An essential Canberra caravan park and camping guide

Heading to town with the RV in tow? There are plenty of caravan parks in Canberra catering to all types of travellers.

Whether you’re a road-tripper looking for a tranquil riverside retreat or an active family needing plenty of activities to keep the kids occupied, Canberra’s caravan parks are plentiful and diverse.

When it comes to camping, there are a lot of free campsites around the city’s outskirts. However, prices for caravan parks in Canberra are competitive, and there are several options for all travels, from budget to comfortable. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the best of Canberra’s caravan parks and campsites.

1. Alivio Tourist Park

Offering a mix of caravan and RV sites, cabins and stylish villas, Alivio Tourist Park is all about proximity – just four kilometres from Canberra’s city centre, keen walkers won’t even need to take the car.

The park has everything you’ll need, with an onsite restaurant, clean camp kitchen, full amenities and water park. There’s even an outdoor cinema for cosy movie nights with the family. Due to all the creature comforts, prices are a little higher than usual, but definitely worth it.

Address: 20 Kunzea Street, O’Connor ACT

2. Capital Country Holiday Park

A little further out, you’ll find Capital Country Holiday Park, which caters to everyone from tent campers to larger groups. Still close to Canberra’s attractions (a 20-minute drive at most), this holiday park has unpowered and powered sites, en suite sites, cabins and lodges.

Set on 15 hectares, this is also a dog-friendly caravan park, so your furry friend can come on holiday too. There are two bungalows that accept pets, plus four ‘dog freedom’ sites that feature full fencing around your RV or caravan.

Address: 47 Bidges Road, Sutton NSW

3. Canberra Park

The modern, recently developed Canberra Park might be the most stylish caravan park in the region. The state-of-the-art camp kitchen is definitely a highlight, with large, modern fridges, cooking facilities and ample space to sit and enjoy a meal.

Prices are still on the reasonable end, too. However, we wouldn’t recommend this tourist park for those with active little ones looking for entertainment – it is more of an accommodation-focused caravan park suited for couples or families with older children.

Address: 26 Old Well Station Road, Gungahlin ACT

4. Southside Village

Conveniently situated on the outskirts of Narrabundah close to Canberra’s CBD, Southside Village is a popular Canberra caravan park with powered and unpowered sites, plus a range of cabins for those travelling without an RV.

Prices are competitive and affordable, but this is definitely no-frills, budget accommodation – reviews mention sites are on the smaller side and cabin interiors are a little dated. Still, small dogs are allowed in the park, and reviews rave about the friendly staff and clean amenities.

Address: 250 Canberra Avenue, Symonston ACT

5. Crestview Tourist Park

Situated at the south end of Canberra near Queanbeyan, Crestview Tourist Park is a great option if you’re less interested in being close to action and more looking for a relaxing holiday with proximity to some great Canberra restaurants.

Powered sites are priced reasonably, and the park also offers self-contained accommodation in the form of villas and budget-friendly cabins. There is a lovely swimming pool onsite, as well as free coffee at reception, a playground for little ones and wi-fi throughout the park.

Address: 81 Donald Road, Karabar NSW

6. Eaglehawk Park

Outside town, you’ll find Eaglehawk Park, which offers some of the cheapest accommodation near Canberra for those travelling with caravans and RVs. This doesn’t mean you’ll skip out on style and comfort though.

The park has all kinds of properties, including powered and en suite sites, budget-friendly cabins, cosy cottages and fully furnished villas. there is also an outdoor pool, playground, barbecue area and plenty of green space.

Address: 1246 Federal Highway Service Road, Sutton NSW

7. Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park

Staying at Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park is a good option if you’re arriving with a caravan in tow, although the distance from the CBD will mean ideally, you have a car you can detach for getting around in. A real plus are the riverside caravan sites, which sit on the banks of the Queanbeyan River for an idyllic spot to set up.

All sites have access to power and water, including the designated camping spots. There’s a well-appointed camp kitchen and clean toilets, as well as laundry and drying facilities. The park is also pet-friendly and close to Queanbeyan shops and cafes.

Address: 41A Morisset Street, Queanbeyan NSW

8. Exhibition Park

Canberra’s showground, Exhibition Park (or EPIC), offers caravan sites on a sprawling 75-hectare lot just eight minutes from the CBD. The pet-friendly park is a great option for families, with a local farmers market held every Saturday morning on the grounds.

The prices may be considered a little steep, but you’ll be in the centre of town, plus the park has full amenities including toilets, showers and laundry facilities. Bookings are essential.

Address: Corner Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell ACT

9. Cotter Campground

Just 25 minutes outside of Canberra, you’ll find Cotter Campground, set on the tranquil Cotter River. With hot showers, potable water, flushing toilets, barbecues and dishwashing facilities, its a Canberra camping spot that can’t be beaten.

If you’re looking for nature experiences, Brindabella Range and Namadgi National Park, are nearby, plus there are walking tracks, fishing and kayaking opportunities within the campground itself. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a platypus splashing about in the river. No dogs allowed.

Address: 1691 Cotter Road, Stromlo ACT

10. Woods Reserve Campground

Not too far from Cotter Campground is Woods Reserve Campground, a dog-friendly site that is also in close proximity to Namadgi. It’s a good option if you’ve brought along the furry family member, but they must remain on leash to protect native wildlife.

It may be a little less luxurious, with no drinking water and no bins, but there are toilet and shower facilities, fire pits, washing amenities and picnic tables onsite. Take a stroll to nearby Gibraltar Falls for a refreshing wild swim.

Address: Corin Road, Paddys River ACT

For more recommendations on where to stay, read our guide to Canberra accommodation for everything from hotels to Airbnbs.

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