14 of the Most Amazing Glamping Experiences in Australia
Australia’s growing collection of luxurious glamping stays means a night under the stars in the outback comes packed with hotel-level comforts and all the mod-cons. Think king-sized beds dressed in quality linen, private ensuites with warm showers and luxe in-room hampers – all within spectacular and secluded wilderness. From a lakeside tent in Big Sky Country to an eco-stay in the dunes beside Ningaloo Reef, these retreats will have you rethinking everything you know about camping. Explore our top picks below.
Wilderluxe, Lake Keepit, NSW
1/15Nestled in the heart of north-west NSW, a stretch of land from Tamworth to Tenterfield known as Big Sky Country is famed for its vast, unspoiled landscapes and pollution-free skies, making it one of Australia’s prime stargazing destinations. At new glamping retreat Wilderluxe Lake Keepit, you can immerse yourself in the surrounding natural splendour, with each tent featuring a skylight above the king-sized bed so you can watch the cosmos in comfort. With just eight tents, the sense of seclusion will only be punctuated by the wallabies you spot from your private balcony or the birds you hear while soaking in the outdoor tub. For a deeper understanding of the region and its history, the complimentary Big Sky Dreaming experience invites guests to hear ancient stories from Kamilaroi Elder Uncle Len Waters followed by a gourmet grazing platter and drinks under the stars.
Ikara Safari Camp, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, SA
2/15The vastness of Wilpena Pound conjures a quiet brand of adventure, making it the perfect site to set up in safari-style tents that can accommodate everyone from reconnecting couples to lively families. Ikara Safari Camp offers just 15 tents – although there are also 60 rooms and a campsite available in the broader Discovery Resorts - Wilpena Pound – that feel a world away. Go all-out and book a scenic flight for two above this natural amphitheatre to see the South Australian outback with a bird's-eye view.
Nightfall, Lamington National Park, Qld
3/15Sleeping just four couples at a time and fully catered with fresh, organic meals served around the camp fire, Nightfall is camping on another level – think a massage in your safari tent, a private yoga class by a waterfall or a romantic dinner for two beside the creek.
Truffle Lodge, Gretna, Tas
4/15Filled with distinctive touches such as handmade wooden baths, vintage rugs and leather sofas, these expansive riverfront tents on the banks of the Derwent River in Tasmania are five-star indulgence with a bush soul. There’s even a communal lodge, where guests can gather for meals, drinks or chats by the fire.
The Inverloch Glamping Co, Gippsland, Vic
5/15Set in landscaped bushland, these three exquisite and evocatively named bell tents – Anderson’s Let, Salty Mutton, Honey & Coffee – feature ensuite cabins, a copper shower and a hammock perfect for stargazing. As well as the picturesque Victorian coastline, the charming towns of Meeniyan and Fish Creek are a short drive away.
Mile End Glamping, Margaret River region, WA
6/15Wake up to sweeping valley views from the comfort of a king-sized bed in light-filled domes that also come with their own bathroom, kitchen and remote-controlled gas fire. Everything from gourmet meals to art classes can be organised – if you can tear yourself away from the spa bath on your private deck.
Longitude 131°, Yulara, NT
7/15White tent sails pop against vermilion desert sands at one of the country’s most atmospheric accommodation offerings. Take in an unforgettable Uluru sunrise from a Luxury Tent (hardly camping) or Dune Pavilion; amenities include a fire-pit-adorned balcony, a turndown service and a private plunge pool, depending on your room type at Longitude 131°.
Image credit: Mayumi Iwasaki
Bubbletent Australia, Capertee Valley, NSW
8/15An off-grid dome camping experience like no other, this trio of translucent “bubbles” overlook the second-largest canyon in the world. The precise location remains a secret until you book but the Virgo tent is the pick of the three, with an outdoor wood-fired hot tub, a telescope and a love swing.
Sal Salis, Ningaloo Reef, WA
9/15This eco retreat’s spacious tents are set amid sand dunes that shoulder glittering Ningaloo Reef. And there’s not a swag in sight – just crisply-made jarrah beds and rustic bathrooms with views across the windswept coastal wilderness. Rates include meals, drinks from a select open bar, guided activities and equipment and more.
Dreaming@HomeBillabong, Kakadu, NT
10/15Picture 20 elegant, eco-friendly and permanent canvas tents nestled beneath a canopy of eucalypts. Part of Kakadu National Park’s central Cooinda Lodge complex, the tents – designed for both couples and families – feature artwork and weaving by Indigenous artists, air conditioning and decks for gazing at the starry night sky.
Ketchup’s Bank Glamping, Cannon Creek, Qld
11/15The Scenic Rim’s stunning views are immediately soothing. Inside the tents, there’s more relaxation to come – Bluetooth speakers, a coffee and tea bar and a plush bed signal that this is not your average camping experience. Guests can also order in-room hampers (with local goodies) to complete the indulgence.
Discovery Rottnest Island, WA
12/15Rottnest Island is a daytripper’s paradise but there’s a decidedly different feel once the sun goes down. Enjoy the icing-sugar sands without the crowds by staying overnight in an eco tent. Standard tents come with an ensuite bathroom and deck, while deluxe versions include extras such as walk-in wardrobes and kitchenettes.
Image credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Bruny Island Long Weekend, Tas
13/15A welcome reward for a multi-day trek on ruggedly beautiful Bruny Island, the glamping accommodation offered as part of this Tasmanian Walking Company package ensures guests won’t have to rough it. Hikers retire on king-sized beds laid with top-quality linen. And those oysters? They’re free, local and bottomless.
Paperbark Camp, Woollamia, NSW
14/15Yes, Jervis Bay has world-renowned beaches but there are stunning national parks to explore, too. Nestled in a nature reserve, these canvas tents have raised sites that hug the bush, wraparound decking – ideal for secluded sundowners – and an onsite restaurant surrounded by gums, all set to the sweet soundtrack of native birds.