20-Day Queensland Road Trip from Brisbane

Morning: Pick up your campervan and start your adventures with a culture trip to the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) for a mix of classic and contemporary art. Alternatively, stretch your legs with a wander around South Bank or a morning hike up to Mount Coot-Tha – check out the Brisbane Botanic Gardens whilst you’re in the area!

Afternoon: By late morning you’ll be ready to head to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to cuddle up to the koalas and see some iconic native wildlife. Alternatively, you can take the family down to the Gold Coast and spend the entire day at Australia Zoo or head to one of the theme parks for an epic start to your holiday!

Evening: Mingle with the town, you’ll find plenty of tasty food hotspots in Brisbane or around Surfers Paradise!

Where to stay: Bells Caravan Park, 39 Thompson Cres, Clontarf QLD 4019

Nestled on the Redcliffe Peninsula, Bells Caravan Park is a retreat from the hustle and bustle. It has all the standard amenities, a coin-operated laundry, beach access, powered sites, an on-site café/convenience store, and a dump point.

Tropic Dome at Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Set off towards the Sunshine Coast, starting with a visit to Bulcock Beach – which has a stunning coastal walk that leads you to Kings Beach. You’ll see views of the Pumicestone Passage and the Glass House Mountains along the way as well as some great views of Moreton Island and the Passage.

Afternoon: Visit the Queensland Air Museum for a Queensland culture trip, or continue the beach theme and spend your afternoon relaxing at Golden Beach! For a unique and relaxing experience, try paddleboarding. In general, the beach is great for all types of activities, including fishing, swimming, and surfing.

Evening: Your best dining experience will be found along the waterfront, with plenty of restaurants overlooking the ocean in Caloundra!

Where to stay: Golden Beach Holiday Park, 9 Onslow Street, Caloundra, QLD, 4551

With affordable powered sites, this is a great place to kick up your feet for the night. The park has a small kiosk,

Bulcock Beach, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Start the morning with a quick trip up the coast and, if your timing is right, you can stop by Noosa’s Sunday Farmers Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Whilst you’re out and about, a walk along the Noosa River foreshore is a good way to set the relaxed mood for the day.

Afternoon: One of the must-do activities whilst you’re here is a trip out to the Noosa Everglades (one of only two Everglade systems on Earth). You can hire a kayak that’ll take you through the mangroves – with the options being guided or self-guided if you prefer to go at your own pace. Otherwise, there are boat tours and on-foot adventures to be had!

Evening: Visit Gympie Terrace for an alfresco dinner by the river. Try Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant for fresh seafood.

Where to stay: Ingenia Holidays Noosa, 141 Cooroy Noosa Rd, Tewantin QLD 4565

Ingenia Holidays Noosa is only minutes away from Tewantin and Noosa Main Beach. It offers powered sites, an on-site café/convenience store, coin-operated laundry facilities, and a dump point.

Noosa Everglades, Tourism & Events Queensland

Day 4

Morning: Depart Noosaville early with a morning stop at Gympie for a coffee break and visit the historic Mary Valley Rattler station. If you’d like to live the life of luxury, you can sign yourself up for the Friday Silver Bullet High Tea Experience that departs at 10am!

Afternoon: Depending on how much time you spent exploring Gympie, you’ll arrive in Hervey Bay around mid-afternoon with time to explore the Esplanade, a 17km waterfront pathway dotted with parks, beaches, and cafes. If you’ve still got plenty of time up your sleeve, pay a visit the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery for a dose of local art and culture.

Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at Enzo’s on the Beach, with a relaxing beachfront atmosphere and live music.

Day 5

Morning: There’s plenty to do! Take a whale-watching tour (July to November) or a day trip to Fraser Island (K’gari). Discover Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, and make sure you don’t miss the Maheno Shipwreck if you opt for the island tour.

Afternoon: If you have some time left in the afternoon, go for a stroll through the Botanic Gardens and Orchid House. The natural bushes, formal gardens, and wetlands are waiting to be explored! If you’re keen for another swim, head down to Torquay Beach.

Evening: Check out the sunset from the Urangan Pier and have dinner at The Vinyard Wine Bar, known for its locally inspired dishes and curated wine list – or spare your wallet and head back to your campervan for an easy homecooked meal.

Where to stay: Big4 Hervey Bay Holiday Park, 1 Farrell Rd, Bulli QLD 2516

Located right next to Bulli Beach, this is a great place to kick up your feet. Bulli Beach Tourist Park offers powered sites, an on-site café/convenience store, coin-operated laundry facilities, and a dump point.

S.S. Maheno, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Bundaberg is only a short way away, so you’re free to sleep in this morning! When you’re ready, make the trip through the countryside and start with a tour of the Bundaberg Rum Distillery. The company is famous across Australia, so take a moment to learn about the history of the iconic brand and enjoy a tasting session.

Afternoon: Another must-see destination in Queensland is Mon Repos Turtle Centre (closed late Dec- late April), where you can spend the afternoon learning about the local turtle population (they even offer nightly turtle tours).

Evening: End the evening with a stroll along Bargara Beach and a tasty meal in your campervan.

Where to stay: Big4 Cane Village Holiday Park, 94 Twyford St, Avoca QLD 4670

Nestled amongst gardens, Cane Village Holiday Park offers powered sites as well as a saltwater pool, modern outdoor BBQ areas, standard amenities, and a dump point.

Mon Repos Turtle Centre, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: En route to Rockhampton, make a stop for coffee and snacks at the charming town of Agnes Water, with a quick walk to the Captain Cook Monument or the Paperbark Forest Walk.

Afternoon: Arrive in Rockhampton by early afternoon and visit the Botanic Gardens and Zoo, which offers free entry and is home to various native animals. Alternatively, if you’re keen on exploring, Mount Archer National Park is accessible via sealed roads and offers plenty of walking tracks, or the Capricorn Caves are a great destination for unique underground exploration.

Evening: After a busy day of adventuring, take a sunset stroll alongside the Rockhampton River and then make yourself a tasty meal in your camper.

Where to stay: Discovery Park Rockhampton, 394 Yaamba Rd, Norman Gardens QLD 4701

This affordable holiday park is located close to Mount Archer and everything you need to see around the Capricorn Coast! The park features powered sites, standard amenities, a swimming pool, a playground, a kiosk/store, a water park, and a dump point.

Capricorn Caves, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Drive over to Yeppoon, only a short 40-minute road trip, and start your day at Yeppoon Lagoon. This scenic oceanfront offers a swimming area with plenty of amenities – and it’s free to enter.

Afternoon: Visit the Capricorn Coast National Park for a short hike to Bluff Point Lookout, which offers some of the best views of the coastline, or set off across the ocean towards the nearby islands – like Pumpkin Island and North Keppel Island. For families, our top pick is Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary, which is only a short fifteen-minute drive out of Yeppoon.

Evening: There are plenty of restaurants if you’re keen to enjoy the tropical vibe of the town.

Where to stay: NRMA Capricorn Yeppoon Holiday Park, Wildin Way, Mulambin QLD 4703

Close to Keppel Island, this holiday park offers affordable powered sites, standard amenities, coin-operated laundry facilities, and a dump point.

Pumpkin Island, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: You’ll want to leave Yeppoon as early as you can with a full playlist at the ready since there isn’t a lot to see on this leg of the journey.

Afternoon: On arrival in Mackay, check out the Bluewater Lagoon, a family-friendly water park in the heart of the city and explore the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. For your chance to spot a wild platypus, you can take a scenic drive to Eungella National Park!

Evening: Either dine and relax by your camper or head out for a hearty meal at The Dispensary, a trendy bistro offering modern Australian cuisine.

Where to stay: Discovery Parks Mackay, 379 Harbour Road, Mackay, QLD 4740

With the Mackay Marina and CBD close by, this is a great place to kick back and relax. You’ll find a swimming pool, waterpark, mini golf, kiosk/store, dump point, and seasonal activities at Discovery Parks Mackay.

Bluewater Lagoon, Tourism & Events Queensland/Brooke Miles

Day 10

Morning: Get ready for more adventures, because today you’re off to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays! Drive up the coast and take a short cruise or join a half-day sailing trip to explore some of the nearby islands.

Afternoon: You likely won’t be back on land until late afternoon, so if you’re keen to swim some more or relax you can wind down at the Airlie Beach Lagoon, a man-made swimming area perfect for all ages.

Evening: Stroll along the lively main street and have dinner amongst the crowds. Airlie Beach is known for its fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

Day 11

Morning: There’s plenty more to see, so pack plenty of snacks and water because it’s time for a full-day trip to the Whitsundays, including Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet if you haven’t seen them yet! Spend the day swimming, snorkelling, and exploring some of the area’s most iconic locations.

Afternoon: Continue your Whitsundays adventures with a packed lunch to keep you going, or return to Airlie Beach for a leisurely lunch and relax around the town.

Evening: End the day with sunset drinks at Coral Sea Marina, followed by dinner at The Deck, featuring waterfront views and local flavours.

Where to stay: NRMA Airlie Beach, 234 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale, QLD 4802

With a resort-style swimming pool and all the standard necessities, NRMA Airlie Beach is an uncomplicated holiday park to stay at!

Whitehaven Beach, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Depart Airlie Beach early and enjoy the scenic drive to Townsville. On arrival, visit The Strand first, which is a picturesque waterfront promenade best for wandering and swimming.

Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at Reef HQ Aquarium, home to the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium, and learn about the Great Barrier Reef’s incredible ecosystem. Alternatively, head out to Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park to stretch your legs.

Evening: Take a stroll along the waterfront as the city lights come alive and head back to your camper for a homecooked meal.

Where to stay: Big4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville, 234 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale, QLD 4802

Set amongst palm trees, Big4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville has everything you need for a tropical getaway! You’ll find all your standard amenities, swimming pool, splash park, waterslides, mini-golf, and so much more!

Cape Pallarenda Mountain, Tourism & Events Queensland

Cairns (Day 13)

Morning: Depart early for Cairns with a stop by Mission Beach for a swim and photography opportunity. If you have extra time up your sleeve, we absolutely recommend spending a full day in the area.

Afternoon: You’ll arrive in the city around lunchtime or late afternoon depending on your schedule for the day. To make life easy, start by settling into your holiday park before you jump straight into exploring the city. One of your first destinations has to be the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and Boardwalk.

Evening: Treat yourself at the Salt House, a waterfront restaurant with views of the marina and a menu highlighting fresh local seafood.

Cairns (Day 14)

Morning: There’s no shortage of things to do in Cairns! If you didn’t see it already in Townsville, your best option is to set off on a full-day tour of the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or dive among coral reefs and marine life, or enjoy the views as a spectator on a glass-bottom boat.

If the Great Barrier Reef isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to see in the area! Head out to Kuranda for an afternoon of exploration, check out Babinda Boulders, and discover so much more!

Afternoon: Continue your adventures. If you’re not out at the Great Barrier Reef, aim to return to Cairns in the late afternoon and visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens, renowned for its tropical plant displays before wrapping up the day with a relaxing swim or meal.

Evening: Dine out with the locals or save your budget with a homecooked meal.

Where to stay: NRMA Cairns Holiday Park, 12-30 Little St, Manunda QLD 4870

Close to everything, Cairns Holiday park offers powered sites, a swimming pool, kiosk, a dump point, and seasonal holiday activities.

Great Barrier Reef, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Pack a lunch and head off towards Undara National Park, known for its ancient lava tubes and unique volcanic landscapes. Spend the day with a guided tour and learn all about the area’s geological history as well as the role it played in shaping the landscape.

Afternoon: Continue your explorations of the park freely!

Evening: Plan to camp in the area, making sure you cast your eye to the sky once the sun goes down. You’re in the outback, and the stars here are some of the best in Australia.

Where to stay: Discovery Resorts Undara, 1 Farrell Rd, Bulli QLD 2516

Located right next to Bulli Beach, this is a great place to kick up your feet. Bulli Beach Tourist Park offers powered sites, an on-site café/convenience store, coin-operated laundry facilities, and a dump point.

Undara National Park, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Start the day early with a Queensland road trip to Charters Towers! This historic gold rush town has plenty of hidden secrets – and plenty of bison. Visit the Towers Hill Lookout for panoramic views and a glimpse into the town’s mining past.

Afternoon: Explore the Stock Exchange Arcade, a heritage-listed building, and put on your learning cap as you head over to the Miner’s Cottage for an afternoon discovering the area’s gold mining history.

Evening: Dine in the comfort of your camper or enjoy a hearty meal at the Royal Private Hotel, a charming, historic pub with a welcoming atmosphere.

Where to stay: Big4 Aussie Outback Oasis Holiday Park, 76 Dr George Ellis Dr, Richmond Hill QLD 4820

Close to the town, this holiday park offers powered sites, standard amenities, a swimming pool, a playground, and a convenience store/kiosk.

Texas Longhorn in Charters Towers, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: You know the deal by now! Pack your lunch and enjoy a morning hike out at Blackwood National Park, taking in the rugged landscapes and spotting native wildlife. The park has some striking granite boulders and open woodlands, so plenty of photography opportunities.

Afternoon: You’ll arrive in Emerald by late afternoon (depending on when you left Blackwood National Park). Wrap the day up with a trip to the Big Easel, which features a replica of Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers”.

Evening: Drop by the shops and stock up for the last few days of your trip before making a homecooked meal in your camper.

Where to stay: Emerald Tourist Park, 43 Roberts St, Emerald Qld 4720

This family-owned tourist park is known for its friendliness! You’ll find a down-to-earth camping experience, with powered sites, standard facilities, and an onsite fish and chip shop called the Yabby Trap. They even set up a bonfire every night from May to September so you can get out and meet people!

The Big Easel, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Explore the Emerald Botanic Gardens or visit Lake Maraboon for water activities like kayaking or fishing then drive to Cania Gorge. Begin with a trip out to the Dripping Rock and The Overhang walking trails. These dramatic sandstone cliffs are surrounded by great scenery, so bring a camera!

Afternoon: Continue exploring, keeping an eye out for wildlife, such as wallabies and colourful birds, as you make your way over to the Big Foot Art site for a glimpse at the ancient Aboriginal artwork.

Evening: Camp overnight in the park’s serene bushland surroundings for a real back-to-nature vibe.

Where to stay: Cania Gorge Tourist Retreat, 1 Farrell Rd, Bulli QLD 2516

There’s another Big4 Holiday Park nearby, but if you’re keen to live off the grid and reconnect with nature this is the way to go! Cania Gorge Tourist Retreat has unpowered campsites and direct access to all the walks in the park. It’s also a rare cheap camping experience that still offers modern amenities such as toilet and shower facilities!

Cania Gorge, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: The majority of your morning will be spent driving to Toowoomba, known as the Garden City. If you’re visiting in spring you might just be in time for the Garden Festival!

Afternoon: Depending on how early you departed, you’ll arrive in Toowoomba by mid-late afternoon with enough time to explore the Toowoomba Japanese Garden, which is a unique space to explore and unwind. Visit Queens Park to see flowers in bloom and the nearby Cobb+Co Museum to learn about the region’s history and heritage.

Evening: Enjoy the final night of your Queensland road trip with dinner at Piccolo Papa, a popular spot for wood-fired pizza and Italian cuisine.

Where to stay: Jolly Swagman Accommodation Park, 47 Kitchener St, East Toowoomba QLD

With incredibly friendly staff, this back-to-basics park offers powered sites, standard amenities, free WiFi, and a dump point.

Toowoomba, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Return to Brisbane to drop off your campervan. If time allows, have an extra special breakfast at a local café, such as King Arthur Café in New Farm.

Afternoon: Complete your campervan rental return and prepare for your next journey or flight home.