The best camping spots in Australia for stargazing
Camping might be the last thing on your mind during winter but with fewer crowds and crisp fresh air to clear your head, it could be the ideal escape.
Add to that the empty skies for some stunning stargazing, and you've got a beautiful winter holiday.
If you're keen to plan a camp trip over the coming months, 9Travel spoke to Nick Baker, CEO of Reflections Holidays, to get some tips on where to go.
"There's something amazing about looking up at a sky full of stars, especially when you're out in nature," he tells us.
"As the humidity of summer fades and skies become clearer, this is arguably the best time of year for stargazing across Australia."
Here are some of Nick's recommended destinations.
Copeton Waters, NSW
Reflections Copeton Waters near Inverell is set on a vast lake with almost zero light pollution, making it one of the best-kept secrets for stargazers seeking both comfort and cosmic beauty.
Whether you're pitching a tent lakeside or kicking back in a cabin, you'll enjoy uninterrupted views of the Milky Way from the moment the sun dips below the horizon.
During the day, enjoy boating, fishing, or hiking, then wind down by the campfire as stars slowly emerge overhead.
Seal Rocks, NSW
Tucked away on the coast not far from Sydney, it's quiet, a little wild, and has the kind of night skies that make you stop mid-sentence.
It even has a brilliant viewing platform right by the camp kitchen, so you can make a cuppa and stargaze at the same time.
And sure, stargazing on a beach might sound like something from a travel brochure, but with barely any light around and the ocean humming in the background, it's one of the best spots to sit and watch all the razzle-dazzle above.
Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, SA
For remote beauty and uninterrupted night skies, Arkaroola in the Flinders Ranges is hard to beat.
This private wilderness sanctuary is one of the most isolated spots in the country, which means minimal light pollution and a sky full of stars.
There's even an on-site observatory for those curious about what's above, but you don't need a telescope to be impressed.
The camping facilities are simple yet comfortable, and the dramatic, rocky landscape only adds to the feeling that you're worlds away from everyday life.
Lake Keepit, NSW
Lake Keepit, nestled between Tamworth and Gunnedah, is a hidden gem that quickly becomes a favourite of anyone who visits.
Reflections Holidays offers lakeside camping with wide, open skies ideal for stargazing. Located far enough from major cities to escape light pollution, it has uninterrupted views of constellations, planets, and the Milky Way.
Keepit has unpowered sites if you want to pitch a tent, or you could splurge at Wilderluxe and soak in an outdoor bath while drinking in the stars, with the mild autumn nights creating the perfect setting.
By day, the lake offers water sports and kayaking, while the evenings bring peaceful starlit serenity.
Cania Gorge National Park, Qld.
Located inland from Bundaberg, Cania Gorge offers scenic walks and peaceful campsites perfect for stargazing.
Autumn is an ideal time to visit, with warm days and cooler evenings that bring clear, crisp skies. As night falls, expect to see constellations stretching across the horizon and the occasional shooting star.
The family-friendly camping areas offer both powered and unpowered sites, making it a great spot to escape and connect with nature.
Booderee National Park, NSW
Beachside stargazing? Yes, please. Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay offers the perfect mix of nature and stargazing.
With clear autumn skies, it's an ideal spot for camping, far enough from city lights for uninterrupted views of the night sky.
Fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to kangaroos, with the chance to spot bioluminescence along the shoreline - if you're lucky.
Clancy Springs Campground, VIC
This is a great place to get in touch with nature. Spot koalas and roos as the sun goes down, then spread out a blanket and stargaze after night falls.
After waking up to the sound of wildlife, spend the day fishing or visiting nearby wineries.
Karijini National Park, WA
Karijini National Park in Western Australia is known for its striking red gorges, natural swimming holes, and ancient rock formations.
After sunset, the park offers some of the darkest skies in the country, perfect for stargazing. With no light pollution and wide horizons, you can catch everything from satellites to stunning galactic displays.
The contrast of rugged landscapes by day and tranquil skies by night makes it an unforgettable experience.
Cradle Mountain, Tas.
Cradle Mountain in Tasmania may be famous for its cool climate and alpine lakes, but it's also a fantastic stargazing spot.
On clear autumn nights, the sky lights up with stars, especially once the day-trippers leave. With crisp air, uninterrupted views, and high elevation, you're closer to the stars.
Pack warm gear for a twilight walk, then settle in with a hot drink and enjoy the celestial display.
If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the southern lights (aurora australis) in the distance.
