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Rainbow Beach in Queensland, Australia, is a camper’s paradise. From scenic coastal retreats to serene bush hideaways, this destination offers diverse camping experiences for campers of all styles and preferences.
Whether you’re into off-grid adventures or a more comfortable setup with modern amenities, this area has everything. With mild winters and warm summers, it’s a year-round getaway for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, 4WD adventurers, and thrill-seekers alike.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the best camping spots, gear essentials, and activities this beautiful area of the Queensland coastline offers.
Camping at Rainbow Beach: Where To Stay
Camping at Rainbow Beach in Great Sandy National Park is a perfect getaway. Whether you like to rough it dispersed camping style or are looking for a scenic motorhome escape, there’s something for everyone.
It’s the perfect year-round getaway since the temperatures are warm to hot in summer and cooler but still mild and warm in winter. You can pick and choose when to go based on your temperature preferences.
Here are some great options to suit any camping style.
Freshwater Camping
Freshwater Camping offers 60 scenic sites for tents and camper trailers to choose from on a first-come, first-served basis. It has plenty of shade from the scribbly gums, and you are far enough from the ocean to avoid the strong winds but still close enough for easy access when you want to swim.
It also offers flush toilets and hot showers for those who want to camp but want some basic comforts of home.
Poverty Point
Poverty Point is about a 30-minute drive away, located on the banks of Tin Can Bay. Those wanting to get away from the crowds and enjoy nature can go canoeing, kayaking, fishing, yabby pumping, or just sit in the sun and watch the birds.
The remote and secluded place is very popular for nature lovers. However, you will probably need a 4WD to reach the campgrounds.
Teewah Beach
Teewah Beach is 40 minutes south but still part of Great Sandy National Park. This rustic site has no toilets or running water. However, it offers plenty of space across 15 kilometres where you can camp directly on the beach, which is rare.
Open fires are allowed, and access is by 4WD only, but you can camp in a tent, in your vehicle, or in an off-road caravan or camper trailer. It is the perfect spot for living the van life if yours has 4WD.
Since no power is available on-site or nearby, you should bring your EcoFlow Solar Generator to power up all your essential devices. Since they run barely above a whisper, you need not worry about decibel limits or disturbing your neighbours.
Tin Can Bay Tourist Park
If you don’t own a 4WD and are more of a caravan-style camper, the Tin Can Bay Tourist Park is just 10 minutes away. It boasts all the modern facilities, including powered sites with hookups, a camp kitchen, pool-side BBQ huts, guest laundry, and accessible bathrooms for those with mobility issues. If glamping is more your style, they even have cute cabins you can rent!
Harry’s Hut
Harry’s Hut Campground is for those looking for more of a bush setting, nestled in amongst she-oaks, paperbark, and eucalypt trees on the banks of the Upper Noose River. You can get there by 4WD, walk-in, or kayak or canoe into the site. It’s another great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy being surrounded by nature.
They even offer toilets, picnic tables, untreated water, and canoe landing points to get in and out of the water quickly. While permits are not required, the area can get busy during the holiday season, so be sure to book ahead.
The sites are unpowered, so bring your EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro portable power station to keep all your essential devices running. It even has enough power to run small appliances for those who want to bring their blender or other conveniences from home.
What To Pack for Rainbow Beach Camping
Be sure you pack your essential gear so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery without having to run back into town to get supplies. Here are the main items you should never leave home without.
- Tents, sleeping bags, and pillows
- Appropriate clothing for the beach, including sun hats and shoes that can get wet
- Pants and long-sleeved shirts to sit around the campfire at night
- Water sports equipment
- Towels and sunglasses
- Wood for fires, firestarter, matches
- The EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max + 160W Solar Panel for keeping your devices powered up and running lights at night. Then, just recharge it during the day with your solar panel while you kick back and enjoy the sun.
- Drinking water and reusable water bottles to refill and take with you on hikes or other adventures
- Food for meals and snacks
- The EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator is essential for keeping your food at food-safe temperatures. It has a separate fridge and freezer compartment with dual temperature controls. It even has a built-in ice maker so you can soak in the sun with an icy cold beverage, no matter where you are!
- Cooking utensils and a propane or other portable cook stove
- First aid kit and sunscreen
Top Activities in Rainbow Beach
4WD Adventures
This is a very popular 4WD destination. There are multiple places to go, driving next to the ocean or heading up into the sand dunes for some dune-bashing fun. Make a day of it and pack your EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max to keep your devices powered up. Play music while you sit back, eat some lunch, and have a cold beverage using ice cubes from your handy EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the scenery and check out the dolphins, turtles, and other ocean creatures. Bring your own, or join a tour where they provide kayaks.
Paddle Boarding
Another way to get out on the water is to use a paddleboard. You can stand up and paddle around, enjoying the scenery, sun, and sea creatures. You can bring your own or rent one nearby.
Surfing
This is a very popular surfing destination for surfers of all skill levels. Have you never surfed before? No worries! There is a surf school and rental shop where you can get lessons.
Hiking
There are plenty of places to go hiking. You can just take a leisurely stroll along the coastline, or for the more adventurous types, hike the dunes and the nearby bush or head over the hills to the mountains and enjoy breathtaking views of the Queensland coastline.
The Cooloola Great Walk is a popular multi-day hiking trail through coastal woodlands and pristine beaches. Be sure to pack all your essential hiking gear and be prepared to sleep in nature without any facilities.
Skydiving
For the really adventurous types looking for something extra thrilling, skydiving is nearby. You can jump out of a plane and enjoy the scenery of this gorgeous coastline from far above.
Horse Riding
Horse riding is another popular activity here. Enjoy a sunset horse-riding tour down the sands. The tour is perfect for any rider of any skill, including those who have never been on a horse.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, you need to stay in designated camping areas only and have a permit to do so. It’s a popular 4WD destination, so camping only in designated areas keeps everyone safe.
Yes, you will need a permit. It is located within the Great Sandy National Park, where permits are required for all camping activities.
Final Thoughts
Rainbow Beach is the perfect destination for campers of all kinds, offering serene natural beauty, a variety of camping options, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re kayaking through tranquil waters, camping under the stars, or tackling dunes in a 4WD, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Ensure your trip is seamless by packing all your essential gear.
Your EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max will keep your devices powered up, and your EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator will keep your food cold and make ice for tasty beverages while you relax in the sunshine and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Now, get your gear and start planning your next adventure!