Beach Camping Near Brandon, Queensland, AU: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

Beach camping around Brandon packs a punch—over 70 spots line the coast, each with sand at your doorstep and salt in the air. You’ll find campsites steps from the water, shaded by palms, and close to long stretches of empty shore. The Forts (106 reviews) is a local favourite, perched above rocky headlands with sweeping sea views. BE Magnetic Island (19 reviews) offers a quick hop to swimming and surfing breaks. Magnetic Retreat (8 reviews) keeps things quiet—think sunrise fishing and lazy afternoons. Most sites in the area come with toilets, showers, and pet-friendly rules. Prices start at just $25 a night, with the average closer to $90. Pack light, bring your swimmers, and get ready for early morning dips—this stretch of Queensland is all about beachside simplicity.

90% (162)

Top-rated campgrounds

Beach camping around Brandon packs a punch—over 70 spots line the coast, each with sand at your doorstep and salt in the air. You’ll find campsites steps from the water, shaded by palms, and close to long stretches of empty shore. The Forts (106 reviews) is a local favourite, perched above rocky headlands with sweeping sea views. BE Magnetic Island (19 reviews) offers a quick hop to swimming and surfing breaks. Magnetic Retreat (8 reviews) keeps things quiet—think sunrise fishing and lazy afternoons. Most sites in the area come with toilets, showers, and pet-friendly rules. Prices start at just $25 a night, with the average closer to $90. Pack light, bring your swimmers, and get ready for early morning dips—this stretch of Queensland is all about beachside simplicity.

90% (162)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Forts

96%

(156)

70km from Brandon · 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. Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

83%

(27)

69km from Brandon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Picnic Bay, QLD

Our property on Magnetic Island in beautiful Picnic Bay is a stunning, flat, block of land, located just 400m from the beaches, restaurants and hotel. The block is private and secluded, with NO amenities, but just metres from everything! The Golf course is located right behind us and a bus stop is within 50m walk, that will take you all around the island. There are several glorious camp spots shaded by mature paperbark trees, overlooking Butler's Creek, which often runs during the wet season. The block is large and flat, perfectly suitable for campervans, tents, caravans and large motorhomes. There is a water available onsite for campers' use. You are able to fill your tank but are asked not to 'connect up', as it is for the use of ALL guests. To stay with us, you MUST be FULLY SELF-CONTAINED with your own toilet/shower facilities and power. Please leave no waste on the property and NO trace of your stay. The property is located in a wildlife corridor and we have koalas, kookaburras, curlews, wallabies and other animal residents nearby. Your dog is welcome onsite but must be on a leash at all times so as not to disturb guests or upset our wildlife. Please pick up it's waste at all times. IMPORTANT NOTE: If your dog disrupts other guests or neighbours by barking, or is threatening in anyway, you will be asked to leave the property without refund. 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, several resorts, dozens of restaurants and many other amenities to cater for residents and tourists. 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. Whilst here, be sure to feed the wild rock wallabies in Arcadia, go to the Toad Races at Arcadia Hotel, enjoy the Forts Walk to learn about the region's history, and take a boat tour on Aquascene cruises. It is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway!!

3. BE Magnetic Island

92%

(25)

69km from Brandon · 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 👣

4. Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

69km from Brandon · 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

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😊❤️

Amazing vantage points right across the island.

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Fiona

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

5 nights at Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

Close to shops, beach. Clean space. Quiet, with only one other group sharing the space.

Cara

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

Beautiful place. Close to gorgeous golf course, koalas, awesome strip of funky restaurants (try the Italian place) and beautiful beaches. Bring everything you need as no facilities, but 100% it's worth it!

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.

Cara

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

We enjoyed camping at Magnetic retreat. It is very close to beautiful picnic bay, with its iconic jetty and vibrant restaurants. Magnificent bird life and the golf course is right there with the possibility of koala spotting. Definitely need to bring everything you need as it's a self sufficient spot.

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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.

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Trudi

October 2025

6 m Class B

3 nights at The Forts

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

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

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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 :)

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

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.

J

Jack

August 2025

5 m pop-up camper

3 nights at The Forts

Fab little campsite! Great locations, owners are lovely, and there is a nice fresh shower as well. Also a resident koala hangs out nearby :)

T

Tia

August 2025

6 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

We loved camping at this location. It was close enough to everything but still felt like we were out in the bush. It was handy having access to potable water. The hosts have been very easy to communicate with whenever we had questions. Thanks for the trip!

Danni

August 2025

6 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

We loved our stay at Magnetic Retreat! 🌿 The campsite was secluded and private with access to potable water. We were fully self-contained, which made it the perfect base to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It was such a great spot to come back to after exploring all the beauty Magnetic Island has to offer. The perfect quiet place to chill after a day of adventures! 🌿 🐨

C

Charles-Ewen

August 2025

5 m car

1 night at Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

The site is really well placed, specially if you have scooters. Water at the back of the house so that's good.

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Nick

August 2025

5 m Class B

With kids

2 nights at The Forts

Great location just down from Forts Junction, which meant we could leave our camper at the site and set off to complete the Forts walk. Our host was very friendly and helpful giving us ideas of where we might like to visit. We saw wallabies and a range of bird life all whilst sat beside our camper.

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Rohan

July 2025

8 m travel trailer

7 nights at The Forts

Great spot, just up the road from Horseshoe Bay. Relatively quiet, little bit of road noise but really quiet at night. We will definitely be back again next year, Steve and TeeDee are wonderful, thanks guys for a great stay.

D

Dean

July 2025

7 m Class A

Weekend Trip to The Forts

Great spot and close to the bus stop to go into town and forts walk 500m up the road. Little developed area for camping created by the owners which is really nice with a nice cold outdoor shower and tap to refill your camper.

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Celia

July 2025

8 m Class A

With kids

2 nights at The Forts

This was such a cute place to stay, definetely felt the island vibe! Have to be self contained. Showers and toilets available at horseshoe bay. Tee has some amazing tips for visiting the island!