This small town on the Noosa River provides access to national parks, K’gari, and Noosa town.
This village in Noosa’s hinterland provides access to the mountain biking trails of Tewantin National Park, K’gari and the Great Sandy National Park, and ferry access to Noosa’s North Shore. The town itself is home to some galleries and boutiques, and is one of the oldest settled parts of Noosa, so there’s history to explore, too. Campers can stay at campgrounds and holiday parks in Tewantin and the nearby greater Noosa area, as well as at campsites beside nearby Lake Cootharaba and throughout the Great Sandy National Park.
Tewantin National Park
Tewantin National Park, on the northern edge of town, is beloved for its mountain biking trails, which are considered some of the best in the Sunshine Coast area. As well as biking, visitors can birdwatch, walk, abseil and rock climb, and ride horses in the park. Camping is not permitted within this small park itself, but there are no shortage of coastal, forest, and close-to-town camping and caravan areas nearby.
K’gari
The island formerly known as Fraser Island is about 2.5 hours’ drive north of Tewantin. It’s part of the Great Sandy National Park, but as it’s an island it’s quite distinct from the southern, mainland parts of the park. You’ll need vehicle and/or camping permits to stay on K’gari, and there are a number of campsites suitable for tents and camper trailers. Most are beside the island’s beautiful beaches.
Cooloola Recreation Area
The Cooloola Recreation Area is the mainland section of the Great Sandy National Park, meaning it’s somewhat easier to reach from Tewantin and the Noosa area than K’gari island. There are many camping areas beside beaches and the Noosa River, some of which can only be accessed by boat or on foot. Others are suitable for vehicles, including caravans and camper trailers. Bookings are required and campsites in this part of the park are very popular, so book early for peak times.
The Noosa area is especially popular during summer (December to February), particularly during the summer school holidays, as the weather is warm and conditions good for outdoor activities such as spending time at the beach. However, rain is not uncommon in summer. To hike, especially on K’gari, you may prefer to visit in spring or autumn, to avoid the summer heat and rains.