Are there non-wedding "wedding" venues out there?
For the planners and couples who have pulled off a forest or camp-style wedding for 100 guests: what are the best alternative venue categories to search for? We want a relaxed, campfire-and-tents vibe without the restrictions of a traditional wedding venue. Are we better off looking at private property rentals, or are there specific types of public/council land that allow music, alcohol, and overnight camping?
Question Asked: 4/06/2026
Wedding Date: 9/08/2018
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Buckland Estate is the perfect venue for you as we provide glamping tents or space for your own tents/campers. We also have a large fire pit and we do not have the time restrictions of a conventional venue.
At Tuggeranong Homestead, we sit somewhere in the middle. We’re not a traditional ballroom-style venue, so couples can absolutely create a relaxed, outdoor celebration with plenty of space, gardens, in door outdoor barn and flexibility in how the day feels.
However, due to heritage requirements, we’re not able to offer onsite camping. Many of our couples who love that “weekend wedding” feel simply arrange nearby discounted accommodation, so they still get the relaxed vibe without the logistics of camping onsite.
Such a great question! There are absolutely some wonderful options out there depending on your vision and how much organising you are happy to take on yourselves.
Private property rentals are probably the most flexible route for a true campfire-and-tents vibe - you get full control over the layout, suppliers, and atmosphere, but keep in mind you will need to arrange everything yourself including licensing for alcohol, noise permits, waste management, and wet weather contingencies, which can add up quickly in both cost and stress.
For council or public land, it is very location dependent - some councils do allow events with music, alcohol, and camping, but the permit process can be lengthy and restrictions vary enormously. It is worth contacting your local council directly to ask about temporary event approvals.
Glamping and farm stay properties are also worth exploring - many have existing infrastructure, some licensing already in place, and a naturally relaxed, outdoorsy feel that suits the vibe you are describing beautifully.
And if I may - here at Château Élan at The Vintage in the Hunter Valley, we actually offer something that sits in a lovely middle ground. Our Fairway Lawn, Summerhouse Rotunda, and outdoor terrace spaces give that open-air, relaxed atmosphere with greenery all around, without the logistical headache of a blank-canvas private property. We have onsite accommodation so guests can stay the weekend, lawn games, fire pit experiences, and a beautiful natural setting - and our team handles all the details so you can actually enjoy it. It is not a traditional ballroom wedding by any stretch!
Happy to chat further if you would like to explore what is possible for your vision!
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THE OLD WOOLSTORE APARTMENT HOTEL
https://www.oldwoolstore.com.au/weddings
For wedding ceremonies, we have our beautiful Rose Garden. This is an enclosed and private outdoor that provides the perfect space for your special day, although is subject to weather conditions. For wedding receptions, our main function room, the Merino Room can seat up to 100 guests, with room for a dance floor, and room for entertainment. Room Hire for a sit-down dinner is complimentary, and this includes the setting of linen tablecloths, linen napkins, chair covers with sash and table setting.
Our catering ranges from a Buffet Menu Package to our Premium Set Menu Package, any questions that you have after reading through, can easily be answered with a quick email. Our Wedding Compendium offers you a range of ‘all inclusive’ packages and is designed to give you as much information as possible regarding weddings at The Old Woolstore, with our Terms & Conditions. We want your day to be absolutely perfect, and our experienced team is waiting to share their expertise in planning your special date to the very last detail. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions and if you would like to book a time for you to visit our venue, I’ll be pleased to show you around. Thank-you and I look forward to hearing from you, Kind regards, Cristina C. Barrett Events Coordinator events@oldwoolstore.com.au 03 6235 5317