The best pets off leash campgrounds 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% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Canberra

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% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Canberra

1. Bahwidgee on Tumut River

97%

(2260)

82km from Canberra · 177 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located on the stunning Tumut River, where River Red gums are scattered though out the camp,offering shade, privacy, and comfort. Here you have clear Snowy River water at your doorstep. It's so fresh we drink it! Each camping site is by the river, prime position for fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Based on availability, you are welcome to choose your spot on arrival. All options are grassed and level. You will have access to pit toilets (3) otherwise, please BYO facilities. Small campfires are welcome in the fire pits provided, or BYO firepit (permitting there are no restrictions in place at the time). Firewood can be purchased at the time of booking. We’re pet-friendly! Please note, however, that we are a working farm with ongoing activities and resident animals, including livestock and farm dogs, so all pets must be kept under control at all times. Aggressive, disruptive, or potentially dangerous dogs of any type are not allowed — especially restricted breeds (e.g. Pit Bulls, Bull Mastiffs). Only friendly dogs are permitted, and we reserve the right to ask you to leave if your dog is deemed unsafe or aggressive upon arrival. If you have any doubts, please message us prior to booking. Also, please ensure kids are supervised at all times, particularly around the river. Lifejackets are recommended. During your time here, visit the local farm gates in Tumut, Batlow, Tumbarumba, and Adelong for their delicious high-country produce. There are also some beautiful swimming spots and walks to discover in the region, as well as good facilities in town, including the local swimming pool and shopping centre. Enjoy a local brew and bite to eat at the Tumut brewery. Bahwidgee is just 3km from the Tumut town centre - so close you could ride in, or even walk.

2. Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

98%

(653)

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

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.

3. MOUNTAIN VIEW RETREAT

100%

(167)

76km from Canberra · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

We are located a short drive from Tumut in the Snowy Mountains region. Pitch your tent or RV overlooking the gorgeous mountains. We are half a kilometre from the main road behind locked gates, and just 10 minutes from town for all your supply needs. There are plenty of scenic walks and fishing spots nearby, at camp you can enjoy complete privacy. There is a shower and toilet available which is separate from the main residence. There is also bar fridge, large chest freezer, jug, toaster, and microwave available, We are on tank water and can offer drinking water. We ask that you are conservative with your water use, and we encourage you to bring your own. Enjoy waking up to the tranquil sounds of wildlife of all sorts, (not having to hear any traffic being 500meters off the main road). plus the views of the kangaroos in the mornings is pleasant too! The campsite is accessible by 2WD and we can accommodate all types of camping vehicles. You will need to level your vehicle depending on which site you choose. Your pet is welcome to join you and can cool off in the dams we have available.

4. Pine Gums, via Goulburn.

97%

(288)

69km from Canberra · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Pine Gums is so close to everything but also feels a world away from everyone. From the time you pull in, to the time you leave, the experience at Pine Gums is peaceful, rewarding and one you will always cherish and remember. With so many people coming back time and time again, bringing friends and family, this really does speak for itself. This site was previously a pine forest and was harvested back in 2018. We are clearing some ground for grazing cattle while letting some regrowth come through for the wildlife. We have plenty of kangaroos, possums, wombats just to name a few and an abundance of birdlife. We have multiple options for campers. COMFORT CAMP Our comfort camp has an an undercover BBQ area with seating, a built-in fireplace and gas BBQ. There is also a proper flushing toilet and hot/cold shower, solar lighting and USB charging port. QUICK CAMPS We also have 5 Quick Camp spaces for those self-sufficient campers who want to get away from it all in a quiet neck-of-the-woods. You'll be surrounded by peace and quiet to pull up the van, pitch the tent or roll out the swag. At night, sit and listen to the sounds of silence as you glance up to the stars. This spot feels a world away but still has the convenience of being only 10 minutes off the Hume Hwy and only 20 minutes from Goulburn where you can get all your daily needs. There is plenty of firewood laying around the property for the campfire so bring your saw, cut some wood, and just enjoy. No firewood is to be taken off the property. Please always consider the next camper and leave some available and ready. Pet friendly! (Please always keep pets with you and away from the cattle/wildlife) 4x4 is recommended, especially if you are towing. FIRE RULES Please ensure you read the current Fire Ban and restriction information on the NSW Rural Fire Service here: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobans You are required to comply with local council and the NSW Rural Fire legislation, rules and requirements, and these change daily. Fire Bans are in place from 1 October to 31 March each year, at which time fires may only be small and used for cooking. When there is a Total Fire Ban, no fires are permitted.

5. Coots Creek Campground

99%

(361)

27km from Canberra · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

Beautiful 240acre cattle property for campers to enjoy the beauty of the land and its flora and fauna in a pieceful environment. Campers have enjoyed the easy accessibility, stunning sunset views and the peace and quiet of feeling like they are a million miles away from civilization. 2 Dams available for swimming. All sites in the Campground area are fenced and sited to give maximum privacy and safety from any fire threat, with plenty of room to place tents/vans/motorhomes for best viewing position. Campground Sites x 8 Beautiful private sites that feel like you are away from the rest of the world. Watch kangaroos, wallaroos and wedge tail eagles. Drive through comfort for large Caravans/RV. Toilets for your comfort nearby and potable water available for refill of tanks. Campfires are allowed unless there is a fireban. Why not hire a van if you have no equipment- they will set the van up on your site https://www.camplify.com.au/rv/caravan-rental-murrumbateman-nsw-viv-the-viscount/33909

6. The Hobby Sheep Farm

99%

(210)

70km from Canberra · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

EV Charging station available Type 2 plug (costs applicable). Come and pitch your tent or caravan in our hobby sheep farm. Plenty to do from fishing, bush walking or simply relaxing in and around the garden. There is access to drinking water and a toilet (no shower). I can offer friendly advice for activities around the area, or you're welcome to go out exploring yourself. The Shoalhaven River is a short 25 minute drive from the property, 25 minutes to Goulburn CBD for all your supply needs, and Canberra is 1 hour away. Enjoy the evenings warming your toes around the campfire as you gaze at the night sky. The area is peppered with many other quaint villages. Excellent overnight stop from the coast and the wine country. Please note that firewood is not available and there are no fires permitted October till April. Pets welcome.

7. Country Journey, Boxgrove farm

99%

(247)

61km from Canberra · 43 sites · Tents, RVs

With over 600 acres of Australian bush, our property is ideal for campers that want their own space. We are completely off-grid (no wifi to distract you) and we run off tank water (for this reason showers are only available for two hours in the evening). There are multiple camp sites on the property - some are close to hot showers and toilets, others are within a short walking distance. Some sites are perfect for our self sufficient campers who might want a nice private location and don't need access to amenities. There are two shared camp kitchen areas (with pizza ovens and bbqs). We have two amenities blocks with toilets and hot showers and two further compost toilets located at other sites. Campfires are permitted in designated areas (check with us when booking) and firewood can be added to your booking - we do require at least 24 hours notice if you want wood. There are lots of old-style games for the kids such as cricket, tennis, playground, bikes available, a swim in the dam and general country running around fun! Unfortunately we no longer have our flying fox, but there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy. We have some great bush walking areas where you might be lucky enough to see our resident wombats or our breeding pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles. The property dates back to the early 1900s and there are numerous historic buildings on the property. The earliest is a wooden slab hut that was built around the beginning of the 19th century - the Goulburn Penny Post newspaper, dated 3 December 1904 lines the walls of the hut. It also has a two shearing stand wooden shed built by Marcus Dawe in 1922. We try to make sure all of our guests have a great experience - so if you have any special requests reach out to us and have a chat!

8. Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

99%

(429)

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

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.

9. Stary Ponds

92%

(31)

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

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.

10. The Violet Farm

88%

(62)

78km from Canberra · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is located in Tumut Plains at a nursery that specialises in African Violets. Enjoy the serene landscape with uninterrupted views of nearby hills, whilst relaxing under the shade of an Elm tree. Wander through the established gardens or relax and watch the neighbouring cattle wander through their paddocks. The house on the property is 120 years old and was once a school that has now been converted. The property also has some of the most amazing sunsets on offer. We are only a few minutes by car from the beautiful township of Tumut where you can access the Tumut River and Blowering Dam for all your water activities. There is also a great brewery for food and drinks, a nearby by mountain bike park and we are not too far from Adelong Falls. The property is pet friendly but please ensure your pets are under control at all times. Campfires are welcome in the firepit provided, as long as there is no restrictions in place. We also have some firewood available.

11. Shepherds Rest

98%

(118)

46km from Canberra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

12. Miranda Springs Farm Stay

96%

(68)

19km from Canberra · 6 sites · RVs

Private and very easy to access caravan sites available just 20 minutes from Canberra City Centre and 10 mins to fuel, Aldi, takeaway etc. Plenty of room to turn around and sites are nice and level. Guests can enjoy our peaceful and scenic paddock away from it all. Plenty of wildlife to see, Birds, Kangaroos, Reptiles and Wallabies, the occasional Wombat and lovely easy walks. Try some yabbying in the nearby dam too if you like. We are just 7km from the Barton Highway and provide a very secure property that allows you to go off exploring with confidence. DOGS are permitted on LEAD only. Self contained vehicles. (toilet) required. Fires permitted when no fire ban, fire pits provided. Wood provided at cost on request.

13. Yass River seclusion

89%

(9)

39km from Canberra · 1 site · Tent, RV

200 acres of wild natural bushland on the Yass River. There's plenty of space for hiķing, with a long River frontage for fishing, canoeing, or fossicking. Old Chinese gold works near the site to inspect. A dam is available for swimming or catching yabbies. It is not safe to swim in the river due to flood wrack. There is plenty of wildlife particularly if you are into bird watching. Outside of the fire danger period you are welcome to build camp fires in the fireplace. Lots of native animals to see. There are 4 species of macropod, wombats, and 3 possum species. A bird watchers paradise. Bush walking. Close to cold climate wineries and horse riding. We can provide a driver for winery visits. Completely undeveloped so you will need to bring everything you need and take it away with you including toilet and waste. There is a dump site at Yass. You are welcome to collect the abundant fallen timber to burn in the fireplace when firebans are not in place. Only 4WD car access. Unsuitable for caravans. Dogs are welcome so long as they do not pass property boundaries. We have neighbours with sheep and cattle. You could also bring your horses we have trails and a small yard and attached shelter.

14. Nova Satus Tarago

100%

(6)

57km from Canberra · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape to Nature at Our 104 Acre Farmstay! Discover the perfect spot for camping on our beautiful 104-acre farm. Nestled amidst stunning natural surroundings, our property features two serene dams, picturesque walking trails, and a variety of birdlife that will delight any nature enthusiast. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, explore the grounds, or simply enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle, our farm offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. Come experience the tranquility of wide-open spaces and make memories under the stars!

15. Butmaroo Station

98%

(27)

40km from Canberra · 1 site · Tent, RV

Butmaroo Station is situated in its own sheltered picturesque valley with Butmaroo Creek running through the entire property with Tallaganda National Park on the southern boundary. Butmaroo is perfect for guests who love to connect to nature or just need a place to relax and unwind. It is an ideal venue for family get togethers, groups of friends, or a couple that wants a very special place to connect.

Camper favorites near Canberra

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Violet Farm

88%

(62)

78km from Canberra · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is located in Tumut Plains at a nursery that specialises in African Violets. Enjoy the serene landscape with uninterrupted views of nearby hills, whilst relaxing under the shade of an Elm tree. Wander through the established gardens or relax and watch the neighbouring cattle wander through their paddocks. The house on the property is 120 years old and was once a school that has now been converted. The property also has some of the most amazing sunsets on offer. We are only a few minutes by car from the beautiful township of Tumut where you can access the Tumut River and Blowering Dam for all your water activities. There is also a great brewery for food and drinks, a nearby by mountain bike park and we are not too far from Adelong Falls. The property is pet friendly but please ensure your pets are under control at all times. Campfires are welcome in the firepit provided, as long as there is no restrictions in place. We also have some firewood available.

Shepherds Rest

98%

(118)

46km from Canberra · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

Miranda Springs Farm Stay

96%

(68)

19km from Canberra · 6 sites · RVs

Private and very easy to access caravan sites available just 20 minutes from Canberra City Centre and 10 mins to fuel, Aldi, takeaway etc. Plenty of room to turn around and sites are nice and level. Guests can enjoy our peaceful and scenic paddock away from it all. Plenty of wildlife to see, Birds, Kangaroos, Reptiles and Wallabies, the occasional Wombat and lovely easy walks. Try some yabbying in the nearby dam too if you like. We are just 7km from the Barton Highway and provide a very secure property that allows you to go off exploring with confidence. DOGS are permitted on LEAD only. Self contained vehicles. (toilet) required. Fires permitted when no fire ban, fire pits provided. Wood provided at cost on request.

Yass River seclusion

89%

(9)

39km from Canberra · 1 site · Tent, RV

200 acres of wild natural bushland on the Yass River. There's plenty of space for hiķing, with a long River frontage for fishing, canoeing, or fossicking. Old Chinese gold works near the site to inspect. A dam is available for swimming or catching yabbies. It is not safe to swim in the river due to flood wrack. There is plenty of wildlife particularly if you are into bird watching. Outside of the fire danger period you are welcome to build camp fires in the fireplace. Lots of native animals to see. There are 4 species of macropod, wombats, and 3 possum species. A bird watchers paradise. Bush walking. Close to cold climate wineries and horse riding. We can provide a driver for winery visits. Completely undeveloped so you will need to bring everything you need and take it away with you including toilet and waste. There is a dump site at Yass. You are welcome to collect the abundant fallen timber to burn in the fireplace when firebans are not in place. Only 4WD car access. Unsuitable for caravans. Dogs are welcome so long as they do not pass property boundaries. We have neighbours with sheep and cattle. You could also bring your horses we have trails and a small yard and attached shelter.

Nova Satus Tarago

100%

(6)

57km from Canberra · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape to Nature at Our 104 Acre Farmstay! Discover the perfect spot for camping on our beautiful 104-acre farm. Nestled amidst stunning natural surroundings, our property features two serene dams, picturesque walking trails, and a variety of birdlife that will delight any nature enthusiast. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, explore the grounds, or simply enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle, our farm offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. Come experience the tranquility of wide-open spaces and make memories under the stars!

Butmaroo Station

98%

(27)

40km from Canberra · 1 site · Tent, RV

Butmaroo Station is situated in its own sheltered picturesque valley with Butmaroo Creek running through the entire property with Tallaganda National Park on the southern boundary. Butmaroo is perfect for guests who love to connect to nature or just need a place to relax and unwind. It is an ideal venue for family get togethers, groups of friends, or a couple that wants a very special place to connect.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Marc

2 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

We loved our stay by the river. The directions provided by the hosts were easy to follow and made our late arrival to the property stress free and seamless. The location by the river is beautiful and our puppy loved dipping his toes in the water! We will definitely be back!

D

Debbie

3 days ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

6 nights at Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

We stayed 6 nights and loved the peaceful campsite next to the river. We only ones there for majority of the time. Loved our meat pack especially the sausages. Saw an echidna up close. Thank you for sharing the farm

Hugo

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Yass River seclusion

We had an awesome stay by the river, was very secluded. We had a lot of rain, but even still it was an amazing camping spot. Nice big fire pit, with plenty of wood laying around. Will definitely be coming back in the future. I highly recommend this spot.

J

Juan

1 week ago

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

We loved camping along the river, just amazing. It us just perfect, we give it 5 stars.

D

Darren

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Country Journey, Boxgrove farm

Lovely property and very warm and welcoming hosts.

K

Kelli

1 week ago

3 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Jarabin on the Murrumbidgee

Great spot along the river. Nice and quiet with only three camp sites - being approx 100m apart. Was great to listen to the flowing river at night.

Helen

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

We had such a lovely quiet time. It was the perfect spot to try out camping for the first time as a family. The dog did zoomies around the camp site, the kids went “adventuring” in loops around the sites, and we relaxed and stoked the fire. Brilliant.

M

Maggie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Pine Gums, via Goulburn.

This campsite was private and amazing to stay at. The hearth was a treat to cook in, making an amazing beef stew. The gas grill was also convenient for breakfasts. Hot showers with a view of the valley and a flushing toilet made it a comfortable stay for everyone. Fantastic spot to stargaze in, made our annual meteor shower gazing trip a treat, even spotting two earth grazers!

A

Adrian

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Camping with cows right next to us and a river we could drink from, was great! ⛺️

P

Paul

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Coots Creek Campground

So quiet and peaceful. Easy to find. Great facilities.

S

Suraj

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Beautiful location and great for fishing and swimming 🏊.

K

Kim

2 weeks ago

29 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Miranda Springs Farm Stay

AMAZING!!! Beautiful property and great host, very accomodating! Wish our stay was longer. Thank you

J

Jade

3 weeks ago

12 m travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Miranda Springs Farm Stay

Nice and spacious, could be tidier as you drive through the property but it was quiet and served it's purpose. The sheep running around the camp were fun to watch.

I

Ingrid and Ben

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Yass River seclusion

Private site in untouched bushland! Nice to be near the river.

Lisa

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pine Gums, via Goulburn.

This was our second time staying at Pine Gums- such an easy stop on our way south. We absolutely love how private it is. Always recommend! We fossicked for more quartz too 💎

Geoff

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Great spot right on banks of Tumut River. Clean pit toilet, friendly cows, plenty of space and privacy. River was cold when we were there in December but still beautiful for a dip and crystal clear. A sign of a good hipcamp is if you would return or not and we will certainly be back.

D

Darren

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Pine Gums, via Goulburn.

Absolutely beautiful campsite. Private with amazing views and amenities!

G

Glenn

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Bahwidgee on Tumut River

Great little spot to camp. Right on the river and plenty of birdlife about. Was surrounded by cows at one time, a reminder that it is a working farm. Would return

D

Danica

December 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

Loved camping at this property! Camping spots were secluded with plenty of space to ourselves. Easy to find from the main road and lots to explore in the area including the local creek/river. Phil was very hospitable and ensured we had everything we needed for the night!

M

Monica

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scribbly Gum secluded bush camping

Great quiet location close to the river. Good shade and orivacy.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping 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.