Stradbroke Island, Queensland
Close to home but far enough away to feel like you’ve actually been somewhere, Stradbroke Island is a quick and easy weekend getaway. Hire a boat, catch a water taxi or jump on a ferry and you’ll be on island time before you know it. North Stradbroke Island is the larger of the two islands and offers a range of accommodation and dining options for those who aren’t quite satisfied with a tent and a camp fire. Or, for those who are, there are a bunch of different camp grounds to choose from depending on your fondness for a hot shower.

Lake Moogerah, Queensland
In less than two-hours, you could be dangling a line or paddling around Lake Moogerah. Surrounded by the spectacular beauty of the Scenic Rim, the lake is a relaxed and easy getaway for devoted water skiers, fishermen and women and nature lovers. The Lake Moogerah Caravan Park offers powered tent sites, cabins as well as a beautiful old Queenslander that is known as the ‘End of the Line’. If you’re keen for a day trip, there is a winery and a lavender farm within 10-kilometres.

Amamoor State Forest, Queensland
180 km north of Brisbane, the Amamoor State Forest is the perfect place to escape the stress of city life for a couple of days. Swap bright lights for stars and torch lights and relax amongst the riverine rainforest. There are two camping areas, Cedar Grove and Amamoor Creek, to choose from depending on where you are keen to pull up stumps. If you’re keen to take your furry friend along, the Amamoor Creek camping area allows pooches.

Brunswick Heads, New South Wales
Embrace life’s simple pleasures at Brunswick Heads. An unspoilt coastal village, Brunswick Heads is only a 30-minute drive from the Gold Coast. If you find yourself at a loose end, take a peek at this handy 101 things to do in Brunswick Heads list or just see where the day takes you. North Coast Holiday Parks’ Ferry Reserve offers five self-contained cabins and camp sites.

Border Ranges National Park, New South Wales
Keep travelling and pretty soon you’ll find yourself amongst the world-heritage beauty of Border Ranges National Park. Pitch a tent at Forest Tops campground, fire up the barbecue and cook up a rainforest feast before surrendering to the starry night sky. If you’re up for a little off-the-beaten-track adventure, the Booyong walking track follows a historic trail through lush rainforest.

Honourable mentions:
If the whole tent thing isn’t for you, indulge in a spot of glamping at Nightfall or Ketchups Bank. Closer to home, Mt Tamborine Caravan Park and Moreton Bay are great options for a weekend away as are Hastings Point and Lennox Head. Bunya Mountains is about a three hour drive from Brisbane but is well worth the extra kilometres.