The best safari tent rentals near Byron Bay, New South Wales

Byron Bay is the most popular holiday spot on the NSW north coast. Celebrated for its laid back boho vibe, the drawcard is the combination of beautiful beaches, surf, buzzy cafes, big name restaurants, boutiques, day spas, yoga retreats, music festivals and nightlife, so there’s something that appeals to everyone, including a host of Hollywood celebrities that call it home. Book yourself a camping spot or campervan site in one of the many caravan parks and join in the fun. Many resorts and holiday parks offer glamping if you want to go luxe. If you prefer a wilder campsite, head up to one of the campgrounds in the rainforest hinterland national parks.The spiritual heartland of the ‘rainbow region’, Nimbin has been famous–or infamous, depending on your point of view–for its alternative lifestyle since the 1970s. Many of the hippies that moved in back then never moved on, and although it’s a bit more commercial these days, the annual Mardi Grass rally and street parade in May is always a colourful event. The shopfronts in Nimbin’s main street are decorated with multi-coloured psychedelic murals and there is a range of shops and cafés selling vegan new age goods, many made from hemp.Drive up into the hills to explore the cute country towns such as Alstonville with its macadamia orchards and rainforest reserves, riverside Lismore, and charming Murwillumbah, sheltered beneath the shadow of the Mt Warning caldera. The rainforest in the mountainous national parks are part of the World Heritage listed Gondwana rainforests, and the battle to save them from logging in places like Protesters Falls kickstarted the conservation movement in Australia. The coastal strip south of Bryon Bay offers quieter back-to-basics camping experiences in the beachfront caravan parks and camping grounds in the seaside villages that stretch along Tallow Beach to Suffolk Park, Broken Head Nature Reserve and the village of Lennox Head.If you fly into Byron Bay you’ll actually land in Ballina, which is around a 30-minute drive south of Byron. Home to one of Australia’s quirkier big things–the Big Prawn–it doesn’t quite have the same holiday buzz as Byron, but the beaches are just as nice and it makes a great base for those looking for affordable camping option, especially for families.

92% (180)

Top-rated campgrounds

Byron Bay is the most popular holiday spot on the NSW north coast. Celebrated for its laid back boho vibe, the drawcard is the combination of beautiful beaches, surf, buzzy cafes, big name restaurants, boutiques, day spas, yoga retreats, music festivals and nightlife, so there’s something that appeals to everyone, including a host of Hollywood celebrities that call it home. Book yourself a camping spot or campervan site in one of the many caravan parks and join in the fun. Many resorts and holiday parks offer glamping if you want to go luxe. If you prefer a wilder campsite, head up to one of the campgrounds in the rainforest hinterland national parks.The spiritual heartland of the ‘rainbow region’, Nimbin has been famous–or infamous, depending on your point of view–for its alternative lifestyle since the 1970s. Many of the hippies that moved in back then never moved on, and although it’s a bit more commercial these days, the annual Mardi Grass rally and street parade in May is always a colourful event. The shopfronts in Nimbin’s main street are decorated with multi-coloured psychedelic murals and there is a range of shops and cafés selling vegan new age goods, many made from hemp.Drive up into the hills to explore the cute country towns such as Alstonville with its macadamia orchards and rainforest reserves, riverside Lismore, and charming Murwillumbah, sheltered beneath the shadow of the Mt Warning caldera. The rainforest in the mountainous national parks are part of the World Heritage listed Gondwana rainforests, and the battle to save them from logging in places like Protesters Falls kickstarted the conservation movement in Australia. The coastal strip south of Bryon Bay offers quieter back-to-basics camping experiences in the beachfront caravan parks and camping grounds in the seaside villages that stretch along Tallow Beach to Suffolk Park, Broken Head Nature Reserve and the village of Lennox Head.If you fly into Byron Bay you’ll actually land in Ballina, which is around a 30-minute drive south of Byron. Home to one of Australia’s quirkier big things–the Big Prawn–it doesn’t quite have the same holiday buzz as Byron, but the beaches are just as nice and it makes a great base for those looking for affordable camping option, especially for families.

92% (180)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

94%

(286)

2.7km from Byron Bay · 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. Ballina Beach Nature Resort

91%

(79)

27km from Byron Bay · 194 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ballina, NSW

Ballina Beach Nature Resort is more than a campground, glamping retreat, caravan park or short-stay hotel - we're a family; offering adventurers, from the local region and across Australia, the opportunity to experience NSW, Ballina, the Byron Bay region and natural coastal wildlife. Whether you're a grey nomad, van-life enthusiast, an admirer of nature, in search for your next romantic getaway, or looking for an afternoon coffee or takeaway, our beach resort accommodation and Turtles Café have got you covered!

3. Trickling Waters Retreat

31km from Byron Bay · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Commissioners Creek, NSW

Nestled in the beautiful rainforest of Commissioners Creek, Trickling Waters Retreat is a peaceful sanctuary where forest, water, and wildlife come together to create a truly grounding escape. Our land offers a blend of comfort and raw natural beauty. Wake to birdsong, fall asleep to the soft rush of the creek, , wander through open grassy spaces, or relax by the water’s edge. The creek flows year-round sometimes deep enough for a refreshing dip, and other times shallow, cool, and perfect for wading, creek-walking, or just sitting with your feet in the water while listening to the trees. In the evenings, gather around your private fire area, Or wander over to our handcrafted communal fire pit, a stunning circle built from Grand Natural stones unearthed from the property itself. You’re welcome to ask your hosts to light it for you. Whether it’s shared with other travellers or enjoyed quietly on your own, it’s one of the most peaceful spots on the property, perfect for slow conversations, warm or cold drinks, and unwinding by the glow of the flames. and letting the stars take over the sky. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot where guests often tell us their minds finally stop racing. We currently offer a spacious glamping tent overlooking the creek, plus beautifully spread-out grassy areas ideal for campers seeking privacy and a true nature experience. Guests also have access to our modern amenities pavilion, hot shower, flushing toilet, and an outdoor wash-up area to make your stay effortless. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic nature getaway, solo traveller wanting space to think, or small group looking to unplug and breathe again, Trickling Waters Retreat offers a calm, memorable escape on one of Commissioners Creek’s most serene pockets of land.

4. Trees Rd Glamping

56km from Byron Bay · 1 site · Lodging · Tallebudgera, QLD

Tent with queen bed Outdoor Kitchen and bathroom private use. No pets. Swimming pool, spa and sauna non private use. There is 150 acres, of Nature Reserve, opposite the property for bush walking. It is a Koala breeding area, with kangaroos and other native wildlife. Kookaburras visit daily for feeding with parrots and galas. Beautiful bush outlook, private access and parking with stairs to the tent site and upstairs to the pool spa and sauna. The tent is the only one, with a private home, a unit and a tiny home on the property. The tent has an outdoor fire and fire pit area and outdoor lounge area. Location is 15 mins to beach and great restaurants at Burleigh Heads. 5 mins to local grocers, pizza, fish n chips.

5. Clouds On Beechmont

70km from Byron Bay · 3 sites · Lodging · Beechmont, QLD

Welcome to Clouds on Beechmont Perched high on the scenic ridge, Clouds on Beechmont offers a truly unforgettable hinterland escape. Expect sweeping panoramic views overlooking the Numinbah Valley and Lamington National Park. Our property provides the perfect blend of secluded nature and easy access to the best of the Scenic Rim. Wake up above the clouds and experience the peace and tranquillity of the mountain air. What Guests Can See and Do On-Site Relax and Reconnect: Enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets from your vantage point. The crisp mountain air is perfect for stargazing, reading, or simply listening to the local birdlife. Local Adventures and Experiences We’re ideally located near the heart of the Beechmont–Canungra area, offering countless day-trip opportunities: • Lamington National Park (Binna Burra Section): Just a short drive away, explore the World Heritage-listed rainforest with its network of walking tracks, ancient trees, and beautiful waterfalls such as Moran Falls and Elabana Falls. • Rosins Lookout: A must-see spot for hang gliding, paragliding, or simply soaking up breathtaking views across the Numinbah Valley and towards the coast. • Local Flavours: Discover the charm of Beechmont and nearby Canungra, home to cozy cafés like The Flying Bean Café and local treasures. Don’t miss O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards or the monthly Beechmont Markets. • Wildlife: Beechmont is a haven for native wildlife. Look out for colourful birds, wallabies, and—if you’re lucky—a platypus in the local creeks.

Stories from the community

D

Drew

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Ballina Beach Nature Resort

Great stay with good amenities and hot showers, will stay here again!

L

Liezl

May 2025

1 night at Ballina Beach Nature Resort

Loved camping here. The wildlife in the evening as well as the birds in the morning was amazing. Facilities are neat and clean.

Isabella

April 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ballina Beach Nature Resort

We stayed in the ‘luxury swag’ and it was quite nice. It’s got a queen bed and a little kitchen area. The toilets are not too far of a walk. The cafe was great (only down side is that it’s only open fri-sat) and it is really away from everything so be sure to pack food, games etc! It is very family oriented which is great. Has a water play ground and a dog park which is fenced! We loved that we could take our puppy too. Overall a good experience

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best safari tents near Byron Bay guide

When to go

Summer is warm and winter is mild, which helps ensure that fashionable Byron Bay is popular year round. It gets really busy during summer holidays, so make sure you book ahead. Byron’s also a hotspot during Schoolies Week (mid to late November) and is best left to the teenagers at this time. At Easter, Byron is home to the Byron Bay Bluesfest, one of the biggest blues festivals in the country. Winter, between June and October, is a great time to see whales.

Know before you go

Cape Byron is mainland Australia’s most easterly point and being among the first in the country to see the sunrise from Byron lighthouse is a rite of passage for many young Australians, especially on New Years Eve.
Alstonville disappears in a purple haze in autumn, when the Tibouchina trees that line the town's streets burst into bloom with big purple and mauve flowers.
You never know what you’ll find at the weekend craft markets. Most stall holders move with the markets between Byron Bay, Nimbin, Bangalow and The Channon on alternate weekends. Visit https://www.byron-bay.com/byronbay/market.html for details.
There’s no free camping in the town centre of Byron Bay. Don’t be tempted to sleep in your campervan in a beachside carpark, rangers can fine you up to AUD$2200 if you get caught.