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The best ranch camping near Airlie Beach

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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.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. 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, 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.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.
92% (945)

Top-rated campgrounds near Airlie Beach

  • Great Estuary fishing for the family
  • Ben Lomond Station
  • Great Estuary fishing for the family

1. Ben Lomond Station

99%
(780)
33km from Airlie Beach · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$22
 / night
  • The lights decorating Kingfisher provide a warm ambience
  • Kingfisher above the embarkment
  • The lights decorating Kingfisher provide a warm ambience

2. Blackiron

98%
(500)
41km from Airlie Beach · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$363
 / night
  • Valley High
  • Valley High
  • Valley High

3. Valley High

97%
(19)
52km from Airlie Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
All New To HIPCAMP! Valley High is a working cattle property offering a range of camping alternatives, camps unique in their own way. Only 3km from the Bruce Hwy makes it convenient for travelers. Positioned very close to Bloomsbury and the Dittman Bull Pit also providing a sanctuary for festival or rodeo goers as an optional camp when events are on.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
  • Grasstree Ridge
  • Grasstree Ridge
  • Grasstree Ridge

4. Grasstree Ridge

100%
(11)
50km from Airlie Beach · 68 sites · Tents, RVs
Grasstree Ridge is our little slice of heaven; 150 luscious acres of tropical bushland, just off the coastline of Bloomsbury, QLD. Our convenient location puts you one hour north of Mackay, forty-five minutes south of Airlie Beach, or head inland to Finch Hatton, fifty-five minutes. Effectively, we are in the middle of some gorgeous spots & popular tourists attractions! ⛱️ 🏞️ We have fresh water creeks a short drive from the property to cool off in, just ask us for directions to them during your stay! Lucky for us, Bredl's Wild Life farm is just around the corner! (12km) Take a selfie with a wombat, cuddle a koala, or brave holding some freaky reptiles-plus much more! 🐨 And for the thrill-seeking adventurists, Airlie Beach Skydiving is only twenty-five minutes from the property, are you brave enough? 😉 If that's not you, and you're just looking for a taste of the quiet life, then bring the boat and your fishing gear, and get ready to catch some tasty reef fish! The Midge Point boat ramp is only a 15 minute drive from the property. However you choose to spend your day, you'll be happy to know that also in the beachside town of Midge Point, you'll find the Point tavern, for delicious dinner and cold beers! And for only a five minute drive, you'll find the 24hr BP service station, with a bottle shop open 10am-8pm. They also provide hot showers! The property is roamed by many farm and wild animals! Keep an eye out for the gorgeous wildlife amongst the property, as you may be lucky enough to see an echidna or a dear! We have domesticated donkeys, pigs, goats, sheep, birds etc-please note our animals are free range so please ensure you secure your food and belongings. And don't worry, they're all very friendly and love a pet! 🐷🫏 We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful oasis. 🍄✨
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$12
 / night
  • Sea View Hill
  • Sea View Hill
  • Sea View Hill

5. Sea View Hill

80%
(5)
50km from Airlie Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV
Discover a tranquil retreat nestled within a lush, wooded property. Our property offers a picturesque setting with a dam and a running creek. A small herd of cattle roams freely and there are a few other smaller animals adding to the rustic charm. The property has a track which leads up to Sea View Hill lookout that has beautiful sea views of Midge Point and Exmoor Station. A great place to set up camp and immerse yourself in nature. And if you’re up for a challenge, Hellmans Pass beckons—a steep trail down the north side of the property that will truly test your off-road skills. Local attractions: Airlie Beach (50mins), Midge Point (20mins) and Proserpine (30min), Cathu State Forest (30mins), Local Truckstop/convenience store (5mins) Escape to our peaceful haven and create lasting memories amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$14
 / night
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.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. 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, 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.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.
92% (945)

Top-rated campgrounds near Airlie Beach

  • Great Estuary fishing for the family
  • Ben Lomond Station
  • Great Estuary fishing for the family

1. Ben Lomond Station

99%
(780)
33km from Airlie Beach · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$22
 / night
  • The lights decorating Kingfisher provide a warm ambience
  • Kingfisher above the embarkment
  • The lights decorating Kingfisher provide a warm ambience

2. Blackiron

98%
(500)
41km from Airlie Beach · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$363
 / night
  • Valley High
  • Valley High
  • Valley High

3. Valley High

97%
(19)
52km from Airlie Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
All New To HIPCAMP! Valley High is a working cattle property offering a range of camping alternatives, camps unique in their own way. Only 3km from the Bruce Hwy makes it convenient for travelers. Positioned very close to Bloomsbury and the Dittman Bull Pit also providing a sanctuary for festival or rodeo goers as an optional camp when events are on.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
  • Grasstree Ridge
  • Grasstree Ridge
  • Grasstree Ridge

4. Grasstree Ridge

100%
(11)
50km from Airlie Beach · 68 sites · Tents, RVs
Grasstree Ridge is our little slice of heaven; 150 luscious acres of tropical bushland, just off the coastline of Bloomsbury, QLD. Our convenient location puts you one hour north of Mackay, forty-five minutes south of Airlie Beach, or head inland to Finch Hatton, fifty-five minutes. Effectively, we are in the middle of some gorgeous spots & popular tourists attractions! ⛱️ 🏞️ We have fresh water creeks a short drive from the property to cool off in, just ask us for directions to them during your stay! Lucky for us, Bredl's Wild Life farm is just around the corner! (12km) Take a selfie with a wombat, cuddle a koala, or brave holding some freaky reptiles-plus much more! 🐨 And for the thrill-seeking adventurists, Airlie Beach Skydiving is only twenty-five minutes from the property, are you brave enough? 😉 If that's not you, and you're just looking for a taste of the quiet life, then bring the boat and your fishing gear, and get ready to catch some tasty reef fish! The Midge Point boat ramp is only a 15 minute drive from the property. However you choose to spend your day, you'll be happy to know that also in the beachside town of Midge Point, you'll find the Point tavern, for delicious dinner and cold beers! And for only a five minute drive, you'll find the 24hr BP service station, with a bottle shop open 10am-8pm. They also provide hot showers! The property is roamed by many farm and wild animals! Keep an eye out for the gorgeous wildlife amongst the property, as you may be lucky enough to see an echidna or a dear! We have domesticated donkeys, pigs, goats, sheep, birds etc-please note our animals are free range so please ensure you secure your food and belongings. And don't worry, they're all very friendly and love a pet! 🐷🫏 We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful oasis. 🍄✨
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$12
 / night
  • Sea View Hill
  • Sea View Hill
  • Sea View Hill

5. Sea View Hill

80%
(5)
50km from Airlie Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV
Discover a tranquil retreat nestled within a lush, wooded property. Our property offers a picturesque setting with a dam and a running creek. A small herd of cattle roams freely and there are a few other smaller animals adding to the rustic charm. The property has a track which leads up to Sea View Hill lookout that has beautiful sea views of Midge Point and Exmoor Station. A great place to set up camp and immerse yourself in nature. And if you’re up for a challenge, Hellmans Pass beckons—a steep trail down the north side of the property that will truly test your off-road skills. Local attractions: Airlie Beach (50mins), Midge Point (20mins) and Proserpine (30min), Cathu State Forest (30mins), Local Truckstop/convenience store (5mins) Escape to our peaceful haven and create lasting memories amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$14
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Ben Lomond Station
E
Ella
October 2025
Tent
With kids
1 night at Ben Lomond Station
Colleen was so so accommodating! Our spot was a short safari trek to get to, but so worth it. Serene, peaceful and private. Right by the river, we fished all afternoon with two good bream on the lines. Heaps of mud crabs too! Afternoon and early morning the cattle walked through our camp and with all the cute calves on ground at the moment, it was lovely. Wallabies and birds all around. Be snake aware, we saw a brown but he moved on quickly. Absolutely love this beautiful place.
See more
Ben Lomond Station
Avatar
Leo
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station
Great camping on a tidal creek. Welcoming and friendly hosts. Easy place to relax or fish.
See more
Blackiron
K
Kim
September 2025
2 nights at Blackiron
⸻ We had such a wonderful stay at the Kingfisher Cabin @ Black Iron. From the moment we arrived, it felt like the perfect place to switch off and recharge. With little to no phone reception, we were able to really disconnect from the hustle and bustle and just soak up the peaceful surroundings. The cabin itself was cosy and comfortable, with everything we needed for a few nights away. We were greeted by friendly sheep wandering around the property, which added such a charming and homely touch. One of the absolute highlights was the outdoor shower and the incredible fire bath, both such unique experiences that made our stay feel extra special. Sitting in the warm bath under the stars is something we’ll always remember. We loved spending the day by the creek, enjoying the quiet and watching the sunset in the evenings. It was the kind of stay where time slows down, and you get to really appreciate the simple things,fresh air, nature, and a sense of calm. Overall, it was the perfect getaway spot, and we left feeling relaxed and refreshed. We’d absolutely recommend the Kingfisher Cabin to anyone looking for a peaceful escape, and we can’t wait to come back again!
See more
Breakfast of champions
Avatar
Peter
September 2025
5 m travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station
We had a great experience at Ben Lomond station. Cap site 3. Nice and out of the way place. Will be back again. Thank you.
See more
Blackiron
Avatar
Brookelyn
September 2025
1 night at Blackiron
This was hands down the best experience we have ever had! The property was beautiful, well maintained and very easy directions. They have thought of everything for this glamping experience, what an absolute ripper spot!!!
See more
Valley High
B
Ben
September 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Valley High
Great spot to catch a sunset, great little shower, bathroom and kitchen set up. Well done
See more
Blackiron
E
Ella
September 2025
1 night at Blackiron
Honestly the most amazing experience ever. Ben was so lovely and made our stay very enjoyable! The place is so equipped with beautiful amenities and even their attention to the little details were immaculate. Couldn’t recommend this place more. Thank you!
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Ben Lomond Station
Avatar
James
September 2025
8 m travel trailer
With pets
1 night at Ben Lomond Station
Stayed at Camp 11, fished the creek, cooked over the fire in a beautiful bush setting! Great stop! Recommend.
See more
Ben Lomond Station
J
Jessica
August 2025
4 m pop-up camper
With kids
Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station
Nice big well maintained sites. Heaps of space for the little kids to ride their bikes and a safe distance away from the river. We had lots of fun putting in the crab pots (didn’t catch any keepers).
See more
Blackiron
T
Trephina
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Blackiron
Great spot for a stress free night away! Access to the creek for afternoon dip and adventure. Everything was thought of - music speaker, card games, mozzie spray & marshmallows! Fire heated bath was unreal at sunset! So quiet and peacefull. Great friendly host!
See more
Slot
F
Florian
August 2025
7 m Class B
With kids
1 night at Ben Lomond Station
Fantastic family and kind hosts. The spot was very calm and we got offered a power cable too. Just be so kind and call them beforehand regarding availability.
See more
Blackiron
Z
Zoe
August 2025
1 night at Blackiron
Are you kidding?! This place sent us to heaven and back. The outdoor tub was sensational, and it kept hot all night long! We sat in there for hours watching the sun set, sipping wine, sending the birds to bed and star gazing. This glorious place has everything you need - we just wished we could stay more than one night! There’s also a little creek that feels like your very own that you can walk down to for a day time dip. Highly recommend 🍃
See more
Ben Lomond Station
B
Ben
August 2025
14 m travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station
Great little spot, we took our new 22ft caravan for its maiden voyage, was a great spot, we day tripped into Airlie beach and done some shopping and went out for lunch, then returned to camp and sat around the fire, the cool night was clear and the sky full of stars, it was beautiful.
See more
Ben Lomond Station
T
Tamara
August 2025
12 m travel trailer
With pets
7 nights at Ben Lomond Station
Site 11 had everything you needed Lively spot close to fishing etc Relaxed no fuss people. Highly recommened
See more
Blackiron
P
Philip
August 2025
2 nights at Blackiron
We really enjoyed our stay at Kingfisher, very peaceful, private and such a lovely natural setting. The space was fresh and comfortable and we had everything we needed. The bath was AMAZING !
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Magic
S
Sue
August 2025
1 night at Blackiron
The sound of silence aaaahhhhh!!!! The amazing sunsets magic The hot tub To virtually just about sleep under the stars Totally magic spot to unwind and enjoy 🥰
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Ben Lomond Station
M
Mark
August 2025
6 m travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station
Caught a few fish and a mud crab nice private sites 😁
See more
Blackiron
G
Grant
August 2025
1 night at Blackiron
Cute private little setup next to nice creek, definitely what is considered ‘glamping’ Host was super helpful and accommodating
See more
Blackiron
L
Leah
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Blackiron
What a magic spot. Ben & Cassie have put so much care into every detail with this gorgeous glamping location.
See more
Blackiron
Avatar
Codie
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Blackiron
We were the first lucky campers to stay at the Kingfisher and what a treat it was. Very welcoming hosts! Beautiful surroundings and atmosphere. If you want to get off the grid and unwind, this is your spot. Experienced rain and shine, nothing could spoil the experience. Favourite features were the fire heated hot tub & waking up to wildlife and nature right outside 🥰
See more
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Airlie Beach guide

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.

Popular Airlie Beach holidays

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Caravan parks & camping
Camping with swimming
Farm camping
Dog-friendly camping
Camping with fishing
Camping with showers
Beach camping

Top parks near Airlie Beach

Newry Islands National Park
Conway National Park
Brampton Islands National Park
Molle Islands National Park
Rungulla National Park
Cape Upstart National Park
Homevale National Park
Gloucester Island National Park

Top cities near Airlie Beach

Bowen
Proserpine
Collinsville
Hideaway Bay
Mackay
Ayr
Armstrong Beach
Sarina

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
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Best glamping near me