The best family-friendly glamping near Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Canberra’s museums, galleries, and national monuments offer plenty of culture, but the city’s best asset is its natural setting. Hemmed in by sloping peaks and nature reserves, here outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy bushwalking, cycling, and wildlife trails, or head to Lake Burley Griffin to sail, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard with views of Parliament House. Campers have a wide range of options, whether parking your campervan or caravan on the outskirts of the city centre, or sleeping out in swags beneath the stars.

97% (978)

Top-rated campgrounds

Canberra’s museums, galleries, and national monuments offer plenty of culture, but the city’s best asset is its natural setting. Hemmed in by sloping peaks and nature reserves, here outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy bushwalking, cycling, and wildlife trails, or head to Lake Burley Griffin to sail, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard with views of Parliament House. Campers have a wide range of options, whether parking your campervan or caravan on the outskirts of the city centre, or sleeping out in swags beneath the stars.

97% (978)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

98%

(645)

76km from Canberra · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Northangera, NSW

This property is in Northangera with the Mongarlowe River running along the boundary. It's covered in trees and provides a pristine environment amongst the "Scribbly Gums". It has flat areas with plenty of free timber for the designated fire pits. I have tried to create a haven for wildlife including Kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and platypus. I cherish the cleanliness of the river and surrounds and wish to be able to share this special environment with others who care to preserve all it offers. You can explore the property along the tracks, paddle, swim or fish in the river, enjoy the fauna, wildlife and birdlife. Located not far from Braidwood, a town steeped in history, with good shopping, coffee shops and great food. Sloping to flat land amongst the Scribbly Gum trees offering a number of sites and walks through the property. It provides both sun and shade. Access is good for vans of any size along a track through the bushland. Lovely swimming spots in the Mongalowe River, beautiful clear water, and several lovely bushwalks around the property. There is only Telstra reception available in this area. We offer 7 different sites and the maximum stay is 7 nights.

2. Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

100%

(420)

70km from Canberra · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Berremangra, NSW

Follow us on Facebook and Insta - Jarabin.au Located along a 2km stretch of the Murrumbidgee River with a mountain backdrop, Riverview is a working Angus cattle farm, it does not get more breathtaking than this! Little over an hour from Canberra and three from Sydney, you can enjoy large campsites right on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Swimming, floating down rapids, fishing, bike riding, and hiking! So many activities to keep you entertained or just sit back and listen to the rapids from the front of your tent. We are pet friendly, bring your four-legged family members with you - they'll love it just as much as you! We also have secure yards with water for horses, with plenty of walking and riding trails on the farm, you'll have an unforgettable time! Please note, no mobile reception at sites. You will receive a notification 2 days before arrival with the gate code, please note this down as you will not be able to access the Hipcamp app on site (due to no mobile reception). All campers must be self-contained with their own camp toilet, and we kindly ask you take all waste with you when you leave.

3. Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art

99%

(147)

34km from Canberra · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Yass River, NSW

Once a much larger property, we purchased our 120-acre (50-hectare) in 1984 as a means to live sustainably and raise a family. Living in our shed whilst we prepared the garden, installed watering infrastructure, and built our house, which we finally moved into when our daughter was 6 months old in 1990. Over the ensuing years, we have continued to increase biodiversity on the property and set it up so we can live sustainably, harvesting our own water, electricity, and food. If you're lucky, you could get a hamper of our product when there is sufficient in season. With the increased biodiversity, you will find that in the mornings and evenings, kangaroos and wallabies will visit with the occasional echidna, rabbi,t and hare; and to forget the large array of bird life - that may wake you early in the morning with the songs. This campsite is set on lovely grassy open areas interspersed with gum trees. The sunrise looks spectacular near the dam, when the trees give off a lovely glow. The main paddock has a Geodome, a shared space for relaxing in. With all that space, you can park and set up camp anywhere in the paddock. There is access to drinking water, toilets, and a hot shower. Around the dome is a fire pit, drinking water, and a camp kitchen. The fire pit features an Argentinian BBQ and a plate for cooking. The kitchen has plates, cups, cutlery, and other bits and pieces for you to use. We also allow your pets to stay on-site; this includes horses. If you want exclusive use of the paddocks, refer to Group Bush Retreat.

4. Truffle Farm Camping

98%

(85)

77km from Canberra · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oallen, NSW

Our property is a working Truffle Farm, our land is fairly level but backs onto thousands of acres of Crown Land and the Shoalhaven River where you can relax in the fresh water, fossick for gold or enjoy bush trails. EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable). If you'd rather read a book, you'll find lots of peaceful spots and the nights are just unbelievable with all the stars that shine so brightly.

5. Shepherds Rest

99%

(115)

46km from Canberra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mount Fairy, NSW

Beautiful open views across rolling hills and paddocks. Sit by the dam and enjoy the views. Meet the goats, llama and chickens. Walk the farm paddocks with the goats. Mountain bike on country roads. Various sites to choose from. Only 45 mins from Canberra. 15mins from the quaint town of Bungendore.

6. The Yurtfarm

96%

(93)

78km from Canberra · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mummel, NSW

Situated between Goulburn and the rural village Crookwell is the Yurtfarm. Mike Shepherd has been running Back to Basics living camps here for more then 30 years and we now want to invite campers to our picturesque Yurt village. We can show kids what farm life is all about and how to make fun in the bush or you can just come and enjoy the peace and quiet. Apart from abundant wildlife we farm sheep and Scottish Highland cattle. We also have lots of horses and dogs and you can collect fresh eggs from our chickens. Take a stroll through our gardens, a hike to the Peace yurt and boil the Billy or learn about growing vegetables. We have toilets and a kitchen yurt for your convenience. We look forward to meeting you!

7. Stary Ponds

92%

(31)

77km from Canberra · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gundary, NSW

A peaceful space with lots of trees and waterways as well as an abundance of wildlife such as deer, kangaroo, black cockatoos, butterflies and so many gorgeous birds. The landscape is varied, with lots of options to explore. From hiking the mountainous steep terrains, to meandering through the many ponds and waterways, or discovering the cleared trails ready for a beautiful bush walk or ride through nature. The peace at night and the stars are unlike anything I've seen, absolutely breathtaking, and only 15 minutes from all the modern amenities you may need. We offer several camping sites, a cabin and a large teepee.

Camper favorites near Canberra

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Truffle Farm Camping

98%

(85)

77km from Canberra · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oallen, NSW

Our property is a working Truffle Farm, our land is fairly level but backs onto thousands of acres of Crown Land and the Shoalhaven River where you can relax in the fresh water, fossick for gold or enjoy bush trails. EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable). If you'd rather read a book, you'll find lots of peaceful spots and the nights are just unbelievable with all the stars that shine so brightly.

Shepherds Rest

99%

(115)

46km from Canberra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mount Fairy, NSW

Beautiful open views across rolling hills and paddocks. Sit by the dam and enjoy the views. Meet the goats, llama and chickens. Walk the farm paddocks with the goats. Mountain bike on country roads. Various sites to choose from. Only 45 mins from Canberra. 15mins from the quaint town of Bungendore.

The Yurtfarm

96%

(93)

78km from Canberra · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mummel, NSW

Situated between Goulburn and the rural village Crookwell is the Yurtfarm. Mike Shepherd has been running Back to Basics living camps here for more then 30 years and we now want to invite campers to our picturesque Yurt village. We can show kids what farm life is all about and how to make fun in the bush or you can just come and enjoy the peace and quiet. Apart from abundant wildlife we farm sheep and Scottish Highland cattle. We also have lots of horses and dogs and you can collect fresh eggs from our chickens. Take a stroll through our gardens, a hike to the Peace yurt and boil the Billy or learn about growing vegetables. We have toilets and a kitchen yurt for your convenience. We look forward to meeting you!

Stary Ponds

92%

(31)

77km from Canberra · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gundary, NSW

A peaceful space with lots of trees and waterways as well as an abundance of wildlife such as deer, kangaroo, black cockatoos, butterflies and so many gorgeous birds. The landscape is varied, with lots of options to explore. From hiking the mountainous steep terrains, to meandering through the many ponds and waterways, or discovering the cleared trails ready for a beautiful bush walk or ride through nature. The peace at night and the stars are unlike anything I've seen, absolutely breathtaking, and only 15 minutes from all the modern amenities you may need. We offer several camping sites, a cabin and a large teepee.

Stories from the community

Entrance to the shipping container listing on the left and the kitchen room to the right.

T

Tom

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Shepherds Rest

Lovely spot on a beautiful landscape; just the quiet escaped that we needed. The grass was nicely mown on arrival and enjoyed all the additional blankets to keep warm.

R

Randall

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

We had a magnificent weekend at the shack. so quiet, relaxing. A perfect bush refuge. the bird life was astounding and we were visited by the local platypus.

S

Simone

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Shepherds Rest

Great place to relax and watch the sunset! Comfortable and all amenities to hand. Jackie was a wonderful host and her animals were very friendly!

M

Mateusz

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Shepherds Rest

My partner and I loved it. It was easy to find and very cosy. Great facilities and a stunning sunset! Would definitely recommend.

C

Clive

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Stary Ponds

Very well located camping facility next to Goulburn. The designated area has some open grass for campfires and general activities, trees to explore and collect firewood from, and a small pond. Our 2-night stay gave us the chance to switch off from the city and immerse in the sounds of frogs and birds at night, while daytime was spent spotting the odd wallaby (and a feral deer) amongst the woods. It was also very nice for the hosts to put our 2 tents close to each other, since we came as 2 families and this allowed us to do all activities together instead of being on opposite ends of the property. Omar and Mya are very hospitable hosts and have excellent knowledge of their property to make a stay here a real treat!

Fold out lounge in annex area with fireplace and cabinet with crockery, cutlery, washup basin, gas cooker, kettle, fry pans, etc.

T

Tim

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Truffle Farm Camping

Beautifully maintained camping grounds and very nice setting. We camped, but also used the van as an ensuite/kitchen storage, which worked well. There's only a few camp sites which can be booked at the same time so there is a great amount of privacy and we could camp a long way away from other campers. Kids will love the farm animals, as ours did. Thanks Tricia for having us.

moira

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

The Shack provided us with the perfect long weekend retreat. Phil has set up the Shack with a cooker, chairs, table, comfortable beds and cooking utensils. The view to the river is beautiful and we enjoyed a refreshing swim and paddle board. We loved the indoor and outdoor fire - plenty of firewood provided! The best part - total peace and quiet! We didn’t see anyone else on the property! Thanks Phil - we would love to come back!

L

Lana

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at The Yurtfarm

My family of six loved staying at the teacher’s Yurt at Yurtvillage. While there was NO electricity or water - our yurt had mattresses, solar light, a kitchen and indoor fireplace to keep us warm on cold nights. We bought water from the supermarket. Mike gave us an amazing tour of his yurt farm and we loved immersing ourselves in nature. Being amongst the wildlife and farm animals on the property and meeting lovely hosts, Judith and Mike was a highlight. Certainly a weekend to remember which was fun, unique, relaxing and economical!

S

Sara

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Yurtfarm

I love everything about being at the yurt farm. Back to basics and so much fun for children.

C

Clare

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Shepherds Rest

Shepherd's Rest is a magic little spot. We stayed in the Barn Room and it was so comfortable and cozy... Not that we were in it much! The property and amenities are awesome, so much secure space for the kids to roam, a beautiful bathroom (love the bath) and gorgeous little kitchen. The animals are very curious and friendly (especially Squashy the llama!) and our dog got on really well with Jacqui's own sweet doggo. Jacqui was an exceptional host, so friendly, helpful and accommodating. We can't wait to plan our next trip back!

Charlie

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Yurtfarm

I've been going to the yurt farm since I was 4, I can say confidently it is still as fun as ever.

W

Winnie

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

We loved staying at the river shack - it has everything you need for a relaxing, off-grid holiday. The shack is well stocked with cooking supplies and firewood and the log burner kept us cosy during the cold nights. The view from the deck was lovely - we even saw 2 platypus! Would definitely recommend the shack!

Sonia

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

The most beautiful site on the river. So private, serene and relaxing. We were a bit worried about the cold (sub zero) but the shack is SO cosy with the fire. Well stocked with cooking gear, firewood and two drums of water (we still BYO drinking water). We were visited by a wombat and platypus! Perfect getaway for two couples and a dog.

F

Finley

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

My partner and I had the most relaxing weekend at Scribbly Gum. We can’t wait to come back in see it in all the seasons. Thanks Phil.

Z

Zairet

August 2025

1 night at Maddara.Organic.Farm.and.Art

The place is stunning! Very spacious, toilets and showers were in absolutely good conditions. Margot and her husband Mike welcomed us very warmly. They were checking on us for our arrival and even offered extra blankets for the cold night. I would recommend this place very much. Clear indications and feel welcomed is all we need to have lovely experience.

P

Palistha

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

We absolutely loved the river shack. Such a beautiful place to spend the weekend.

A

Andrew

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Yurtfarm

Mark and Judith are wonderful hosts - we can't recommend staying here more highly. They bent over backwards to help our kids get an experience they'll never forget. It's all part of the experience, but we'd suggest bringing warm bedding in winter, and some lamps.

O

Olive

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Stary Ponds

Beautiful camping spot! There was so much gorgeous bushland surrounding the camp site, it was incredibly beautiful and peaceful. Host was very gracious and helpful and the set up was gorgeous!

E

Erin

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

The shack was wonderful. Cozy fireplace, beautiful surrounds. Our kids loved it. We’ll be back

Vivek

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Shepherds Rest

Had a great time here with my partner. The animals were very cute, and Jacqui is super friendly 👌🏾

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Canberra guide

Where to go

Australian Alps

The Australian Alps roll out south of Canberra into New South Wales and Victoria. On the outskirts of the capital, the rocky peaks and bushlands of Namadgi and Brindabella national parks harbour rustic camping spots with alpine views and plenty of options for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Further south, the mountain resorts of Thredbo and Perisher are two of the country’s most popular ski areas

Wine Country

Just a half-hour drive north of the city, the green hills of Murrumbateman, Gundaroo, and Yass make up the Canberra wine region, where boutique wineries and cellar doors offer vineyard strolls and wine tasting. Some of Canberra’s best camping sites lie here, where you can pitch your tent in the hills, cool off with a dip in a natural swimming hole, then tuck into a BBQ around the campfire.

Canberra Nature Reserves

Canberra is encircled by nature reserves, where you can roam along woodland trails, swim in freshwater creeks, and spot wild kangaroos hopping through the bushlands. Popular getaways from the city include Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, just southwest of the city; Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve to the north; and Kowen Forest to the east.

When to go

Canberra’s distinct seasons mean that the city’s landscapes are ever changing—autumnal leaves blanket the hillsides with shades of red, orange, and gold, while the mountaintops are dusted with snow in winter. The best time for camping trips, bushwalking, and outdoor activities is from September through May, but the region is busiest in summer (December through February), when it’s best to book camping grounds in advance.

Know before you go

Public transport is limited between Canberra and the surrounding national parks and reserves, so you will need your own car. Some sites are only reachable by 4WD.
Camping sites in the ACT’s parks often have few amenities, so bring everything you need with you, including drinking water and firewood.
Fire bans are common in the ACT during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting your campfire.
A National Parks pass is required to visit, hike, or camp within Australia’s national parks.
Snakes are common around Canberra—keep your ankles covered if walking through tall grass and pack a first-aid kit when hiking or camping in bushland areas.

Nearby attractions

Located at the end of the Snowy Mountains Highway and surrounded by breathtaking views, Tantangara Dam is a great place to visit for hiking and water sports.