-tailed cockatoos flock to the gully to feed on the redgums. 

Campsites are shut in the warmer months during bushfire season. The creek also dries up during this season, so plan for the cooler months of the year.

Facilities: No facilities so campers must be self-contained.

Suitable for: Accessible by 2WD and suitable for caravans, camper trailers, tents, motorhomes etc. Low profile vehicles are not recommended and a 4WD may be required in winter. 

Dogs: Yes but they must be kept on a lead at all times due to cattle.

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