Six of the Best Hiking and Camping Spots in Australia

You’ve probably heard that Australia’s best hiking requires deep pockets and extensive planning, but that’s not entirely accurate. While some iconic trails can drain your wallet, you’ll find incredible camping and hiking experiences that won’t break your budget across the continent. From Tasmania’s wilderness to Western Australia’s ancient gorges, these six destinations prove you can explore Australia’s most stunning landscapes without spending a fortune. Here’s where you’ll get the most adventure for your dollar.

Key Points

• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair offers affordable wilderness access with the 65km Overland Track and budget camping at $13 per night.
• Blue Mountains provides world-class hiking two hours from Sydney, featuring Grand Canyon Track and free camping at designated sites.
• Grampians National Park delivers rugged sandstone adventures within three hours of Melbourne, with camping around $30 nightly near Halls Gap.
• Karijini National Park showcases ancient gorges and swimming pools in Western Australia, with camping at $13 per adult night.
• Flinders Ranges offers outback adventures 450km north of Adelaide, featuring Aboriginal rock art and affordable camping at Wilpena Pound.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania

Where else can you find ancient rainforests, glacial lakes, and rugged mountain peaks all within a day’s hike? Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park delivers this triple threat without breaking your budget.

You’ll pay just $16.50 per vehicle for park entry, making it one of Australia’s most affordable wilderness experiences.

The famous Overland Track spans 65 kilometers, but you don’t need to tackle the entire route. Day hikes like Dove Lake Circuit offer stunning views for beginners, while experienced hikers can summit Cradle Mountain itself.

Camping at Waterfall Valley costs $13 per person nightly. Book early—spots fill quickly during summer. Pack warm layers; temperatures drop unexpectedly even in warmer months.

The park’s shuttle service saves fuel costs and reduces environmental impact.

Beyond hiking, families can enjoy camping activities like stargazing, nature photography, and wildlife spotting that create lasting memories for all ages.

Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales

Just two hours west of Sydney, Blue Mountains National Park proves you don’t need to travel far for world-class hiking adventures. You’ll discover dramatic cliff formations, eucalyptus forests, and cascading waterfalls without breaking your budget on accommodation or fuel costs.

The Grand Canyon Track offers stunning views and takes about three hours to complete. You can tackle the challenging Six Foot Track for a multi-day adventure, or stick to shorter walks like the Prince Henry Cliff Walk for spectacular valley vistas.

Essential considerations for your visit:

• Free camping available at designated sites with basic facilities
• Pack layers – temperatures drop considerably at higher elevations
• Book accommodation early during peak seasons to secure budget-friendly options

You’ll find excellent value compared to international destinations. Bushwalking provides an authentic way to connect with Australia’s diverse natural landscapes and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Grampians National Park, Victoria

The rugged sandstone ranges of Grampians National Park deliver some of Victoria’s most rewarding hiking experiences, all within a three-hour drive from Melbourne.

You’ll find excellent camping at Halls Gap and Borough Huts campgrounds, both offering hot showers and basic facilities for around $30 per night.

The iconic Pinnacle Walk provides stunning valley views after a moderate 4.5km return hike, while MacKenzie Falls offers an easier 2km stroll to Victoria’s largest waterfall.

For experienced hikers, tackle the challenging Mount William summit trail.

You can stock up on supplies in nearby Halls Gap township, where budget-friendly cafes and grocery stores keep costs down.

Book campsites ahead during peak seasons.

To keep costs manageable, consider sourcing affordable camping gear before your trip to maximize your outdoor adventure budget.

Karijini National Park, Western Australia

Deep in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, Karijini National Park offers some of the country’s most spectacular gorge hiking, though you’ll need to budget for the 1,400km drive from Perth or consider flying into nearby Karratha.

You’ll find yourself scrambling through ancient red rock formations, swimming in emerald pools, and camping under star-filled skies. The park’s gorges like Dales, Fortescue Falls, and Weano offer varying difficulty levels from easy walks to challenging rock-hopping adventures.

Essential tips for your visit:

• Bring plenty of water – temperatures soar in summer, and shade’s limited
• Pack sturdy hiking boots – rocky terrain demands proper grip and ankle support
• Time your visit wisely – April to September offers the most comfortable weather conditions

Camping at Dales Campground costs around $13 per adult nightly, making it an affordable base for exploring. For those seeking enhanced comfort while maintaining mobility, lightweight tent trailers provide an excellent compromise between traditional camping and RV travel for exploring remote areas like Karijini.

Flinders Ranges National Park, South Australia

Ancient mountain ranges and dramatic landscapes await you in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges National Park, where rugged peaks rise from vast plains just 450km north of Adelaide.

Ancient peaks rise dramatically from endless plains in this rugged outback wilderness just hours from Adelaide.

You’ll find excellent hiking trails like the challenging Arkaba Walk and easier options around Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre that’s perfect for beginners.

Camping’s affordable at Wilpena Pound Resort’s campground, which offers powered sites, hot showers, and a general store.

You can also camp at Cooinda and Sliding Rock for a more remote experience.

Pack plenty of water since temperatures soar in summer – visit between April and October for comfortable hiking weather.

Don’t miss the Aboriginal rock art at Sacred Canyon and Arkaroo Rock.

Entry fees are reasonable, making this an accessible outback adventure that won’t break your budget.

If you’re planning water activities in nearby lakes or swimming spots, remember that proper mask defogging techniques will enhance your underwater visibility and safety.

Lamington National Park, Queensland

Forty-five million years of rainforest evolution have created Queensland’s Lamington National Park, where you’ll discover pristine wilderness just 90 minutes from Brisbane’s bustling streets. You’ll find yourself walking through ancient Gondwanan rainforest on well-maintained trails that suit every fitness level.

The Tree Top Canopy Walk offers breathtaking views without breaking your budget – it’s completely free. You’ll spot vibrant bird life, including bower birds and king parrots, while exploring the Border Track or West Canungra Creek circuits.

• O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat – Established camping areas with basic facilities and affordable cabin options
• Binna Burra Lodge – Budget-friendly camping sites near popular trailheads
• Green Mountains Section – Free bush camping permits available for experienced hikers

Pack layers since mountain weather changes quickly, and bring a reliable torch for early morning starts. For those seeking more challenging terrain, the US offers exceptional glacier climbing opportunities on some of the world’s most spectacular ice formations.

Sum Up

Ready to pack your bags without breaking the bank? You’ve got six incredible destinations that’ll satisfy your wanderlust while keeping your wallet happy. From Tasmania’s rugged peaks to Queensland’s rainforest trails, Australia’s national parks offer world-class hiking and camping at budget-friendly prices. Grab your gear, choose your adventure, and discover why you don’t need expensive resorts when nature provides the best accommodation under the stars.