Your Ultimate State-by-State Guide to Caravan Parks and Festivals
VIC | QLD | SA| NT, WA & TAS
From the vibrant blooms of Grafton’s Jacaranda trees to the roar of engines at Mount Panorama, New South Wales offers a thrilling and scenic adventure this spring. Whether you're chasing whales along the coast, enjoying colourful festivals, or exploring iconic landscapes, this guide has everything you need for the perfect caravanning getaway.
Jacaranda Festival in Grafton
The purple bloom magic of Grafton. Festival time in Grafton is a spectacle with its famous Jacaranda trees in full bloom. The Jacaranda Festival, held from October 25 – November 3, 2024, celebrates the season with parades, live music, and various fun activities all drenched in purple. It’s a charming experience perfect for families and couples seeking a colourful spring escape.
Top Attractions
- Jacaranda Festival: A vibrant festival celebrating the blooming jacarandas with street parades, art, live performances, and markets.
- Clarence River: Take a scenic boat ride along the Clarence River for stunning views of the jacarandas and Grafton.
- Grafton Regional Gallery: Visit this gallery for a dose of art and history amidst the blooms.
Caravan Accommodation Options
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BIG4 Big River Holiday Park & Ski Lodge
- Location: Situated right on the Clarence River, just outside Grafton.
- Amenities: Powered caravan sites, waterfront cabins, boat ramp, and pool.
- Why Choose This: Perfect for those wanting to combine the festival fun with riverside relaxation and water activities.
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Grafton Greyhound Racing Club Caravan Park
- Location: Just a few minutes from the heart of Grafton.
- Amenities: Powered sites, clean amenities, and access to the racing club's facilities.
- Why Choose This: This spot is ideal for visitors looking for a quiet place to stay with easy access to Grafton's central attractions.
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Grafton Sunset Caravan Park
- Location: Situated close to the Clarence River and Grafton city centre.
- Amenities: Offers powered and unpowered sites, cabins, BBQ areas, and clean facilities.
- Why Choose This: Convenient for those who want a budget-friendly stay within a short distance of the Jacaranda Festival and local points of interest.
Mount Panaroma Bathurst
image credit Matt Stone Racing
Bathurst 1000 in Mount Panorama
Motorsport fans, get ready! If you're a motorsport enthusiast, the Bathurst 1000 is an unmissable event. From October 10 – 13, 2024, Mount Panorama roars to life with the excitement of the Supercars. This iconic race attracts fans from across Australia and is a thrilling addition to any spring getaway.
Top Attractions
- Bathurst 1000: Enjoy the spectacle of Australia's most famous motorsport event, featuring Supercars racing around the challenging Mount Panorama Circuit.
- Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit: When not hosting races, visitors can drive the circuit themselves.
- Bathurst Goldfields: Discover Bathurst’s rich history by visiting the Goldfields or taking a heritage walking tour.
Caravan Accommodation Options
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NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park
- Location: Close to the race circuit and other local attractions.
- Amenities: Powered sites, BBQ areas, and a swimming pool.
- Why Choose This: A prime spot for motorsport lovers looking to immerse themselves in the Bathurst 1000 experience.
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Bathurst Showground Camping
- Location: Centrally located in Bathurst, near Mount Panorama and the town's major attractions.
- Amenities: Offers powered and unpowered sites, clean facilities, and easy access to local events.
- Why Choose This: A great budget-friendly option close to the action during major events like the Bathurst 1000.
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Surrounding areas
- Explore other camping options in the surrounding areas for a more rural or off-the-beaten-path experience during your stay in Bathurst.
Eden Holiday & Caravan Park | Reflections Holidays
Eden Whale Festival
Whale-watching wonders on the South Coast. The Eden Whale Festival, held in October 2024, celebrates one of the best whale-watching seasons in Australia. As humpback whales migrate along the coast, Eden becomes a prime spot for watching these majestic creatures up close. The festival features whale-watching tours, markets, food stalls, and cultural performances.
Top Attractions
- Eden Whale Festival: Enjoy whale-themed activities, cultural exhibitions, and delicious food.
- Whale-Watching Tours: Take a boat tour to see humpbacks breaching and playing in the water.
- Killer Whale Museum: Learn about the area’s fascinating history of whaling and its modern conservation efforts.
Caravan Accommodation Options
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Reflections Holiday Parks Eden
- Location: Right on the waterfront of Twofold Bay in Eden, offering beautiful views and easy access to the beach.
- Amenities: Spacious powered and unpowered sites, cabins, modern amenities, BBQ areas, and direct access to walking trails.
- Why Choose This: Ideal for those looking to enjoy beachfront camping while whale watching during the Eden Whale Festival.
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Boydtown Beach Holiday Park
- Location: Situated right on the shores of Boydtown Beach, just minutes south of Eden.
- Amenities: Offers powered and unpowered camping sites, beachfront cabins, modern amenities, camp kitchen, and direct beach access.
- Why Choose This: Ideal for beach lovers looking for a relaxing stay with stunning ocean views and the opportunity to spot whales from the shore during the Eden Whale Festival.
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Ingenia Holidays Eden Beachfront
- Location: Right on the beach in Eden.
- Amenities: Waterfront sites, playground, BBQ areas, and easy access to whale-watching tours.
- Why Choose This: Ideal for those wanting to experience the festival and whale watching from the comfort of a beachfront location.
Floriade Gardens
image credit: Visit Canberra Jo Bakas
Floriade in Canberra
A floral paradise in the nation's capital. While Canberra isn’t technically in New South Wales, the nearby Floriade festival is a must-see during spring. Running from September 14 – October 13, 2024, Floriade is Australia's biggest celebration of spring, featuring over a million blooming flowers, garden displays, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
Top Attractions
- Floriade: Marvel at the spectacular flower displays, live music, and artisan markets.
- Commonwealth Park: Stroll through this picturesque park where Floriade is held, enjoying gardens in full bloom.
- National Arboretum: Explore the National Arboretum’s extensive collection of rare and significant trees.
Caravan Accommodation Options
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Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park
- Location: Close to Canberra, along the Queanbeyan River.
- Amenities: Powered sites, modern amenities, and proximity to Canberra’s attractions.
- Why Choose This: A peaceful riverside setting just a short drive from Floriade.
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Crestview Tourist Park
- Location: Located in Queanbeyan, only 15 minutes from Canberra’s CBD.
- Amenities: Spacious sites, pool, and BBQ facilities.
- Why Choose This: An affordable option close to Canberra's attractions and Floriade.
Next week, we’ll explore even more caravan parks and scenic destinations in Queensland! Get ready for tropical adventures, and as always, we’ll provide expert recommendations to make your springtime caravan travels unforgettable. And if you missed last week's Victoria Guide, you can find that here.
No matter where you go, make your springtime caravan adventure even more enjoyable with Van Go Collections' range of stylish and practical tableware and accessories. From campsite essentials to decorative touches for your caravan, we’ve got everything to ensure a comfortable and memorable trip.
Happy Travels,
Victoria.
