Housing approximately 2 million residents and counting, Brisbane has the largest population in the state of Queensland, Australia. The city’s appeal also extends to its outskirts, where camper van travelers can travel at their own pace, not have to worry about accommodation and enjoy places that hotel-dwelling tourists often overlook.
1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – this Brisbane-based sanctuary houses koalas and kangaroos. Picnics are allowed, and a visitor can hold a koala and feed the kangaroos.
2. Boonah Shire – sailing, fishing and canoeing enthusiasts will find this region, which is 90 minutes southwest from Brisbane, a dream come true. In addition to lakes Maroon and Moogerah, Mount French provides a challenge for rock climbing enthusiasts. Mounts Barney and Walker offer bush walking tours for travelers looking for something low key but strenuous, while the view from the Scenic Rim is breathtaking. The galleries, fruit stands and stalls through downtown Boonah make the visit more interesting.
3. Mount Coot-tha (pronounced “Cootah”) Lookout – a slow drive to the peak of this lookout point is rewarded with a breathtaking view of Brisbane. Visibility extends to Moreton Bay on exceptionally clear days, as well as the southern mountain ranges.
4. Moreton Bay – spanning approximately 160 km and boasting over 350 islands, its size is sufficient reason to linger a night or two. Aside from the North and South Stradbroke Islands and Moreton Island, myriad national parks and the Tangaloom Wild Dolphin Resort are also worth exploring.
5. The Hinterlands – northwest of Brisbane, and about 45 minutes’ drive away, this region is known for pristine rain forest tracts and a homely rural atmosphere. Places of note include Mount Mee, Dayboro and Samford.
A self-drive holiday in a camper van means you will not have to worry about where you will sleep for the night, how much your next train ticket will cost or whether you will make it to the hotel in time for check-in. It also allows you to enjoy the great outdoors without the stress of pitching a tent.
A great way to save on your camping trip is to look at used camper vans instead of used ones. A used camper van can go a long way still and are much less expensive.