Are you planning a family camping trip near Brisbane? Camping with children can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires some extra planning and preparation. From choosing the right campsite to packing the essentials, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.
They say that there are two types of people. Those who love camping and those who don’t know they love it yet. If you fall into the first camp, you’ll be well aware of the incredible impact that camping can have on you. It’s a time to emotionally and spiritually recharge. You’re disconnected from the minutiae of urban and suburban life and immersed in a setting where all of your modern day needs and concerns are stripped away.
And if you’re planning a family camping trip near Brisbane, there’s no better time to experience the joys of camping with your loved ones. Camping is bliss. If you don’t know that yet, you’re about to. Let’s take a look at what to pack for your family camping trip and offer some suggestions for the best camping spots near Brisbane. We’ll also provide tips for choosing a family-friendly campsite, so you can relax and enjoy the great outdoors with your loved ones. So, grab your tent, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure!
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Finding a home in nature: the joys of family camping
Camping can be a magical experience, regardless of the season. In winter, watching your children marvel at the way their breath forms shapes in front of their faces as you pitch your tent can be truly delightful (if a little cold). And during the summer, camping is a great way for children to spend their childhood, despite the heat and humidity.
More than just a fun activity, camping can also teach our children valuable life skills. Through camping, they can learn to appreciate nature, become more responsible and mature, develop a strong work ethic, and understand the importance of safety and getting along with others. Along the way, you might even meet fascinating characters and make lifelong friends.
Camping is truly what childhood memories are made of. If you think you can do without the conveniences of the big city for a couple of nights, pack up your tent, hit the road, and say a cheerful “coo-ee” to your fellow campers. You might just find a home away from home in nature.
What to take camping with children
If you’re planning a family camping trip near Brisbane, there are a few essential items that you’ll want to make sure you take camping for you and your little ones.
Sleeping Gear
First and foremost, you’ll need a safe and sturdy tent. Look for a tent that’s appropriate for the size of your family and that has enough room for everyone to sleep comfortably. You’ll also want to invest in quality sleeping bags and mats to ensure that everyone gets a good night’s sleep. When camping with children, it’s important to prioritise comfort to avoid any meltdowns or sleepless nights.
Shoes and spare clothing
Appropriate shoes and clothes are also vital when camping. Well gripped shoes are a must when using communal toilets and showers to avoid any slips or falls. During the day, sturdy closed-toe shoes will also protect your child’s feet from rocks and other hazards when adventuring. Pack clothes that are suitable for the weather conditions, including rain gear and warm layers for cooler evenings.
Yummy snacks
Pack some favourite snacks. Camping can be an active and adventurous experience, so you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand to keep your little ones fueled up. Pack some of their easy ready-to-go favourite treats, such as granola bars, trail mix, or fruit snacks. And don’t forget the marshmallows for roasting over the campfire!
Reading material
Pack one of their books. Camping can be a great opportunity to unplug and enjoy the natural world around you, but it’s also nice to have some quiet downtime. Bring along a book that your child loves or pick up a new one before you leave. Reading can be a great way to wind down before bed or to relax in a hammock during the day.
Games
Camping is all about spending time outdoors and having fun, so make sure you bring along some activities to keep your children entertained. Outdoor games like frisbee, catch, or a soccer ball can be a great way to burn off some energy and get active. Board games or a deck of cards are also great for rainy days or quiet evenings around the campfire. And if you’re looking for a more immersive experience, try bringing a scavenger hunt or nature bingo game to help your children explore the natural world around them
Other key items
In addition to the above essentials, you’ll want to bring along a few other key items. Torches will be essential for nighttime bathroom trips and navigating around the campsite in the dark. A first aid kit is also a must-have in case of any minor injuries or accidents. And don’t forget your sunscreen and bug spray!
Lastly, make sure you have food storage containers and a rubbish bin to keep your campsite clean and free of any critters.
How to choose family camping sites
Your family will have a set of criteria when it comes to selecting the best possible campsite for your holiday. This will depend on the number of children you have with you, their ages, their physical abilities and your attachment to modern conveniences.
Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a family-friendly campsite:
Toilets and Shower Facilities:
When camping with little ones, it’s important to have access to clean and convenient toilet and shower facilities. Look for campsites that offer modern amenities such as flushing toilets and hot showers. It’s also worth checking whether there are family-friendly facilities like baby changing stations or accessible bathrooms for those with special needs.
Popularity of the Campsite:
Consider the popularity of the campsite you’re considering, especially if you’re camping during peak season. If the campsite is known for being a party spot or a popular destination for rowdy groups, it might not be the peaceful retreat you’re looking for. Look for quieter campsites that cater to families with young children.
Items of Interest for Young Children:
Choose a campsite that has nearby attractions that your small humans will enjoy, such as beaches, parks, bush walks, or open spaces. This will give your children the opportunity to explore and play, and will help keep them entertained throughout the trip.
Family-Friendly Facilities:
Make sure the campsite has family-friendly facilities like playgrounds, BBQs, and picnic tables. These amenities will help make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. If your family likes to fish, look for a campsite with fishing spots or other outdoor activities.
Proximity to Unfenced Potential Hazards:
Be aware of any unfenced potential hazards like bodies of water near your campsite. This is especially important if you have young children who may be at risk of wandering off. Look for campsites that are fenced or have safety measures in place to ensure that your family stays safe.
Reputation and Rating of the Campsite:
Do some research on the campsite’s reputation and rating before booking your trip. Check online reviews on sites like Tripadvisor or Google to get an idea of what other families have experienced at the campsite. This will help you make an informed decision and choose a campsite that meets your family’s needs.
By considering these factors when choosing a family-friendly campsite, you’ll be able to find the perfect spot for your family to enjoy the great outdoors
The best camping near Brisbane – where to go?
Now that you’re in the mood to spread out a swag, here are some of the best campground spots near Brisbane to go camping with children.
Camping Bigriggen with the family
The scenic rim is one of the most spectacular places in South-East Queensland. The gorgeous, untouched hinterlands blend seamlessly into picturesque, quaint farm lands. The camping opportunities at Bigriggen mean that families can easily access this hidden wonderland. Powered or non-powered sites mean you can choose the level of comfort you desire.
There is opportunity to go fishing and bushwalking, 4WD tracks, bike riding and swimming. Amenities are plentiful with showers, bathrooms and drinkable water all available onsite. You can even bring the dog! A perfect first-time experience for camping with the whole family.
Visit the Bigriggen Campground website today!
Camping Hastings Point
Heading about 30 km south of the Tweed will bring you to the beautiful Hastings Point area. There are lots of different campsites around here – some of them even offering Surfari (glamping) tents for the travellers who enjoy the finer things in life! There are lots of things to see and do in the township and the winding river tributaries are perfect for exploration and kayaking.
Check out Hastings Point campsites.
Elanda Point Camping
This is a camping-with-children hotspot and for good reason. Toddlers and young children NEED space to get physical and run around. These camp sites are grassy and spacious. There is plenty of room to ride bikes and climb trees. The nearby water is peaceful and calm and perfect for a splash about. Gentle walking trails pepper the nearby areas offering plenty of opportunities for exercise and stretching the old (and young!) legs.
Visit Habitat Noosa’s website today!
Camping Borumba Deer Park
Borumba Deer Park camping is about two hours from Brisbane. It offers creek side camping with the promise of swimming, fishing and kayaking. This is a peaceful spot for reflection and contemplation. It is well appointed for families with facilities like toilets, kitchens, laundries and a little shop (with coffee!).
Visit Borumba Deer Park website today!
Other camping spots near Brisbane
The above listed sites are but the tip of the iceberg when it comes to idyllic camping spots near Brisbane. There are fabulous spots for families throughout the Gold Coast region, Toowoomba, Ipswich and further afield.
Now that you’ve discovered the best spots for camping near Brisbane, it’s time to discover how nature play can bring out the best in your child. Find out at Little Scholars.
