7 GREAT Free Campsites Sunshine Coast For You To Stay At

Save money and camp in paradise. These top free campsites Sunshine Coast options offer stunning locations for an awesome camping experience. The Sunshine Coast is a prime destination for travellers. For those seeking budget friendly camping options amidst stunning natural landscapes options are unfortunately few and far between.

We’ve done our best to list what is available within 100 kilometres of Maroochydore. With the variety of free campsites Sunshine Coast has to offer, visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, lush hinterland and tranquil bush settings without the cost of traditional caravan parks. Some of these sites are located within national parks, state forests and designated rest areas providing a mix of coastal and inland camping experiences. Some free campsites Sunshine Coast travellers frequent offer basic amenities such as toilets, picnic tables and fire pits, while others require full self-sufficiency. Popular locations include spots near Noosa, Glass House Mountains and Kenilworth, each offering unique outdoor activities like hiking, fishing and wildlife spotting.

Regulations vary between sites, with some allowing short term stays of up to 24 hours and others permitting longer visits. While some of the free campsites Sunshine Coast provide require permits, many operate on a first come, first served basis. Campers should check local council or Queensland Parks guidelines before setting up.

List Of 7 GREAT Free Campsites Sunshine Coast For You To Stay At

Whether you’re exploring the coastline or escaping into the hinterland the free campsites Sunshine Coast offer an affordable and rewarding way to experience this iconic Australian region.

Note: We’ve tried to be as accurate as possible with compiling this list but mistakes and changes do happen. If you see anything that needs updating, is incorrect or we’ve missed please let us know – you can contact us by email.

Free Campsites Sunshine Coast First Settlers Memorial Park Benarkin

1. Jowarra Park Rest Area

This area offers access to the Jowarra section of Mooloolah River National Park where short walks are available. Domestic animals are not permitted within Mooloolah River National Park. Enter the site from the ‘That Pizza Guy’s’ driveway. Some navigation apps can give misleading directions.

• Rest area offering toilets
• It is dog friendly
• Accessible to RVs, camper trailers and caravans
• Camping in tents is allowed
• You can stay here for up to 20 hours
• Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace

Type: Roadside Rest Area
Cost: Free
Address: Caloundra Road, CALOUNDRA, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
GPS: -26.773063°, 153.038584°
Website URL: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/mooloolah-river/about.htmlcamping_and_accommodation
Pet Friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 20 Hours
Distance From Maroochydore: 14km SW

2. Cruice Park

• This free campground offers toilets
• It is dog friendly
• It is accessible to RVs, camper trailers, caravans and big rigs
• Camping in tents is allowed
• You can stay here for up to 24 hours

Type: Free Camping
Cost: Free
Address: 27 Cruice Dr, Woodford, Queensland
GPS: -26.928169°, 152.757947°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 24 Hours
Distance From Maroochydore: 45km SW

Free Campsites Sunshine Coast View From Cruice Park

3. Little Yabba Park West

• This free campground offers toilets
• It is dog friendly
• It is accessible to RVs, camper trailers, caravans and big rigs.
• NO potable water
• Camping in tents is allowed
• You can stay for up to 24 hours

Type: Free Camping
Cost: Free
Address: Maleny Kenilworth Road, Cambroon, Queensland
GPS: -26.625144°, 152.689222°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 24 Hours
Distance From Maroochydore: 40km W

4. Amamoor Bridge Free Camp

Not marked as a campsite but fine to stay the night. A fairly small area over the bridge but overall is considered a good spot. No toilets or bins. Straight after you pass the store on your left turn right before going over the bridge. It is just a small patch of grass in front of the fenced horse paddock.

• No signage
• This is a free campground
• It is dog friendly
• It is accessible to motorbikes, RVs, camper trailers and caravans
• Camping in tents is allowed. You can stay here for up to 24 hours

Note this is a small site and could accommodate up to about four vehicles at a time. There is a great little country general store about 100m away.

Type: Free Camping
Cost: Free
Address: Amamoor Creek Rd, Amamoor, Queensland
GPS: -26.342475°, 152.673112°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 24 Hours
Distance From Maroochydore: 54km NW

5. Six Mile Creek Rest Area

Roadside rest area located along the Bruce Highway south of Gympie. Rest areas are a place where you can stop and rest making your journey safer and more enjoyable. You can stop at a rest area for up to 20 hours.

• Toilets
• Picnic tables
• Rubbish bins
• Dump point
• On leash dogs only

Type: Roadside Rest Area
Cost: Free
Address: Bruce Hwy, Glanmire, Queensland
GPS: -26.232184°, 152.696736°
Phone: 0130 030 780
Website URL: https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/holiday-travel/stops/rest
Pet Friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 20 Hours
Distance From Maroochydore: 61km NW

6. No Name

• Large sized clearing
• Far enough away from main track
• Plenty of room
• Road noise is very audible

Type: State Forest Camping
Cost: Free
Address: Kingaham Road, Queensland
GPS: -26.564565°, 152.380833°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Maroochydore: 72km W

7. First Settlers Park Rest Area

• Toilets
• Paid drinking water
• Dog friendly
• It is accessible to motorbikes, RVs, camper trailers, caravans and big rigs
• Camping in tents is allowed
• Donation tin on the counter in the shop

Type: Donation Campground
Cost: Donation
Address: Scott Street, Benarkin, Queensland
GPS: -26.887846°, 152.137269°
Phone: (07) 4189 9100
Website URL: https://www.southburnett.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/caravan-stops-24hr
Email: info@southburnett.qld.gov.au
Pet Friendly: Yes
Maximum Stay: 48 Hours
Distance From Maroochydore: 98km W

Free Campsites Sunshine Coast Yabba State Forest

Top 10 Things to Do While Staying in Free Campsites on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is a prime destination for travellers looking to enjoy stunning beaches, lush hinterland and a laid-back lifestyle. For those camping on a budget, there are several free campsites Sunshine Coast has to offer. While staying at these campsites, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are the top 10 things to do while enjoying free camping in this beautiful region.

1. Relax on the Beaches
   The Sunshine Coast is famous for its pristine beaches. Whether you’re staying near Coolum, Noosa, or Caloundra, you’ll find stunning shorelines perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or surfing. Many free campsites Sunshine Coast offers are within a short drive of these world-class beaches.
2. Explore Noosa National Park
   A visit to Noosa National Park is a must. It offers breathtaking coastal views, well-maintained walking tracks and the chance to spot native wildlife, including koalas. The scenic Coastal Walk leads to the famous Hell’s Gates, a spectacular lookout over the ocean.
3. Visit Local Markets
   The Eumundi Markets, held every Wednesday and Saturday, are among the best in Queensland. Here, you can browse handcrafted goods, fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Smaller markets in Yandina, Noosa and Caloundra also offer a great local experience.
4. Go Fishing
   If you enjoy fishing, the Sunshine Coast has excellent spots for casting a line. Popular locations include the Maroochy River, Noosa River and Pumicestone Passage. Many free campsites Sunshine Coast visitors stay at are close to fishing-friendly areas.
5. Hike the Glass House Mountains
   For those who love hiking, the Glass House Mountains provide stunning trails with rewarding views. Mount Ngungun is one of the easiest climbs and offers a panoramic view at the summit. For a more challenging trek, Mount Tibrogargan will test your endurance.
6. Discover Waterfalls and Swimming Holes
   The hinterland is home to some fantastic waterfalls and swimming holes. Kondalilla Falls, Gardners Falls and Booloumba Creek are all great spots to cool off on a warm day. These natural attractions make for a refreshing break from the coastal heat.
7. Take a Scenic Drive
   A scenic drive through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a great way to explore the region. The route through Montville and Maleny offers breathtaking views, boutique shops and charming cafes. You can stop for a coffee and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
8. Spot Wildlife
   Many free campsites Sunshine Coast provides are located near national parks and bushland, making them great spots for wildlife watching. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, kookaburras and possums. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a platypus in one of the region’s creeks.
9. Enjoy a Campfire Cookout
   Some free campsites Sunshine Coast allows campfires, giving you the perfect opportunity to cook over an open flame. Roasting marshmallows, making damper, or grilling fresh fish you’ve caught adds to the camping experience. Always check local fire restrictions before lighting a fire.
10. Visit Local Breweries and Distilleries
    For those who enjoy craft beer or spirits, the Sunshine Coast has an impressive range of local breweries and distilleries. Brouhaha Brewery in Maleny, Heads of Noosa and Sunshine & Sons Distillery are excellent places to sample locally made beverages.

Final Thoughts On Free Campsites Sunshine Coast

Staying at free campsites Sunshine Coast has available is a fantastic way to experience the region without spending a fortune. Whether you prefer beachside relaxation, outdoor adventures, or local attractions, there’s plenty to do. Pack your gear, hit the road and make the most of what the Sunshine Coast has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs About Free Campsites On The Sunshine Coast