The best campgrounds near Ayr, Queensland with fishing

In Ayr, skip the crowds and set up camp where the fishing's solid and the vibe’s laid-back. You’ve got over 30 options tailored for anglers—think creekside sites, shady billabongs, and grassy banks where you can cast off at dawn. Average price per night hovers around $30, but you’ll spot some as low as $20. Top picks? The Forts (106 reviews) draws regulars for its easy water access and local birdlife. Hidden Corner Magnetic Island (71 reviews) is a ferry ride away—expect big skies and quiet shoreline. Mount Elliot Park (61 reviews) puts you close to freshwater creeks and hiking trails. Facilities are straightforward—think toilets, campfires-allowed, and spots where your dog can tag along. Pack your fishing rod, sturdy boots, and binoculars—you’ll likely spot wallabies at dusk and hear the kookaburras before sunrise.

94% (399)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Ayr, skip the crowds and set up camp where the fishing's solid and the vibe’s laid-back. You’ve got over 30 options tailored for anglers—think creekside sites, shady billabongs, and grassy banks where you can cast off at dawn. Average price per night hovers around $30, but you’ll spot some as low as $20. Top picks? The Forts (106 reviews) draws regulars for its easy water access and local birdlife. Hidden Corner Magnetic Island (71 reviews) is a ferry ride away—expect big skies and quiet shoreline. Mount Elliot Park (61 reviews) puts you close to freshwater creeks and hiking trails. Facilities are straightforward—think toilets, campfires-allowed, and spots where your dog can tag along. Pack your fishing rod, sturdy boots, and binoculars—you’ll likely spot wallabies at dusk and hear the kookaburras before sunrise.

94% (399)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Forts

96%

(156)

75km from Ayr · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

We are in the perfect location in Horseshoe Bay, Magnetic Island, and your camp spot is located a short walk to the beach, right on the walking tracks, WWII-era forts, and access to exploring more than 36 kilometres of bushwalking trails with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities. ..... The Great Barrier Reef, is at our door step so taking to the water is a must— hire a canoe, kayak or jetski and start exploring the wonderlands of spy dugongs and sea turtles or go on a boat cruise, and dive in to snorkel along colourful coral reefs. .... Then there's the action of a buzzy seaside town with cafes and bars and skatepark, tennis courts all within a 5 minutes gentle walk! .... Welcome to The Forts of Magnetic Island, it's truly magic your views are the National Park. ..... We offer easy access sites for: CARAVAN up to 22ft. ROOF vehicle tent MOTORHOME up to 22ft. VAN campervan Tent- your tent can be pitched on a tucked away haven in the bush surrounded by natural boulders. * Please be SELF CONTAINED ...... Please allow for some slight slope sites, come and enjoy your relaxed bushcamp stay. ... BOOK FERRY CROSSING Please prepare to "prebook your ferry" if travelling with a vehicle. ... OUR OPENING HOURS -come to your campsite during the "daytime" DAYLIGHT HOURS please. ... ARRIVE - between 8am to 4 pm ONLY .... Great bus service on Magnetic Island runs every hour. Abundance of wildlife, kangaroos, wallabies, kookaburra, superb sunsets and so much more. Beach✔️ Cafes✔️ Spacious Sites✔️ Walking tracks✔️ The perfect paradise.

2. WillowVale Park

95%

(115)

65km from Ayr · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Reid River, QLD

“WillowVale Park” is 200 acres set on the banks of the Reid River, QLD 4816. Half way between Townsville and Charters Towers on the Flinders Highway. Private area suitable for camping, caravans, RV’s right on the river bank. All year swimming, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. - Camp fires permitted. - Pets welcome but contained or restrained at all times. - No toilets so must have own toilet. - Groups bookings or up to two seperate camps at any one time. - Push bike riding and Hiking areas available. - Plenty of room to run for the kids.

3. Mount Elliot Park

96%

(114)

39km from Ayr · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Shirbourne, QLD

We are now open after the weather event closure. We look forward to welcoming you! Mount Elliot Park is a working cattle property that offers a bush experience to approved individuals. Located in the Burdekin Shire we are based in one of Australia’s best Barra fishing and bird watching areas. Sites are based on a slashed grassed paddock with access to a clear flowing creek. Campers can relax with open fire and surrounded by the beautiful mountain backdrop.

4. Mam Easy Stay

84%

(25)

76km from Ayr · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Townsville, QLD

Aprox an acre of vacant land with creek access, flowing in wet season. Fruit trees, natural wildlife including kangaroos, black cockatoos and kookaburras plus Luci longdog, pool access, games room, access to shower and toilet if needed. Outdoor kitchen and weekend share meals, such as pizza, ribs, BBQ , seafood and homemade sausage rolls and pasties. Friendly family hosts welcome to join for music and drinks by the fire pit in cooler months with a camp stew. NRL games on big screen in bar area every weekend during season.

5. Hidden Corner Magnetic Island

99%

(100)

76km from Ayr · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

Magnetic Island Private fully fenced block of land one kilometre to Horseshoe Bay beachfront. The perfect base to enjoy all the wonderful activities that Magnetic Island has to offer including swimming, bushwalking, birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Water is a tap and a hose. Limited electricity is available. There are no bathroom facilities so you need to be self contained. We are one kilometre from the nearest bus stop so you need to have your own transport. Please do not book this property if you do not have your own transport. PLEASE NOTE: ***As the barge gets very busy, I suggest you book the barge before booking the site. Contact me and I am happy to hold the site for a short time while you make your barge booking.*** Check in arrangement will be sent when you have a confirmation of your barge booking.

6. BE Magnetic Island

92%

(25)

75km from Ayr · 1 site · RV · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

BE🌴 WELCOME to Magnetic Island . Tucked away bordering the National Park is your campsite a quiet oasis. . Wildlife bouncing, exotic birds chirping, koalas roaming, cute chickens and a spacious tiered entertainment area to totally relax. . Just a 2second walk to the track to take you on the famous FORTS walk. . Beaches, sunsets, and incredible views are just moments away from your campsite. . Plenty of watersports! Hire ocean kayaks and paddle off the beaten track. Go on a sailing trip. Do a Dive Course. Go on a Fishing trip. Book a snorkeling tour. Book a Island Bay exploring experience . Hire a paddle board from Horseshoe Bay Hire jet ski Hire a scooter Hire a cute car . Do a Art Class Yoga Class Mediation Workshop . See butterfly, birds, kangaroo, koalas, wallabies, and much more from your camp . Cafes, bars, shops and bustop just a moment away. . Don't forget we are a true natural eco STAY PLEASE bring your own toilet,cooking facilities. SELF CONTAINED REQUIRED . ARRIVE at campsite Between 8am to 4pm . Looking forward to seeing YOU 👣

7. Magnetic Naturally Island Cabin

100%

(2)

77km from Ayr · 1 site · Lodging · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

On Magnetic Island in Queenslands tropical north, you'll find our secluded island cabin. Set within a private resort style property, it is purpose built for guests and is fully self contained. Comfortable queen bed, lounge, kitchen, bathroom with a beautiful under cover outdoor shower, fans, air-conditioning and washing machine. Free wifi. There is a covered deck attached to cabin and a paved area to relax in by outdoor BBQ. There is only one guest cabin on the property, completely separate to the main home but you are welcome to share the large outdoor pool. The cabin is very private, surrounded by native flora and fauna and growing gardens. It is a truely peaceful spot with the beach less than a kilometre away. Horseshoe Bay is the gateway to many of our beautiful bays and tracks including the famous Forts walk. There are water activities and a life guard patrolled swim area. Several little cafes restaurants and a local pub are also in the bay. There is a great bus service on the island and nearest bus stop is less than 2 km away. Rental cars are also available at good rates.

8. Morris Creek Camp

83%

(3)

30km from Ayr · 6 sites · RVs · Giru, QLD

Our property is an excellent choice for those wanting peace and quiet. The property is a safe and secure place to unhook vans so you can visit the surrounding area,. Townsville is located 50kms north, where you can accsess the stunning Magnetic Island. The Historic town of Charters Towers is just 80kms away, the gateway to the West. It's a fantastic area for fishing and boating enthusiasts - Morris Estuary provides a plethora of fish varieties including Barramundi and crabbing opportunities.

Camper favorites near Ayr

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mam Easy Stay

84%

(25)

76km from Ayr · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Townsville, QLD

Aprox an acre of vacant land with creek access, flowing in wet season. Fruit trees, natural wildlife including kangaroos, black cockatoos and kookaburras plus Luci longdog, pool access, games room, access to shower and toilet if needed. Outdoor kitchen and weekend share meals, such as pizza, ribs, BBQ , seafood and homemade sausage rolls and pasties. Friendly family hosts welcome to join for music and drinks by the fire pit in cooler months with a camp stew. NRL games on big screen in bar area every weekend during season.

Hidden Corner Magnetic Island

99%

(100)

76km from Ayr · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

Magnetic Island Private fully fenced block of land one kilometre to Horseshoe Bay beachfront. The perfect base to enjoy all the wonderful activities that Magnetic Island has to offer including swimming, bushwalking, birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Water is a tap and a hose. Limited electricity is available. There are no bathroom facilities so you need to be self contained. We are one kilometre from the nearest bus stop so you need to have your own transport. Please do not book this property if you do not have your own transport. PLEASE NOTE: ***As the barge gets very busy, I suggest you book the barge before booking the site. Contact me and I am happy to hold the site for a short time while you make your barge booking.*** Check in arrangement will be sent when you have a confirmation of your barge booking.

BE Magnetic Island

92%

(25)

75km from Ayr · 1 site · RV · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

BE🌴 WELCOME to Magnetic Island . Tucked away bordering the National Park is your campsite a quiet oasis. . Wildlife bouncing, exotic birds chirping, koalas roaming, cute chickens and a spacious tiered entertainment area to totally relax. . Just a 2second walk to the track to take you on the famous FORTS walk. . Beaches, sunsets, and incredible views are just moments away from your campsite. . Plenty of watersports! Hire ocean kayaks and paddle off the beaten track. Go on a sailing trip. Do a Dive Course. Go on a Fishing trip. Book a snorkeling tour. Book a Island Bay exploring experience . Hire a paddle board from Horseshoe Bay Hire jet ski Hire a scooter Hire a cute car . Do a Art Class Yoga Class Mediation Workshop . See butterfly, birds, kangaroo, koalas, wallabies, and much more from your camp . Cafes, bars, shops and bustop just a moment away. . Don't forget we are a true natural eco STAY PLEASE bring your own toilet,cooking facilities. SELF CONTAINED REQUIRED . ARRIVE at campsite Between 8am to 4pm . Looking forward to seeing YOU 👣

Magnetic Naturally Island Cabin

100%

(2)

77km from Ayr · 1 site · Lodging · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

On Magnetic Island in Queenslands tropical north, you'll find our secluded island cabin. Set within a private resort style property, it is purpose built for guests and is fully self contained. Comfortable queen bed, lounge, kitchen, bathroom with a beautiful under cover outdoor shower, fans, air-conditioning and washing machine. Free wifi. There is a covered deck attached to cabin and a paved area to relax in by outdoor BBQ. There is only one guest cabin on the property, completely separate to the main home but you are welcome to share the large outdoor pool. The cabin is very private, surrounded by native flora and fauna and growing gardens. It is a truely peaceful spot with the beach less than a kilometre away. Horseshoe Bay is the gateway to many of our beautiful bays and tracks including the famous Forts walk. There are water activities and a life guard patrolled swim area. Several little cafes restaurants and a local pub are also in the bay. There is a great bus service on the island and nearest bus stop is less than 2 km away. Rental cars are also available at good rates.

Morris Creek Camp

83%

(3)

30km from Ayr · 6 sites · RVs · Giru, QLD

Our property is an excellent choice for those wanting peace and quiet. The property is a safe and secure place to unhook vans so you can visit the surrounding area,. Townsville is located 50kms north, where you can accsess the stunning Magnetic Island. The Historic town of Charters Towers is just 80kms away, the gateway to the West. It's a fantastic area for fishing and boating enthusiasts - Morris Estuary provides a plethora of fish varieties including Barramundi and crabbing opportunities.

Stories from the community

We didn’t see even one mozzie the whole time we were camped.

B

Bronwyn

5 days ago

8 m Class B

8 nights at The Forts

Tee's place is an absolute gem. From the moment I drove off the barge onto the island and was greeted by Tee, I knew I was going to have the perfect island getaway. A special mention to Neil, who welcomed me and showed me around Tee's place while they were on the mainland. Five stars Neil! The place itself is quiet, private and an easy walk to Horseshoe Bay, the start of walks and the bus stops. Native birds and wildlife are everywhere and I loved sharing their space. Not to mention the little ladies (The chickens), who made me feel right at home. The bush shower is divine, private and surrounded by native plants. A blessing in the heat. And then of course there is Tee and Steve. Well, they are the most wonderful, down to earth, fun and genourus people. They have a knack for making you feel like you're home on their beautiful slice of heavenly bush. I couldn't have imagined a more perfect place to be for the 10 days I was there. Thank you superstars.... I will be back, Bronnie😊❤️

D

Dorothee

October 2025

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Forts

Great place for camping with tandem you can lend. High chance for seeing koalas nearby. We really enjoyed our stay here.

J

John & Kylie

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to WillowVale Park

Lovely and quiet, we liked that there is only 2 sites available, nice outlook over the dry river bed from our site.

T

Travis

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

9 nights at The Forts

We really enjoyed our selves we had a large 23.6 ft van and travelling with 2 kids. Plenty of space. The kids loved putting the chickens away every evening. The hosts were very helpful with local information and general advice.

T

Trudi

October 2025

6 m Class B

3 nights at The Forts

Excellent base camp for exploring the island. Great communication from the host.

B

Braden

September 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to WillowVale Park

Great spot to unwind and take in the bush. Will definately be back again.

m

maxi

September 2025

5 m travel trailer

3 nights at The Forts

What can we say 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 our hosts Tee & Steve when well and beyond to make our stay on Maggie. Tee provided so much info on the all the activities on the Island. Our stay was relaxed and perfect 🤩 Their fresh eggs were delicious 😋 Thank you both 😍will come again and will let all our fellow travellers know about your amazing property Maxi & Col

H

Harry

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mount Elliot Park

Great spot, easy to get to. Lovely surroundings. Host was easy to communicate with.

P

Phil

September 2025

6 m Class B

5 nights at The Forts

We loved camping at the Forts. Tee and Steve were fantastic hosts and very informative giving great suggestions of places to go and always up for a chat. The area is large with lots of shady spots to set up and an amazing alfresco shower. The chooks were very entertaining and Matilda, the resident koala made an appearance. It’s a great place to base yourself to explore the island. Thanks for sharing your piece of the island :)

E

Ellen

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Mount Elliot Park

Lovely spot on the creek, the campsites themselves are well cleared and maintained but the area surrounding them is quite overgrown. Nice spaced out sites

N

Nicola

September 2025

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Morris Creek Camp

Great place for an overnight stay. Friendly host 😊

H

Harry

September 2025

5 m Class B

3 nights at The Forts

Amazing location and brilliant host! Walking distance from the forts walk and horseshoe bay! These were our 2 favourite places on the island. Great set up with Outdoor shower and Tee gave us some of there chickens eggs that was very kind of them. Also had a Wallaby come say hi and lots of colourful birds. Tee gave great advice of things to do on the island. Would defiantly recommend to anyone! 10/10

R

Russ T

September 2025

5 m Class B

3 nights at The Forts

Great place to camp. Close to all the walking paths. Horseshoe Bay is gorgeous this time of year. Steve and Tanya are friendly and helpful

Greg

September 2025

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Mam Easy Stay

Very relaxing, a bit of a drive to Townsville central, but to come back to tranquility it's worth it. Two toilets and one hot shower. Not many people there. A couple of fire pits to use to toast marshmallows at. You have to be self contained power and water wise, but there are a

M

Maria

August 2025

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Mount Elliot Park

We enjoyed our short stay with our 2 dogs. The mountain views are pretty and peaceful and even had a little dip in the creek. Not much water in it at the moment but still picturesque. We appreciated the level camp site too. Thank you, we will come again.

Z

Zachary

August 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to WillowVale Park

Is a great spot nestled under trees. Is great for a campfire with friends. Hosts are amazing and very accommodating

B

Braden

August 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to WillowVale Park

Awesome spot for camping. Family loved how peaceful the camp was. Even got to see a family of emus walk by.

O

Olivier

August 2025

4 m Class B

3 nights at The Forts

It's a charming, friendly place, with a cool chill-out area in the center of the camp. You can also meet a number of animals such as wallabies and cockatoo. The owner is very pleasant and won't hesitate to give you tips on things to do in the area.

W

Wendy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to WillowVale Park

Great place to get back to nature with views of emu & wallabies. Campsite had lots of space to feel tranquil & peaceful!

M

Michael

August 2025

10 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mount Elliot Park

Open paddock, neatly slashed. Nice sized fire pit also. Nice cold fresh water creek running behind the camp site that allows a shallow dip to cool down.