Byron Bay Caravan Parks and What To Do When You Get There

Byron Bay continues to grow in popularity year on year. Once upon a time, it was nothing more than an innocuous coastal town with a whaling station. It is now recognised as an integral tourist attraction with over two million visitors annually.

Located along the far north coast of New South Wales and 165 kilometres south of Brisbane, it is Australia’s most easterly point and remains a popular surfing destination. A bohemian atmosphere, beach parties, and a festival culture are all elements of Byron Bay you will likely experience. 

As the region’s popularity grew, so did the number of multi-functional caravan sites looking to make the most of the boom in tourism. Here we will look at seven of the most prominent friendly parks that serve Byron Bay and what they offer. As well as presenting the activities and opportunities available at each of the campsites, we will also explore several other experiences you may wish to try when visiting Byron Bay.

Caravan Parks in Byron Bay

Clarkes Beach Holiday Park

Image credit: Agoda

As the name would suggest, Clarkes Beach Holiday Park sits right beneath Clarkes Beach and is only ten minutes away from Byron Bay itself. The park offers a wide range of accommodation options, with both powered and unpowered sites available. 

Their powered sites offer both ensuite and deluxe options and all the amenities you would expect for your motorhomes and caravans, with the unpowered options providing a more rustic experience. Both sites are nestled within lush natural surroundings for privacy. There are also a series of standard cabins and more deluxe villa options. 

In terms of park features, there are many children’s facilities to keep your little ones busy, a camp kitchen and barbeque options. The park is currently not seen as being dog-friendly. 

Byron Bay Ingenia Holiday Park

Image credit: Ingenia Communities

Located beside Tallow Creek and a stone’s throw away from Tallow Beach, Byron Bay Ingenia Holiday Park rests upon 28-acres of parkland and offers various accommodation options.

Anyone looking for an authentic camping experience can pitch their tents on an unpowered site, with the added reassurance of being just five minutes away from Byron Bay. They also suit all forms of caravans and motorhomes. Similarly, their powered site options provide the ideal compromise between rustic and modern camping. They come as standard or premium, with the premium options once again being suited for your larger vehicles. Finally, there is the option of a powered ensuite site.

All types of accommodation have access to the on-site facilities, including the communal TV area and saltwater swimming pool and camp kitchen facilities. The park states that it is pet friendly, though you should call ahead for further details.    

First Sun Holiday Park

Image credit: Visit Byron Bay

This holiday park is found right on the edge of Byron Beach and is in sight of The Wreck, a popular surf spot with offshore shipwreck remains protruding from the water. 

First Sun offers several types of accommodation, including over sixty powered sites (fifteen of which have waterfront views, though these are not suitable for tents or trailers) and twelve unpowered sites for experienced campers. All powered sites are ideal for caravans and campervans, with an additional two catering to large motor homes up to twelve metres in length.

Two- and three-bedroom cabins are available and ensuite huts for those after a little more luxury and comfort. A modern camp kitchen and outdoor dining area can cater to all culinary needs, and for entertainment, there is equipment hire, with both bikes and surfboards available. You’ll also find kids’ facilities and activities running during school holidays.

Broken Head Holiday Park

Image credit: NSW National Parks

A little further away from the bustle of Byron Bay, you will find Broken Head Holiday Park, seven kilometres south of the town and right next to Broken Head Beach itself. It is also within comfortable walking distance of Kings Beach, a secluded stretch of sand for those looking for some respite.

The park has both powered and unpowered sites available and can cater to all types of caravans, motorhomes, and tents, though spaces are limited for fifth wheelers and larger caravans. Both types provide easy access to park amenities and facilities.

There are also deluxe beach cabins available, with the option to interconnect these for larger groups or families, and two-bedroom beach houses that can sleep up to five people.

A camp kitchen is available and has recently undergone extensive refurbishment, as have the barbeque areas. There is an amenities block, laundry area, and a kiosk to obtain refreshments, park info, and travel information.  

Glen Villa Resort

Image credit: ByronBayHolidayz

Glen Villa Resort lies within the heart of Byron Bay, less than 500 metres from both the town centre and Main Beach. It is a traditional camping ground and caravan park covering 14-acres. 

The park can offer both powered and unpowered sites, with powered sites large enough to accommodate all types of caravan and campervan. Unpowered sites are set upon grassy areas that back onto the National Park and are up to 75 sq. metres in size. They also have a range of deluxe cabins that can sleep two guests, though twin cabins provide additional sleeping space.

All types of accommodation have direct access to the park’s facilities, including private tropical grounds and a camp kitchen and barbeque area. There is also a swimming pool available, and the potential to spot native wildlife in their natural habitat is always there.  

Terrace Reserve Holiday Park

Image credit: Tripadvisor

Head north from Byron Bay, and you will find Terrace Reserve Holiday Park, located within Brunswick Heads and right next to Brunswick River.

The camping site offers powered options with a maximum capacity of six people. It also provides powered and unpowered sites geared for tents and swags only and different cabin choices. There are both deluxe and superior cabins to choose from, with both types being able to sleep up to five people.

On-site, there is access to barbeque facilities, a camp kitchen, and an amenities block. There is also a car wash station available. Brunswick River offers the chance for easy fishing and snorkelling, and the park is within walking distance to the beaches, and everything Brunswick Heads has to offer. Unfortunately, this park is not dog-friendly. 

Wooyung Beach Holiday Park

Image credit: The Tweed

Located in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, Wooyung Beach Holiday Park is still close enough for a trip to Byron Bay, being just twenty minutes away. It is next to Crabbes Creek beach, just south of the Wooyung Nature Reserve.

Both powered and unpowered options are available, with a maximum of five metres of available space for all forms of motorhomes and tents. Up to six guests are allowed on these sites and up to two dogs. There is also the option to choose from an eco-cabin or beach studio rooms. The eco-cabins offer slightly more space and can sleep up to five guests, with the beach studio rooms catering to four. Both have ensuite and kitchen facilities, though no dogs are allowed for these options.

There is instant access to the beach and an amenities block, and fires can be built at all sites across the park for barbeque and cooking purposes.

Things To Do in Byron Bay

Whether you are after a relaxing beach getaway, a stimulating surf challenge, or an enlightening visit to one of the national parks nearby, Byron Bay has something for everyone. Though many of the caravan and camping parks mentioned have plenty to do on-site, there are ample opportunities to venture further afield and explore. Surrounded by areas of outstanding national beauty and boasting several prominent landmarks, you will not be short on things to do.

Here is a list of the top Byron Bay attractions and experiences you should try when visiting.

Cape Byron Lighthouse

Image credit: Wikimedia

An essential stop on the Cape Byron walking track and one of Australia’s most prominent landmarks, the lighthouse has remained in working condition since it was built at the start of the 20th century. 

While the lighthouse itself is worthy of a snap or two, one should also experience the viewing platform around the lighthouse. With stellar views of the Pacific Coast on one side, allowing for a spot of whale watching, and the Byron Bay hinterland on the other, the lighthouse stands as a key cornerstone of the area with long-established and historical links everywhere.

Cape Byron Walking Track

While the Byron Bay Lighthouse is a notable feature of the area, it can be treated as a single stop among many when you spend some time taking the Cape Byron walking track. This coastal walk will take you on a loop past Clarkes Beach, the Pass, Wategos Beach, and Little Wategos Beach along the north coast.

Once you’ve had your time at the lighthouse, take the ocean road south until you reach Cape Byron’s lookout point. From there, it’s a rustic wander back through the Cape Byron State Conservation Area that you can take to the Captain Cook picnic area should you choose to do so.

Cape Byron Marine Park

Image credit: National Parks

Encompassing Byron Bay, Cape Byron Marine Park runs from Brunswick River in the north down to Lennox Head in the south and offers a multitude of marine and ocean habitats ready to be explored. 

From mainland Australia, there are countless opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. For those who wish to experience the park from the water, paddleboard, snorkelling, and scuba diving give you direct access to the diverse underwater world and waterways. 

Julian Rocks is another great spot and home to several rare animals, including sharks and turtles. The area is also of significant Aboriginal importance, with many tribes and communities continuing to live and thrive within the park.

Arakwal National Park and Tallow Beach

South of Byron Bay, you will find Arakwal National Park, another area of vital importance to the Indigenous communities. It is easily accessible and consists of forest areas, hills, and dunes, with Tallow Beach being a notable feature. It is protected and co-managed by the New South Wales state government and the Arakwal Aboriginal Community.

Home to several types of native wildlife and offering a haven for migratory seabirds, there is no shortage of things to see and do within the park.

Killen Falls

This secluded and tranquil waterfall and swimming area can be found thirty minutes southwest of Byron Bay and is an ideal spot for families due to its excess shallow waters. The natural rainforest aesthetic makes it a picturesque setting for a day trip, and underneath the ten-metre waterfall, there is a cave ready to be explored.

The area is usually a popular stop for tourists and visitors, so it may be best to venture to the falls earlier in the morning if you are after a quiet and relaxing swim. As an alternative, you can visit Minyon Falls in the Nightcap National Park, though these falls are much larger and no access to swimming is available.  

The Farm

Image credit: The Farm

Take a trip west from Byron Bay along Ewingsdale Road, and you will find yourself coming across The Farm, one of the more unusual attractions in the area. It is a fully operational farm covering a vast swathe of land and is home to a community of growers committed to educating visitors on sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyles.

You can take one of the guided tours around the space or take yourself to explore and meet the animals. Make sure to stop off at the brewery and cafe, and don’t forget to leave without picking up some produce when you visit The Farm.

If you are in the market for fresh local produce and goods, you could also consider taking a trip to The Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Thursday in Byron Bay and the neighbouring town of Bangalow.

Plan Ahead

Byron Bay continues to grow, which should come as little surprise. The variety of caravan and camping parks in the Bay and surrounding areas give plenty of opportunities to find the perfect place to stay. With an eclectic mix of natural beauty spots, world-famous landmarks, and community events, you will never be short of things to do when you plan your trip.