As the September holidays approach and spring comes into full bloom, now is the perfect time for families to start preparing to hook up the caravan and hit the road to escape the daily grind.
Not only is it a great way to get back to nature and improve well-being, it’s also a time when cherished memories are made that last a lifetime.
The magic of camping goes beyond setting up tents and kindling campfires too —it’s a gateway to fostering relationships, sharing laughter, and relishing in the simple pleasures that the great outdoors offer.
With a focus on promoting family togetherness, Let’s Go Caravan and Camping spokesperson Keelan Howard says camping is the ideal choice for a fulfilling and exciting holiday experience, not to mention a cost-effective alternative to expensive flights and hotel accommodation.
“Camping during the September holidays is a fantastic way for families to disconnect from their screens, immerse themselves in nature and create lasting memories together,” she says.
“As spring transforms the Australian landscape, campsites and holiday parks all over the country offer the perfect backdrop for families to explore, relax and bond.”
An increasing number of families and younger people are being drawn to caravanning, with Queensland National Parks seeing a 300 per cent increase in travellers aged 20 to 26 years old.
Caravan Trade and Industries Association CEO Jason Plant says it’s exciting to see younger people considering recreational vehicles for their holidays.
“The caravan lifestyle is no longer just for grey nomads,” he says. “The industry has continued to boom post-Covid, and this has resulted in new trends constantly emerging and people of all life-stages taking up the ‘cara-fan’ lifestyle.”
And what better place to enjoy the great outdoors than the Sunshine Coast. With a plethora of wonderful camping grounds to discover, there is something for everyone.
Something for everyone
There is a plethora of caravan parks and campgrounds across the Sunshine Coast region to suit every type of camper. From hinterland escapes to fully decked out parks with all the mod-cons and amenities, plus ones that are pet-friendly, here are our top five picks for you next adventure.
Cotton Tree Holiday Park – This is probably one of the most idyllic campgrounds on the Sunshine Coast. Fronting the Maroochy River and a stone’s throw from Maroochydore Beach, the eight-hectare site includes powered and non-powered waterfront and non-waterfront sites, plus all the usual amenities you would expect. While it’s located centrally, when set up overlooking the water you will feel as if you are worlds away.
Kenilworth – It would be tricky to pick just one place to visit around Kenilworth. The town and its surrounds are bursting with bush-style camping spots, from the iconic Kenilworth Homestead that is perfect for young families, to the more secluded campground in the state forests, including Charlie Moreland. For those who prefer to stay right in the centre of town, Kenilworth Showgrounds is a great location and popular with caravan clubs.
Big4 Caloundra Holiday Park – For a holiday packed full of family fun, this could just be the ultimate destination. Ideally situated on the water’s edge of the Pumicestone Passage and not far from surf beaches including Moffat and Dicky Beach, this is one not to be overlooked. The park was recently revamped and included a new resort-style pool complete with waterslides. There’s also a pizza and espresso bar on site.
Coolum Beach Holiday Park – Coolum Beach Holiday Park is a prime beachfront land, perfect to fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping nearby. Full of powered sites, it accommodates everything from two-man swags to 5th-wheelers. This park is dog-friendly (via application) and is packed full of family-friendly facilities. It is also within great proximity to enjoy the nearby Mount Coolum walk and is only a 20-minute drive either way to Noosa, Yandina or Maroochydore.
Noosa North Shore Beach Campground – Set amongst the unspoilt bushland of the Great Sandy National Park and alongside the rolling surf, the North Shore Beach Campground offers a wealth of options for bush and beach lovers, surfers, fishers and anyone who loves the great outdoors. Access to the park is via the vehicle ferry from Tewantin. Once there, and if you have a four-wheel-drive, access to Teewah Beach, Double Island Point and Rainbow Beach is right at your doorstep.
Why choose camping for September holidays?
- Spring in Australia is a season of renewal and rejuvenation, making it the perfect time to take the kids camping. According to research from the Real Richness Report from Caravan Industry Association of Australia, an impressive 78 per cent of families experienced a notable increase in shared activities during camping excursions.
- Camping offers an opportunity for families to bond, learn, and grow together while exploring the stunning landscapes that this beautiful country has to offer. The parks not only offer an abundance of fun for you and the family, but also provide great value and wellness benefits. Check out their websites and investigate your selected parks’ VIP cards and exclusive offers, designed to make your camping experience truly special. These packages are crafted to allow you to choose a holiday best suited to your family without breaking the bank.
Top reasons to choose a family camping adventure
Spectacular Locations: Discover awe-inspiring campsites nestled amidst Australia’s stunning natural beauty. From serene coastal escapes to lush hinterlands, there’s a diverse range of destinations, each offering its own unique charm. You can even involve the kids in the planning process and find out their ideal holiday locations.
Family-Focused Atmosphere: Caravan parks all around the country are thoughtfully designed to provide families with a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Well-maintained facilities, family-friendly amenities, and dedicated spaces ensure that your camping journey is as convenient as it is memorable.
Activities for All Ages: Keep the whole family entertained with an array of outdoor activities suitable for everyone. Guided nature walks, wildlife exploration, stargazing, and shared campfire stories create lasting memories that will be cherished by all.
Unplug and Reconnect: Camping allows families to disconnect from screens and distractions, fostering genuine connections. Spend quality time together, engage in meaningful conversations, and relish in the simple joys that nature provides. According to the Real Richness Report by the Caravan Industry Association of Australia, camping holds the key to a profound disconnection from screens and modern distractions, leading to the cultivation of genuine connections among families.
Developing Social Skills and Lifelong Friendships: The magic of camping extends beyond the family circle, offering children a chance to expand their social horizons and develop vital social skills. Kids from all over come together in a safe and friendly environment, forming friendships that often mirror the lifespan of a fleeting mayfly—lasting just for the duration of the holiday. Many of these connections are rekindled over subsequent school holidays, as families return to their favourite parks to create new memories.
For more information, head to Let’s Go Caravan and Camping website: www.letsgocaravanandcamping.com.au/news/why-you-should-choose-a-camping-trip-these-school-holidays/
What’s there to do?
Nature Scavenger Hunt
Take the kids around the holiday park you’re staying at and send them out on a scavenger hunt to discover the wonders of the surrounding environment. From spotting native bird species to identifying unique plant specimens, this interactive activity encourages kids to engage with nature and can be a fun way for families to bond.
Campfire Cooking
Create lasting memories by preparing delicious meals over an open campfire. Bring the kids around and teach them essential cooking skills and bond as a family while enjoying the simple pleasure of a freshly cooked meal.
Van Jam Festival
Elevate your camping experience to new heights with the electrifying Van Jam Festival held at Willowbank Raceway this September. Watch the stage comes alive with the pulsating beats of big-name Australian musicians, such as Daryl Braithwaite and Russel Morris, families are invited to immerse themselves in an exciting fusion of music and adventure. What sets this festival apart is the ingenious combination of two beloved Australian pastimes: camping and music. Families have the unique option of bringing their caravans, adding an element of comfort and convenience to the festival experience: perfect for a school holiday adventure.
fast facts
- 89% of domestic caravan and camping trips take place in regional areas
- 201,477 recreational vehicle (RV) registrations in Queensland
- 2.8 million domestic trips taken in Queensland
- 11.6 million domestic nights stayed in Queensland
- $23.8 billion impact on the Australian economy annually in 2021
- 47% of trips are taken by 30-54 age group
