'Underrated': brrr-ave the cold in our top Aussie camping spots this winter

Winter camping in Australia is an opportunity to don your best wollies, pack your favourite boots and beanie, and get out in spectacular natural settings.

Camping when the temperature drops isn't just for hardcore adventurers, and there are some great perks you can take advantage of when it's cold out.

Camplify CEO Justin Hales said Australia's winter camping scene is "underrated" and cooler temps mean fewer crowds, crisp morning air, and often, clearer night skies for stargazing.

He said cool-weather camping also offers better wildlife sightings, and incredible sunrise and sunset light.

Camplify is seeing more bookings through the cold season every year, showing winter camping is a growing trend.

But when the temperature drops, a little preparation goes a long way. And if you're nervous about spending cool nights in a tent, try a cabin in a campground, or a van.

"Many Camplify vans are already set up for winter travel with insulated walls, diesel heaters, and warm bedding. We always recommend layering clothes, packing extra blankets, and choosing a self-contained van so you're not reliant on shared facilities," Mr Hales said.

"If you're heading somewhere particularly chilly, ask the van owner about heating options or power setups. Otherwise, a good quality sleeping bag rated for low temperatures is a great idea if you're not in a van with built-in heating. Other handy items include a headlamp for early sunsets, hot water bottles and insulated drink bottles."

Here are Camplify's top Aussie camping spots this winter.

A stunning coastal escape that feels remote but is well set up for van travellers. Think wintery beaches, fresh oysters, and quiet starry nights. Tassie weather can be a bit unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for all the elements.

Ideal for those looking for alpine scenery and lots of snow. Stay near Jindabyne or camp lakeside for a peaceful escape.

A unique inland camping destination surrounded by limestone caves and cosy bushland. Great for families and easy day hikes.

Just south of Canberra, Namadgi offers rugged mountain views, walking trails and excellent wildlife spotting. It's perfect for a serene getaway.

One of Victoria's most scenic parks year-round. In winter, you'll get dramatic coastal views without the summer crowds.

Some people enjoy camping because it's a prime time to switch off, but according to campsite and RV booking app, Hipcamp, one in six Aussie campers prefer to stay connected when exploring the great outdoors.

Telco Vodafone expanded its network in late January and together with Hipcamp has put together a list of the top winter camping spots with the best mobile connection.

In NSW, Coffs Harbour Camping and Farmstay, Millingandi Station and Stoney Park care of Dennis Stone topped the list, while in Victoria the best-connected campsites were The Fern Glade, Badgery Point and Riverside King Valley.

In Tasmania, Blythe River Campground, Craigie Knowe Vineyard and Sherwood River Camp all rated a mention for their better-than-average mobile service.

Hipcamp global social media lead, Brooke Wood, said there was a noticeable increase in bookings for powered sites this winter, suggesting many campers were looking for those little creature comforts like being able to plug in and run the air con.

Firewood was also in high demand, and many hosts on the Hipcamp app were offering hardwood firewood either included or for purchase.

"We're also seeing bookings for cosy stays, especially in cooler states like Victoria, with features like wood-fired outdoor tubs proving particularly popular," she said.

"And of course, winter always brings a northward migration, Queensland Hipcamps are consistently in high demand as nomads chase the sun."

A Big4 Holiday Parks spokesperson said winter isn't a season to endure, but rather one to embrace.

"The cooler months bring a different kind of adventure: quieter surrounds, crisp air, and time to truly slow down," they said.

Their top-three parks that permit campfires are BIG4 Wye River in Victoria, which offers glamping tents and sites; BIG4 Tassie Gateway St Helens in Tasmania for glamping tents and luxury ensuite sites; and BIG4 Nelligen in NSW which has glamping deluxe safari tents and riverfront and creek side sites.