The best forest glamping in Phillip Island

If you want to see some of Australia’s iconic animals, Victoria’s Phillip Island is a must-visit. Famed for its free-roaming penguins and the country’s largest colony of fur seals, the island is also home to the Phillip Island Wildlife Park, with more than 100 different species of native animals, as well as a koala conservation center. You’ll also find a dramatic coastline with beaches perfect for swimming and surfing. Many travelers visit on a day trip from Melbourne, but by setting up camp for a night or more, you’ll get to enjoy all the island has to offer.

99% (217)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you want to see some of Australia’s iconic animals, Victoria’s Phillip Island is a must-visit. Famed for its free-roaming penguins and the country’s largest colony of fur seals, the island is also home to the Phillip Island Wildlife Park, with more than 100 different species of native animals, as well as a koala conservation center. You’ll also find a dramatic coastline with beaches perfect for swimming and surfing. Many travelers visit on a day trip from Melbourne, but by setting up camp for a night or more, you’ll get to enjoy all the island has to offer.

99% (217)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Gilwell Park Adventure Centre

98%

(33)

17 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gembrook, VIC

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges, Gilwell Park stands as a quintessential haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a retreat into nature's embrace. Located just 1-hour away from Melbournes bustling CBD, Gilwell Park is renowned for its rich history and its role as a premier destination for Scouting and for outdoor education in the State of Victoria. Surrounded by lush greenery and flourishing flora, this idyllic setting offers a perfect blend of tranquillity and active adventure. Whether you are a Scouts enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or someone yearning for a peaceful escape, Gilwell Park beckons with its charm and the promise of an immersive experience in the heart of Victoria's natural beauty.

2. Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

98%

(77)

1 site · Lodging · Tarwin Lower, VIC

17 acres, with 2 cleared, only 3 kms as the crow flies, from the coast. You can hear the surf in the evening. The property is the bush refuge corner of a larger grazing property. Whilst sheep and cattle graze on one side of the fence, the wildlife grazing on "our" side includes echidnas, wombats, wallabies, possums, koalas, and is home to more than 30 species of birds identified so far. Tarwin Lower EcoStudio is not far out of town and the Tarwin River (4 kms), for boating, paddling and fishing. Slightly further afield is Andersen Inlet (great fishing, paddling, paddle boarding, boating, and shallow waters for very young children), Venus Bay Surf beaches, and Walkerville South bay beach (with boat ramp). Waratah Bay and Wilsons Promontory less than an hour's drive away. And that's just the water sports. The Great Southern Rail Trail is just up the road, at Koonwarra or Leongatha, and has a range of rides with varying degrees of challenge. The Eco Studio itself is completely off grid, built from reclaimed and recycled materials, as part of our commitment to living lightly. There is an outdoor kitchen, and composting toilet, and our home garden (we live on the property too) is often abundant and the fresh organic produce is for sale for our visitors. PLEASE CHECK the description for further details about what is provided and to indicate if you are bringing your pet(s).

3. Salt Wood Glamping

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(30)

9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rosebud, VIC

Salt Wood Glamping at The Farm 191 is 36 acres of forest dense land situated on the top of the hill next to Arthur’s Seat National forest. Easily explore all of the Mornington Peninsulas coastline, wineries, hot springs and nature walks. The Vibe and Location : Surrounded by indigenous grass trees and native bushland, private and situated high up on the hill to capture filtered sunrises and sunsets. Easily accessed making it a perfect base to relax and also explore the Mornington Peninsula Region. 10 minute walk to Kings Falls, 10 minutes drive to McCrae beach, Arthur’s Seat and Red Hill and 25 minutes drive to the world famous Peninsula Hot Springs. Very close to lots of amazing cafes and restaurants. Check out my guide book for some local gems! Depending on your site you will have forest, bush or sea views. We offer the following camping and glamping situations - Bring your own tent or RV or Caravan sitch : Bring your own set up and do your own thing! We have an outdoor bathroom you are welcome to use with a shower and a toilet. Glamping Life : We provide a glamper for you complete with a double bed, fresh linen, table and lounging chairs. Extra single bed available on request. A hamper on arrival with snacks and continental breakfast sourced locally and bottles of fresh rainwater for drinking. When booking the glamping tent package you can also make use of the luxurious outdoor bathroom with open shower and private toilet.

4. Galloping Gypsy Getaway

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(6)

2 sites · Lodging · Labertouche, VIC

Come camp, caravan or book the Bungalow and relax and enjoy the views, the tranquillity and wide open spaces overlooking farmland to the Labertouche Conservation Reserve and the Bunyip State Forest. We’re less than 100km South East of Melbourne but you’ll feel a million miles away. As we only take one booking at a time you have Exclusive Use. Must visits in the area include Gumbuya World, Nangara Reserve, Noojee and Neerim South, the gateway to Mount BawBaw.

5. Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

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(23)

1 site · Lodging · Allambee Reserve, VIC

Tiny Castle is a custom built tiny house that overlooks farmland, bushland and the glorious Stzelecki Ranges including Mount Worth. With a large covered deck connected to the front of the tiny house, you don't have to go anywhere to witness Wedge-tailed Eagles, Black Cockatoos, King Parrots, Rosellas and Kookaburra to name a few. Or wombats scurrying into their warren in the embankment just below the tiny house. Or the wallabies that hang out in the front paddock. If you're a fit walker, you can hike up to the back of the property that borders an old pine plantation now full of regrowth where herds of deer call it home. At the right time of day, you're likely to see all kinds of water fowl in the damns around the property. And if you're lucky, our 3 alpaca will let you photograph them as they stare you down, but no cuddles for these guys -- they're there to keep the foxes away. Night time is magical. With no light pollution, it's a stargazers paradise and on a still evening you'll hear boobooks, possums and frogs. The popular tourist village of Yarragon is 16km down a winding unsealed road one way, while the larger town of Mirboo North is about the same distance going the other way. Mount Worth State Park is 13km from our property and Lyrebird Forest Walk Regional Park is 26km just outside Mirboo North. While there's a lot to do around these parts, my guess is you won't want to leave the property.

6. Springview Farm

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(46)

3 sites · Lodging · Narre Warren East, VIC

37 acre farm nestled between Cardinia Reservoir and Lysterfield Lake Park. Two luxury Bell Tents with a Queen Bed in each tent. Extra beds for Children are $25 per person. Beautiful isolated property with giant tree ferns, bushland and grassy paddocks. The campsite is next to our spring fed dam and backs onto 10acres of bushland. The dam is great for kayaking, swimming, fishing. There is plenty of room for footy, cricket, volleyball or just relaxing. Our farm is home to our 5 pet cows, 12 sheep, 3 Goats, 6 horses and chooks. Kangaroo, deer, echidna and wombats are seen roaming daily. We grow our own fruit and veggies, make preserves and also have bee hives. We are opening our farm up to share our country lifestyle. Only 45 minutes from Melbourne CBD making it a perfect location for corporate functions, brand launches, small private functions, photo shoots, film productions. Please note we are NOT a party venue for loud music and drunkeness. Totally private, secluded and surrounded by native bushland, paddocks and our spring fed dam. PLEASE NOTE, OUR FARM IS A GLASS FREE AND SMOKING FREE SITE. Our animals and native animals call this area home. Grass, animals and bare feet do not mix with broken glass. We live in a delicate beautiful area filled with native flora and fauna.

7. French Island Cottage - Camping

92%

(12)

4 sites · Lodging · French Island, VIC

French Island is Victoria’s best kept secret. Most of the island is national park. There are lots of koalas, echidnas, birds, wildflowers, and a general store. It’s a great place to getaway… from everything. Our cottage offers sustainable luxury, with two comfy queen-bed rooms, each has a private bathroom, plus a lounge/kitchen with a cosy fire. There's space for four more camping nearby, sharing the facilities.This is off-the-grid living; electricity and water come from the sky, heat from burning home grown timber. Take a short walk to 5 kms of deserted beach and the national park, hang out round the fire-pit, enjoy our DVD and games library, order a meal… or a cocktail… or do nothing much at all. Our property is 75 acres of diverse wooded heath land, which we are enthusiastically rejuvenating to capture carbon. There’s a lot to see and like.

8. Trickle Hill Cottage

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Cockatoo, VIC

Trickle Hill is a lovely cottage tucked away at the edge of our bush. You have your own little patio, and can go for adventurous walks straight from your living room ! We are close to Dandenong ranges, Yarra valley, Bunyip state park, and Puffing Billy. We are just behind Avalon castle- so great if you are attending a wedding We welcome couples, solo adventurers and families. We are of course LGBTI+ friendly! Dogs are very welcome. The cottage is a converted shed, with three bedrooms, a lovely living area and a cosy closed woodfire. We have a sheltered outdoor area, where you can have a barbeque, or have a small fire in a firedish. The cottage is in the bush, so you can walk out and try to find our resident breeding pair of Lyrebirds, echidnas, wombats, wallabies and kangaroos or the deer that live in our 'back yard'. Or just roam, which shouldn't be too hard on 67 acres . We are close to massive areas of bush with open trails. Dogs are very welcome- no cats. As we live in the bush, we do our best to keep everything as 'green' as we can- so please don't use harsh chemicals. Living in the bush brings with it that you cannot light a fire in fire danger periods, and, heating on a woodstove, means there is a hot stove in the room. (watch those little fingers...) Our aim is to give you a place of rest and enjoyment. We love to share our space as we love it here so much- and hope you love it too. As life is a project - don't expect 10* linen and luxury, state of the art gardens and clipped lawns, but a friendly welcoming atmosphere where you can be yourself and relax. We love to have visitors, and chat for a bit- or leave you to relax. The cottage is on the edge of the bush, where you are welcome to roam on the tracks or off them- at your own risk :-) We are both artists, and our studio's are close to the cottage, which might make some noise, but we'll try to keep it at a minimum when guests are here. The upside is, you could learn something if interested :-) (contact us for workshops) We have a working hobby farm- with some machinery, animals (pigs, dogs, horses, ducks and chickens). You can interact with the animals if you talk to us about safety first, but the horse paddock is out of bounds. ( they can behave unpredictable, are very large (!) and very valuable) Our dogs are very friendly and will most probably visit you. Our puppy still has lots to learn :-) Our property is stock- fenced, our animals will stay in, but dogs are able to roam if they are not staying with you. There is no secure yard to leave your dog during the day, you are expected to be in control of your dogs at all times. If they are ok with horses, chooks and dogs, and under voice command, they can be off leash. Dogs are not to sleep on the beds. We are a rural property with animals, and there are dams on the property, (not close to the cottage) so please keep an eye on children - we cannot take responsibility for your persons or animals. Living on a farm means that not everything is neat, safe, flat or person-proof. Often there is actual work being done involving machinery. Coming here is entirely at your own risk. (sorry for all the disclaimers...) But- of course- if there is anything we can do to make your visit more pleasurable, we will do our best to do so!

Camper favorites in and near Phillip Island

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Galloping Gypsy Getaway

100%

(6)

2 sites · Lodging · Labertouche, VIC

Come camp, caravan or book the Bungalow and relax and enjoy the views, the tranquillity and wide open spaces overlooking farmland to the Labertouche Conservation Reserve and the Bunyip State Forest. We’re less than 100km South East of Melbourne but you’ll feel a million miles away. As we only take one booking at a time you have Exclusive Use. Must visits in the area include Gumbuya World, Nangara Reserve, Noojee and Neerim South, the gateway to Mount BawBaw.

Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

100%

(23)

1 site · Lodging · Allambee Reserve, VIC

Tiny Castle is a custom built tiny house that overlooks farmland, bushland and the glorious Stzelecki Ranges including Mount Worth. With a large covered deck connected to the front of the tiny house, you don't have to go anywhere to witness Wedge-tailed Eagles, Black Cockatoos, King Parrots, Rosellas and Kookaburra to name a few. Or wombats scurrying into their warren in the embankment just below the tiny house. Or the wallabies that hang out in the front paddock. If you're a fit walker, you can hike up to the back of the property that borders an old pine plantation now full of regrowth where herds of deer call it home. At the right time of day, you're likely to see all kinds of water fowl in the damns around the property. And if you're lucky, our 3 alpaca will let you photograph them as they stare you down, but no cuddles for these guys -- they're there to keep the foxes away. Night time is magical. With no light pollution, it's a stargazers paradise and on a still evening you'll hear boobooks, possums and frogs. The popular tourist village of Yarragon is 16km down a winding unsealed road one way, while the larger town of Mirboo North is about the same distance going the other way. Mount Worth State Park is 13km from our property and Lyrebird Forest Walk Regional Park is 26km just outside Mirboo North. While there's a lot to do around these parts, my guess is you won't want to leave the property.

Springview Farm

100%

(46)

3 sites · Lodging · Narre Warren East, VIC

37 acre farm nestled between Cardinia Reservoir and Lysterfield Lake Park. Two luxury Bell Tents with a Queen Bed in each tent. Extra beds for Children are $25 per person. Beautiful isolated property with giant tree ferns, bushland and grassy paddocks. The campsite is next to our spring fed dam and backs onto 10acres of bushland. The dam is great for kayaking, swimming, fishing. There is plenty of room for footy, cricket, volleyball or just relaxing. Our farm is home to our 5 pet cows, 12 sheep, 3 Goats, 6 horses and chooks. Kangaroo, deer, echidna and wombats are seen roaming daily. We grow our own fruit and veggies, make preserves and also have bee hives. We are opening our farm up to share our country lifestyle. Only 45 minutes from Melbourne CBD making it a perfect location for corporate functions, brand launches, small private functions, photo shoots, film productions. Please note we are NOT a party venue for loud music and drunkeness. Totally private, secluded and surrounded by native bushland, paddocks and our spring fed dam. PLEASE NOTE, OUR FARM IS A GLASS FREE AND SMOKING FREE SITE. Our animals and native animals call this area home. Grass, animals and bare feet do not mix with broken glass. We live in a delicate beautiful area filled with native flora and fauna.

French Island Cottage - Camping

92%

(12)

4 sites · Lodging · French Island, VIC

French Island is Victoria’s best kept secret. Most of the island is national park. There are lots of koalas, echidnas, birds, wildflowers, and a general store. It’s a great place to getaway… from everything. Our cottage offers sustainable luxury, with two comfy queen-bed rooms, each has a private bathroom, plus a lounge/kitchen with a cosy fire. There's space for four more camping nearby, sharing the facilities.This is off-the-grid living; electricity and water come from the sky, heat from burning home grown timber. Take a short walk to 5 kms of deserted beach and the national park, hang out round the fire-pit, enjoy our DVD and games library, order a meal… or a cocktail… or do nothing much at all. Our property is 75 acres of diverse wooded heath land, which we are enthusiastically rejuvenating to capture carbon. There’s a lot to see and like.

Trickle Hill Cottage

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Cockatoo, VIC

Trickle Hill is a lovely cottage tucked away at the edge of our bush. You have your own little patio, and can go for adventurous walks straight from your living room ! We are close to Dandenong ranges, Yarra valley, Bunyip state park, and Puffing Billy. We are just behind Avalon castle- so great if you are attending a wedding We welcome couples, solo adventurers and families. We are of course LGBTI+ friendly! Dogs are very welcome. The cottage is a converted shed, with three bedrooms, a lovely living area and a cosy closed woodfire. We have a sheltered outdoor area, where you can have a barbeque, or have a small fire in a firedish. The cottage is in the bush, so you can walk out and try to find our resident breeding pair of Lyrebirds, echidnas, wombats, wallabies and kangaroos or the deer that live in our 'back yard'. Or just roam, which shouldn't be too hard on 67 acres . We are close to massive areas of bush with open trails. Dogs are very welcome- no cats. As we live in the bush, we do our best to keep everything as 'green' as we can- so please don't use harsh chemicals. Living in the bush brings with it that you cannot light a fire in fire danger periods, and, heating on a woodstove, means there is a hot stove in the room. (watch those little fingers...) Our aim is to give you a place of rest and enjoyment. We love to share our space as we love it here so much- and hope you love it too. As life is a project - don't expect 10* linen and luxury, state of the art gardens and clipped lawns, but a friendly welcoming atmosphere where you can be yourself and relax. We love to have visitors, and chat for a bit- or leave you to relax. The cottage is on the edge of the bush, where you are welcome to roam on the tracks or off them- at your own risk :-) We are both artists, and our studio's are close to the cottage, which might make some noise, but we'll try to keep it at a minimum when guests are here. The upside is, you could learn something if interested :-) (contact us for workshops) We have a working hobby farm- with some machinery, animals (pigs, dogs, horses, ducks and chickens). You can interact with the animals if you talk to us about safety first, but the horse paddock is out of bounds. ( they can behave unpredictable, are very large (!) and very valuable) Our dogs are very friendly and will most probably visit you. Our puppy still has lots to learn :-) Our property is stock- fenced, our animals will stay in, but dogs are able to roam if they are not staying with you. There is no secure yard to leave your dog during the day, you are expected to be in control of your dogs at all times. If they are ok with horses, chooks and dogs, and under voice command, they can be off leash. Dogs are not to sleep on the beds. We are a rural property with animals, and there are dams on the property, (not close to the cottage) so please keep an eye on children - we cannot take responsibility for your persons or animals. Living on a farm means that not everything is neat, safe, flat or person-proof. Often there is actual work being done involving machinery. Coming here is entirely at your own risk. (sorry for all the disclaimers...) But- of course- if there is anything we can do to make your visit more pleasurable, we will do our best to do so!

Stories from the community

J

Jasmine

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

We had the most relaxing, enjoyable weekend tucked away in the cabin. Very private, warm and with the amenities you need: comfy bed, tidy bathroom, cooking supplies. We enjoyed both cool evenings and rain at night - which was pleasant thanks to the cosy wood burner - plus blue sky days which made for great exploring and spotting wildlife, also close to the inlet and Venus bay. We were welcomed with freshly harvested strawberries from Jo which was a delight!

D

David

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

We loved our time at Tiny Castle! Whilst it's compact, it has everything you need. The weather wasn't kind to us, but our dog didn't mind and loved exploring the surrounding area. Would definitely recommend!

g

gabby

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Lovely escape and such friendly hosts. The fire place was amazing for a cosy night

Steve

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Such a beautiful place to stay. Cosy reading by the fire and a super comfy bed too. Clean and a clearly loved home.

J

Josh

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

Susan's property is simply magical. If your chasing a country escape, seeing lots of wildlife, the property's Alpaca or just taking some time out in nature, this is your calling. The tiny house is fully equipped with everything you need, including a large BBQ on the balcony that has sensational views of hills and bush. We will certainly visit again!

Dael

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Lovely and relaxing stay with kid and dog. We loved the open space, and Jo left the place very well prepared for us. Will come back!

J

Joyce

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Loved the stay and closeness to the beach. And a plus to bring our dog along.

Jessica

July 2025

With kids

3 nights at Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Magical getaway! Another cozy and calm stay - thanks for having us again.

T

Tegan

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

A great tiny house accommodation with just what you need packed in. Susan was helpful with messaging things we may need, but we were left to our own space which was nice. 2 double beds up top, some board games, DVDs, a deck and a fire pit outside were great as well as the view and hilly farm walk. A nice little weekend away location not too far from Melbourne.

J

Jessica

July 2025

With kids

1 night at Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

Excellent stay and amazing views!! Susan was an amazing host, will definitely be back.

A

Axel

June 2025

2 nights at Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Great little cabin for a city escape! Very close to Tarwin Lower town and the beautiful beaches and inlets of Venus Bay. Spacious, clean, quiet and well apointed. Didnt feel “off grid” especially with tv, fridge and phone reception. Loved hearing the roar of the ocean in the evenings. Thanks Jo!

K

Kevin

June 2025

2 nights at Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Wonderful hosts, cosy little cabin, great eclectic feel, comfy beds, what a great place to recharge the batteries, we'll be back

I

Indika

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

Absolutely beautiful location, surrounded by misty mountains filled with so much of wildlife. We have such a wonderful relaxing time there and Susan and her family were such wonderful hosts. Will definitely visit here again.

M

Mary

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

What a cozy well put together studio. Very quiet, warm, peaceful, relaxing and close to town and the beach. We need to unwind and that's what we did. Loved cooking on the wood oven, exploring the area and chatting with Jo. Thanks for sharing your studio with us.

J

Jack

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

Very good accommodation and location is beautiful 😍. Must visit stay if you want yo spend time with family. Fireplace, view awesome.

L

Lucy

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tarwin Lower Eco Studio

Beautiful space, roomy, quirky and private. We had animating stay here. Super warm and cosy with the woodfire. Definately reccomend 😊

J

Jack

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

We had an amazing stay at Susan’s. Amazing scenery right at the door step with lots of wildlife all around. Susan was very hospitable and we had everything we needed. Wish we could have stayed longer.

Y

Yuri

April 2025

Group trip

1 night at Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

We would have extended if we had a longer holiday! Spent the whole Easter weekend holidays here. Highly recommend!

Y

Yuri

April 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

First of all, I’d like to say that Susan was one of the best hosts I’ve ever had. She responded to all my enquiries even before booking the place and she was ready to help with everything to make our stay an amazing one! Second, this Tiny Castle is probably one of the only places of the size that could accommodate 4 pax and would allow 2 dogs (everything I’ve looked before had a limit of 1). Now, about the place… the moment we arrived, we knew entire place had been created with so much care. Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park Farm was awesome!!! The view was serene, the surroundings so peaceful and the place super well set up. You can really tell the hosts put a lot of thought into everything. We had all the basics covered, plus a bunch of little extras we didn’t even think about needing but were so glad to have. Our dogs had the best time running around and just chilling out with us. It was exactly the kind of escape we were hoping for. Would definitely come back!

T

Tony

April 2025

With kids

2 nights at Tiny Castle at Tynecastle Park

Wow wow wow, excellent getaway high up on the Allambee plantation area. Susan was an amazing host all amenities were available for us. Definitely will be back.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest glamping in Phillip Island guide

Where to go

Summerlands

On the southwestern tip of Phillip Island, Summerlands is home to the island’s main attraction, the Penguin Parade. The natural spectacle of tens of thousands of penguins emerging from the ocean and waddling toward their nests takes place just after sunset every evening. Nearby you’ll find Nobbies Centre, outside of which you can see fur seals and birds, then learn about them through interactive displays. As Summerlands is a protected area, you’ll need to set up camp a little farther away. Nevertheless, you’ll find camping areas within a 10-minute drive.

Ventnor

In the small town of Ventnor, just a five-minute drive from the Penguin Parade, camping options include upscale glamping near Berry’s Beach and rural settings near Ventnor Beach.

Cowes

As the island’s main township, Cowes is home to several accommodation options, including camping areas. Your choices include family-friendly holiday parks with access to both the beach and nearby shops and restaurants.

Newhaven

In the southeast of the island, minutes from San Remo, Newhaven is home to caravan parks set upon sand dunes. Some parks feature powered caravan sites and non-powered camping grounds, plus comforts such as wifi and family playgrounds.