Discover Australia’s best holiday parks

From accommodation rivalling world-class hotels, to play areas that make kids feel like they’re at Disneyland, caravan parks aren’t what they used to be. And with COVID-19 putting a halt to most overseas travel plans, there’s never been a better time to explore what’s on offer in our own beautiful country.

There’s nothing quite like childhood memories of packing the car with everything from boogie boards to bikes, then setting off on an adventure to a caravan park for the school holidays.

With glamping options and impressive amenities such as resort-style pools and waterslides on offer these days, holiday parks have certainly come a long way since the basic caravan parks of yesteryear.

Here are our top holiday park picks from around Australia.

South Australia

G’Day Parks Beachside Holiday Park

Located just an hour’s drive south of Adelaide and sitting along picturesque Normanville Beach, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and unwind. While the park’s idyllic location
is within easy reach of attractions such as Ingalla Waterfalls and Victor Harbor, its biggest drawcard is its recently revamped water park, which is one of the largest in the state.

Big 4 Renmark

Located in the heart of the Riverland along the mighty Murray River, Big 4 Renmark is an absolute child’s paradise. It boasts a water park, resort pool, heated spa, TV room, games room and a jumping pillow among its attractions. It’s also ideal for couples, singles and guests of all ages, offering luxury riverfront or poolside villas, caravan and camping sites and glamping accommodation options.

Children having fun at the water park at Big4 Renmark.
The kids will have a ball at Big4 Renmark’s water park. Image: Big4

Tasmania

Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain

You’ll feel at one with nature at this peaceful holiday park set on the edge of the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park, which is renowned for its glassy lakes and pristine wilderness. Cosy up in a quaint wooden cabin, backpackers’ amenities or tent and caravan sites, surrounded by nature. The best part – the chance of snow in the colder months.

Snow at Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain.
You could enjoy snow at Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain. Image: Discovery Parks
NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park

A serene hideaway surrounded by 16 hectares of bushland and just a stone’s throw from Stewarts Bay, you’ll also be within walking distance of the famous Port Arthur Historic Site. Winner of multiple Tasmanian Tourism Awards, the park offers a variety of cabins, safari tents, and caravan or camping sites where you’ll be greeted by friendly wildlife. Spend your days traipsing through the region’s history and being dazzled by its natural beauty while enjoying popular bushwalking trails and cruises.

Victoria

Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes

Located less than two hours’ drive from Melbourne, Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes sits on the banks of the Goulburn River and is a great option for those planning to drive over from South Australia. The holiday park offers a range of accommodation options and has plenty of outdoor activities, including a jumping pillow, large pool and playground. It’s also close to wineries and the Goulburn Explorer River Cruiser, which is one of Victoria’s must-do experiences.

Waterfront villa at Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes Victoria.
Enjoy lake views from your waterfront villa at Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes, Victoria. Image: Discovery Parks
Big 4 NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park

Make the most of your Great Ocean Road journey by stopping over at the Big 4 Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park, set on the banks of the Hopkins River. Within walking distance of central Warrnambool and just three hours’ drive from Melbourne, local attractions include fishing spots, the Hopkins River Falls and Logan’s Beach viewing platform where you can spot whales during their migration season. There are recreational activities for all ages and plenty of accommodation options, including pet-friendly cabins and sites.