Camping near Balgal Beach with hiking

Pitch your tent on the beachfront or throw a line in the water in tropical north Queensland.

95% (1264 reviews)

Australia
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Queensland
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Balgal Beach

95% (1264 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Balgal Beach

Community favorites near Balgal Beach

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Camp spot was magic. Neatly maintained. Amazing spot to stay.

1 night at Hidden Corner Magnetic Island

Had a lovely night staying here. Really quiet neighbourhood. Steve’s a great host and had some good tips for the island.

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

Beautiful grassy area for camping close to a lovely swimming hole. Amenities were good with hot showers and they were clean.

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

We have camped several times and will continue coming back. Clean toliets and showers, grass mowed , plenty of fire wood available and the creek is amazing. We always take our dogs and they love it.

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

Perfect spot to unwind. We stayed 2 nights and was great. Outdoor shower was a nice, especially with kids running around. Games area undercover kept us all entertained during our stay aswell!! Close enough to just drive into city but far enough that it’s peaceful and relaxing Will definitely be back soon for a longer stay.

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

Beautiful little spot close to the creek , amenities are a little how ya going but all in all beautiful place

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

1 night at Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

4th time here in the last year or 2. Great spot with so much potential but there's been no lights in male facilities last 3 times I've been here, and shower heads taped up with electrical tape on this occasion. I do like camping here, it's a peaceful and relaxing area but if you're paying for the facilities 🤷‍♂️..... All sites were only mown after we arrived and facilities were all cleaned by another camper who took it upon himself to make it better for his partner. They were truthfully probably going to be cleaned day of arrival but the other camper beat them to it, and i do realise it gets difficult to keep up and that there are some grubs out there that make it less enjoyable for the rest of us. The caretakers have a full time job cleaning up after the one's that just drop in onto the private property without booking or paying so I get it.. But maybe also start charging extra for the one's that leave broken glass, bottle tops and broken camp gear at their site. And yes, we did pick up and remove this type of extra rubbish that was there on arrival. Overall I would recommend it to other's, just for the ambience and tranquillity of the area.

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

Crystal Ridge is absolutely paradise. We love visiting here. Beautiful sites right on the water. Close enough to Townsville to escape for the weekend. Michael is a great host. We love the cows too.

Wonderful place to stay. Hosts where very friendly. Beautiful area to camp. Lots of shady trees.

We stayed at the Block, and met Janet and David and it was a lovely experience. Both of them were very lovely and welcoming and invited us for a drink as it was very quiet. We had a last minute booking with no worries at all and got a beautiful spot. So quiet and all the camps are spaced out. They’ve got a camp kitchen under way, a dump spot and a cold shower. Highly recommend! Was beautiful and peaceful and exactly what we were after. They had phone reception on the property too :)

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

This was our second year staying at Easter. It is a lovely spot. Unfortunately the grass was a bit overgrown which made it difficult to walk to the toilets esp that it had been raining and if you didn't have a mat to lay down would have been uncomfortable (know how quick the grass grows this time of year so could have been done earlier in the week) The toilets were disgusting this year due to adults and kids who just don't care. Lots of dogs off lead as well. The stay was still great it was quiet, spacious, easy to get to the creek. Really is a great spot to stay, just needs some upkeep esp over a long weekend (or even mops/brooms ect in the toilets so guests can clean up)

4 nights at Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

My family and I loved the campgrounds. It was a beautiful place to camp. Nice and close to the water. The only slight downfall is the toilets are not maintained, so bring some toilet paper and help keep them clean. We will definitely be back

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Nice part of the river, a bit chaotic looking after all the rain we have had in the region (as expected), but still a nice weekend away.

5 nights at Magnetic Retreat

We liked our stay. Very quiet and tranquil, close to the nature. Had water tap to top up. Otherwise need to be self sufficient which worked well for us. We’d love to stay there again.

2 nights at THE BLOCK

From our first contact with Janet and David to our stay, the whole experience was great and I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to visit Townsville area.

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

This Property is so amazing and would definitely come back. Hosts are lovely and their property is so relaxing and well looked after. I would like them to add a Toilet facility to it. Shower was great. Fire pits great. thank you so much.

3 nights at Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

We had a great stay, but were lucky as we were the only group camping. The camp is close to the road, but not much traffic. Toilets block was a touch grubby, but useable. Pretty site, with good swimming.

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

I really enjoyed my time there. However it looks nothing like the photos which are more akin to a well maintained caravan park, this was let go enough to be a nice grassy bush experience which I enjoyed. Be fully self contained, I wouldn't go anywhere near the toilet block. The creek is further from camp than I prefer, but after a short stroll what a gem. You'll never want to leave the water. MANY! people coming for free swimming which annoyed me having paid $110 for my rights.

Weekend Trip to Magnetic Retreat

Easy, convenient, as you'd expect from the post. Thanks again to the host

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Still a great spot, been here a few times and it's always good to relax there. The creek has changed a lot from recent flooding, but still good for a long swim, snorkel and kayak. Kids love it.

6 top campgrounds near Balgal Beach with hiking

89%

(1005)

Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

25 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Mutarnee, QLD

Crystal Creek Campsite is a large camp area with private access to the creek. Large area with plenty of shade. Dog friendly (on a lead). Fires allowed We have a new caretaker that lives close please ring if you have any issues 0498 692 998 Stephen. Campers MUST provide car registration details at time of booking and display booking number on their windscreens. Close walk to natural swimming pools which are absolutely picturesque. We offer large shady spots with a few BBQ's, fire pits and amenities. Plenty of fishing and swimming to enjoy. Amenities include hot showers (10 MINS ONLY PLEASE). Access to campsite passes our school so please drive very slowly if your accessing campsite during school hours. Children under 6 stay for free. Do not include them at time of booking. Please read all information, rule and directions (provided once you have a confirmed booking)

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(501)

Crystal Ridge

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · 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.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(93)

Hidden Corner Magnetic Island

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · 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.*** Please check in before 6pm so we can show you where to park. You can always go back out and continue enjoying the island.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(145)

THE BLOCK

9 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · 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. 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

* Before taxes and fees

97%

(130)

The Forts

3 sites · RVs3 acres · 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" 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.

* Before taxes and fees

88%

(12)

Magnetic Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Picnic Bay, QLD

Our property is a stunning, flat, private block of land, located just 400m to the beaches, restaurants and hotel of Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island. We have a small creek that runs through the property during the wet season, and several perfect camp spots bordered by mature paperbark trees, overlooking Butler's Creek. There is water available on the site - but you will need to bring your own hose (20-40m long) to have access it. You MUST be FULLY SELF-CONTAINED with your own toilet/shower facilities and power. Please leave no waste on the property or any trace of your stay. Although not fenced, your dog is more than welcome - but please watch him with our resident wildlife ... as we are located in a koala corridor. And also be sure to please clean up all dog waste. Magnetic Island is located 8km offshore from Townsville and is accessed via a passenger ferry that operates every hour from the city and a vehicle barge that operates several times a day. Book via the 'Sealink' website. "Maggie" as the island is affectionately known, has a permanent population of about 3000 people. There are a two supermarkets, a medical centre, resorts, restaurants to cater for tourist. Our block in beautiful Picnic Bay has been in our family for over 100 years and is home to a host of animal and bird life - we have resident kookaburras, nesting curlews and occasional koalas. Despite it's central location, it is very private. The Golf course is located right behind us and the beach is a 400m stroll. There is a bus stop nearby within 50m, that will take you all around the island. Be sure to stop at Arcadia to feed the wild rock wallabies and to go to the Toad Races held weekly at the Arcadia pub. There are spectacular beaches, bush walks, koala spotting, boat tours, reef dive operators, art galleries, homeware shops, restaurants, coffee shops, a brewery, pubs and a bus stop nearby. It is perfect for a relaxing getaway!!

* Before taxes and fees

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Balgal Beach with hiking guide

Overview

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.

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.