Australia’s Most Underrated Destinations To Put On Your Bucket List
From the desert outback to the vibrant cities, Australia is renowned for its diverse landscapes and iconic sights. It’s little wonder this sprawling country is a dream destination to rent a travel van and take a road trip. But beyond the many well-known places to visit in Australia, there are some hidden gems suited to those exploring by campervan, that await discovery.
In this ultimate guide to Australia’s most underrated destinations, we’ll take you on a journey through the country’s most captivating scenic routes, sharing insider knowledge about secret spots and must-do activities.
Prepare to be intrigued, delighted, and inspired by the sheer wonder of exploring Australia's off-the-beaten-track locations in the comfort of your campervan. But first…
Image: SATC Media Gallery
What is Australia known for?
With its impressive blend of landscapes - from tranquil coastlines to lush rainforests, it’s easy to see why Australia captivates travellers’ hearts. It's home to a fascinating array of wildlife, from cute koalas and smiley quokkas to slithery snakes and feisty Tasmanian Devils.
Australia's cities buzz with energy and charm, displaying a deep-rooted indigenous culture and a welcoming spirit. The country's iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef pull travellers from across the globe. Yet, the real allure lies in the lesser-known spots scattered throughout the land, waiting to be added to your van travel bucket list.
The best way to explore Australia
When it comes to discovering Australia's untapped beauty, nothing beats the freedom offered by a Mighty campervan. With an affordable range of options, Mighty campervans provide the perfect platform for crafting your unique road trip itinerary.
Set up camp in one of Australia’s great campgrounds or make the most of freedom camping somewhere secluded and scenic. Whatever you choose, you'll save on accommodation without skimping on comfort. All Mighty campervans come equipped with a cosy bed, handy cooking facilities, and ample storage for your gear. Simply pick up your pre-booked Mighty campervan from any of our 10 branches across the country and get set to explore Australia at your own pace.
10 underrated Australian destinations you should explore
Let’s take a look at some of the best Australian destinations you may not have heard of.
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
A serene retreat tucked away from the usual tourist crowds, Kangaroo Island brims with undisturbed wilderness, secluded beaches, and mesmerising coastal landscapes.
This unique island is home to Flinders Chase National Park, where natural wonders like Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch await your exploration. The island serves as a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife - spot koalas, kangaroos, sea lions, and penguins, all in their natural habitat. After a day of exploration, treat your senses to the island's bounty of local produce, ranging from delectable honey and exquisite wine to freshly caught seafood.
Where to stay on Kangaroo Island
When it comes to parking up your Mighty campervan for the night, you can choose between two excellent options:
Venture close to Flinders Chase National Park and camp at the Western KI Caravan Park & Wildlife Reserve. Here, you'll find a tranquil setting enriched by the island's wildlife, providing an unforgettable camping experience.
Freycinet National Park, Tasmania
Despite its breathtaking beauty, Freycinet National Park is less crowded compared to many popular national parks in Australia. Hike your way to Wineglass Bay lookout and take in panoramic views of one of the world's most beautiful beaches. The rugged coastal trails lead to secluded bays, while a boat tour may reward you with encounters with playful dolphins, seals, and migrating whales. All these natural wonders come together to provide a truly memorable motorhome road trip.
Image: Tourism Tasmania
Where to stay in Freycinet
You have a couple of great options to park your Mighty campervan for the night in Freycinet.
BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park is another fantastic choice. This park sits opposite Muirs Beach at Coles Bay and offers a range of facilities for campervan travellers.
Largely undiscovered by the masses, Cape Range National Park showcases an extraordinary coastline, stunning coral reefs, and dramatic gorges. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Reef for a snorkelling or diving adventure and swim alongside whale sharks and other vibrant marine life. On land, explore the breathtaking gorges of Yardie Creek and Charles Knife Canyon.
Where to stay in Cape Range
Keen to park up your Mighty campervan under the starry sky, with the calming sound of the ocean to lull you off to sleep? These campgrounds sit close to stunning beaches and inviting hiking trails, perfect for those seeking an immersive nature experience.
Discover the joy and simplicity of camping at Yardie Homestead Caravan Park. This great campsite offers a peaceful setting with basic amenities, nestled near Yardie Creek.
Embrace the untamed beauty of Western Australia by camping within Cape Range National Park itself.
Litchfield National Park, NT
Often overshadowed by Kakadu National Park, its famous neighbour, Litchfield National Park has its own special allure. Home to enchanting waterfalls, revitalising swimming holes, and ancient monsoon rainforests, it's a paradise for nature lovers. Discover the architectural marvels of magnetic termite mounds. Cool off in refreshing swimming holes at Wangi Falls and Florence Falls. Or simply unwind with a picnic, surrounded by natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Image: Tourism Northern Territory
Where to stay in Litchfield
Looking for the perfect spot in Litchfield to park up your Mighty campervan? Here are a couple of great options.
For an overnight stay, Litchfield Tourist Park is a superb choice with a serene setting and basic amenities.
Another great option is Batchelor Holiday Park, which brings you closer to the wilderness, with proximity to stunning landscapes and hiking trails.
The Kimberley, WA
The Kimberley region in Western Australia offers breathtaking landscapes, including rugged coastlines, ancient gorges, and remote wilderness.
Hop on a boat to cruise along the stunning Horizontal Falls, a fascinating natural phenomenon created by tidal currents. Explore the majestic gorges of Mitchell River National Park and see the iconic Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park. To add a touch of historical significance to your road trip, visit El Questro Wilderness Park.
Where to stay in Kimberley
Kimberley has some fantastic holiday parks and campgrounds on offer.
Located in Kununurra, Kimberleyland Holiday Park offers stunning views of Lake Kununurra along with modern amenities - a perfect place to park your Mighty campervan for the night.
Kimberley Entrance Caravan Park, located in the heart of Derby, provides spacious and shaded sites, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Mount Field National Park, Tasmania
Often bypassed by tourists visiting Tasmania, Mount Field National Park is a hidden gem that offers stunning waterfalls, ancient forests, and alpine landscapes. Stroll through the enchanting forest to witness Russell Falls, one of Tasmania's most iconic waterfalls. Venture further to explore the beautiful alpine tarns of the Tarn Shelf. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for unique wildlife, such as pademelons, wallabies, and native birds.
Where to stay in Mount Field National Park
Make the most of your visit to this natural wonderland by parking up for a few nights at one of these campgrounds.
Consider staying at Wayatinah Lakeside Caravan Park. Located close to Wayatinah village, this family favourite offers well-maintained facilities and a relaxed atmosphere.
Park your Mighty campervan in Mount Field National Park itself. The park offers powered and unpowered sites. Note, a parks pass is required to stay overnight.
Yarra Valley, Victoria
Just an hour’s drive from the cityscape of Melbourne, Yarra Valley offers a scenic countryside escape with picturesque landscapes and renowned wineries. Spend your days exploring vineyards and indulging in wine tastings at world-class wineries like Domaine Chandon and De Bortoli. Take to the skies in a hot air balloon and marvel at the breathtaking views of rolling hills and vineyards at sunrise. Don't miss the Healesville Sanctuary, where you can see native Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.
Where to stay in Yarra Valley
Take your pick of great holiday parks and campgrounds in Yarra Valley. Here are two that we suggest adding to your road trip itinerary planner:
BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park, located in Healesville, offers a range of campervan sites and modern facilities - an excellent place to park your campervan up for the night.
Despite being overshadowed by the Great Ocean Road, Grampians National Park has plenty to offer. With awe-inspiring mountain ranges, ancient rock art sites, and abundant wildlife, this destination is a must-visit. Take a hike to the Pinnacle lookout and soak up panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Uncover the rich indigenous history of the area by exploring rock art at the Grampians' cultural sites, such as Bunjil Shelter. And as you wander the park's trails, keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus, and colourful bird species.
Where to stay in The Grampians
With so much to see and do in The Grampians, you’ll want to plan an extended visit. Book a stay at one of these great spots:
Park up your campervan at Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park. Situated near Halls Gap, this park boasts stunning lake views and modern facilities.
Lake Fyans Holiday Park, nestled on the shores of Lake Fyans, offers a peaceful setting enveloped by natural beauty.
Image: Visit Victoria
Shark Bay, WA
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shark Bay is home to unique marine life, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Yet, it remains less visited than other coastal regions in Australia. Witness the unique stromatolites of Hamelin Pool, ancient living fossils that paint a picture of early life on Earth. For a rare and unforgettable wildlife encounter, take a dip with the friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia. And for a truly beautiful spectacle, explore the contrasting landscapes of Francois Peron National Park, where red cliffs meet pristine beaches.
Where to stay in Shark Bay
Park up by the beach in one of these premier camping grounds within Shark Bay:
Just five minutes’ walk from the beach, Shark Bay Caravan Park offers a great range of campsite options along with excellent facilities.
Relax in the comfortable surrounds of the Blue Dolphin Caravan Park, just metres from the beach and with everything needed for a comfortable, restful stay.
Mount Gambier, South Australia
Mount Gambier in South Australia has a lot to offer. Known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, captivating sinkholes, and beautiful crater lakes, it's truly an underrated gem. Visit Blue Lake, an incredible natural wonder that changes colour dramatically throughout the year, shifting from steel grey to vibrant turquoise. Take a stroll through the Umpherston Sinkhole, an astonishing feature transformed into a stunning garden. For a unique underground adventure, head to the Tantanoola Caves and explore their intricate formations.
Where to stay in Mount Gambier
Make a stay of it by parking up in one of these campervan-friendly holiday parks.
Consider parking your Mighty campervan at the BIG4 Blue Lake Holiday Park. Centrally located in Mount Gambier, this park offers a variety of accommodation options and modern facilities for a comfortable stay.
The Mount Gambier Caravan Park in the city centre is perfect for those who want easy access to local attractions and the convenience of city life.
Ready to explore Australia’s most underrated destinations?
As you can see, Australia is a treasure trove of lesser-known landscapes filled with fascinating wildlife, natural wonders, and rich culture. Taking an Australian road trip in a Mighty motorhome is the perfect way to explore these under-the-radar locations. And with the freedom and flexibility to set your own road trip itinerary, you can take the time to explore at your own pace.
So, why wait? Book your Mighty campervan online today and start planning your dream Australian road trip. Pick up your camper from your local branch and begin your unforgettable journey through Australia's hidden gems!
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Image: Visit Victoria