Going camping: An Australian Tradition


Going camping is part of an Australian tradition, and some things never change over time.

Looking at these photos, you might recognise some areas where you live or have visited - but have you camped at these locations, or is camping at some of these places, a thing of the past?

But what, from a camping perspective,  is the same 100 years on?   


Having your favourite spot by the beach


Australian camping history
Burleigh Heads, Queensland, 1911


Fishing by your campsite


cairns camping
Jungara, Queensland, 1903


tweed heads camping
Tweed River, NSW, 1905

 

Finding an ideal spot on a river


Camping_on_a_bend_of_the_Brisbane_River
Brisbane River, QLD, 1884



Get out the Dutch Oven, and make some damper


camping in australia
Walcha, NSW, 1960
(image credit here)

Camping with other like-minded campers


camping in australia vintage
Location unknown,  circa 1910


camping queensland vintage
Mooloolaba, 1931


Sitting around the campfire, waiting for the billy to boil


campfire vintage australia
Cairns, 1907


Going camping at Christmas with friends


camping at christmas 1932
The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads, 1932



or maybe at   Currumbin, QLD, 1928 (below)

Camping_at_Currumbin_during_Christmas,1928



moreton island camping vintage
Smaller camping set up at Bulwer, Moreton Island, 1907

 

 

 

Family time (with the dog as well)


Camping_with_the_Williams_family_at_Sandgate
Sandgate, QLD, 1905


Transport to get you to your campsite is still important


StateLibQld_1_77830_Family_camping_in_the_Rosewood_district,_Queensland,_1880s
Rosewood, QLD, circa 1880’s.


Cooking over the campfire


StateLibQld_2_257066_Vic_Mann_cooking_on_the_campfire,_Mt._Isa_district,_1932
Mt Isa, 1932


Or even, just camping in your own backyard


backyard camping australia
Toowong, QLD, 1903




If you liked seeing these vintage photos, make sure you see the collection – what is camping – another photo story that will take you back in time.


Note:  All photos sourced from public domain files.