Dreamtime legends, dramatic views, and outdoor thrills await in the Glass House Mountains.
Soaring craggy peaks and forest-swaddled hinterlands make up the postcard landscapes of the Glass House Mountains, and the eponymous town is the gateway to the storied peaks. Head into the Glass House Mountains National Park, where you can hike around Mount Tibrogargan, summit Mount Ngungun, and go rock climbing, abseiling, horseback riding, and mountain biking. There are no public campgrounds in the town itself, but campers can take their pick of Hipcamps, from farm stays to cosy cabins or simple bush camping. For larger motorhomes and campervans, nearby Beerwah Caravan Park has powered sites and full amenities.
The Steve Irwin Way winds its way north of Glass House Mountains into the Sunshine Coast Hinterlands, where the rolling countryside is dotted with lively towns, foodie hotspots, and national parks. Swing by Australia Zoo for a wildlife experience, then take a road trip to visit the market towns of Maleny and Kenilworth or hike the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk through Mapleton Falls National Park. Campers have a choice of holiday parks, glamping getaways, and creek-side camping at Conondale National Park.
Swathes of pine and eucalypt forests surround the Glass House Mountains, affording miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. There’s no camping in the Beerburrum State Forest, but Coochin Creek campground in the Beerwah State Forest has sites suitable for campervans and camper trailers, and there’s bush camping at D’Aguilar National Park, further south.
Between Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast, cross the bridge to Bribie Island for a beachside getaway complete with white-sand beaches, surf spots, and a national park. Bribie Island National Park is the undisputed highlight, where you can admire the ocean views on a beach drive (4WDs only!), spot kangaroos, emus, and other wildlife, and go bush camping right by the beach.
With slightly cooler temperatures than the coast, escaping to the hinterlands can offer welcome relief for campers in the summer months. Alternatively, autumn and winter are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities in the Glass House Mountains. Not only is the weather typically warm and dry, but the clear skies provide even better views from the mountaintops.