| At a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Cost | Budget/Low cost camping |
| Location | Country showgrounds across Australia (NSW, QLD, SA, TAS, NT featured) |
| Pet Friendly | Yes (showgrounds mentioned are pet friendly) |
| Campfires | See Camps App |
| Facilities | Varies by location – toilets, showers, dump points, powered sites, laundry available at some venues |
| Vehicle Access | Suitable for caravans and motorhomes |
| In Camps App | Yes – look for yellow markers and yellow gate icons |
You asked for it, you get it! Brett Kempster wrote to us and suggested: “What about a feature on country town showgrounds providing low cost camping? We stayed in a couple but our last trip…through NT, Qld and NSW really highlighted to us how brilliant an option they are. A few we stayed in on that trip:
Adelaide River (NT) – even had a pool
Mundubbera (Qld) – quiet hospitable town
Moree (NSW) – RSL out the back gate
Narrabri (NSW) – brilliant, quiet and near town
I’m sure there are many others people can suggest.”
Well, here’s a few more showgrounds for your list, Brett! And they’re all pet friendly.
Find them all in the CAMPS App and guides. And tell us your favourites!
The yellow markers and yellow gate icons in the CAMPS App and guides are for showgrounds, rec grounds and community halls.
Many have toilets and showers and other facilities, too. Find out what types of camps are in Australia…
Mount Gambier Showgrounds, SA is a terrific spot. It has a dump point, shower and toilet, even powered sites & a laundry…
An unexpected surprise was the Chudleigh Memorial Hall and Showground. It’s directly opposite the honey farm! Read on for facilities and more budget camping in the Meander Valley…
Keep following our “Across the Centre” trip and “Where am I” on our socials! What an adventure – we camped in NT’s Red Centre a few days back – now we’re in outback WA!
Find more country town showgrounds, free and budget camping sites, or caravan parks throughout Australia in the CAMPS 12 guide books, CAMPS Pendium boxed set and free UPDATED CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE App.
Download the Camps App for iPhone/iPad or Android
Frequently Asked Questions
Are showgrounds pet friendly?
Yes, the showgrounds featured in this article are all pet friendly, making them a great option for travellers with dogs or other pets.
How do I find showgrounds in the Camps App?
Look for the yellow markers and yellow gate icons in the CAMPS App and guides – these indicate showgrounds, rec grounds and community halls.
What facilities can I expect at showground campsites?
Facilities vary by location, but many showgrounds offer toilets and showers. Some also have dump points, powered sites, and laundries. Mount Gambier Showgrounds in SA, for example, has all of these facilities.
How much does it cost to camp at a showground?
Showgrounds are known for providing low cost, budget-friendly camping options. For specific pricing at individual showgrounds, check the Camps App for current details.
Can I stay at showgrounds with a caravan or motorhome?
Yes, showgrounds generally provide good space for caravans and motorhomes. They’re popular with grey nomads and families travelling around Australia.
Which showgrounds are recommended in NSW?
Recommended NSW showgrounds include Koorawatha, Moree (with RSL out the back gate), and Narrabri (quiet and near town). All details are available in the Camps App.
Are there showgrounds in Queensland worth visiting?
Yes, Widgee (near Gympie) and Canungra (Gold Coast Hinterland) in South East Queensland are mentioned as having excellent facilities. Adelaide River in NT even has a pool, and Mundubbera in QLD is noted as a quiet, hospitable town.
Can I light campfires at showgrounds?
Check the Camps App for current details on campfire regulations at specific showgrounds, as rules vary by location and season.
