$100k/year side hustle: How Hipcamp revolution became lucrative farmer money spinner
From national parks to country cattle stations, Queenslanders are choosing outback Hipcamps to holiday for as little as $18 a night and the lucrative side hustle has farmers raking in thousands a week.
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As the cost of living continues to rise, more Queenslanders are looking for ways to save when it comes to having a much-needed holiday and a camping revolution has farmers turning their large swathes of land into lucrative money spinning side hustles.
‘Hipcamps’ are a trendy and affordable option which puts a camping twist on AirBnB, offering travellers a one-of-a-kind holiday for as little as $18 a night, while giving their farmer hosts an opportunity to earn money on the side.
Similarly to AirBnB, Hipcamp gives thrifty travellers the option to book camping sites directly from the hosts, offering a range of locations anywhere from national parks to outback cattle stations.
They’re located all around the country, some of them even in your own backyard.
Hipcamp officially formed their brand after joining forces with Youcamp Australia in 2020.
There are more than 21,000 campgrounds listed with Hipcamp across Australia, covering all national, state and regional parks.
Hipcamp Head of Global Communications and Public Relations Lydia Davey Crosby said the popularity of Hipcamps continues to grow each year.
“We are seeing growth each year, across both landowners signing up and campers using the platform to book their trips – Aussies love camping, they love getting outdoors,” Ms Davey Crosby said.
Ms Davey Crosby said the rising cost of living was also contributing to a rise in people using Hipcamps as a holiday option.
“We are seeing the effects of sky-rocketing costs of living; while our booking numbers are on average up year on year for our key peak holiday periods, and more people are choosing nights under the stars as their holiday option, we know people are spending less overall,” she said.
But Hipcamps aren’t only helping people looking for an affordable holiday.
According to Hipcamp, the average host makes $8000 to $15,000 a year in additional income, or roughly an extra $150 to $290 a week.
More active hosts can make upwards of $100,000 a year hosting campers.
Farmers are among those hosts, with some using the additional space on their operational properties to earn a secondary income, helping keep their farms afloat.
North of Gympie, Nikki and Todd Mackenzie run Gootchie Creek Escape, a Hipcamp where guests can relax in the Queensland countryside while learning all about what goes into running a working cattle farm.
The 600-acre block-turned-Hipcamp is part of a cattle property that was owned by Mrs Mackenzie’s father before he passed away five years ago.
Having camped on the property themselves, Mr and Mrs Mackenzie decided to open the site up to campers to help build extra income for cattle feed during the drought.
“The first weekend we opened it really took off, we had about 75 people booked in, it was insane,” Mrs Mackenzie said.
“Covid was a bit of a blessing for us, when the borders shut and so many travellers were restricted and didn’t want to be camping on top of others at the Gold Coast, here people could spread right out.”
Mrs Mackenzie said the extra income generated from their Hipcamp helped keep their property afloat, particularly during times of extreme weather events, although she didn’t put a figure on it.
“It was very, very tough through the flooding, we had about 100km of fencing go down that needed to be repaired and it’s helped keep the farm sustainable during the things mother nature has thrown at us,” she said.
“It’s helped us buy feed for cows and animals and helped us buy all the vaccinations we have to do for them every four months.
“(Without the extra income) it would have been harder but we would never have lost the farm, but it’s definitely been a huge help through those tougher times.”
Situated in a beautiful location beside spring fed billabongs, Mrs Mackenzie said part of Gootchie Creek Escape’s appeal is campers being able to learn a thing or two about the work involved to look after cattle on their farm before they end up on a plate.
“We muster every three months and we always have heaps of campers that come and watch,” she said.
“Some are very fascinated about what happens and how we vaccinate them and drench and learn that it’s as easy as they all think and they ask a lot of questions too.
“It’s been excellent, we’ve still been able to run cattle over there and have the campers and they love seeing the cattle roam freely, it’s worked out really well.”
Mrs Mackenzie described running the camp ground as a rewarding experience.
“We absolutely love the friendships we’ve made with so many people and the joy watching families come out here,” she said.
“We also hire out some camper trailers...we want to be able to give back to people who might have lost things in situations such as breakups, so to see a single mum be able to bring her kids out here and have a weekend together is fantastic.
“Being able to give back to people as much as we can is an amazing feeling.”
In Rockhampton, Lynda Murphy has been running her clydesdale and cattle stud farm for 30 years, and opened her own Hipcamp Shiralee Clydesdales and Farm Stays just two and a half years ago.
“I thought it was a good idea and it helped me get a bit extra to pay for horse feed,” she said.
“Everyone seems to love it, the one thing they say is they have a lot of space and don’t have to touch the neighbours’ caravan and they love interacting with the animals.
“It also allows people to learn a bit more about where their food comes from.
“We try to keep our costs as low as possible, it’s a cheaper way for people to camp and we even have some people camping in their cars when they come here.”
Ms Murphy said a lot of families staying with them were looking for something more than just being able to put their feet up.
“They want to have some sort of activity...more and more families are wanting to learn about our country and our cultures,” she said.
“Our cattle and horses always love pats and attention.
“Where we are is so close to Rockhampton but being behind the mountain and looking up at the stars at night it can feel like you’re in outback Queensland.”
Further north near Mackay, Karina Anderson runs her Hipcamp Oh Deere Farm Stays and Sugar Cane farm at Calen, which can accommodate up to 20 campers at a time.
She also runs farm tours, showing campers and visitors where the sugar in their pantry comes from.
“Our real thing was to teach the city people or people not from the country where food comes from and what it takes for us to put food on the table,” she said.
“The cost of living too is high and it’s a cheaper way of holidaying, people are looking for something different and out of the ordinary and not just that but looking at learning and not just travelling and what it takes to make difference in our world.”
Ranging from cattle properties, sugar farms and strawberry fields, Hipcamps not only provide an educational and one-of-a-kind experience for holiday makers on a budget, but also help Australian farmers bring in an extra income so they can continue to supply the freshest produce in our pantries year-round.
Whether you’re planning your next unique holiday or considering opening up your property to be the coolest new Hipcamp, take a look at some of Queensland’s best farming Hipcamps below.
WHERE YOU CAN GO
There are hundreds of Hipcamps to choose from around the Sunshine State.
Take a look at our cross section of what’s on offer, suiting those who want a nearby getaway or are looking to travel far and wide.
Gootchie Creek Escape, near Gympie
Nestled in the regional town of Gympie is Gootchie Creek Escape, a 600-acre camping site which is also an operating cattle property.
Surrounded by spring-fed billabongs where campers can spot a resident platypus, the property offers 110 pet-friendly camp sites where visitors can bike, hike or swim on the grounds.
Described as “where serenity meets the bush”, Gootchie Creek Escape offers guests a well needed getaway from the big smoke and are even encouraged to take the hammock.
Sites start at $24 a night.
Buranga Farm, near Noosa
Buranga Farm lives up to the saying “where the coast meets the country” with the picturesque Peregian Beach just a stone’s throw away.
The family-run organic farm is dog-friendly and comprises of five sites across 60 acres where guests can explore nearby ponds which are currently in the process of being renovated for Red Claw Crayfish.
With fruit trees and veggie gardens surrounding the house, guests are also welcome to interact with the on-site horse and house cow or make their way down to the main dam for a quick dip.
Situated on a largely flat property, the land itself is either grazed by a small herd of Murray Grey Cattle or set aside for regeneration.
Buxton Bush Camp, Bundaberg
Right near the Rum City you’ll find Buxton Bush Camp, a 650-acre cattle breeding property with the Isis River running right through it.
The property is a fisherman’s dream, with boating enthusiasts able to explore the river system with Burrum Heads and Walkers Point close by.
The area is also said to have some of the best fishing, prawning and crabbing waterways in south east Queensland.
Dog-friendly and accessible for all types of vehicles, the property has 12 camping sites, with guests volume-limited to ensure campers have plenty of space and privacy to relax and enjoy the countryside.
Carlton Farm, Hervey Bay
Heading further south is Carlton Farm at Hervey Bay, just a three kilometre drive from town.
Featuring 12 camping sites, the property is a stone’s throw from the mobility corridor and bike path which takes you to the whale watching town of Hervey Bay, all the way through to Urangan Pier.
Right next door to the farm is the Depot Espresso Coffee Bar which opens at 6am, but can take orders exclusively from campers at 5.30am if they knock.
Another pet friendly site, kids under the age of five stay free and campfires are permitted if campers have their own fire pit.
The farm is also nearby a hospital if needed.
Shiralee Clydesdales and Farm Stay, Rocky/Yeppoon
Campers are encouraged to get their hands dirty and help out at Shiralee Clydesdales and Farm Stay, a former horse-spelling farm turned camping ground.
With the choice of a two-bedroom cabin or self-contained Winnebago accommodation, the property offers fun for the whole family.
During your stay you can book a horse and carriage ride, feed the horses, pat the foals and even collect eggs from the chickens.
If you’re looking to just relax and unwind, you can enjoy the peace and serenity by enjoying some quiet time by the fire pit.
Only 15 minutes from Rockhampton, the farm is close to well-loved holiday attractions such as the Koorana Crocodile Farm , Rockhampton Zoo and The Big Camel.
River Run Farm Camping, Fraser Coast
Another hidden gem nestled near the coast is River Run Farm Camping in the Fraser Coast.
Equipped with 41 camping sites, the property is situated in between the historic towns of Maryborough and Tiaro, only a short drive away if campers are looking to buy some necessities or simply looking for a good pub feed.
River Run offers fun for the whole family with a fully equipped camp kitchen with a microwave, television, fridge, dart board, BBQ, communal fire pit and handy power-points to charge your devices.
There’s also a playground for the kids, plenty of animals and wildlife to see around the property, as well as fun activities to keep the whole family active.
Featuring a bike track and its own boat ramp for keen fishers and kayakers, the property is also known for having native animals such as platypus, wallabies and echidnas running around the grounds.
Lone Camel Bush Camp, Ipswich
Campers looking to get away from the big smoke of Brisbane without the long road trip can turn to Lone Camel Bush Camp, located in Ipswich.
This property is perfect for the self-contained campers who like to get off the beaten track, with the camp only accessible by 4WD.
Most of the property’s eight campsites are positioned with ridge views – a dream spot for budding photographers.
The property is also home to cows and the adorable Garfunkel the camel, who loves carrots and leafy vegetables.
Dunblane, Barcaldine
If you’re looking for the fairytale Aussie outback camping experience, way out west in Barcaldine you’ll find Dunblane, a campsite located on a sheep and cattle property in outback Queensland.
On the property you can learn all about how a wool-growing and sheep-grazing business works, all while seeing native wildlife such as eagles, brolgas, red kangaroos and echidnas.
The property is pet friendly so campers can take their four-legged friends for a walk to stretch the legs while also taking in the natural beauty of western Queensland.
Campfires are also allowed onsite, perfect for relaxing at night to spot shooting stars.
Splitters Farm, Bundaberg
Just 10 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Bundaberg’s CBD, you’ll find Splitters Farm, a 156-acre property by Splitters Creek.
The farm offers both powered and unpowered camp sites, with glamping tents and retro campers available for those looking for a little bit of extra comfort.
As well as being home to numerous native animals, the property is home to a number of free-range rescue animals such as cows, horses, goats and even a camel.
Splitters Farm has something for the whole family with a number of activities, including farm tours, damper making, barra feeding, catch and release fishing and kayaking to name a few.
The Three Mile Creek, Glastonbury
Just north of Brisbane at Glastonbury, near Gympie, you’ll find Three Mile Creek, a cattle and donkey farm which doubles as a camping ground.
Camp sites are secluded from the main road along the creek, out in the open paddocks, or among the tall stands of bamboo and are all easily accessible for 4WD, campers and caravans.
All campsites have a firepit, with some also having a picnic table.
There are also three large dams on the property which are perfect for swimming and kayaking, with kayaks provided on site.
Guests are required to be fully self-sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste and camp rubbish with them on departure.
Oh Deere Farm Stay and Sugar Cane Farm, Calen
If you’re looking for a more tropical farm stay, Oh Deere Farm Stay and Sugar Cane Farm, north of Mackay, is the spot for you.
The property has a flat grassy area that is suitable for all types of vehicle, tents, camper trailers, caravans or those looking to roll out their swag.
The house site is a large area around the main homestead of the property with toilet and shower facilities right there, including a washing machine and dryer available at a small cost, and also a BBQ that comes with its own seating area.
Campers can have a drink and a chat with the property owners in the afternoons and, if weather and wind permit and no fire bans are in place, a chat around the fire pit.
The property is located about an hour from Airlie Beach and 45 minutes from Mackay.
Hidden Camp at Pie Creek, near Gympie
Located just west of Gympie is Hidden Camp at Pie Creek, which recently won an award as runner-up for being one of the best Hipcamps for Hipcamp Australia 2023.
Surrounded by farming land, with ducks and chickens running around the property, Hidden Camp is a great place for people looking to get back to nature.
Campers can ride their bikes, paddle in canoes or relax around the campfire.
The property has a basic camp kitchen, toilets, a camp shower and a bar set up near the dam, complete with lights, a BBQ, a microwave, two hot plates, a toaster, a sandwich press and a fridge/freezer.
There is also a mini camp shop for essential items such as bread, milk or ice or to hire out other items.
Sandy Creek Camping, near Ipswich
While it only has three campsites, Sandy Creek Camping is rich in history and is the perfect spot for a quiet camp.
The property was first settled in 1866 by Robert Brown and is today used for beef cattle and a small amount of dry land hay production.
The property offers three private campsites about 400 metres from other sites, which are all fenced off with a gate to drive in and keep cattle out.
One site offers a little hut which has a table, seating, and a fire-heated bathtub to sit back and relax in.
Pets are welcome, with notice, and there are also fire rings for campers to enjoy a campfire at night.
The property is also close to relaxing swimming spots at Savages Crossing and Twin Bridges.
Ben Lomond Station, near Bowen
Just south of Bowen you’ll find Ben Lomond Station, an 1800-acre working cattle station which offers an abundance of fishing and crab spots.
With a nature-based camping area, the property offers shady camping spots for fully self-contained campers who must have their own toilet and shower amenities.
Around the property there are a number of native plants and animals such as Burdekin Plum trees, wallabies, kangaroos, birds and fish.
There are also mango trees.
The property is child and pet friendly, however, is only accessible by four-wheel-drive and offroad caravans with high clearance.
Ayrshire Downs, near Winton
Ayrshire Downs, near Winton, is the perfect spot for those looking to connect with the rich history of the Australian outback.
The 90,000-acre property is steeped in Australian history with the Cobb and Co Coach pub ruins, original shearing shed ruins from the shearing strikes and the spot where Banjo Patterson first penned Australia’s unofficial national anthem Waltzing Matilda to music.
The property offers campsites near the shearing shed ruins, and is close to Wokingham Creek.
Winton, the dinosaur capital of Australia, is 58km from the property.
The property has a fenced-off area just for campers and provides amenities, including cold showers, flushing toilets, and a picnic shed with seats - but campers must be self-contained with the rest.
Campers can also learn something new, with tours, shearing demonstrations, landowners history and stories of day-to-day life on the land and property museum tours on request.
Kobble Creek Family Farm, Kobble Creek
If you’re looking for a spot where the family can go exploring and hiking, Kobble Creek Family Farm is the place for you.
Located in the Moreton Bay region, there are a number of bike and hiking trails on the property and a spring-fed dam.
Campers can also explore Kobble Creek West which borders the property and feed the chickens and goats or dabble in some bird, fox or deer spotting.
There are 16 sites across the property’s 40 acres.
Christmas Creek Bush Retreat, near Beaudesert
If you’re looking for some creekside camping in the country, Christmas Creek Bush Retreat could be an option for you.
Located in the Scenic Rim near Beaudesert, the Christmas Creek Bush Retreat offers 12 camping sites on its large flat, grassy paddock right beside the everflowing Christmas Creek.
Campers can swim or float on inflatable lounges or simply relax and listen to the rapids as the creek flows.
The property is a short drive to the Lost World Tourist Drive, Lamington Gorge and Tommerups Dairy.
The property has easy access for two and four-wheel drives, but campers must be fully self-sufficient with their own toilet and shower facilities.
Wild Horse Retreat, Glasshouse Mountains
While most Hipcamp sites are dog friendly, there are also some that allow you to bring your horse.
Wild Horse Retreat, in the Sunshine Coast's Glasshouse Mountains, is a 100-acre horse property with a creek, lake and a mix of pine and natural forest.
The property has drinking water and toilet amenities for campers, with dogs and horses also welcome.
Campers can go bike riding, fishing, horse riding and paddling during their stay.
Ballantyne’s Strawberry Farm, near Calen
If you’re looking for a camping experience that lets you and the kids get your hands dirty, why not consider camping at a strawberry farm.
There’s plenty to do at Ballentyne’s Strawberry Farm near Calen, in the foothills of Eungella National Park, from fishing and relaxing by the creek, to toasting marshmallows by the campfire and spotting the numerous wildlife species roaming on the site.
Strawberry picking is available from July to September, with blueberry picking available between October and January.
There is access to showers and toilets, but campers will need to have their own drinking water.
The property does not allow pets but is accessible for both two and four-wheel drives.
Jarravale Farm Stay, Pioneer Valley
Nestled in the Mackay region’s Pioneer Valley is Jarravale Farm Stay, a 19-acre property with eight campsites.
The farm has something to keep the whole family busy, with tours of the miniature animal farm available, with the option to even help with the daily running of the farm if you ask.
Campers can also sit by the billabong and watch the resident turtles and platypus play.
The property offers toilets and hot showers for campers, as well as access to a laundry.
There are potable water hookups at most sites and there are two camp kitchens for campers to cook meals.
The farm also offers indoor accommodation for those who prefer.
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