Farm stays near Balgal Beach, Queensland 2025

Balgal Beach is a popular beach about mid-way between Townsville and Ingham, about 64 kilometres to the north. With a lovely stretch of sand, Balgal is ideal for camping, boating, and swimming, as well as river fishing—boaties can cross to nearby Palm Island or explore Orpheus Island National Park and its three campaign areas. In addition to private Hipcamp and campgrounds in the surrounding area, campers can find free but wildly popular beachfront camping areas run by the local council.

Top-rated campgrounds

Balgal Beach is a popular beach about mid-way between Townsville and Ingham, about 64 kilometres to the north. With a lovely stretch of sand, Balgal is ideal for camping, boating, and swimming, as well as river fishing—boaties can cross to nearby Palm Island or explore Orpheus Island National Park and its three campaign areas. In addition to private Hipcamp and campgrounds in the surrounding area, campers can find free but wildly popular beachfront camping areas run by the local council.

Top-rated campgrounds

1. THE BLOCK

99%

(246)

63km from Balgal Beach · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Brookhill, QLD

Welcome to The Block , Located just 20Kms from Townsville. As fellow campers we love space, the Aussie Bush and a camp fire. Offering value for money we have limited our sites, offering a fire pit, solar light and plenty of space for all size rigs. Dump Point available on site. Bush Shower. The Happy Hour Hut offers games, seating and a fire pit to enjoy social drinks with fellow travelers or to just sit and relax in the Bush. Overnight or long term available. Enjoy this tucked away location set on a 160 acre property running a few head of Cattle, Horses and a small Mango Farm. A Bush setting with Iron Bark and Ghost Gum trees, relaxing Mountain views just sit back and take in the night sky. Firewood for sale on Site

2. Crystal Ridge

97%

(562)

13km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Mutarnee, QLD

Welcome to Crystal Ridge, a peaceful location where you can enjoy peace and privacy. Campers can fish, swim, bird watch or just relax by the water and watch the cows grazing around the property. Nearby you'll find Mount Spec, Paluma Range National Park straddles the summit and escarpment of the Paluma Range, rising 1,000m above the Big Crystal Creek floodplain. This is the most southerly national park in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Located approximately 45 minutes north of Townsville on the Bruce Highway, Mutarnee is a small peaceful hamlet nestled on the banks of beautiful Crystal Creek. At the local caravan park there's a small shop and service station and just a minute down the road you'll find the Crystal Creek boat ramp. There is great bushwalks in the area and place to mountain bike. Any camping set up is welcome to pull up on the flat, grassy site. You are welcome to bring your pet, but please ensure they are kept on a leash and under control. You will need to get gate code day before you arrive. Either text or on the hipcamp site.

3. Mungalla Station

94%

(125)

40km from Balgal Beach · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Forrest Beach, QLD

Mungalla Cattle Station Camp (125kms north of Townsville, near Forest Beach) Campers MUST provide car registration details at time of booking.If you have your own tent, van or RV come and camp! Small dogs welcome. Flat sites, suitable for caravans and 2WD. Guests are welcome to use the worker's toilets and showers, though please keep in mind these are very basic if self-contained greywater can be dispersed on the ground.Mungalla Station is a historic cattle station near Ingham in North Queensland. Come and share a unique experience of the culture and history of Mungalla Station and its Aboriginal owners.Guests can meet the Nywaigi Aboriginal people, the Aboriginal traditional owners of the lands around Ingham in North Queensland. Experience our rich culture and history.Explore the property established by James Cassady, who fled the potato famine of Ireland and created a pastoral dynasty. Visit the birthplace of the world-famous Droughtmaster cattle breed, the original homestead, the graves of James Cassady and his son.Children under 6 stay for free. Do not include them at time of booking.We ask campers to please try to arrive before it gets dark. Please read all information provided carefully and only contact your host if absolutely necessary.

4. Mukundi Farm

57km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites · RVs · Peacock Siding, QLD

Mukundi Farm is a 6 acre property in cane farmers land, boarded by spectacular mountain view. It's a flat grassy space where you can park and set up where you like. There are sheep grazing next door, please respect the privacy of the neighbourhood. There are no amenities here so campers will need to be self-contained and leave no trace. Please take all rubbish with you. Campers will enjoy a lovely nearby drive up Mount Fox - a rising above surrounding eucalypt woodlands where you can find an ancient volcano with a large crater. The Stone River flows near by, which is good for relaxing and enjoying the crystal clear water. Wallaman fall is also close by. The property is located 15 minutes out of Ingahm and under 2 hours out of Townsville. Nice tropical weather. Safe neighbourhood. Very peaceful and relaxing. If wet, vehicles may be bogged. If it rains excessively, keep on high ground.

5. Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

98%

(476)

71km from Balgal Beach · 245 sites · RVs · Toonpan, QLD

Welcome to our idyllic farm stay, where the best of both worlds awaits you just 15 minutes away from Kmart Idalia and a mere 25 minutes from the bustling Townsville city centre. Nestled in nature's embrace, our farm offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of majestic mountains and a constant, refreshing breeze that sweeps across the landscape. Our farm stay is a haven for both nature enthusiasts and city dwellers seeking a peaceful retreat. Picture waking up to the sight of rolling hills and the sounds of chirping birds, mooing cows, baaaing sheep all while being conveniently close to urban amenities. if your lucky enough the farm animals will come up to say hello at the fence lines For those traveling with furry companions, our dog-friendly farm stay features a securely fenced-off area, ensuring a worry-free environment for your four-legged friends. We also provide the option of dog day pens, allowing your pets to roam and play freely. Caravanning enthusiasts will find our farm to be an ideal stop, for those with fully self-contained setups. Embrace the freedom of the open road while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped farm stay. Our camp kitchen is available for your culinary needs, and fresh water is readily accessible to enhance your stay. Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of our farm stay. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a getaway, or a family on an adventure, our welcoming retreat promises an unforgettable experience. Come unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories at our Mountview farm stay oasis.

6. Coothara Farm

94%

(136)

32km from Balgal Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Located just outside Townsville, this rural farm setting features lots of wildlife. There is a dam in a shaded paddock next to the camping area. You can hang out with the horses, cows, chickens and many other animals. The campsite is quiet, peaceful and relaxing. We even have a MH therapy cow, Nemoo! (bring your camera!) Enjoy a yarn around the campfire (firewood available depending on season) or a swim in the dam! This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own toilet/shower amenities and can run off grid. The Townsville region has much to offer. There's a free swimming pool on the esplanade. If you're up for a walk or bike ride the esplanade takes you through the gardens on the water's edge. You can also take a cruise out to Magnetic Island. Pets on leashes are welcome.

7. Crumpy's Place

99%

(36)

24km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites · RVs · Bluewater, QLD

Welcome to Crumpy's Place! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578169520135 Nothing fancy, just a safe and secure, friendly, and quiet place to stay for 1 night through to a couple of weeks. Set on 20 acres and based in Bluewater, just north of Townsville, we are semi-screened from the road and have easy RV or Campervan access assuming you don't mind using a simple gate. We cater to fully Self Contained guests only but we do have some basic services available depending on what spots are already taken, but generally access to: - Water - Power (at some sites only via leads at an additional charge) - Common fire pit area - Recyclable disposal only (no general rubbish or black water disposal - suggest empty before arrival at the free dump point only 1.5km away) - Free firewood readily available if you have a saw/chainsaw and a willingness to use it! - Pets on leashes allowed at some sites and may depend on breed/ other guests at the time to avoid conflict) - There is a beach and boat ramp just a couple of minutes down the end of the road, and only 15 minutes or so to a variety of shops including Groceries, Bunnings, Supercheap Auto, and BCF - You are welcome to pat the horses and say g'day to Angus, our humongous cow, all under the watchful remaining eye of Milo the Pug, the true Lord of our Manor!! Bookings are essential so you don't miss out, but please feel free to call or email us for any further information, and we will be happy to help. Once booked please call 0481002100 5 or 10 minutes in advance of arrival so we can greet and guide you in. If we are unable to take your call don't worry about leaving a message - please just text and we'll come back to you as fast as possible. We look forward to joining you around the fire pit at some point for a cold one and a yarn. Cheers, and Safe Travels all!

8. Cuddle Creek Homestead

91%

(11)

26km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Yabulu, QLD

28 acres of bliss in the bush. Not too far from town, but far enough for peace and quiet. Kids or adults can ride bikes around our tracks through the property. You can go fishing off the bank from the back of the block, or alternatively you can put a boat in the creek with a boat ramp accessible only about 1 klm down the road.

9. Black River Outback Ranch

100%

(1)

36km from Balgal Beach · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Beautiful black river, quiet, access to black river; can 4wd and quad bike ride; swim in the river, three dams on the property, food truck on the property kebabs and pizzas, fire pit, away from city but only a 15 minute drive to local shops or 30 minutes to see the city centre. Saunders beach is only 13 minutes drive.

10. Hinchinbrook View

100%

(12)

52km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Macknade, QLD

Park up amongst the Mango Tree orchard on manicured lawn with views to Hinchinbrook Island. Ideal spot to base yourself while exploring Lucinda, The Palm Islands and Wallaman Falls or for a quick over nighter. Plenty of room to spread out.

Camper favorites near Balgal Beach

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mukundi Farm

57km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites · RVs · Peacock Siding, QLD

Mukundi Farm is a 6 acre property in cane farmers land, boarded by spectacular mountain view. It's a flat grassy space where you can park and set up where you like. There are sheep grazing next door, please respect the privacy of the neighbourhood. There are no amenities here so campers will need to be self-contained and leave no trace. Please take all rubbish with you. Campers will enjoy a lovely nearby drive up Mount Fox - a rising above surrounding eucalypt woodlands where you can find an ancient volcano with a large crater. The Stone River flows near by, which is good for relaxing and enjoying the crystal clear water. Wallaman fall is also close by. The property is located 15 minutes out of Ingahm and under 2 hours out of Townsville. Nice tropical weather. Safe neighbourhood. Very peaceful and relaxing. If wet, vehicles may be bogged. If it rains excessively, keep on high ground.

Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

98%

(476)

71km from Balgal Beach · 245 sites · RVs · Toonpan, QLD

Welcome to our idyllic farm stay, where the best of both worlds awaits you just 15 minutes away from Kmart Idalia and a mere 25 minutes from the bustling Townsville city centre. Nestled in nature's embrace, our farm offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of majestic mountains and a constant, refreshing breeze that sweeps across the landscape. Our farm stay is a haven for both nature enthusiasts and city dwellers seeking a peaceful retreat. Picture waking up to the sight of rolling hills and the sounds of chirping birds, mooing cows, baaaing sheep all while being conveniently close to urban amenities. if your lucky enough the farm animals will come up to say hello at the fence lines For those traveling with furry companions, our dog-friendly farm stay features a securely fenced-off area, ensuring a worry-free environment for your four-legged friends. We also provide the option of dog day pens, allowing your pets to roam and play freely. Caravanning enthusiasts will find our farm to be an ideal stop, for those with fully self-contained setups. Embrace the freedom of the open road while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped farm stay. Our camp kitchen is available for your culinary needs, and fresh water is readily accessible to enhance your stay. Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of our farm stay. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a getaway, or a family on an adventure, our welcoming retreat promises an unforgettable experience. Come unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories at our Mountview farm stay oasis.

Coothara Farm

94%

(136)

32km from Balgal Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Located just outside Townsville, this rural farm setting features lots of wildlife. There is a dam in a shaded paddock next to the camping area. You can hang out with the horses, cows, chickens and many other animals. The campsite is quiet, peaceful and relaxing. We even have a MH therapy cow, Nemoo! (bring your camera!) Enjoy a yarn around the campfire (firewood available depending on season) or a swim in the dam! This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own toilet/shower amenities and can run off grid. The Townsville region has much to offer. There's a free swimming pool on the esplanade. If you're up for a walk or bike ride the esplanade takes you through the gardens on the water's edge. You can also take a cruise out to Magnetic Island. Pets on leashes are welcome.

Crumpy's Place

99%

(36)

24km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites · RVs · Bluewater, QLD

Welcome to Crumpy's Place! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578169520135 Nothing fancy, just a safe and secure, friendly, and quiet place to stay for 1 night through to a couple of weeks. Set on 20 acres and based in Bluewater, just north of Townsville, we are semi-screened from the road and have easy RV or Campervan access assuming you don't mind using a simple gate. We cater to fully Self Contained guests only but we do have some basic services available depending on what spots are already taken, but generally access to: - Water - Power (at some sites only via leads at an additional charge) - Common fire pit area - Recyclable disposal only (no general rubbish or black water disposal - suggest empty before arrival at the free dump point only 1.5km away) - Free firewood readily available if you have a saw/chainsaw and a willingness to use it! - Pets on leashes allowed at some sites and may depend on breed/ other guests at the time to avoid conflict) - There is a beach and boat ramp just a couple of minutes down the end of the road, and only 15 minutes or so to a variety of shops including Groceries, Bunnings, Supercheap Auto, and BCF - You are welcome to pat the horses and say g'day to Angus, our humongous cow, all under the watchful remaining eye of Milo the Pug, the true Lord of our Manor!! Bookings are essential so you don't miss out, but please feel free to call or email us for any further information, and we will be happy to help. Once booked please call 0481002100 5 or 10 minutes in advance of arrival so we can greet and guide you in. If we are unable to take your call don't worry about leaving a message - please just text and we'll come back to you as fast as possible. We look forward to joining you around the fire pit at some point for a cold one and a yarn. Cheers, and Safe Travels all!

Cuddle Creek Homestead

91%

(11)

26km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Yabulu, QLD

28 acres of bliss in the bush. Not too far from town, but far enough for peace and quiet. Kids or adults can ride bikes around our tracks through the property. You can go fishing off the bank from the back of the block, or alternatively you can put a boat in the creek with a boat ramp accessible only about 1 klm down the road.

Black River Outback Ranch

100%

(1)

36km from Balgal Beach · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Beautiful black river, quiet, access to black river; can 4wd and quad bike ride; swim in the river, three dams on the property, food truck on the property kebabs and pizzas, fire pit, away from city but only a 15 minute drive to local shops or 30 minutes to see the city centre. Saunders beach is only 13 minutes drive.

Hinchinbrook View

100%

(12)

52km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Macknade, QLD

Park up amongst the Mango Tree orchard on manicured lawn with views to Hinchinbrook Island. Ideal spot to base yourself while exploring Lucinda, The Palm Islands and Wallaman Falls or for a quick over nighter. Plenty of room to spread out.

Stories from the community

Peak dry season, still beautiful in its own right

M

Michael

2 weeks ago

10 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

The Block is a wonderful Hipcamp just outside Townsville on the south side. Depending on your time of year it may be a little on the dry side or lush and green. No matter when it is, it’s absolutely stunning with the gums and the camp setup. Amazingly there’s a dump point too. We will be making this one a regular stop when we’re travelling.

C

Chris

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

A beautiful peaceful place to camp, right on the edge of the creek.

C

Chris

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

Yet again Crystal Ridge did not disappoint. Absolutely relaxing, creek was a little low but was still deep enough to have a nice cool down. Michael is a great host, with great communication. Looking forward to our next visit. 10 out of 10.

A

Aimee

November 2025

8 m Class B

With kids

1 night at Crystal Ridge

Lovely spot right on the water. Only 2 sites to choose from, we were lucky to be the only ones there but I definitely recommend booking the whole place to yourself if you want privacy as the sites are right next to each other. Not as well kept as other camps we have been to but overall would recommend. The concrete pad on site 1 was useful.

K

Kristy

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Crumpy's Place

Toni & Andrew were so lovely and made us feel very welcome. We have a 22ft van and two little kids and this stop was great for us. Flat enough land that we could stay hitched for our one night stop, also! Thanks guys!

P

Pam

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

With pets

12 nights at Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

Lovely peaceful place with very friendly hosts. Plenty of room to set up our van. We loved having access to the dog pens for our boy Yogi. So handy having the large washing machine available for $5 a load.

S

Steve

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

1 night at Crumpy's Place

The location was very convienent for us on travel home. It was very quiet and we enjoyed the wandering Geese and Chooks.

M

Melissa

October 2025

8 m Class A

1 night at Crystal Ridge

The site was really gorgeous! Very private and the stream is lovely. The only drawback is that the host isn't the best communicator... I had to send two messages, one at 9am and another at 1:30ish because I hadn't heard back from him, to find out what the code for the gate was before he responded. I also asked him some detailed questions about our stay which were answered with two short, unhelpful messages! The details on the website are not accurate either, so we found it confusing and irritating to locate the site, after a long drive. There was rubbish from other campers left in the fire pit which should have been removed before we arrived as well.

Anett

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

Lovely place close to Townsville, very spacious! The camp kitchen is really cool with all the games and things, great new shower and even dump point. Stayed there while attending an event at the stadium in town, only took 20 mins to get there! Would definitely stay again!

S

Samantha

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

We enjoyed our stay! Kids absolutely loved the place it has such a great vibe, nice and laid back with loverly host!

Peter & Lynda

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at THE BLOCK

What an awesome campground away from everyone peace and quiet huge sites great little camp kitchen and a beautiful cold shower lovely fire pits and will definitely stay again. Absolutely loved it. Highly recommended. Thanks again Janet and David.

T

Tristan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

Great location - close to Townsville but still feels like youre out bush. Easy to find, nice area with plenty of space.

R

Ryan

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Unreal spot , would recommend needs to be 2 - 3 night minimum booking as people have booked just for one night and that takes up the possibility of a whole weekend booking something to think about as it’s such a beautiful spot, will be back 😁

G

Gary

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

Great campground - large area with water connections. Hosts are really friendly and helpful. They show movies on Friday and Saturday nights. Kid and pet friendly

Jos

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at THE BLOCK

Great spot, lots of choices of sites, shaded or sunny, whichever suits you. Firewood only $10. Very easy to get to and not that far out of Townsville. Bonus, there is a dump point, easy access

r

robert

October 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Close to Townsville and Ingham, with lots to do in the area. Quite open (good solar) location next to Crystal Creek. Decent shade in the afternoon. Not the best swimming this time of year, but to be expected at the end of the dry season. That being said, we still say I. The creek and enjoyed a drink. Our neighbours kids were having a fantastic time in a canoe. Creek access is best from site 1 but still easily accessible from site 2. Quiet, relaxing, a fire and clear sky’s. Would definitely stay here again.

D

Dot

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Crystal Ridge

Excellent camping site on the river. Very quite and great swimming Would highly recommend this camp to everyone

D

Davo

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Crystal Ridge

Great camp site. River nice and close to camp. Host was easy to get in contact with. Fantastic spot will be back again

S

Sophie

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

Great spot to stay! Very welcoming vibe! The kids were entertained with animal feeding, trampoline, swings and a movie on the weekend!

t

tiffany

October 2025

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Crumpy's Place

Great communication and amenities for the price. We would stay here again!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Farm stays near Balgal Beach guide

Where to go

Paluma Range National Park

This park offers remote bush camping for the self-sufficient, but there is also the Waterview Creek campground, close to the park entrance about 24 km south of Ingham and 91 km north of Townsville. The 3-km return Jourama Falls Lookout Walk leads through a lovely forest of poplar gum, bloodwood, and Moreton Bay ash trees. Birdwatchers may see the azure kingfisher, satin flycatcher, and northern fantail during the day, plus the southern boobook, large-tailed nightjar and tawny frogmouth by night.

Palm Island Group

For those wishing to explore deeper and head out to the Great Barrier Reef, Balgal Beach provides excellent boat ramp facilities and easy access to the Palm Island Group. There is also a ferry to Palm Island, for those who enjoy hiking or other simple pleasures.

Abergowrie State Forest

Abergowrie State Forest is about 45 km west of Ingham, in the Herbert River Valley. The 1.6-km return Rainforest Walk and the 3-km return Creek Walk take you to Broadwater Creek, a great place to camp in the eucalypt forest. Wildlife includes the vulnerable rufous owl and the endangered and unpredictable southern cassowary—keep your distance! A boardwalk leads to the enormous Broadwater fig tree.

When to go

The cooler months of the year, from April to September, are the best times to visit Balgal Beach, as summer daytime temperatures can hit 35°C and higher. Daytime temperatures and humidity can be high at any time of the year and nights can be cool. Cyclones can occur between November and April.

Know before you go

From November to May, always swim within the “stinger” enclosures off the beach. These are designed to protect swimmers from harmful marine jellyfish.
If you are lucky enough to see cassowaries, keep your distance. These giant flightless “dinosaur” birds can deliver lethal blows with their razor-sharp talons.
Balgal Beach has a general store and café. Otherwise, Townsville has excellent facilities for stocking up before you go camping, plus all standard town services like a post office, pharmacy, visitor information centre, bank, and car hire companies.
Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forests, and reserves—these must be booked online and paid for in advance of arrival. Make camping bookings as early as possible.