Grab your tent, pack your gear, and start planning your next road trip! Here is some of the best camping Queensland has to offer.

 

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

 

Whether it’s a remote escape in ancient rainforests, a beach camping getaway, or a sunny spot near the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland has some of the best camping sites in Australia.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

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Best Camping Queensland

1. Cooloola Recreation Area – Sunshine Coast Beach Camping

Cost: from $7 per night
Suitable for: 4WD only, caravans, camper trailers, tents
Facilities: Limited facilities – toilets and showers at Freshwater Campground only
Bookings: Essential

 

 

Why go to Cooloola Recreation Area?

If you’re into 4WD beach adventures, Cooloola Recreation Area is the perfect beach camping area on the Sunshine Coast. This spot is perfect for self-sufficient campers who want to get away from it all, spend days by the beach, and catch a fish or two from camp!

Sleep right on the beachside or tuck yourself back into the forest for a secluded spot out of the elements. If you head north to Rainbow Beach you’ll find epic views, a great surf spot, and incredible turtle nesting sites.

Read more: Sunshine Coast Camping – 10 Scenic Sites for Nature Lovers

2. Big Crystal Creek Campground – Paluma Range National Park

Cost: from $7 per night
Suitable for: 2WD, caravans, camper trailers, tents
Facilities: Toilets, showers, picnic tables, non-drinking water
Bookings: Essential

 

 

Why go to Big Crystal Creek Campground?

Just a short drive from Townsville, this campground sits on the picturesque Crystal Creek, nestled in the lush beauty of the Paluma Range National Park. It’s no secret Queensland’s parks are some of the best in the world, but this one is a hidden gem.

A short walk from the shady campground takes you to a clear, cool waterhole where you can swim, jump off the rocks or laze in the sun. Take a walk to nearby waterfalls and lookouts amongst the rainforest and keep an eye out for platypus and echidnas along the way!

Read more: After 5 Days in Townsville, I’ve Found Your Must-Visit Spots

3. Babinda Boulders Free Campground – Rainforest Camping Near Cairns

Cost: Free!
Suitable for: 2WD, caravans, camper trailers, tents
Facilities: Toilets, showers, picnic tables, BBQs, non-drinking water
Bookings: No booking needed

 

 

Why go to Babinda Boulders Free Campground?

Another of North Queensland’s best camping areas is Babinda Boulders Campground, nestled at the base of a rainforest and famous for its crystal-clear water, giant boulders, and cascading waterfalls.

Escape the heat with a relaxing swim in the cool waters around the boulders or hike into the rainforest surrounding the waterway to spot wildlife.

This spot is free but can be tricky to snag a camping area as it’s so popular. It has a 72-hour limit on stays, so best to make the most of your time!

Check safety signs before going near the water, as the levels can change quickly after rainfall.

Read more: Top 8 Hikes Around Cairns

4. Notch Point Free Camp – Mackay Region

Cost: Free
Suitable for: 4WD, camper trailers, tents
Facilities: None
Bookings: No bookings

 

 

Why go to Notch Point Free Camp?

Notch Point Free Camp is a hidden gem just north of Mackay for those looking for a quiet, budget-friendly camping experience by the beach. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stay away from the crowds, where you can camp on the edge of the Coral Sea.

 

 

The campground borders a farm so it’s not unusual to find cows wandering through the campsite! Walk to the quiet beach for a fish and enjoy the views of the Coral Sea at sunset. Best of all, it’s a free camp with no bookings required and there’s tonnes of space so you can spread out and relax!

Read more: 5 Days Road Tripping Queensland’s Mackay Isaac Region

5. Booloumba Creek – Conondale National Park

Cost: From $7 per night
Suitable for: 4WD only, tents, some camper trailers
Facilities: Toilets, non-drinking water
Bookings: Essential

 

 

Why go to Booloumba Creek?

For a truly remote experience, head to Booloumba Creek in Conondale National Park, a couple hours west of the Sunshine Coast. This hidden gem is surrounded by dense rainforests and bubbling creek waters, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventurers.

You’ll need a 4WD to access this camp but it’s worth the mission! Use this shady wilderness campsite as a base to explore the area. There’s incredible hiking in the surrounding rainforest with access to spectacular waterfalls and a creek right at camp to cool off after a day of exploring.

Read more: 11 Scenic Waterfalls On The Sunshine Coast (Including Hidden Gems)

Nearby Accommodation

6. Cathedrals on Fraser – K’gari UNESCO World Heritage Site

Cost: from $40 per night
Suitable for: 4wd only, tents, camper trailers, caravans
Facilities: Power, toilets, showers, drinking water, laundry, picnic tables, BBQs, firepits
Bookings: Essential

 

 

Why go to K’gari?

K’gari, previously known as Fraser Island, is one of Queensland’s crown jewels. Offering beachside camping, freshwater lakes, and magical rainforests, K’gari is the ultimate adventure camping destination.

While there are tens of camping sites here, a standout camping area is Cathedrals on Fraser, an idyllic beachside campsite known for its large, soft sand dunes and stunning views of the ocean.

Cast your line from the beach, take a dip in Lake McKenzie, a stunning freshwater lake, and park up on 75 Mile Beach for an iconic sunset.

Please note! K’gari is home to a large native population of dingoes. For the safety of your family, please keep children within the designated camping areas and always have them in your sight. Never approach dingoes.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to K’gari Camping

7. Whitsunday Islands – Great Barrier Reef Camping Sites

Cost: From $7 per night
Suitable for: Tents
Facilities: Varied, see Queensland National Parks for details
Bookings: Essential
Tip: Book in advance, especially during school holidays and peak tourism periods, as the campsites can fill up fast

 

 

Why go to the Whitsunday Islands?

A camping trip to the Whitsunday Islands is a dream come true for those who love the ocean. Situated off the coast of Queensland, this group of 74 islands offers some of the best beach camping sites in Australia, like Nari’s Beach and Chance Bay on Whitsunday Island, and Maureen’s Cove and Steens Beach on Hook Island.

With stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and protected areas of the Great Barrier Reef right at your doorstep, it’s paradise for snorkelers, swimmers, and sunbathers alike.

You can get out to the island camping areas from the towns of Airlie Beach or Shute Harbour, via kayak, private vessel or a transfer service and you’ll need to have all your gear for the trip packed with you!

Fish and swim in the coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef just metres away from your campsites.

Read more: 10 Best Adventures in the Whitsundays

8. Seisia Holiday Park – Cape York Peninsula

Cost: From $35 per night
Suitable for: 4WD only, tents, camper trailers
Facilities: Power, toilets, showers, drinking water, laundry, picnic tables, BBQs, fire pits
Bookings: Essential

 

 

Why go to Seisia Holiday Park?

For those looking for a true adventure, heading north to Cape York Peninsula is a must. This remote region is perfect for those who want to get off the grid and explore Queensland’s wild side.

One great spot to set up camp in the Cape York Peninsula is Seisia Holiday Park, located near the northernmost tip of Australia. Situated in the small town of Seisia, this campground is perfect for those looking to camp close to the water, with access to pristine beaches and excellent fishing spots.

A four-wheel drive is necessary to explore the rugged terrain and reach the most remote camping spots. While Seisia Campground is a popular base, don’t forget to venture further into the region to discover hidden gems like Lakefield National Park and Elim Beach for more secluded camping experiences.

Read more: 5 Ways We Made Our Cape York Trip Even More Epic!

Preparing for Your Queensland Camping Holiday

Queensland National Parks and campgrounds offer some of the best camping experiences you can find.

But remember, camping in Queensland means being self-sufficient, so always check camping fees before you leave, book campsites where necessary, and stock up on water and other supplies. From the Gold Coast to the Great Barrier Reef, there’s no shortage of incredible places to camp and adventure. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next Queensland camping adventure today!

For more info, visit the Queensland National Parks and Tourism and Events Queensland.

 

Best Camping Queensland FAQs

What’s the best time of year to go camping in Queensland?

Camping in Southern Queensland is suitable all year round. Northern Queensland has hot and wet conditions in summer between October and March so the best time to visit and go camping is between April and September!

Can you camp on the beach in Queensland?

Queensland is beach camp heaven! There are plenty of national parks and reserves where you can set up camp on the beach including K’gari and Cooloola Recreation Area. Take care to drive responsibly in these sensitive areas.

 

Can you free camp in Queensland?

Yes, you can find free camping in Queensland, Australia. There are numerous free and low-cost campgrounds throughout the state including Notch Point Campground and Babinda Boulders Campground. Read our article on Best Free Camping in Queensland for more ideas.

What beaches can you camp on in Queensland?

You can camp on or right next to plenty of Queensland beaches including:

  • Noah Beach, Cape Tribulation
  • Smalleys Beach, Cape Hillsborough, Mackay
  • Whitehaven Beach, The Whitsundays
  • Lady Elliot Island, Southern Great Barrier Reef
  • K’gari, Fraser Coast
  • Cooloola Recreation Area
  • Moreton Island, Brisbane

Keep the Good Camps Rolling

We’ve shared these recommendations because we genuinely rate them and want you to enjoy them too. Our writers use a mix of personal experience and research to compile these lists, and they’re also encouraged to be honest when things aren’t up to scratch. For more information on our approach, check out our Editorial Standards.