We just love camping at Cotton Tree Caravan Park, Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast. It had been somewhere we wanted to go for years and years, and now we’ve been a few times and still can’t wait to go again.
One of the reasons we love Cotton Tree camping so much is due to its location. Its located right on the Maroochy River where the kids can play in calm waters, as well as ride their boogie boards, kayak and swim safely. The banks of the Maroochy River is also a killer spot to have drinks while watching the sunset.
The other great thing about the location is just around the bend is Maroochydore Beach, which is perfect for the kids with a little more skill in the water. We normally find the kids start off in the calmer waters and as their confidence builds they slowly move around to the beach.
Cotton Tree Holiday Park is the perfect spot for the beginner or less experienced campers as right across the road is a range of shops where you can purchase groceries or even take out. And while the Maroochydore Beach Holiday Park itself doesn’t have too much in terms of facilities for the kids, being right on the beach is just so perfect, and there is also a playground within walking distance.
If the Cotton Tree camping ground is somewhere you’ve considered camping before; then this article is going to be great for you. Whether you plan on camping at Cotton Tree in a tent, van or staying in one of the Cotton Tree Caravan Park cabins, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
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Cotton Tree Camping Sunshine Coast
Below I’ve provided all the essential information about Cotton Tree Tourist Park including the location, different Cotton Tree accommodation options and on site facilities as well as nearby facilities.
Cotton Tree Caravan Park Location
Cotton Tree is about 100 km from the Brisbane CBD or around a 90 minute drive. It is pretty easy to get here via the Bruce Highway and then taking the Sunshine Motorway until you reach Marchydoore.
The Cotton Tree campsite itself, is located right on the Maroochy River and a short stroll around the bend is Maroochydore Beach, so here you really do have to best of both worlds. You are also within a short walk to plenty of shops and restaurants too.
Cotton Tree Holiday Park Sites and Accommodation Options
At the Cotton Tree Camping Park, there is a range of tent and van sites as well as other accommodation options. Below I’ve briefly detailed all the different options.
Click here to see a map of the park and where the various sites are located.
Tent
If you’re bringing your tent, there are 93 powered tent sites as well as 29 unpowered sites. Sites range from being in the centre of the park, to along the beach with stunning waterfront views.
There are ten unpowered sites that are right on the waterfront of the Maroochy River, and these would be my pick if you have a choice – but be fast as they book out quickly.
We’ve even stayed on the powered sites a few sites back from the beachfront which are still pretty good as you’ll still get partial views and its just seconds to reach the beach.
Campsites are not overly spacious, and you will be super close to your neighbour – but it’s all worth it for the stunning location.
For two people per night, campsites range from around $44 for an unpowered site during off-peak to around $78 for a waterfront site during peak time. Additional people are $10 each. Cotton Tree Caravan Park rates are certainly not cheapest around but you’re paying for the location.
Caravan Sites
For those bringing along their vans, Cotton Tree has 280 powered sites which include 23 sites right on the banks of the Maroochy River, with beautiful waterfront views. Each of the caravan sites has a concrete slab for your annex.
Cotton Tree Caravan Park Cabins and other Accommodation Options
As well as tent and van sites, Cotton Tree also has a range of cabins and a beach house available. This is great for family and friends coming along with you that aren’t keen on camping.
Cotton Tree Cabins
There are nine self contained deluxe cabins– 6 x two bedroom cabins and 3 x one bedroom cabins. The one bedroom cabins can sleep 4 people in a queen bed and set of bunk beds, while the two bedroom cabins can sleep 6 people in a queen bed, double bed and sofa bed.
Each of the Cotten Tree cabins includes air conditioning, a kitchenette with fridge, hot plates, microwave and dining table and deck also has a table and chairs.
Six of the cabins are reasonably close to the banks of the Maroochy River, while the remaining three are just opposite the Cotton Tree shopping and dining precinct.
Cabins per night range from around $166 for a 1 bedroom in off peak to around $268 for a 2 bedroom in peak time.
You can check out the floor plan of the 1 bedroom cabins here or check them out in the video below.
There are two different two bedroom cabins, the Beachside or Riverside – click on each to see their floor plan or check them out in the videos below.
Beach House
There is also a super spacious fully self contained four bedroom beach house too. This beach house can accommodate up to 8 people and has two bathrooms, kitchen, living area, dining area, laundry and an outdoor area too.
Despite its name, unfortunately the Beach House is not located on the beach it’s right on the opposite side, super close to the Cotton Tree shopping and dining precinct.
The nightly rate for the Beach House ranges from around $243 during off peak to around $330 during peak time.
Check out the floor plan of the beach house here, or check it out in the video below.
Facilities
Cotton Tree has all the facilities you need for a comfortable camping trip. Below I’ve listed the various facilities available on site.
Camp Kitchen
There is one camp kitchen which includes a few BBQs, fridge, microwave, kettle, toaster and a few picnic benches. However considering how large the holiday park is, I would ensure you are self sufficient; otherwise you may find yourself waiting for quite a while to use the cooking facilities.
There are however a few additional BBQs scattered throughout the park.
Communal Toilets and Showers
With 5 amenity blocks, you’re never far from the toilet or shower. We’ve always found the amenity blocks to be clean and in good working order.
There are also baby facilities available, including a bath and a changing table.
Laundry
Across the park, there are three different laundry areas with each area having numerous washing machines, clothes driers and basins.
Convenience Store
The park office also operates as a small Convenience Store selling a range of snacks and drinks as well as LPG, ice and bait.
From the office, you can also get a password for free wifi.
Nearby Facilities
The main attraction of course for Cotton Tree is the location. Not only is the River and Beach right on the doorstep, but there is also a range of other nearby things as well – including:
- Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre: Right next door to the park
- Cotton Tree Shopping and Dining Precinct: Just 80 metres from the park entrance
- Maroochy Surf Club: 500 metres from the park entrance
- Maroochy RSL: 800 metres from the park entrance
- Sunshine Plaza Shopping Centre: 5 minutes away by car or a 20 minute walk
- Maroochydore Beach Bowls Club: 220 metres from the park entrance
- Markets (on every Sunday): Just 80 metres from the park entrance
FAQs
Is Cotton Tree Caravan Park dog friendly?
No pets are not allowed at Cotton Tree.
What is the check out time?
Check out is strictly 10 am, although late departure can be arranged subject to availability and a fee is payable.
Can I have day visitors while camping at Cotton Tree?
Yes you can, but they must check-in at the office before entering.
Our Verdict
We absolutely love camping at Cotton Tree, but I’m going to be completely honest, the campsites are small, and you do feel like you are crammed inside the park. If you’re picturing spacious sites and not seeing your neighbour, then this is not your place. However, if you can deal with the small sites, you are well rewarded with one of the most beautiful beachfront locations.
Cotton Tree is perfect for families wanting a safe place for their kids to swim, kayak or boogie board. It is also an incredibly easy place to camp with so many shops, cafes and restaurants nearby.
I’ve no doubt we will be camping at Cotton Tree for many more years to come. Click here to book your camping trip at Cotton tree.
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I hope you found our Cotton Tree Holiday Park review helpful. You can find more great places to go camping around the Sunshine Coast here we also have a great guide on the best Sunshine Coast camping spots for those who enjoy fishing.
Don’t forget if you’re looking for any camping gear we have plenty of reviews and guides on how to choose the best equipment for your camping trip. We even have the ultimate camping checklist here.
