Camping near Airlie Beach, Queensland

Sailing, snorkelling, hiking, and camping in the forests or islands of the Whitsundays.

97% (5740 reviews)

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12 top campgrounds near Airlie Beach

91%
(28)

Natures Nook

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Woodwark, Whitsunday
A private oasis nestled among the lush tropical bushland, where you can relax and unwind in tranquillity. This secluded camp site is the perfect retreat for couples seeking a getaway, or those who simply wish to immerse themselves in nature. The serene atmosphere provides an ideal setting for stargazing and wildlife spotting around the conjunction of a seasonal freshwater creek. Natures Nook camp site offers the ultimate privacy and seclusion, yet the friendly owners of whom are a young family are readily available should you need assistance. Conveniently located just 5 minutes away from the Whitsunday Plaza Shopping Centre and three minutes from the famous Northerlies Beach Bar with courtesy buses available. For those seeking a bit more excitement, a 10-minute drive will take you to the Coral Sea Marina, where you can embark on a variety of water activities. And when the sun sets, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife, dining, and shopping in the strip of Airlie Beach, including the famous lagoon only 12 minutes’ drive. Book your stay at this private camp site now and experience the best of both worlds - a secluded haven surrounded by nature and easy access to all the amenities of Airlie Beach Please Note: * Pets are allowed, but dogs must be kept on a lead. * A wheely bin is available, but for large rubbish removals, please take your waste to the tip located 5 minutes down the road across from Plaza. * Fires are permitted in the fire pit. * Please bring repellent as midges may be present during dusk and dawn in the marshlands. * Water is only available from the tank water at the main house. * The camp site is located at the back of a 2-acre property so please show respect to our neighbours by not walking on their properties across the creek. * This is a quiet neighbourhood so no loud music or parties. * Minimal reception so best to download a movie before arrival. * Can fit a 4x4 and small camper trailer however you must have experience in navigating in small space as it can be a task to turn around.
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AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(476)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Whitsunday
Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.
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AU$18
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(674)

Mushroom Valley Eco Camp

18 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Yalboroo, Mackay
Everybody Welcome! Just bring a great attitude and enjoy a peaceful stay :) Located on the beautiful O'Connell River, this camp site is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes including a mountain range and the river. The property boasts many areas to go for walks, enjoy the wildlife and relax. You can enjoy spacious camping choices either along the river or on other selected areas throughout the property (we will show you where). We always ensure a limited number of campers so you get the space and tranquility you deserve on your camping trip. No side by side camping, always spacious and comfortable. There is access to a large number of compostable toilets, and composting and recycling facilities are available (we ask that you please take all general rubbish with you). Wildlife is in abundance throughout the property and includes grazing wallabies, ducks and birdlife which are an everyday occurrence. The property is also the home of our Festival - Mushroom Valley, throughout the site you will find different pieces of artwork, decor and permanent structures that bring artistic life to the site. We are a friendly and relaxed family who live on the site and we look forward to welcoming you to our little piece of paradise. Well behaved pets are welcome, please discuss with us upon booking :)
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AU$10
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(4519)

Hold It Flats

132 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Yalboroo, Mackay
Hold it Flats is a 120 acre property that borders the beautiful O'Connell River that has water all year round. Take a walk around the property to check out some of the creatures that have been built out of scrap metal and bush bars that have been built all around the property. There is nice shady, green grass and flat camping sites right beside the river with hot showers and flushing toilets. There is plenty of room and some great tracks for the kids and the big kids to ride their push bikes on. The swimming hole is about 2 meters deep and has big shady trees on the edge. There is also enough room for kids to bring their kayaks and have a paddle along the river. All campsites can be provided with their own fire pit. You just pick your spot and we will bring a portable fire pit to you. Fire wood can be purchased at the property. All rubbish must be taken when you, there are no rubbish bins provided.
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AU$18
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Brindabella

1 site · RV4 acres · Airlie Beach, Whitsunday
We are situated on 4 acres only mins to Airlie Beach and a part of the beautiful Whitsunday s. 74 Islands around and great boating and fishing . Restaurants and taverns near by also taxis and courtesy vans available. Day trip s to local islands, Bredyls Animal farm and so so much more. Come visit paradise!!
from 
AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(496)

Creek and Antique Camping

25 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Mackay, Mackay
We have a selection of beautiful creek side locations where you can enjoy the clear, fresh running water and a selection of other sites only a short walk from the water. If you prefer you can 4WD to the back of the property with a camper trailer or roof top camper, this will also get you to a height that overlooks the Calen township and the ocean. Conveniently located just a short drive off the Bruce Highway, you will have your own private area without disturbances other than the odd cow, horse or wallaby wandering around. While staying, you will have the opportunity to take a walk into the past to view a private collection of Australiana, including a working stationary, engine display and vintage kitchen with wood stove. Access to the property is via a creek crossing so it is advisable to phone ahead if there has been recent rain or rainfall is forecast. Two port-a-loos are located on the property but campers will need their own shower facilities and take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are permitted but must be contained at all times in a fire pit. Calen is a small cane growing and cattle town with a general store, pharmacy, service station, butcher and the local pub. Zarby's cafe is a short drive away if you would like to dine in for breakfast or lunch in a retro style setting. Pets are welcome.
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from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(187)

Blackiron

17 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Andromache, Whitsunday
Situated on the bank of the Andromache River, setup camp at one of our cozy camp spots and enjoy the quiet of the bush. We have sites available in our grassy paddock which are accessible by all vehicles. Sand camping is available for 4x4's with tent/swag set ups during the dry seasons. No trailers or vans are permitted on the sand due to bogging. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a campfire and visual displays of local wildlife, try your hand at fishing in the river or just enjoy a cool swim just a few meters from our grassy sites. Guests are required to be fully self-sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure. Only a short distance from Airlie Beach and the islands for those interested in the local tourist attractions. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
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AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(2)

Billabong Farm Stay

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Proserpine, Whitsunday
Billabong Farm Stay is set on a 5 acre block just off the Bruce Highway. Enjoy the comfort of our self contained cabin overlooking the dam and wetlands. There are 2 kayaks for you to use to kayak around the dam or just sit and relax on the jetty. Around the dam is an abundance of wildlife. There are tame resident sheep, cows, goats and chooks you can hand feed while staying here. The cabin also has a small dog yard attached to it to leave your furry friend in while you go and explore the beautiful Whitsundays. The heart of Airlie beach and all of your island, reef and fishing day trips start from is only a 20 minute drive. Hydeaway bay and its beautiful beaches are only 25 minutes and Bowen is 45 minutes north up the highway.
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AU$100
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Sugar shack

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Riordanvale, Whitsunday
10 kms out of Airlie beach rural property, have 11x5 shed with power and water or camp as long as you like, secured pets welcome, no toilet or shower facilities, need to be self contained, close access to all that Airlie beach has to offer or catch the courtesy bus in to the local pubs to save you the drive and enjoy, happy to take short/ long term workers
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AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
91%
(29)

Abinda Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Conway, Whitsunday
Our small farm is located just south of Conway National Park and very close to the Proserpine River, in the Whitsundays region, Cedar Creek Falls just a short drive from our property There's much to explore around Conway National Park and the coastline of the Whitsundays including lowland tropical rainforests with hoop pines growing on coastal ridges and in damp gullies, emerging above the rainforest canopy. Rugged, steep, rocky cliffs peppered with dry vine thicket, mangroves, open forests with a grasstree understorey, paperbark and pandanus woodlands. Come and experience our mini farmstay, with chooks, featuring our beautiful "Gregory Peck " the stunning Rooster, horses, donkey and goats ,all very friendly and love pats. We also run a Doggie Daycare at our property. When you and your dogs come to stay at the property current immunisation certificates must be sighted before you come onto the property. Free Range, rainbow eggs available at times. The front boundary features a mango orchard and there are different types of fruit trees throughout the property. Agile wallabies hop around early morning and late afternoons here too. You're welcome to pitch a tent or park up a caravan at one of our three private campsites The camping area features flat to undulating land. There is access to a shower, toilet located separately from the house, as well as rubbish facilities and drinking water. Campfires are permitted. All sites are easily accessed by car, we welcome tent campers, caravans, campervans and camper trailers. The laundry will be closed every morning from 7am to 7.30am for cleaning Pets are welcome on leads.
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AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
92%
(58)

Kangaroo Tales

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Midge Point, Mackay
5acres of absolute bliss. We are pleased to announce that we are now proudly a member of the Wildlife Land Trust and listed as a Wildlife Sanctuary. This helps us become a release sit for our local native wildlife and furthers our efforts with wildlife Care and Rehabilitation. When you pay to stay here - you are helping us pay for the care of our injured and orphaned wildlife. We are located on a secluded bush block across the road from the beach giving you access to great fishing and crabbing. With a fire pit and plenty of wood to burn. Enjoy your tranquil escape to Midge Point. There is a local takeaway and tavern just down the road. Please note: You must be self contained to stay here as there are no amenities. Grey water can be placed on the trees. Dogs are allowed however will need to be kept on leads at all times to ensure they do not chase the wildlife.
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AU$15
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 4 times

Harrison Court Farmstay

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Bowen, Whitsunday
Harrison Court Farmstay is a lovely slice of Bowen in the heart of town. It's a private space only open to very limited numbers at a time to ensure happiness of all guests. There are no ameneities here, campers must be self-contained and leave no trace. The property is located 5 minutes drive to beaches, close to le sorrole coffee house, service station (24hrs) and shopping centre. Enjoy the lovely sunsets and away from the hustle and bustle Harrison Court Farmstay has to offer. No pets please. Communal fire pit for winter. Contained fire pits allowed. No water or toilet available. Dump point Hay Street across from caravan park. Please take all rubbish with you so we can keep our costs minimal.
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AU$15
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Available this weekend

Within one hour of Airlie Beach

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Camping near Airlie Beach guide

Impossibly blue waters and 74 islands draw campers, sailors, snorkelers and divers to the Whitsundays, and the hub is the relaxed village of Airlie Beach. Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea, Airlie Beach is a laid-back place to base yourself while exploring the Whitsunday islands and walking trails. Cool off in the artificial Airlie Beach lagoon, with its man-made beach and surrounding 10 acres of parkland, or take boat trips to the Great Barrier Reef or to nearby islands for camping, snorkelling, diving, fishing and hiking.

Whitsunday Island

The jewel in the crown here is Whitehaven Beach, famed as one of Australia’s best beaches, for its 7km of dazzling pure-white silica sand and good swimming and snorkeling. Boat transfers for campers can be arranged from Airlie Beach. Camp sites are behind the beach in eucalypt forest. Fishing, kayaking and hiking are all excellent pastimes in this little piece of the Whitsunday Islands National Park, and there are five other camping areas on the island.

Hook Island

Part of the Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail, a blend of seaways and picturesque walks across Hook, Whitsunday and South Molle islands, this island has four beachside camping grounds. Curlew Beach is the closest to the Ngaro Cultural Site at Nara Inlet, honouring the indigenous Ngaro people, where there are shell middens and rock art sites.

Conway National Park

Conway National Park, on the mainland has lots of short walks but for those who want something more challenging, the three-day 27.1km Conway Circuit has two campsites. Feast your eyes on giant strangler fig trees, palms and ferns and spot the large electric-blue Ulysses butterflies.

Hardy Reef

For a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, take the chance to camp overnight on a pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef with Cruise Whitsundays’ Reefsleep. Join a day trip cruise to dive and snorkel at Hardy Reef, but when the daytrippers leave, stay on to experience the reef at night. Tents (or “reefbeds”) are erected on the top level of the pontoon, under the stars, for a maximum of 20 people. It’s expensive, but unforgettable.

When to Go

The best months to visit are May to September, when the weather is balmy and the waters are free of toxic marine stingers, which prevents ocean swimming (unless you don a special ‘stinger suit’). The busiest times are June to August, so make sure you book early. December to March is hotter and more humid. Expect ocean temperatures of at least 72F year-round. The rainy season is January to March, and cyclones are possible between November and April.

Know Before You Go

  • There are 28 camping areas across the islands or mainland National Parks. Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forest and reserves and must be booked online and paid for before arrival.
  • Saltwater crocodiles are found in the nearby Proserpine River and other waterways in the region.
  • Manta Ray Bay on Hook Island is a great spot for snorkelling, with big fish such as the protected Maori wrasse, trevally and lots of smaller reef fish.
  • Cid Harbour, on the western side of Whitsunday Island, is a known site for shark attacks, so is best avoided by swimmers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Swimming at Airlie Beach is generally safe, but there are some precautions to take. The beach has a man-made lagoon that provides a safe and enjoyable swimming area, especially for families. This lagoon is patrolled by lifeguards and is not affected by marine stingers or crocodiles.

However, if you choose to swim in the ocean at Airlie Beach, be aware that marine stingers such as jellyfish can be present, particularly during stinger season (October to May). Some areas may have stinger nets or vinegar stations to treat stings. It is recommended to wear a stinger suit for protection during this time. Additionally, crocodiles can occasionally be found in the area, so always be cautious and follow local advice.

The ideal length of stay at Airlie Beach depends on your interests and the activities you want to do. Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, offering a variety of activities and experiences. Here's a suggested itinerary for different trip durations:

Short Stay (2-3 days): This allows you to explore Airlie Beach, relax at the lagoon, and take a day trip to the Whitsunday Islands or the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling or diving.

Medium Stay (4-6 days): In addition to the above activities, you can take multiple day trips to different islands, go on a sailing adventure, or participate in other water activities such as jet skiing or kayaking. You can also explore the Conway National Park and Cedar Creek Falls.

Long Stay (7 days or more): With a longer stay, you can fully experience Airlie Beach and its surroundings. Take your time exploring the Whitsunday Islands, go on an extended sailing trip, or even take a scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef. You can also enjoy more leisurely activities like shopping, dining, and visiting local markets.

Ultimately, the length of your stay at Airlie Beach depends on your personal preferences and the time you have available.

Absolutely! Airlie Beach is a popular destination in Queensland, Australia, known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and access to the Great Barrier Reef. It is the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, offering a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, sailing, and island hopping. The town itself has a lively dining and nightlife scene, making it a great spot for both relaxation and entertainment. Airlie Beach also features a man-made lagoon, providing a safe swimming area for visitors. Overall, Airlie Beach is definitely worth a visit for its beautiful surroundings and variety of activities.

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Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.