Top 20 4WD Camping Spots in Australia (State-by-State Guide)

Australia's got some of the world's best 4WD camping – from red desert tracks that go on forever to coastal adventures where you can wake up on the beach, and alpine scenery that'll make your Instagram followers properly jealous. Whether you're a seasoned outback veteran or this is your first proper remote camping trip, we've got you covered with 20+ epic locations across every state. Hunters Gorge in Diamantina National Park, for instance, offers expansive views over a billabong and is rarely crowded. It's known for its stunning scenery and is accessible via a full day's drive through challenging country.

Before we dive in, here's the thing: all the adventure in the world won't help if you get spectacularly lost. Grab yourself some decent 4WD track maps and atlases from Chart & Map Shop – they've got detailed info on track conditions, camping spots, and all the good stuff for every region we're covering. Your GPS is brilliant until it's not, and paper maps never run out of battery at the worst possible moment. For bird lovers, Woolshed Flat Campground in Cocoparra National Park is a must-visit, offering a paradise for avian enthusiasts. It's situated 20 kilometres east of Griffith, New South Wales, and bookings are required.

Western Australia: Outback Icons and Coastal Adventures

1. Gibb River Road (El Questro to Mitchell Falls) - Difficult

The legendary Gibb River Road. If you've been hanging around 4WD enthusiasts for more than five minutes, you've heard about it. This 660km stretch through the Kimberley is absolutely bucket-list stuff – pristine gorges, waterfalls that'll take your breath away, and camping spots that make you never want to leave. It's a challenging but rewarding trip through remote gorges and rugged landscapes, making it a classic 4WD adventure destination. Similarly, Willandra National Park provides shaded camping areas amidst desolate landscapes, offering a unique outback experience. The campground here includes flush toilets and showers for added comfort.

Built back in the 1960s to move cattle around, it's now transformed into one of Australia's greatest 4WD adventures. And yes, it lives up to the hype. Haunted Stream Track, located between Dargo and Ensay in Victoria, is another hidden gem that requires a low-range high-clearance 4WD vehicle and offers a challenging yet rewarding drive. This 17-kilometre track is not frequently visited, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude. However, it has no amenities other than a shelter over a table, so come prepared.

Getting There: You'll enter from Kununurra via Ernest Giles Road. High-clearance 4WD is non-negotiable, and you can only tackle it during the dry season (which is probably a relief to hear, honestly). Fuel stops are few and far between – Derby at 189km, Imintji Store at 227km, then Mt Barnett Roadhouse 80km further on. Plan accordingly, because running out of fuel out here would be spectacularly unpleasant. Important Tip: Always check local conditions, obtain necessary permits, and be prepared with all required supplies as many destinations are remote.

Where to Camp: You've got options! El Questro Station offers the fancy side of camping ($49-79/night) with river access, a bar, and restaurant facilities. Or if you're happy with the basics, there's free camping at Gibb River Free Camping near Mitchell Falls, King Edward River crossing, and Lennard River crossing – all with fresh water and stunning scenery.

Best Time: April to May is your sweet spot. The roads are freshly graded, waterfalls are still pumping, and the weather's comfortable. The wet season (November-March) closes most of the route, so don't even think about it.

Don't Miss: Mitchell Falls, El Questro Gorge, Branco's Lookout, Home Valley Station, and countless swimming holes that'll make you want to stay forever.

Water & Fuel: Multiple river crossings mean water access, which is handy. But that fuel situation between Imintji Store and Mt Barnett Roadhouse? That 80km stretch has limited fuel options, so chuck some jerry cans in the back for peace of mind.

Navigation: For the Gibb River Road, The Kimberley Map featuring the Gibb River Road by Hema Maps is absolute gold – it's got track conditions, camping locations, and all the details your GPS probably doesn't. Also consider picking up a comprehensive WA touring guide for detailed station information and gorge access.

2. Francois Peron National Park (Shark Bay) -Medium

North of Denham and Monkey Mia, you'll find this absolute gem of a national park. Picture dramatic red sand landscapes meeting pristine coastal scenery, and it's all 4WD-only access. The tracks range from "yeah, this is manageable" gravel to "right, let's see what this thing can do" sand driving. Myall Lakes National Park also offers a variety of beach and dune camping opportunities accessible via 4WD, making it a great alternative for coastal adventurers.

Getting There: Head to the old homestead site north of Denham – you'll start on sealed road then hit gravel. The tracks are mostly red sand, so you'll want to drop your tyre pressures and keep your momentum steady. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.

Camping: The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (try saying that three times fast) manages well-maintained campgrounds throughout the park. They're extremely popular though, so pre-booking is essential. The drive from the old homestead to Peron Point offers stunning ocean views and proper sandy tracks.

Best Time: April to September gives you comfortable conditions and reliable access.

Worth Checking Out: The artesian hot spa near the old homestead (brilliant after a long day), Peron Point (the western-most point), Shell Beach, Monkey Mia dolphin encounters, and some cracking fishing opportunities.

Water & Fuel: Water sources are limited, so bring plenty. Fuel up in Denham, which is about 80km away.

Vehicle Tips: All-terrain tyres and proper tyre-pressure adjustment are essential. Drop to about 25% below highway pressure for comfortable sand driving, and you'll have a much better time.

Maps: State-specific 4WD maps covering the Shark Bay region will show you track conditions and campground locations. A Western Australia atlas is invaluable for planning your route from Perth.

3. James Price Point (Broome) , Medium

If you're after dramatic red cliffs towering above pristine beaches and turquoise waters, this is your spot. The sandy tracks north of Broome lead to incredible ocean vistas and camping spots with sunsets that'll ruin all other sunsets for you.

Getting There: Sandy tracks north of Broome. A 4WD is essential because of the rugged, unsealed terrain. The journey's relatively short but requires careful driving – don't just charge in thinking you're invincible.

Camping: No established facilities here – this is proper remote camping. You've got fire rings and basic shelter, and you can camp right on the beach with cliff views. Doesn't get much better than that.

Best Time: May to October offers the most comfortable weather.

Nearby: Broome's historic pearling heritage, Cable Beach, and dinosaur footprints in nearby rocks (yes, actual dinosaur footprints).

Water & Fuel: Bring all your water supplies. Fuel up in Broome before you head out. There are eco toilets available at Davenport Creek, adding a touch of convenience to this remote camping experience.

What You'll Need: Medium-clearance 4WD with recovery gear. The sandy tracks can get properly challenging when wet.

4. Canning Stock Route (Wiluna to Billiluna) -Very Difficult

Right, let's talk about the big one. The Canning Stock Route stretches 1,850km across three Australian deserts – the Gibson, Little Sandy, and Great Sandy. It's the longest and most isolated stock route in the world, and it's not for the faint-hearted. This is serious outback adventuring that requires substantial planning and preparation. Lake Gairdner, Australia's third-largest salt lake, hosts the Dry Salt Lakes Races, attracting drivers who enjoy high-speed racing on its surface. Camping at the Lake Gairdner site is free, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious adventurers.

Getting There: Stock up supplies in Kalgoorlie, then head north to Wiluna (534km north). The CSR turnoff is 39km north of Wiluna. Allow 2-3.5 weeks for the complete journey. Yes, weeks.

Camping: Exclusively bush camping at designated well sites. There's minimal infrastructure, which means you need to be completely self-sufficient. If you forget something important, you're stuffed. Grab a copy of Australian Bushcraft: A Guide to Survival and Camping before you go – it's essential reading for extreme remote trips.

Best Time: May to September. Late season (August-September) offers cooler temperatures and less chance of rain.

Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4WD with low-range is essential. Stock standard vehicles have completed it, but modifications will significantly improve your experience and capability.

Water & Fuel – This is Critical: There's only one fuel station on the entire route (Kunawarritji Community at 1,040km from Wiluna). You must carry enough fuel to drive 1,000+km with jerry cans. Let that sink in. Water's available at bore wells throughout but requires treatment. You can arrange alternate fuel drop points at Well 23 and other locations.

Navigation: Detailed outback atlases and topographic maps are absolutely essential for the CSR. Paper maps remain critical when your GPS and phones decide to stop working in remote areas – which they will. Consider a dedicated 4WD GPS unit as backup.

Queensland: Coastal Adventures and Rainforest Tracks

5. K'gari (Fraser Island) Beach Camping -Easy to Medium

K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) is Australia's largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage area. You've got 100km of pristine coastline for 4WD beach driving, and multiple camping zones for different preferences and experience levels. Great Sandy National Park includes the world's largest sand island, providing a unique beach driving and camping experience.

Getting There: Multiple ferry access points from Rainbow Beach and Urangan. Vehicle access permits (VAPs) are mandatory – book online before you rock up. They've got 24-hour number plate surveillance cameras, so don't even think about trying to sneak in without one.

Camping: You've got options ranging from remote beach camping with minimal facilities to established zones with toilets, showers, and picnic areas. Popular zones include Dundubara, Lake McKenzie, and Eurong. Some beach areas allow campfires while others don't, so check before you light up.

Best Time: April to October avoids marine stinger season (November-March). Water conditions are much safer for swimming and activities.

Permits: Vehicle access permits required for all vehicles. Camping permits also mandatory – you must purchase these before setting up camp. Yes, it's bureaucratic, but it helps protect this incredible place.

What You'll Need: Reliable 4WD with appropriate tyres. Beach driving requires constant tyre pressure adjustment – drop to 18-20 PSI for comfortable sand driving.

Water & Fuel: Limited fuel stations – fill up before crossing. Water available at established camping zones.

Navigation: Fraser Island-specific maps detail beach tracks, tide times (critical!), and camping zones.

6. Cooloola Recreation Area (Rainbow Beach) - Easy to Medium

Just south of Fraser Island, Cooloola offers spectacular coastal 4WD tracks without the ferry hassle. The area features massive sand dunes, pristine beaches, and freshwater lakes.

Getting There: Access from Rainbow Beach heading north. Beach driving permits required from Queensland Parks. Track conditions vary from easy beach driving to challenging sand dune climbs.

Camping: Multiple zones including Freshwater camping area (bookings essential). Beach camping allowed in designated zones. Some sites offer basic facilities while others are bush camping only.

Best Time: Year-round destination, but April-October offers most comfortable weather.

Nearby: Carlo Sandblow, coloured sand cliffs at Rainbow Beach, Double Island Point lighthouse.

Permits: Vehicle access permit and camping permits required. Book through Queensland Parks website.

Vehicle Requirements: 4WD with recovery gear. Beach driving skills essential for tide timing.

Navigation: Queensland 4WD atlases show beach access points and camping zones – absolutely essential for finding legal camping areas throughout the state.

7. Cape York Peninsula - Difficult

The journey to Australia's northernmost point is legendary. It's challenging, remote, and absolutely unforgettable. Multiple route options cater to different skill levels, but all require proper preparation.

Getting There: Primary routes include Telegraph Track (difficult), Old Telegraph Track (very difficult), and Peninsula Developmental Road (easier). Distance from Cairns to The Tip: approximately 700km. Cape York Peninsula is known for its challenging tracks through rainforests and numerous river crossings on the way to the northernmost tip of Australia.

Camping: Mix of paid stations, national park campgrounds, and free bush camping. Popular stops include Lion's Den Hotel, Lakefield National Park, and Fruit Bat Falls.

Best Time: Dry season only (May-October). Wet season flooding closes most tracks entirely.

Nearby: Lakefield National Park, Jardine River crossing, Thursday Island, spectacular fishing opportunities.

Permits: Jardine River National Park permits required for Telegraph Track. Some indigenous land crossings require permits.

Water & Fuel: Fuel stops at Lakefield, Coen, Weipa, and Jardine River Ferry. Plan carefully – distances are substantial.

Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4WD with low-range essential. Telegraph Track requires advanced driving skills, proper recovery gear, and ideally a second vehicle.

Navigation: Cape York-specific 4WD maps essential for track selection and water crossing information. Don't attempt Cape York without proper maps – it's not the place to wing it.

South Australia: Desert Landscapes and Mountain Ranges

8. Flinders Ranges (Bunyeroo Valley & Brachina Gorge) - Medium

The Flinders Ranges offer some of Australia's most spectacular geological formations. Ancient mountain ranges, deep gorges, and abundant wildlife make this a photographer's paradise. Bendleby Ranges in the Southern Flinders Ranges is privately owned and offers camping and 4WD tracks ranging from mild to extreme, making it a must-visit for adventurers.

Getting There: Multiple access points from Hawker and Wilpena Pound. Tracks range from maintained gravel to challenging rocky sections requiring high clearance.

Camping: Wilpena Pound Resort offers powered sites. Bush camping allowed in designated areas within national parks. Brachina Gorge campground features basic facilities.

Best Time: March to May and September to November offer comfortable temperatures. Summer is brutally hot.

Nearby: Wilpena Pound, Sacred Canyon, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, abundant wildlife including yellow-footed rock wallabies.

Water & Fuel: Limited fuel stations – fill up in Hawker or Leigh Creek. Carry adequate water supplies.

Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4WD recommended for rougher tracks. Standard 4WD vehicles can access main routes.

Navigation: South Australian 4WD atlases and topographic maps detail track conditions and camping areas. The Flinders is one of SA's best 4WD destinations, so proper maps are essential.

9. Warroora Station (Coral Bay) - Easy to Medium

This stunning coastal station north of Coral Bay offers pristine beaches, incredible snorkelling, and whale shark encounters (seasonally). It's one of WA's best-kept secrets, though word is definitely getting out.

Getting There: Unsealed North road from North West Coastal Highway. Approximately 145km north of Carnarvon. Standard 4WD sufficient for access road, but beach access requires proper sand driving skills.

Camping: Station campgrounds available with basic facilities. Beach camping in designated areas. Booking essential during peak season.

Best Time: April to October. Whale shark season typically March to July.

Nearby: Ningaloo Reef, Coral Bay, incredible snorkelling and fishing opportunities.

Permits: Station entry fees apply. Respect station property and follow all regulations.

Water & Fuel: Fuel in Coral Bay or Carnarvon. Water available at station campgrounds.

Navigation: WA coastal maps show station access and beach locations. A comprehensive WA road atlas will help you plan the entire Coral Coast route.

Victoria: Alpine Adventures and High Country Tracks

10. Victorian High Country (Alpine National Park) - Medium to Difficult

Victoria's High Country offers spectacular alpine scenery, challenging tracks, and historic gold mining sites. Multiple track options cater to various skill levels.

Getting There: Multiple access points including Mansfield, Bright, and Omeo. Tracks range from maintained gravel to extremely challenging rocky sections.

Camping: Established campgrounds at popular locations. Bush camping allowed throughout much of Alpine National Park. Some historic huts available for overnight stays.

Best Time: November to April. Snow closes most tracks May-October. Always check current conditions before departure.

Nearby: Craig's Hut (from "The Man from Snowy River"), Mount Hotham, Falls Creek, historic gold mining sites.

Water & Fuel: Fuel in major towns before heading into mountains. Creek water available but requires treatment.

Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4WD essential for challenging tracks. Recovery gear critical due to steep, rocky sections.

Navigation: Victorian High Country maps and atlases essential for track selection and navigation. The High Country has numerous tracks, so detailed maps prevent you ending up somewhere you shouldn't be.

11. Grampians National Park (Mount Difficult Range) - Medium

The Grampians offer spectacular mountain scenery, waterfalls, and Aboriginal rock art sites. Multiple 4WD tracks provide access to remote areas.

Getting There: Access from Halls Gap and Dunkeld. Tracks range from maintained gravel to challenging rocky sections. Some tracks close during high fire danger periods.

Camping: Established campgrounds throughout park. Bush camping allowed in designated areas. Bookings recommended for popular sites.

Best Time: September to May. Winter offers cooler conditions but some tracks may be muddy.

Nearby: Mackenzie Falls, The Pinnacle, Boroka Lookout, numerous walking trails, Aboriginal rock art sites.

Water & Fuel: Fuel in Halls Gap or Dunkeld. Water available at established campgrounds.

Permits: Park entry fees apply. Some tracks require specific permits.

Navigation: Grampians-specific maps show 4WD tracks and camping locations.

Northern Territory: Red Centre and Top End Adventures

12. Finke Gorge National Park (Palm Valley) - Difficult

Located in the red heart of Central Australia, Finke Gorge features unique red cabbage palms found nowhere else on Earth. The track into Palm Valley is properly challenging and not for inexperienced drivers.

Getting There: Access from Hermannsburg, approximately 138km west of Alice Springs. The final section into Palm Valley is extremely challenging with deep sand, steep climbs, and rocky sections. Only attempt in appropriate 4WD with proper equipment.

Camping: Designated camping areas in Palm Valley with basic facilities. First-come, first-served allocation. Campfires not permitted.

Best Time: April to September. Summer temperatures are dangerously hot.

Nearby: West MacDonnell Ranges, Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, Ormiston Gorge.

Water & Fuel: Fuel in Alice Springs or Hermannsburg. Carry adequate water supplies.

Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4WD with low-range essential. Recovery gear critical. Experienced drivers only.

Navigation: Central Australian 4WD maps provide essential track information and difficulty ratings. The Red Centre is unforgiving, so proper navigation tools are non-negotiable.

13. Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) - Easy

These massive granite boulders scattered across the landscape are sacred to the Warumungu people and offer spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Getting There: Located directly on Stuart Highway, 393km north of Alice Springs. Easy access from sealed highway with good gravel roads throughout reserve.

Camping: Devils Marbles campground offers unpowered sites with basic facilities including toilets and picnic tables. Popular site – arrive early during peak season.

Best Time: April to September offers comfortable temperatures. Summer is extremely hot.

Nearby: Tennant Creek, Three Ways Roadhouse, Daly Waters pub.

Water & Fuel: Fuel in Tennant Creek (100km north) or Wauchope (9km south). Water available at campground.

Cultural Significance: These formations hold deep spiritual significance for traditional owners. Treat with respect and follow all signage.

Navigation: Northern Territory touring maps show the reserve and surrounding attractions.

14. Litchfield National Park - Easy to Medium

Just 115km from Darwin, Litchfield offers spectacular waterfalls, clear swimming holes, and termite mounds the size of small buildings. Most sites accessible by 2WD, but 4WD tracks lead to more remote waterfalls.

Getting There: Multiple access points from Stuart Highway. Most main attractions accessible via sealed or maintained gravel roads. 4WD tracks lead to remote camping areas.

Camping: Multiple campgrounds including Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Buley Rockhole. Some require advance booking. Bush camping allowed in designated areas.

Best Time: Dry season (May-October) only. Wet season flooding closes many areas.

Nearby: Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Adelaide River.

Water & Fuel: Fuel in Batchelor or Darwin before entering. Water available at established campgrounds.

Swimming Safety: Follow all signage regarding crocodiles. Stick to designated swimming areas.

Navigation: Top End 4WD maps show both main routes and 4WD-only tracks. A comprehensive NT travel guide will help you plan the entire Top End circuit.

New South Wales: Coastal and Mountain Adventures

15. Koreelah Creek National Park - Medium

Located in the Northern Rivers region, Koreelah Creek offers mountain scenery, rainforest tracks, and excellent camping beside pristine creeks.

Getting There: Access from Woodenbong via unsealed forest roads. Tracks can be challenging when wet with steep sections and creek crossings.

Camping: Koreelah Creek campground features basic facilities beside beautiful creek. First-come, first-served allocation. Campfires allowed in designated areas only.

Best Time: Year-round destination, but tracks can be challenging after rain. Check conditions before departure.

Nearby: Border Ranges National Park, Mount Warning, numerous walking trails.

Water & Fuel: Fuel in Woodenbong or Kyogle. Creek water available but requires treatment.

Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4WD recommended. Some creek crossings may be impassable after heavy rain.

Navigation: NSW regional maps show forest roads and camping areas.

16. Stockton Beach (Newcastle) - Easy

Australia's longest beach offers 32km of pristine sand driving just minutes from Newcastle. Popular with 4WD enthusiasts, sand boarders, and horse riders.

Getting There: Beach access from Anna Bay. Beach driving permits required from Newcastle Council. Multiple access points along beach.

Camping: No camping on beach itself. Nearby caravan parks and campgrounds in Anna Bay and Williamtown.

Best Time: Year-round destination. Check tide times before driving on beach.

Nearby: Port Stephens, Tomaree National Park, shipwrecks visible at low tide.

Permits: Beach driving permits mandatory. Available from Newcastle Council.

Vehicle Requirements: Standard 4WD sufficient. Tyre pressure reduction essential for beach driving (18-20 PSI).

Navigation: NSW coastal maps show beach access points and tide information.

Tasmania: Wilderness and Alpine Adventures

17. Ben Lomond National Park - Medium to Difficult

Tasmania's alpine wonderland offers spectacular mountain scenery and challenging 4WD access. The plateau features unique alpine vegetation and stunning views.

Getting There: One hour south-east of Launceston via White Hills and Blessington. 18km unsealed road to alpine village. The final climb (Jacob's Ladder) is steep, narrow, and winding.

Camping: Small 6-site campground with unpowered sites suitable for tents or campervans. Flush toilets, drinking water, and lookout shelter included. First-come, first-served allocation.

Best Time: December to May. June to September requires snow chains (rentable nearby). Winter roads are dangerous with unpredictable conditions.

Nearby: Legges Tor (Tasmania's second-highest point at 1,572m), spectacular alpine plateau, winter skiing, extensive walking trails.

Water & Fuel: Water available at campground. Fuel in Launceston (60km).

Bush Camping: Allowed anywhere in park except within 500m of roads. Fuel stoves required (no campfires).

Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4WD beneficial for final steep section. Snow chains essential June-September.

Navigation: Tasmanian 4WD atlases show access roads and track conditions. For serious Tassie exploration, also grab Undiscovered Tasmania: A Locals' Guide to Finding Adventure – it's packed with hidden gems.

Planning Your 4WD Camping Adventure

Navigation Essentials: Look, we sell maps for a living, so we're obviously going to bang on about this. But here's the thing – every 4WD camping trip needs reliable navigation, and paper maps provide backup when your fancy technology decides to have a complete meltdown in remote areas. Hema Maps atlases and topographic maps are specifically designed for 4WD camping with detailed track information, camping locations, and points of interest for every region we've covered. Your GPS is brilliant. Until it's not.

Permits & Bookings: Loads of these locations require advance booking or permits. Always check specific requirements – some popular sites book out months ahead. Research permit fees and payment methods before you rock up, because "I didn't know" won't get you very far.

Seasonal Considerations: Australia's seasons dramatically affect 4WD track conditions. Dry season (April-October) typically offers optimal accessibility and safety. Wet season (November-March) can close many tracks entirely – and by "close" we mean "become impassable death traps." Research specific locations before planning your trip.

Recovery Gear: Essential for remote areas, even for beginner-friendly tracks. You'll want a winch, snatch strap, recovery boards, and proper shackles. And here's the critical bit – know how to use all this equipment before you leave. Watching YouTube videos in a phone-service black spot while you're properly stuck is not the time to learn.

Water and Fuel: These two factors will determine whether your trip's a success or a disaster. Calculate realistic consumption rates, identify fuel sources, and never rely on single water sources in remote areas. Always carry treatment capacity, because "she'll be right" is not a water purification strategy.

Vehicle Preparation: Before any 4WD camping trip, make sure your vehicle's in top nick. Your suspension should handle your load, tyres should be appropriate for the terrain, and all safety systems must be working properly. Your local 4WD shop can help sort you out with something sensible, and it's worth every cent.

Ready to explore Australia's incredible 4WD camping destinations? Grab yourself comprehensive maps and the right resources, then start with locations matching your skill level. Progressively tackle more demanding tracks as you build experience, and before you know it, you'll be planning epic outback adventures. Browse The Chart & Map Shop's complete 4WD camping resources for state-specific maps, topographic guides, and camping directories to make your next trip absolutely unforgettable.

Now get out there and give it a crack!