The best river, stream, or creek camping near Balgal Beach

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Set up your tent along the river at Balgal Beach, where over 120 campsites put you close to water and surrounded by gum trees. Expect easy access to riverbanks for fishing, wildlife-watching, and a solid network of hiking tracks. Top picks like Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds (629 reviews), Crystal Ridge (236 reviews), and Coothara Farm (88 reviews) all sit right on the water. You’ll find toilets, campfires allowed, and pet-friendly spots—no fuss. Average price per night is $30, with some options as low as $15. River camping here means you’ll spot kingfishers at dawn and barramundi in the estuary. Bring your gear, respect the local wildlife, and don’t forget the mozzie spray.

92% (1.3K) 135 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Balgal Beach

Crystal Ridge

1. Crystal Ridge

97%
(573)
13km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
Crystal Creek Caravan Park

2. Crystal Creek Caravan Park

98%
(60)
15km from Balgal Beach · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our beautiful 5-hectare, family-owned caravan park, is located near the renowned and beautiful Crystal Creek in the North Queensland region of Hinchinbrook. A spacious, tropical park, with grassy green gardens and palm trees dotted throughout. Enjoy access to the caravan park's amenities block which includes toilets and showers, a camp kitchen, and a laundry. This park is right across the road from the Paluma National Park, little Crystal Creek, Big Crystal Creek, and numerous natural swimming holes. Right behind the park is a boat ramp, and the beach is 10 minutes away. You will have access to walking tracks, mountain bike trails, bird-watching, swimming, fishing, crabbing... the list is endless!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$40
 / night
Crumpy's Place

3. Crumpy's Place

99%
(38)
24km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites
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!
Water hookup
Pets
from 
AU$25
 / night
Cuddle Creek Homestead

4. Cuddle Creek Homestead

91%
(11)
26km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
from 
AU$19
 / night
Black River Bush Retreat

5. Black River Bush Retreat

99%
(83)
31km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
A perfect spot to relax under the stars! A private bush camp experience with a seasonal creek, mango orchard and dam. Pitch your tent or set up your caravan either down near the dam, in a secluded bush setting, or closer to the house yard depending on what you prefer. Enjoy a bush walk around the property, taking in the natural Australian bush environment and enjoy the native wildlife. You may find kookaburras, king fishers, lizards, goannas and wallabies while exploring and can relax by a crackling fire at night. Help feed the farm animals when the owners are home. The goats love a good scratch! Each camp site is private with no other campers booked in the space on the same day. 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. Property has secure key pad access.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Our little peace of country

6. Our little peace of country

96%
(12)
32km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Peace and quiet in the country, sit by the water to watch the wildlife. Black River is only 10 minutes to Bushland Beach or Saunders Beach, boating, great pubs, walk on the beach, coles or Woolworths shopping centre and takeaways. Only 30 minutes to Townsville City to access airport, shops, Magnetic Island, Cowboy's stadium. Drive 4 hours north to Cairns, Tablelands or south to Proserpine, Airlie Beach and Mackay.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
Coothara Farm

7. Coothara Farm

94%
(137)
32km from Balgal Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$46
 / night
Mungalla Station

8. Mungalla Station

94%
(126)
40km from Balgal Beach · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$25
 / night
Hinchinbrook View

9. Hinchinbrook View

100%
(12)
52km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$37
 / night
Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

10. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

88%
(1175)
15km from Balgal Beach · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Hi Everyone. Easter is going to be really full . We are look forward to a great weekend. Please if you have any concerns camping ring me on 0498 692 998 as I will be around to assist to make sure everyone has an enjoyable camp. 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 Caretaker Number is 0498 692 998 Stephen. Close walk to natural swimming pools which are absolutely picturesque. We offer large shady spots with , 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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$25
 / night
Mam Easy Stay

11. Mam Easy Stay

85%
(26)
50km from Balgal Beach · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$50
 / night
Rainforest Creek Camping

12. Rainforest Creek Camping

59km from Balgal Beach · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Private property offering secluded rainforest hikes, swimming holes and small waterfalls. Unpowered sites, close to the highway, 10 minutes from shopping centre and hospital.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Twitchers Rest

13. Twitchers Rest

80%
(5)
60km from Balgal Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the mountains is a little grove with beautiful views and fresh crisp air. This property is set on 5 acres of flat and sloping ground. The campsite is part rainforest and has a creek on one side. There is also lots of open forest. I find the rainforest good for enjoying the birds. If you're up for an adventure bring your mountain bike and go riding, or head of for walks along the creek. It's very peaceful. You will find the Wallaman Falls, Mt Fox and National Parks nearby. This campsite is located about half an hour from town. This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower. There is a picnic table for meals, access to water, power and wifi as well as rubbish facilities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night

Set up your tent along the river at Balgal Beach, where over 120 campsites put you close to water and surrounded by gum trees. Expect easy access to riverbanks for fishing, wildlife-watching, and a solid network of hiking tracks. Top picks like Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds (629 reviews), Crystal Ridge (236 reviews), and Coothara Farm (88 reviews) all sit right on the water. You’ll find toilets, campfires allowed, and pet-friendly spots—no fuss. Average price per night is $30, with some options as low as $15. River camping here means you’ll spot kingfishers at dawn and barramundi in the estuary. Bring your gear, respect the local wildlife, and don’t forget the mozzie spray.

92% (1.3K) 135 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Balgal Beach

Crystal Ridge

1. Crystal Ridge

97%
(573)
13km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$49
 / night
Crystal Creek Caravan Park

2. Crystal Creek Caravan Park

98%
(60)
15km from Balgal Beach · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our beautiful 5-hectare, family-owned caravan park, is located near the renowned and beautiful Crystal Creek in the North Queensland region of Hinchinbrook. A spacious, tropical park, with grassy green gardens and palm trees dotted throughout. Enjoy access to the caravan park's amenities block which includes toilets and showers, a camp kitchen, and a laundry. This park is right across the road from the Paluma National Park, little Crystal Creek, Big Crystal Creek, and numerous natural swimming holes. Right behind the park is a boat ramp, and the beach is 10 minutes away. You will have access to walking tracks, mountain bike trails, bird-watching, swimming, fishing, crabbing... the list is endless!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$40
 / night
Crumpy's Place

3. Crumpy's Place

99%
(38)
24km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites
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!
Water hookup
Pets
from 
AU$25
 / night
Cuddle Creek Homestead

4. Cuddle Creek Homestead

91%
(11)
26km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
from 
AU$19
 / night
Black River Bush Retreat

5. Black River Bush Retreat

99%
(83)
31km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
A perfect spot to relax under the stars! A private bush camp experience with a seasonal creek, mango orchard and dam. Pitch your tent or set up your caravan either down near the dam, in a secluded bush setting, or closer to the house yard depending on what you prefer. Enjoy a bush walk around the property, taking in the natural Australian bush environment and enjoy the native wildlife. You may find kookaburras, king fishers, lizards, goannas and wallabies while exploring and can relax by a crackling fire at night. Help feed the farm animals when the owners are home. The goats love a good scratch! Each camp site is private with no other campers booked in the space on the same day. 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. Property has secure key pad access.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Our little peace of country

6. Our little peace of country

96%
(12)
32km from Balgal Beach · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Peace and quiet in the country, sit by the water to watch the wildlife. Black River is only 10 minutes to Bushland Beach or Saunders Beach, boating, great pubs, walk on the beach, coles or Woolworths shopping centre and takeaways. Only 30 minutes to Townsville City to access airport, shops, Magnetic Island, Cowboy's stadium. Drive 4 hours north to Cairns, Tablelands or south to Proserpine, Airlie Beach and Mackay.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
Coothara Farm

7. Coothara Farm

94%
(137)
32km from Balgal Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$46
 / night
Mungalla Station

8. Mungalla Station

94%
(126)
40km from Balgal Beach · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$25
 / night
Hinchinbrook View

9. Hinchinbrook View

100%
(12)
52km from Balgal Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
AU$37
 / night
Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

10. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

88%
(1175)
15km from Balgal Beach · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Hi Everyone. Easter is going to be really full . We are look forward to a great weekend. Please if you have any concerns camping ring me on 0498 692 998 as I will be around to assist to make sure everyone has an enjoyable camp. 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 Caretaker Number is 0498 692 998 Stephen. Close walk to natural swimming pools which are absolutely picturesque. We offer large shady spots with , 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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
AU$25
 / night
Mam Easy Stay

11. Mam Easy Stay

85%
(26)
50km from Balgal Beach · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$50
 / night
Rainforest Creek Camping

12. Rainforest Creek Camping

59km from Balgal Beach · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Private property offering secluded rainforest hikes, swimming holes and small waterfalls. Unpowered sites, close to the highway, 10 minutes from shopping centre and hospital.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Twitchers Rest

13. Twitchers Rest

80%
(5)
60km from Balgal Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the mountains is a little grove with beautiful views and fresh crisp air. This property is set on 5 acres of flat and sloping ground. The campsite is part rainforest and has a creek on one side. There is also lots of open forest. I find the rainforest good for enjoying the birds. If you're up for an adventure bring your mountain bike and go riding, or head of for walks along the creek. It's very peaceful. You will find the Wallaman Falls, Mt Fox and National Parks nearby. This campsite is located about half an hour from town. This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower. There is a picnic table for meals, access to water, power and wifi as well as rubbish facilities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field