Increasing numbers of caravanners and campers are being attracted by the Sunshine Coast’s natural beauty, new figures show.
There were about 650,000 trips to holiday parks, caravan parks and campgrounds on the Sunshine Coast during the 12 months to September 2024, according to Tourism Research Australia.
That’s an increase of more than 10 per cent from the previous timeframe.
Visit Sunshine Coast Matt Stoeckel said there was a “boom in caravan and camping trips” and he wasn’t surprised to see so many people enjoying the outdoors in the region.
“It’s the natural environment that makes the Sunshine Coast such a popular destination for campers,” he said.
“For example, our coastal holiday parks such as at Coolum, Cotton Tree, Dicky Beach, Noosa and Mooloolaba are as close to the beach as you can get.
“Other parks like the Big 4 Caloundra and Ingenia Riverside offer incredible experiences and services that go beyond what people can usually expect from a caravan park.
“They are destinations in themselves, and the operators are constantly making investments to improve their facilities.
“Equally impressive are our hinterland campsites located in beautiful rainforest locations and set amongst stunning rural landscapes, where campers can enjoy the serenity and take in the night sky under a cosy campfire.
“The Sunshine Coast has so many natural advantages for camping, including our mild year-round climate.
“We can expect the popularity of camping to remain strong throughout the 2025.”
Sunshine Coast Council’s six holiday parks welcomed more than 125,000 visitors last year, contributing $12 million to the local economy.
“Over the summer holiday period they have been close to capacity, which is no wonder given the affordability of camping,” Mr Stoeckel said.
“Our coastal holiday parks are situated right next to beaches, shaded by lots of trees and feel very relaxing with a great community vibe.”
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He said many caravan and holiday parks, and campgrounds, offered significant amenities and offerings. Some include luxuries like water parks.
“Our facilities are truly world-class. For example, the council has recently invested over $3 million on upgrading their Coolum Beach and Mudjimba holiday parks,” he said.
“Being able to bring along the family pet to many of our caravan parks has also been a winning move.”
While most public and private caravan parks and campgrounds require payment, there are free alternatives.
“There are free camping areas which are very popular during holiday periods,” Mr Stoeckel said.
“These include the camping site at Little Yabba Creek Park, located in Cambroon on the Maleny-Kenilworth Road, which has barbecues, toilets and allows campfires.
“The creek is perfect for a refreshing dip after exploring one of the many forest walks.
“Belli Creek Park on Eumundi-Kenilworth Road is just 10 minutes from the Bruce Highway, has clean toilets and a grassed area for your tent.
“It’s also close to both the Eumundi Markets and Noosa National Park, absolute must-dos in this region.
“There’s also walking tracks, picnic tables and campfires are allowed, and dogs are welcome as well.”
High visitation numbers are set to continue.
“We can expect the popularity of camping to remain strong throughout the 2025,” Mr Stoeckel said.
The region’s 23 national park and state forest campgrounds remain significant drawcards.
But a Department of the Environment spokesperson said there were slightly fewer overnight stays at them in 2024, compared to 2023.
There were 68,589 camping permits with 163,066 camper nights in 2024, a slight decrease from 77,891 camping permits and 188,474 camper nights the previous year.
“The reason for this decrease in numbers is likely due to visitation to our protected areas returning to normal post-COVID, and weather events also cause fluctuations in numbers between years,” the spokesperson said.
The department revealed that the most popular camping area in the greater region last year was at the Bribie Island Recreation Area.
There were 7838 camping permits and 18,424 camper nights there.
“This is a popular camping area for visitors as there is access to beautiful beaches, walking trails, public facilities, and many activities nearby available for families including water activities,” the spokesperson said.
