Travel Guides
Top 5 Caravan Parks in Tasmania
Tasmania, the island state of Australia, is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the region owing to its rich natural ambiance, beautiful shores and beaches, wide range of activities, and an abundance of holiday parks. The place is known for its preserved natural environment which has been untouched by the progress of modernization. It is truly one of the few places on Earth where you can really escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
check out the top 5 caravan parks in Tasmania that you should visit at least once and get up close and personal with nature's pristine offerings cradled in this magnificent paradise.
Longford Riverside Caravan Park
Situated on the banks of the picturesque Macquarie River, the Longford Riverside Caravan Park is one of the best caravan parks in Tasmania (as reviewed by tourists and caravanners on various public forums). Apart from the well-designed layout of the place and the clean amenities, the first thing that would impress you is the friendly nature of the owners who are more than happy to assist you with anything. Their warm hospitality does make a lot of difference, especially to those who are trying out a caravan park for the first time. This place is great for kids also as they can indulge in various recreational activities, especially fishing. The small water body has lots of ducks wandering around the area and kids seem to enjoy this spectacle quite a lot. With dedicated caravan sites (78 powered sites, 18 river sites and 50 unpowered sites) and facilities, this is a must check out spot for caravanners. Make sure you add this place to your travel itinerary on your next caravan holiday. This is a pet friendly park but you need to make the necessary arrangements beforehand and comply with the specific guidelines that have been laid down by the management.
In the meanwhile, check out the video for a glimpse of what this amazing place has to offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MJvGCavLZs
Leisure Ville Holiday Centre
When it comes to caravan parks, not many are able to match up to the lifestyle and class provided by Leisure Ville Holiday Centre. This park, located in North-West Tasmania, offers more than just a holiday experience. Heated indoor pool, spa, games room, tennis / basketball court or playground and comfortable accommodation are just some of the luxuries that this place has to offer.
The park not only caters to families but also to couples as well as singles who wish to unwind themselves and spend some quality time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Very few places are able to deliver such privacy and comfort. The first thing that you would probably notice on visiting this park is the calm and peaceful ambiance that is enhanced by the presence of nature’s elements. The activities are also centred on exploring the natural beauty of this place.
Check out the video for a glimpse of what this amazing place has to offer. This is the best place to relax and get up close and personal with nature.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kk3ZtQ2P_78
Seven Mile Beach Cabin & Caravan Park
Being located just 15 minutes from Hobart CBD, the Seven Mile Beach Cabin & Caravan Park is amongst the most popular caravan parks in Tasmania. You can unwind yourself amidst the rich natural surrounding here. With the beach just a short walk away from the site, you can always head over to the waters for a refreshing dip.
Don’t forget to bring along your 4 legged companions to this park. This park is pet friendly and you won’t have to worry too much about managing them. Just make sure that you follow all the rules and regulations that have been laid down. The staff here is friendly and will gladly assist you in anything you want.
As far as campers and caravanners are concerned, the park has powered as well as unpowered sites that are suitable for erecting tents and for setting up caravans. There is nothing better than to camp out in the open and sleep under the stars with a light wind blowing throughout. Have you even sat around a camp fire before? If not, then you have certainly missed out on some of the most memorable experiences of your life. Enjoy these beautiful moments and much more at the Seven Mile Beach Cabin & Caravan Park.
Check out the video for a glimpse of what this amazing place has to offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNqSeRBtnz8
Captain Cook Caravan Park
Located in the heart of Adventure Bay, the Captain Cook Caravan Park is the best place to spend a relaxed time with your family and it also offers various attractions that Bruny Island is renowned for. From the Eco Boat Cruise to the scenic walking tracks at the National Park, everything here is award winning and has a special place in the hearts of those who visit this paradise.
The accommodation options include powered sites, unpowered sites, on-site caravans with annexes, cabins, and villas. Despite the presence of state of the art cabins, nothing beats staying in caravans and experiencing nature at its best. The elders in your family would definitely relate to the times when they used to sleep under the stars o their camping trips.
In terms of attractions, the entire area is abundant with marine life and wild life, so if you decide to explore the place, make sure you head over to the official spots. For those who prefer reading, the island has an amazing museum and a history centre where you get books that describe the rich history and culture that prevails here.
Check out the video for a glimpse of what this amazing place has to offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOF8tQg8Jrs
Big 4 Ulverstone Holiday Park
Located on the picturesque North West coast, the Big 4 Ulverstone Park is the ideal location to relax and spend quality time with the family. With activities such as fishing, golfing, exploring the wilderness, shopping, dining out and much more, one can never get bored of this place. Even though the place has various comfortable accommodation options like cabins, most visitors prefer the caravan parks that have powered as well as unpowered sites.
The caravan park might be a bit traditional in terms of the feel and ambiance, the facilities provided here are state of the art. This is an obvious expectation considering the fact that the Big 4 brand is the heart and soul of this caravan park. While staying at this holiday haven, you can check out local attractions like Minature Railway, Small Change Factory Outlet, Pindari Potato Factory, Goat Island Sanctuary, Legion Park, History Museum and Woodcraft Gallery.
For the foodie, this place has some amazing and mouth-watering sea-food that is served fresh (just the way it’s meant to be!). If you do not have a liking for sea-food, you can always visit the Chinese and Thai food outlets along with various others serving local cuisines. There is something for everyone here.
Check out the video for a glimpse of what this amazing place has to offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Out6zsx9vcU
4 Free Caravan Parks in Australia That Every Caravanner Looks Forward To Visit
Who doesn’t like free stuff? We all die for that free sample with our products or a free coupon. Even caravanners love the prospect of camping in a free caravan park. But just because the offerings are free of charge, doesn’t mean they need to compromise on quality. The key ingredient of a successful caravan park (despite being free) is to ensure that the basic standards are maintained. The higher the quality, the more prospects would be there to invite caravanners in the park.
The first thing that you need to know about free spots is that they would be located remotely and you would have to be self-sufficient in order to survive. The distant location of the site also means that there would be less crowd and you can enjoy a peaceful outing with your close ones. So make sure that you do your research and mark all free caravan parks in your map before starting your journey.
Here are 4 free caravan parks in Australia that every caravanner looks forward to visit.
Aire River
This is a free camping site located in the Otway National Park on the south coast of Victoria. The presence of the river adds a whole new experience to this remote place wherein you can enjoy activities like swimming, boating, fishing and surfing. The ground is easy enough to access and taking a caravan to the desired spot should not pose much difficulties.
Around 100 individual campsites can be accommodated in the entire area, which is divided into the eastern part and the western part (on the opposite sides of the river). However, the best spot lies on the eastern part towards the left as soon as you enter the gates. The reason behind this is that the eastern side has a better surface which allows tents and camps to be set up in a better manner. Moreover, this part offers better protection from weather and other natural elements.
Since the area is close to the beach, the best time of the year to visit this place is during the warm months of summer. The cool water of the river would be a refreshing change from the day’s heat and the stay would be rather pleasant compared to other times of the year.
Barkers Rocks
Barkers Rocks is an amazing escapade from the rush of the city and offers free camping for caravanners. It is located in the Yorke Peninsula on the south coast of South Australia. If you happen to be in the town of Minalton, then it should take you around 10 minutes to reach this place. Barkers Rocks is easily accessible and should not pose a problem while driving here with your caravan.
There are 5 individual camping spots in Barkers Rocks with the best spot being located towards the left of the entrance. Activities that may be done in this area include swimming and fishing. Since access to the beach is difficult from the campsite, you may not be able to launch any watercraft into the waters. But you can take a walk along the walking trail to Port Rickaby to enjoy the scenic location. The best time to visit this place is during the warm months.
Copeland Reserve
The Copeland Reserve is located east of the Copeland Tops State Forest in eastern New South Wales. It should take you only 10 minutes to reach this place if you are travelling from the town of Gloucester. The easiest way to reach this place is to take the Thunderbolts Way road for around 7km, after which you would have to make a left so that you come to the Scone Road.
There are over 100 individual camping spots in the area with the best spot being located towards the left of the entrance. An easy way to identify this spot is to head over to the trees. The vegetation in this place is abundant and offers good shade and protection. But even then, you can erect your caravan annexe for a personal space that has adequate privacy (not that you should necessarily need one in a place like this).
Don’t expect any water sports or activities to be present here. This is a place where you can get up close and personal with nature and try out games like football or volleyball. You can also bring along picnic tables for those who wish to enjoy card games or board games under the cool shade of the trees.
The best part about this free camping ground is that it can be visited all year round. So there is no specific time that can be identified as the best time to visit this place. The weather here is pleasant and the elevation is also appropriate. Moreover, the abundance of grass helps in erecting firm tents and establishing good camps.
Flat Rock
Flat Rock is a free camping ground located on the western fringe of the Great Dividing Range in eastern New South Wales. If you happen to be in or near Bathurst, then don’t forget to visit Flat Rock which is just under 20 minutes from the town. The camping ground is easy to access with the plots just off the main road. The road leading to the camping grounds is sealed and can be traversed by caravans and the towing vehicles.
The best part about this place is the presence of bins and established barbeque areas. Firewood is also available for sale so you don’t have to do a lot of hard work. Just get your stuff, start the fire and enjoy a delicious barbeque dinner or lunch with your family. But remember, you would be required to purchase a code from the local tourist bureau so that you may purchase firewood from the camping ground itself.
There are around 40 individual sites in this location with the best spot being located at the bottom of the hill near the river. This particular spot provides ample protection and is usually preferred by caravanners. The presence of the river allows ample opportunities to undertake adventure activities such as fishing, swimming and even hiking. This amazing camping location can be visited all year round so make sure to drop by if you are in the vicinity.
Caravanners Alert!
The place may be free but it does not mean that you can litter the place. Make sure you bring adequate supplies and resources as you may not get them at the camping site. Moreover, make sure that you clean up before you leave because the last thing that you would want is to leave behind a dirty trail of garbage. It would also be wise to check up on a free camping spot before going there as there might be legal restrictions regarding putting up camp in certain places. A little precaution and preparation can help you to have a great caravan holiday without incurring a lot of expenses.
Top 5 Caravan Parks in New South Wales
People in Australia often go on road trips with their family and friends. Now, you might have come across caravan parks that are scattered in the Queensland region. But there are parks in other states in the country. You should definitely check them out, if you can manage the trip and if you have adequate time on your hands.
Here are the top 5 Caravan Parks in New South Wales (Australia). Make sure that you include them in your map the next time you head out on your family caravan holiday.
NRMA Ocean Beach Resort and Holiday Park
This is one place that kids would absolutely fall in love with. Located in the Umina beach area on the central coast, this park has some of the most amazing water based activities for kids. But this does not mean that adults have to stay away from the fun. They can join in too. For those who simply want to relax and chill out with their friends, the heated resort pool and spa is the best place to be. The experience is truly exceptional and you can relax while your kids indulge in the activities at the Adventure Playground and other attractions. Just park your caravan at a dedicated site and you would be good to go.
Website: www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au
BIG4 North Star Holiday Resort
This holiday park is situated on the North Coast and has a 5 Star rating which indicates the quality of the services that one can get here. The place caters to children and ensures that they are supervised at all times. In order to keep them entertained, the place has an indoor play center known as Neptune’s Castle which is designed for kids and has adequate safety measures without compromising on the fun factor. Adults also get to indulge in the pleasures of life. They can visit the Seascape Leisure Centre which has facilities like gym, sauna, massage room, 25 m lap pool and other such services. This place is a must-visit location and you should definitely include it in your travel plan.
Website: www.northstar.com.au
BIG4 Dubbo Parklands Holiday Park
For a truly exceptional outback experience, head over to the Big4 Dubbo Parklands Holiday Park where you not only get to camp in your RV, but also get a free barbecue area, jumbo Jumping Pillows®, shaded heated swimming pool and children’s playground. For those who love to watch TV, the recreation room in this park has a large screen television which has access to Australian sports channels. You could also visit the nearby Taronga Western Plains Zoo, which happens to be one of the largest open range zoos in the world. This is within walking / cycling distance from the park, so don’t miss out on this amazing adventure on your next trip to NSW.
Website: www.aspenparks.com.au
NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Park
This is another chilled out Holiday Park in NSW which also caters to caravans. Apart from the usual kid’s playground, there is a sand volleyball court where you have enjoy a good and energetic game of volleyball with family and friends. The park as an onsite café called the Cheeky Mango Café where you can always drop in for a cup of hot coffee and some delicious cake. If you have enough time on your hands, then you could also visit the nearby beaches and the Magic Mountain theme park.
Website: www.merimbulabeachholidaypark.com.au
BIG4 Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park
The BIG4 Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park is located in North Narrabeen and has access to the popular Northern Beaches. This is probably one of the biggest factors which attracts caravanners and travellers here. The place has the required facilities to accommodate caravans so you can drive in here and put up your own camp. You could also take up accommodation in any of the available slots. Apart from the playground and in-house waterpark, you can also avail the services of two laundries, all weather BBQ pavilions, and free wireless internet.
Website: sydneylakeside.com.au
7 Things That You Need to Keep Handy Before Going on Your Caravan Holiday
So you are planning for a caravan holiday. That’s great. But have you made all the preparations. By “all-the-preparations”, I mean the most important ones, because the actual list of preparations would be virtually endless. This post would become excessively lengthy if I were to describe each requirement. Moreover, people have differing requirements so specific items would be different. But there are common items that you should prepare well in advance so that you can have a hassle free holiday.
In order to ease things up a bit, here is a simplified list containing the 7 most important things that you need to keep handy before you venture out on your road trip.
1. Prepare Your Caravanning Kit
If you thought that your work was over after furnishing the interiors of the caravan, then you are highly mistaken. You need to prepare a caravan kit comprising the essentials that are required to ensure that the caravan functions properly throughout the trip. Common things that you would need in the kit include caravan step, fresh water container, electric hook-up led, waste water container, caravan leisure battery, smoke alarm, fire extinguisher and levelling blocks.
2. Install a Caravan Awning / Annexe
It is impossible to imagine a caravan holiday without the comfort of an awning or annexe. Just think about the amazing times that you can spend on your trip where you only have to erect the awning and enjoy the company of your loved ones and friends under the cool shade. The annexe or a full awning would also give you your very own personal space so that you may enjoy some privacy and the comforts of your home even during a road trip. So don’t forget to install the best awning or annexe for your needs. You can always check out our amazing collection of best caravan awnings that on AWA website. If you are not able to find one that suits you, then send in your query and the guys at AWA will come up with a custom solution just for you.
3. Create an Itinerary
Always create an itinerary, even if you are familiar with the region. The best part about road trips and caravan holidays is that you get to explore the roadways and the connected networks that join various places. You never know what place might fall along your way. So check up all the cool places and make sure that they fall on your path so that you may avoid excessive detours and save fuel in the process. You can even check out some new places and add them to your itinerary.
4. Pack Appropriate Clothing
This is not a reference to formal attire or casual wear. Appropriate clothes is a reference to clothes that are in accordance with the weather. Check up on the weather forecasts for the region that you wish to visit and plan your clothes accordingly. After all, you would not want to end up wearing summer clothes during cold weather.
5. Bring Along Proper Bedding
If there is one thing that is precious to every traveller, then it would be proper sleep. Everyone knows that it is difficult to get a cosy and snug bed during trips. But if you have caravans with annexes or full awnings, then you are bringing along a piece of your home with you. In such cases, you can bring along mattresses, blankets, pillows and bedsheets. For those who want to camp out in the open, you should bring along sleeping bags and enjoy a nice sleep under the starry sky while lying on the soft ground. Sleep doesn’t get more rustic than this.
6. Food and Cookware are Absolute Must-Haves
Food and cookware need to be brought along on the trip unless you are making the mistake of relying on outdoor restaurants and diners for food. Canned food may be considered but there is something special about cooking up a one-pot recipe out in the open and enjoying some finger food by roasting it over the open fire. There is only so much canned food that people can bear with. So bring along portable cookware and pack enough food supplies to last the duration of your journey. Make sure that the supplies are fresh and are not spoilt easily. You could always stock up on the way if you find retail stores.
7. Don’t Miss Out on Toiletries and First Aid Kits
Hygiene and health are the two most important things to take care of during such road trips. You should always bring along your toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, toilet papers, washcloth, towel, sandals for showering, shaving cream, and nail clippers. For first aid kits, you need to include the standard components, any specific medications that you may have been prescribed by your doctor and a list of emergency health centers on your route so that someone can contact them for assistance in the case of emergency.
Image Credit: lovebungay.co.uk
Cheap Caravan Holidays With Fishing Lakes In Australia
Who doesn’t like to spend an afternoon just chilling away in a small boat and waiting for the fishes to take your bait? Fishing is one of the pleasures that everyone enjoys. And there is nothing better than finding yourself a nice fishing spot on your caravan holiday. Australia has some of the most visually appealing places with lakes where you can participate in fishing. You can even put up a bench towards the shore and put in your bait, if you do not have boat available for use.
You can also prepare well in advance by installing awnings and caravan annexes so that you have a portable yet ready personal space wherever you park your motorhome, caravan and other RVs. This is probably the cheapest option for budget travellers as they can park up in a good spot in the caravan parks and resorts and use their annexes for putting up an instant personal space with the comforts of home.
Caravan parks can be slightly heavy on your pocket, but if you a budget traveller, then you should find out cheap caravan holiday plans which include fishing lakes. Now, checkout some great affordable places that should help you get started. In my first post, I have shared about top 4 locations for caravans trips in Australia.
Lake Monduran Holiday Park
For those who love caravanning and enjoy fishing for big Barramundi, then Lake Monduran Holiday Park is the place to be. Nothing can be more enticing than the pure beauty of nature coupled with the majestic view of the lake. Situation just 4 km away from the Bruce Highway, the park offers some of the best and affordable accommodation options to suit the needs of every traveller.
You can even bring your pets along as this park has camping sites and caravan spots that are completely pet friendly. Now you do not need to leave behind any member of the family on your adventure trips. While here, you can also enjoy boating and kayaking in an environment that is safe for families.
The park also hosts various fishing competitions throughout the year so you can head over at the right time and join the competition. Make sure you brush up you skills before coming so that you get a leg up in the competition.
Whyalla Foreshore
The Whyalla Foreshore is definitely an adventure hotspot that should not be missed. The park is in close vicinity of beaches that are family friendly, popular regional attractions and some of the best fishing spots in Australia. There are spacious lawns and open areas that are ideal for camping as well as putting up tents to enjoy nature’s comfort at its best. If you prefer a bit more privacy, then you can always opt for cabins that are self-contained and have the basic amenities that one desires.
Whyalla Foreshore is a great way to experience a blast from the past with historic streets, rugged shipwrecked coasts, and other reminisces. The place offers some amazing delights for the younger guests with facilities such as the jumping pillow, children’s playground, special bathroom for kids, and a dedicated camp kitchen where you can cook up the catch of the day.
What’s better than getting a big catch on your family fishing adventure and then cooking it up at the camp? Don’t worry about the budget, this place has a wide range of options to suit the needs of the affluent as well as the budget traveller.
Lake Somerset Holiday Park
Being located in the Queensland’s Valley of the Lakes, the Lake Somerset Holiday Park is spread over 45 hectares with cabin and camping facilities being offered just next to the edge of the lake. What could get better than this? A pristine environment with the tranquillity of the lake is just what is needed to make your great Australian escapade even more memorable. The park is the best hangout spot for water sports enthusiasts, freshwater anglers and just about anyone who loves to spend time enjoying nature’s beauty.
The water in the vicinity of the Somerset Dam hosts a range of fishing delights. Just head over to this place with your families for the perfect fishing holiday. With the cabins and camping areas located nearby, you can always cook your catch and enjoy a sumptuous meal with your family. Those who are not much into fishing can always participate in water-skiing, wakeboarding, fly boarding, sailing, kayaking and canoeing.
The best part about this place is the affordability of the accommodation and the range of services that make it one of the most enjoyable and sought after destinations by caravanners in Australia.
These places should give you a head start on your caravan holiday adventure. You can always ask around to find out more destinations and places. With a little research, you can also grab excellent deals on accommodation and services.
So where are you going for your caravan holiday and fishing adventure?
Top 4 Locations for Caravans Trips in Australia
Australia has some of the most mesmerising and visually appealing places on Earth, right from waterfronts to laid back lush green parks. These picturesque spots make them ideal for camping. Read on to explore some of these fantastic Australia caravan trip destinations.
Great Ocean Road Tourist Park
The Great Ocean Road Tourist Park has been credited as one of the best caravan parks of the country and thus one of the best venues for your caravan trips in Australia. Situated on the banks of the Curdies River inlet, the Great Ocean Road caravan park is known for surf fishing, cray fishing and diving. The sandy beaches and the perfect setting of the water body make it the best spot for swimmers of all age groups. It is the ultimate combination of the tranquil and adrenalin driven activities, and that makes it a must-check-out-spot.
The Caravan Trip Tip: The Park has excellent facilities for accommodating regular visitors as well as those who show up on caravans. It is advised to park your trailer at just the right spot so you could get functional space without getting crammed up camping the Great Ocean Road.
Ayers Rock Campground
This magnificent camping ground is located within the Ayers Rock Resort where you can put up your tent in the lush green grass laden fields under the cool shades of the desert oaks that are native to this place. If you need air-conditioned rooms, electricity enabled sites and place for caravan parking, then Ayers Rock caravan park is the ultimate place to be. There is a wide range of facilities for ensuring that the guests can enjoy the outdoors to the fullest.
The Caravan Trip Tip: This is a well-equipped camping ground with modern amenities and every comfort that you could ever want. The cleanliness in this area is fantastic, and the management takes great care to present the pristine nature to its guests. Make sure your caravan is equipped with the necessities so that you are not dependant on the park for basic needs. Also, an annexe would give you a larger area for extending your usable space.
Coconut Holiday Resort
If you love palms, rainforest areas and nature’s untouched beauty, Coconut Caravan Resort is your perfect destination for your caravan trips. Situated on the southern entrance to Cairns, this place is a haven for nature lovers and vacationers. The Coconut caravan park has a wide range of services for caravans as well as regular guests who are treated to luxurious accommodations including Sun Lagoon Condos (for those who love to indulge in the pleasures of the good life), Spa Villas and Tropical Ensuite Cabins (for the budget traveller). While here, don’t forget to check out the water adventures and the multitude of activities that are designed to keep the visitors engrossed.
The Caravan Trip Tip: This is a nature lover’s paradise. You can park up at any caravan site at the resort and join in the activities. While there are residential accommodations as well, the feeling that one gets while sleeping and spending time in nature’s lap is something to die for. So park up your caravan and get introduced to some of nature’s best offerings in this green paradise.
Adelaide Shores
One of the best caravan parks in Adelaide, The Adelaide Shores Resort is well known for its RV resort where visitors come in their RVs and camp in the place to enjoy some of the most exquisite offerings that the site has to offer. The caravan park is a dedicated space for such RVs, and it has all the required amenities that could be required for ensuring the comfort of the guests. If you love golf, then you can spend a day relaxing while playing the game with your friends and close ones. You can always take a boat ride or enjoy the fresh waters around the shores to get a break from the heat. This place has everything, even for the most demanding visitor.
The Caravan Trip Tip: You have ample space for parking your caravan at the Adelaide Shores caravan park. Awnings are great for this site as you will need shade from the sun, and it gives you a place to rest while enjoying the site. After all, who doesn’t want to relax after a day of golf or exploring the shores?