The best bell tent rentals near Brunswick Heads, New South Wales

At the mouth of the Brunswick River, the seaside village of Brunswick Heads is just 20 minutes drive north of Byron Bay, but it feels a world away. A much less frenetic version of Byron Bay, pretty Brunswick Heads—Bruns to the locals—has all the things that make Byron Bay so popular, like a beautiful surf beach, vegan cafes, hippy tarot card readers and a friendly pub with a shady beer garden, but without the traffic snarls and parking meters. Family friendly, the river has some good swimming spots ideal for little kids. An added bonus is that the three caravan parks are all riverside, and campsites are much more affordable because the celebrities and fashionistas haven’t discovered just how great this place is yet.Proudly boasting that it’s ‘the biggest little town in Australia’s Mullumbimby (locals call it Mullum), is just a 10-minute drive west of Brunswick Heads. Like nearby Nimbin, it’s a centre for counter culture, although a little less in your face. Full of lovely historic buildings, it makes for a great day trip from Brunswick Heads or Byron Bay. Attractions include the colourful Mullumbimby markets (every third Saturday) and the Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens, home to some of the tallest crystals in the world. (https://www.crystalcastle.com.au/) Part of the World Heritage Gondwana rainforest, Border Ranges National Park and the neighbouring ridges that flank the coast are part of ancient volcano. The Tweed Valley is the crater. You can explore it by car on the Tweed Scenic Drive that runs along the edge of the caldera. Highlights include rainforest walking tracks and spectacular lookouts, as well as some lovely rainforest campsites in the national parks. It’s almost impossible to resist the siren call of the shops and boho glitz of Byron Bay, which is only 16km south of Brunswick Heads. It's the place to go for shopping and fine dining or perhaps a spa treatment. Go for the day and enjoy the surf beaches, soak in the view from the Cape Byron lighthouse, and indulge in some people watching.Follow the coast road, rather than the Pacific Motorway, north from Brunswick Heads to Tweed Heads at the southern end of the Gold Coast and you’ll discover a string of sleepy little seaside communities such as Pottsville, Mooball Creek, Cabarita and Kingscliff, each with their own beachfront caravan park or camping ground.

91% (229)

Top-rated campgrounds

At the mouth of the Brunswick River, the seaside village of Brunswick Heads is just 20 minutes drive north of Byron Bay, but it feels a world away. A much less frenetic version of Byron Bay, pretty Brunswick Heads—Bruns to the locals—has all the things that make Byron Bay so popular, like a beautiful surf beach, vegan cafes, hippy tarot card readers and a friendly pub with a shady beer garden, but without the traffic snarls and parking meters. Family friendly, the river has some good swimming spots ideal for little kids. An added bonus is that the three caravan parks are all riverside, and campsites are much more affordable because the celebrities and fashionistas haven’t discovered just how great this place is yet.Proudly boasting that it’s ‘the biggest little town in Australia’s Mullumbimby (locals call it Mullum), is just a 10-minute drive west of Brunswick Heads. Like nearby Nimbin, it’s a centre for counter culture, although a little less in your face. Full of lovely historic buildings, it makes for a great day trip from Brunswick Heads or Byron Bay. Attractions include the colourful Mullumbimby markets (every third Saturday) and the Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens, home to some of the tallest crystals in the world. (https://www.crystalcastle.com.au/) Part of the World Heritage Gondwana rainforest, Border Ranges National Park and the neighbouring ridges that flank the coast are part of ancient volcano. The Tweed Valley is the crater. You can explore it by car on the Tweed Scenic Drive that runs along the edge of the caldera. Highlights include rainforest walking tracks and spectacular lookouts, as well as some lovely rainforest campsites in the national parks. It’s almost impossible to resist the siren call of the shops and boho glitz of Byron Bay, which is only 16km south of Brunswick Heads. It's the place to go for shopping and fine dining or perhaps a spa treatment. Go for the day and enjoy the surf beaches, soak in the view from the Cape Byron lighthouse, and indulge in some people watching.Follow the coast road, rather than the Pacific Motorway, north from Brunswick Heads to Tweed Heads at the southern end of the Gold Coast and you’ll discover a string of sleepy little seaside communities such as Pottsville, Mooball Creek, Cabarita and Kingscliff, each with their own beachfront caravan park or camping ground.

91% (229)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

94%

(286)

15km from Brunswick Heads · 214 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Byron Bay, NSW

This northern New South Wales hotspot needs no introduction. Byron Bay attracts some two million visitors to its sandy shores each year. To see what makes this beach holiday destination so alluring, stay amongst Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay’s 28 acres of parklands which fronts onto the famous Tallow Beach. Whether you like to caravan, camp, or stay in a cabin, there is a range of accommodation options at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay to suit any holiday style.

2. Petaurus Gardens

96%

(36)

73km from Brunswick Heads · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bungawalbin, NSW

Set Amongst 100 acers of abundant native fauna and flora including riparian rainforest and semi-mesic open grass forest dominated by large Forest Red Gums with a series of freshwater lagoons spread across the property and bordered by the Bungawalbin Creek on the west and private conservation land on the north and east. This property is the essence of tranquil Australian camping, set up from the beginning to be completely off grid this property offers a true escape from a busy life. Listen to native bird calls and enjoy a scenic trek along one of our many walking trails, perfect for birdwatchers or nature enthusiast alike. Our unique location enables us to offer a wide range of eco minded activities from hiking in the nearby Bungawalbin National Park to water activities along the Bungawalbin creek. We are conveniently located only 20 mins from the M1 motorway, with many of the North Coast great attractions only being a short drive from us, including: Evans head 20min. Lismore 30min. Byron bay 40min. Gold Coast 1.5 hr Petaurus Gardens offers a mix of sites, from glamping tents ready to go for a magical stay to unpowered sites for camping or vans or try one of our forest camp sites set by the creek amongst tall Red Gums. PLEASE NOTE ROAD WORKS, DRAINAGE WORKS AND PATH RAISING WORK IS CURRENTLY UNDERWAY TO IMPROVE ACCESS, PLEASE DRIVE SLOWLY ON ARRIVAL, SOME SITE PARKING MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE.

3. Wildland Homestead

73%

(11)

28km from Brunswick Heads · 4 sites · Lodging · Tuntable Creek, NSW

Welcome to the Wildland Homestead. Our off-grid organic family farm. We have a campsite on our self sufficient permaculture property. Our glamping bell tent setup is separately & privately down by the creek. Our property is situated 15mins from Nimbin, 20mins from the Nightcap National Park and Protesters Falls, 25mins from Lismore and 45mins from Byron Bay. We hope you respect the land and keep it clean. Thank you.

4. Figtree Camping & Glamping

100%

(10)

54km from Brunswick Heads · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · West Wiangaree, NSW

Figtree Camping &Glamping is set on an operation cattle farm sprawling the banks of the Richmond River in Kyogle, Northern NSW. The nature here at Figtree is incredible, we have a large array of native flora and fauna. Figtree Camping & Glamping offers 3 sites from self-contained sites where you can camp with all your own gear or full-service Glamping site, called 'Silky Oak'.

5. Illinbah Glamping off grid .

99%

(61)

60km from Brunswick Heads · 1 site · Lodging · Illinbah, QLD

Couples Retreat. We are situated along side the Coomera creek in a lovely secluded position. We have 5.5 acres of maintained horse property. The Glamping area is on roughly 2 acres which is a horse free area. You can reset your mind or just relax in the creek and enjoy nature. We provide a kitchenette area with cooking utensils, off grid loo . No power. Creek dip too wash . Bring your own firewood, food, ice and drinks etc. Bedding and esky supplied by us. No Kids No Pets.

Stories from the community

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Parina

3 weeks ago

1 night at Petaurus Gardens

We had such a great stay at Petaurus Garden! Chris was an awesome host — he upgraded us to a larger tent since it was just me and my husband, and made sure we had everything we needed, including extra torches, lighters, and other essentials. He even offered us a bike ride, which was such a nice touch. We also went kayaking and explored the walking trails around the property- such a peaceful and beautiful spot. There was hot water available for tea and coffee too, which made the mornings even better. Highly recommend this place for a relaxing nature getaway! We will definitely be back 💛

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Juan carlos

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

I loved the place — everything was tidy, very clean, and peaceful. We felt very welcomed. If you’re looking for a place to escape the routine, this is the perfect spot. Thank you so much!

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Mel

October 2025

1 night at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

In general the camp site is super clean and well looked after. The Tent was beautifully set up - however would have been great to have more space between the tents. Facilities were great and late check in was easy.

M

Mathias

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Illinbah Glamping off grid .

This was such a beautiful weekend in Corrina's land. I would recommend it 100% if you want to escape the city and take a deep breath of fresh air, surrounded by animals. Corrina is the best host. An unexpected event happened and she did everything to accommodate us. Thank you again and take care.

Kimberley

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Illinbah Glamping off grid .

Such a picturesque, peaceful location! Listening to the gentle run of the rock pool was so relaxing, as well as lovely and fresh for a dip. Loved the friendly ‘neigh’bours 🫏

m

moonrose

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Illinbah Glamping off grid .

Amazing! Definitely will be back ❤️Couldn’t have picked a better way to spend our weekend

Manna

October 2025

1 night at Illinbah Glamping off grid .

Beautiful site with great facilities. 10/10 recommend ⭐️

Damon

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

Chris has done a most wonderful job of setting up his camp sites. Our Glamping Tent was very well appointed, extremely comfortable and in a beautiful setting. The toilets and showers were extremely clean and a pleasure to use. Chris went to a lot of trouble throughout our stay to provide the most excellent service. He provided firewood, extra blankets, tea and coffee, local area advice and a level of service we were not expecting in a camp site. The location is also brilliant. Only 30 minutes from Evans Head meant we had the best of both worlds. Privacy and seclusion in a bush setting along with easy access to towns and beaches. We were blown away with the effort Chris has gone to in order to provide the best possible experience for his guests. Congratulations!! P.S. The on-site Paddymelons were an unexpected treat.

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Olle

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

My friends and I stayed in the glamping tents. It was very spacious and comfy. The Pataurus Native Gardens was the most relaxing and peaceful place. Chris was a fantastic host and well accommodating for his guests. The place itself says it all, native plants and wildlife were amazing and spacious. Nature walk was so peaceful and cooling for us. I would say the all 3 days was so amazing. I will highly recommend this property. Thank you Chris for your warm nature and hospitality. Thank you for sharing your amazing native property with us.

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Jaime

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Illinbah Glamping off grid .

This set up is beyond epic. Even better than the photos. The private creek, comfy actual (non air) mattress and camels next door are a few l of the highlights. Carol was a responsive and epic host. we would highly recommend to anyone interested in an off the beaten pack glamping adventure ❤️

S

Senorita

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

I had an amazing time here! Chris is just wonderful. He was so accommodating and arranged everything for us. The tents were cozy and comfortable to sleep in! Chris also has tea and coffee arrangements at the entrance. Just note that the toilets are compost toilets. Everything else was just perfect! Would love to come and stay in the bigger tent

S

Soyas

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

We loved our glamping site, all the surroudings and mainly the hot shower was cherry on top as we had long distance drive ahead. Would love to go back again

M

Micah

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

Amazing! Friendly! Such a great place to get away from it all

So cozy at night, it was all set up for us

T

Trisha

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

This is an amazing place! We stayed for two nights, four adults and three kids and hired out the large glamping tent plus one tent site directly opposite. Chris is amazing! Such a warm and professional welcome and made us feel right at home. The glamping tent was very luxurious and all the amenities were wonderful. The shower was heavenly! Beautiful grounds, great walks for most abilities. We loved the fire pit, and loved toasting marshmallows and star gazing at night. Great wildlife on the property and the flora was great to walk through. We took a trip to Byron Bay during one of the days, very doable, the kids loved it. Highly recommend Chris and Petaurus Gardens...thank you so much for making our stay so memorable.

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Jacob

September 2025

1 night at Wildland Homestead

Great spot along the water . Couldn’t ask for anything more here will be back

Adri

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

We stayed at the glamping site and it was absolutely amazing! The tent was super comfortable and well set up, with everything we needed for a relaxing stay. The surroundings were peaceful and beautiful, and it felt like the perfect mix of nature and comfort. It was honestly one of the best camping experiences we’ve had – highly recommend!

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benjamin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Illinbah Glamping off grid .

Everything was fantastic. Absolutely magical place. Couldn’t have asked for any more. Great location.

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Theresa

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Petaurus Gardens

Chris is really friendly and helpful, offered us an upgrade to a larger tent and helped us to set the fire. Hot shower is also perfect. Recommend for couples to spend a weekend there! The best thing we spotted an echidna in the bush at night. Very cute.

Lauren

September 2025

1 night at Petaurus Gardens

My partner and I loved glamping in the tents at Petaurus Gardens. If you want a quiet getaway surrounded by gumtrees, waking up to bird calls, then this is the place for you. With trails leading to freshwater reservoirs, creeks, and a unique bush beach, there are spaces to explore. Chris was super helpful and kind. He set up our fire and made sure we had everything we needed, with advice on the cool spots on the land to check out. The rustic bathroom block was great for a hot shower at the end of a peaceful day.

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Harry

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Illinbah Glamping off grid .

We absolutely loved our stay – it was such a beautiful experience. The horses and the donkeys were such a joy to be around, and the tent itself was gorgeous, comfortable, and perfectly set up. Having easy access to the toilet and kitchenette made everything so convenient. Thank you so much for sharing your land with us, we are truly grateful

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best bell tents near Brunswick Heads guide

When to go

Like nearby Byron Bay, the weather is kind all year round, so there’s no really bad time to go, although it does get a bit rainy in February and March. It gets very busy during summer and Easter school holidays, when it pays to book campsites well in advance.

Know before you go

Go retro in style and hire a vintage caravan, set up with everything you need. It will be waiting for you at the camping site of your choice. https://retropod.com.au/
Brunswick Heads is almost exactly halfway between Ballina and the Gold Coast airport in Queensland, which doubles your flight options. If you do fly in or out of the Gold Coast remember there’s a one-hour time difference between NSW and Queensland thanks to daylight saving in summer.
The Brunswick River is perfect for kayaking. Hire a kayak from the Scout Hall (across the footbridge from town) and paddle the Brunswick River brunswickriverkayaktours.com.au
Ask at the Brunswick Heads Visitors Centre (7 Park St, Brunswick Heads) for a free ‘clue sheet’ and use it to follow the Brunswick Heads Fairy Trail to find little fairy houses that have been hidden all over town. Adults love it just as much as kids.