The best campgrounds near Ayr, Queensland with swimming

In Ayr, swimmers are spoiled for choice, with over 30 local campsites set up for easy access to the water. Prices start at $25 a night, averaging out around $31, and you’ll find spots where you can light a campfire, bring the dog, and count on basic toilets. Favourites include Mount Surround Campground (592 reviews), where you can cool off after a day scrambling up rocks or hiking the nearby trails, The Forts (106 reviews), and Hidden Corner Magnetic Island (71 reviews). You’ll find clear swimming holes, shady rivers, and plenty of chances to ditch the tent for a dip. This is no place to forget your swimmers or sturdy shoes—between the water and the walks, you’ll want both.

96% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Ayr, swimmers are spoiled for choice, with over 30 local campsites set up for easy access to the water. Prices start at $25 a night, averaging out around $31, and you’ll find spots where you can light a campfire, bring the dog, and count on basic toilets. Favourites include Mount Surround Campground (592 reviews), where you can cool off after a day scrambling up rocks or hiking the nearby trails, The Forts (106 reviews), and Hidden Corner Magnetic Island (71 reviews). You’ll find clear swimming holes, shady rivers, and plenty of chances to ditch the tent for a dip. This is no place to forget your swimmers or sturdy shoes—between the water and the walks, you’ll want both.

96% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Mount Surround Campground

98%

(1382)

40km from Ayr · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · Mount Surround, QLD

Formerly known as "Mountain View Lake holiday park". Relax in this peaceful, family friendly campground, nestled in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range and nearby Mount Elliot. Enjoy the 70 Acres of shady grounds with plenty of wildlife, including pretty faced wallabies and abundant birdlife. Located conveniently 45kms south of Townsville and Magnetic Island ferry terminal,45km north of Ayr and 8km north of Giru. The 20-acre dam is very dry at the moment (November/December) , with lots of weeds and Lilly pads. Birds are loving it! On arrival, powered sites, please phone our on-site caretaker Dylan 0488 611 706, and he can assist you to find a spot that suits you and your group. Unpowered sites can choose anywhere suitable for them. We do have internet reception. Occasionally reception can be weak depending on what the network is doing. Generally, it is not a problem. Bring Mosquito/sandfly spray especially if camping by the lake. Campfires allowed. Wood for sale, $10 cash per milk crate, from camp kitchen. Please be honest and place cash in the "Honesty Box". Fire rings are available at the sites. Please leave them where they are as moving them is destroying the surrounding areas. Thankyou. Pet friendly. Due to our wildlife all dogs must be on a lead or tethered by a rope and under owners' control at all times. Dog poo must be picked up. No one wants to step in your dog's poo. Separate men and women's toilets and hot showers. Camp kitchen with shared fridges, gas rings x2, large gas BBQ, toaster, kettle, microwave and picnic tables. BYO cooking gear, plates, cups, utensils. Washing up sinks x2 -cold water only. Laundry tubs have hot water that can be used in kitchen sink. Coin washing machines available. $4 a wash ($1- and $2-coins, BYO coins)

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

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

GROUP BOOKING Are looking for that perfect location for a PRIVATE EXCLUSIVE EVENT .... ..... ..... ..... ..... Sport Event- Rustic Wedding- Private function- Birthday Celebration- Homeschool group- Walking group- Family get-together - ...... ...... ....... ....... ..... We can accommodate your Group Booking. ... SEND us a message to discuss how we can help . EXTERNAL Hire available to suit your event type. Marquees can be set up. Bathrooms BBQs Tables Linen Floristy Private Chef or catering .... Location: Photographic scenery. Beaches nearby. . Sitting on 3 acres of rustic land with National Park as a backdrop. . DESIGNATED Camping available for up to 10 vehicle. These Camp sites are suitable: Caravans✔️ Rooftop tents✔️ Campervan ✔️ Motorhomes ✔️ All designated sites are spacious and flat. .... There is further space available for pitch up camping ... Plus Plenty more room in a separate lower paddock for Marquee set up or activities area. ... Important: No Bathroom Facilities No Kitchen Facilities You either need to be self contained - meaning have your own cooking set up and your own toilets. Although, if required you can hire external toilet blocks. BATHROOMS Can be hired for EVENTS . A central entertainment area, landscaped with hammocks and lounging chairs. ... So what's there to do? Amazing walks Beaches in abundance Fishing Rock climbing Nature discovery Butterfly, Koalas, Wallabies Birds Kookaburra. Galahs.Finch. +++ Snorkeling Hire a bike Hire a scooter Hire a cute convertible Yoga classes Cafes, and great restaurants Trip to Palm or outer reef or go sailing on a yacht Hire a jet ski and find your private oasis. Book a boat - go snorkeling or fishing

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.

Camper favorites near Ayr

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

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

GROUP BOOKING Are looking for that perfect location for a PRIVATE EXCLUSIVE EVENT .... ..... ..... ..... ..... Sport Event- Rustic Wedding- Private function- Birthday Celebration- Homeschool group- Walking group- Family get-together - ...... ...... ....... ....... ..... We can accommodate your Group Booking. ... SEND us a message to discuss how we can help . EXTERNAL Hire available to suit your event type. Marquees can be set up. Bathrooms BBQs Tables Linen Floristy Private Chef or catering .... Location: Photographic scenery. Beaches nearby. . Sitting on 3 acres of rustic land with National Park as a backdrop. . DESIGNATED Camping available for up to 10 vehicle. These Camp sites are suitable: Caravans✔️ Rooftop tents✔️ Campervan ✔️ Motorhomes ✔️ All designated sites are spacious and flat. .... There is further space available for pitch up camping ... Plus Plenty more room in a separate lower paddock for Marquee set up or activities area. ... Important: No Bathroom Facilities No Kitchen Facilities You either need to be self contained - meaning have your own cooking set up and your own toilets. Although, if required you can hire external toilet blocks. BATHROOMS Can be hired for EVENTS . A central entertainment area, landscaped with hammocks and lounging chairs. ... So what's there to do? Amazing walks Beaches in abundance Fishing Rock climbing Nature discovery Butterfly, Koalas, Wallabies Birds Kookaburra. Galahs.Finch. +++ Snorkeling Hire a bike Hire a scooter Hire a cute convertible Yoga classes Cafes, and great restaurants Trip to Palm or outer reef or go sailing on a yacht Hire a jet ski and find your private oasis. Book a boat - go snorkeling or fishing

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.

Stories from the community

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

B

Bronwyn

4 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😊❤️

Kathleen

2 weeks ago

9 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Beautiful spot with plenty of space to find a private spot by the lake. Lots of bird life and wallabies to see.

S

Steve

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

2 nights at Mount Surround Campground

Loved it here. Nice shady trees. Lots of room. Well maintained. Loved the dam with all the wild life everywhere. Would recommend it for sure 😊

D

Derek

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Mount Surround Campground

Quiet, plenty of shade and good breeze. Hot water and fishing toilets.

P

Paul

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

the camp was perfect and quiet. The site care takers were easy to deal with and talk too. I will be returning to Mount Surround.

D

Dianne

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

After travelling up the coast from Brisbane it was great to stay at such a peaceful place as Mount Surround Campgrounds. Plenty of space, good facilities in a beautiful natural setting. A relaxing way to end our trip. We’ll be back!

G

Gene

October 2025

5 m car

2 nights at Mount Surround Campground

I booked an unpowered site for two nights away from the main group. It was extremely peaceful and quiet. At night there was the expected random noise from other guests but once that settled, I was left with the sound of the rain and the wildlife. Perfect stay. Thank you Cathy and Wayne.

A

Alexandra

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Beautiful spot. Far enough away from the road noise. Big open spaces with nice shady trees. Clean and well maintained amenities. Great communication and easy clear directions. Will definitely be back.

M

Molly

October 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

It was the perfect distance away from Townsville to enjoy a night away under the stars. The area was beautiful and there was lots of space to pick a camping spot. The backdrop of the hills was beautiful 🤩 we also took our dog who had a lovely time exploring a new area- you can walk around the little lake (approx 1 mile loop) . Toilets and showers were clean …. The kitchen faculties looked decent too , although we never used them . Will definitely be back 😊

K

Kylie

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Mount Surround Campground

Lovely and tranquil stay. Beautiful billabong and amazing bird life. Facilities were clean. Highly recommend.

S

Sandra

October 2025

12 m travel trailer

Group trip

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

Great camping by the dam, clean amenities and able to have a fire at night

R

October 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

We had a magnificent time viewing the abundant wildlife and birds at Mount Surround. The caretaker was helpful and it was easy to book on-site with phone reception available. They have done a lot of work on upgrades, which continue to improve the site.

A

Andrew

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

It’s a wonderful camp at Mount Surround Lovely breeze by the lake heaps of birds and wildlife Recommended ✔️✔️

B

Barry

October 2025

9 m Class A

With pets

4 nights at Mount Surround Campground

Nice quiet camp ground. Clean amenities. Very peaceful, highly recommended. Would stay again if ever this way in the future.

M

Margot

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Such a lovely spot! Amenities were clean. Some nice trees for shade and the lake was fun for activities.

K

Kahlie

October 2025

10 m travel trailer

3 nights at Mount Surround Campground

It’s beautiful there , stayed multiple times will stay again

K

Kurby

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

Nice quiet spot to crush the night. Dylan was a gem.

E

Ella

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

Great easy to access little spot, the amenities are good and nice big flat camp spots. We enjoyed the camp kitchen very much. Lovely views all around.

L

Leah

October 2025

5 m car

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

Cathy was responsive and helpful and didn’t have the greedy attitude many other hosts seem to have. The caretaker, Dylan, was very friendly and made us feel welcome. Amenities were clean and roomy. Great little spot for a night or 2. I’ll definitely stay again.

R

Rosetta

October 2025

12 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

It was clean and tidy and nice and quiet and pet friendly