Waterside bell tents near Canungra
This small town is the gateway to the Gold Coast Hinterlands and the Scenic Rim.
- Canungra
Popular camping styles for Canungra
Waterside bell tents near Canungra guide
Overview
Hemmed in by misty mountains, lush rainforest, and country meadows, few small towns have a backdrop as scenic as Canungra. Perched on Queensland’s Scenic Rim, the meeting point of six national parks and UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest, Canungra makes a popular basecamp for discovering the Gold Coast hinterlands. Once you’ve browsed the shops along Coburg Road, enjoyed bird-watching along Canungra Creek, and visited the region’s vineyards, swing by the Village Markets or join locals for a beer at Canungra Hotel. Camping options are limited, but you’ll find holiday parks or caravan parks in Canungra and the nearby towns of Beechmont, Sarabah, and Beaudesert.
Where to go
Tamborine Mountain
A short drive north of Canungra, Mt. Tamborine National Park is brimming with natural wonders. Hike to waterfalls, explore magical glow-worm caves, swim in natural rock pools, and look out for rare birds such as Albert’s lyrebird. While you’re in the region, stop by the town of Tamborine Mountain to browse the shops and check out the foodie scene.
Lamington National Park
Just south of Canungra, Lamington National Park is one of Queensland’s most visited national parks. There are two sections to the park—Green Mountains (O’Reilly’s) and Binna Burra—where you can enjoy bushwalking through UNESCO-listed rainforest, go wildlife-watching, and cool off at natural swimming holes. Camping options range from powered sites and glamping spots to bush camping in the heart of the rainforest.
Gold Coast
Brisbane and the Gold Coast are just a short drive from Canungra, where you can get your fill of sun, sand, and surf. Check into a holiday park or caravan park in Southport, Nerang, or Surfers Paradise, then visit the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks, go kayaking around the canals, or chill out at the white-sand beaches.
When to go
The Gold Coast is Queensland’s quintessential summer vacation destination, and the sun shines year-round in the hinterlands too. Summer temperatures tend to be slightly cooler in the hinterlands, making Canungra a good place to escape the heat and the crowds of the Gold Coast from December through January. Alternatively, the warm winter weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and you can also enjoy annual events such as the Canungra show (August) and Canungra Rodeo (July).
