It’s that time of year again — when the days start stretching a little longer, the air warms up, and suddenly the idea of hitting the open road sounds downright irresistible. Honestly, what better way to explore Australia than by packing up the car, hooking up the caravan, and heading to one of the many incredible holiday caravan parks scattered across the country?
And trust me, now’s the perfect time to book one. The crowds of summer haven’t fully hit yet, the weather’s ideal from Byron Bay to Busselton, and deals are surprisingly good if you look in the right places. I’ve been looking into some of the top names for you — and while there are plenty of solid options, here’s our top 3 caravan parks that stand out to us at Thrive50plus.
Ingenia Holiday Parks — our favourite pick
If you’re after comfort, family fun, and a real dose of relaxation, Ingenia Holiday Parks are a winner. Every time someone mentions them, it’s like hearing about the friendliest neighbourhood on the coast. Their parks feel thoughtfully designed for everyone — couples, grey nomads, young families, even pets. And the best bit, if you stay 4 nights or more you receive a 20% discount!
Recent reviews rave about how clean and well-kept the parks are, with standout mentions for their One Mile Beach and Avina locations. Guests talk about spotless cabins, friendly staff, and plenty of on-site activities — playgrounds, pools, mini-golf, and those little touches that make holidays feel easy. One traveller said they loved seeing their kids enjoy daily activities while they soaked up the beach view, while another praised the mix of comfort and charm that makes every stay feel like a proper holiday, not just a pit stop.
What’s also great about Ingenia is that they keep things personal — you’ll often find parks tucked near great local spots, where you can explore wineries, beaches, or bush trails just a short stroll away. Plus, the fact that many of their parks are pet-friendly makes them a serious win for Aussie families who don’t want to leave anyone (or any pet) behind.
BIG4 Holiday Parks — family favourites with extras
Then there’s BIG4 Holiday Parks, the “classic” road trip brand — reliable, with plenty of locations and lots of history behind them. If you’ve ever stayed in one, you know they go big on family fun. Think splash parks, giant jumping pillows, games rooms, and even kids’ clubs.
They recently took out the Best Holiday Park Group in Australia for Families Award, and popular locations like Kiama’s Easts Beach, Gold Coast, and Airlie Beach are known for their resort-style amenities and great atmosphere. For families who want a full-on adventure and love the buzz of a busy park, BIG4 is a solid choice.
That said, they can sometimes feel a bit commercial — more like a mini resort than a laid-back caravan park. If you’re after a slower, low-stress vibe, Ingenia still edges them out.
Discovery Parks — simple comfort and nature vibes
Finally, Discovery Parks deserve a nod. They’re everywhere — from Sydney’s Lane Cove National Park to tropical spots in Geraldton and Darwin — and they offer a nice blend of nature and convenience. Guests often love their affordability and location, especially when staying close to city centres or scenic coastlines.
One reviewer in Sydney said they loved the wildlife around their site — “possums, lizards, and cheeky birds everywhere” — while another mentioned Discovery’s newer adventure playgrounds and pools adding to the experience.
Overall, Discovery Parks are great if you’re more after quiet and comfort rather than resort-level energy.
So, where should you book?
This is purely a personal choice on what you’re looking for and where you’re trying to travel, but If we were chatting over coffee and you asked which park I’d book — I’d hands down say Ingenia Holidays. They just get the balance right: friendly service, spotless facilities, relaxed atmosphere, and locations that make it easy to explore or unwind. Whether you’re road-tripping up the coast, exploring wine regions, or just escaping for a chill weekend, Ingenia hits that sweet spot between luxury and laid-back Aussie charm, and a sweet 20% off deal.
So yes — go ahead and start planning that road trip. With the open roads calling and caravan parks ready to roll out the welcome mat, there’s no better time to book your next Aussie adventure.
