The best family-friendly campgrounds near Brandon, Queensland

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Brandon, Queensland, Australia? Hipcamp has over 212 camping options available in the area, perfect for families. With options as low as $15 per night, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature. Some top campsites in the area include Crystal Creek (424 reviews), Ben Lomond Station (256 reviews), and Bee Haven (196 reviews). Rubbish disposal, campfires, and potable water are popular amenities, while whitewater paddling, boating, and off-roading (OHV) are popular activities. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of nature in Brandon, Queensland!

98% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Brandon, Queensland, Australia? Hipcamp has over 212 camping options available in the area, perfect for families. With options as low as $15 per night, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature. Some top campsites in the area include Crystal Creek (424 reviews), Ben Lomond Station (256 reviews), and Bee Haven (196 reviews). Rubbish disposal, campfires, and potable water are popular amenities, while whitewater paddling, boating, and off-roading (OHV) are popular activities. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of nature in Brandon, Queensland!

98% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Mount Surround Campground

98%

(1382)

34km from Brandon · 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)

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.

3. THE BLOCK

99%

(246)

55km from Brandon · 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

4. WillowVale Park

95%

(115)

60km from Brandon · 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.

5. Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

98%

(476)

51km from Brandon · 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. Mount Elliot Park

96%

(114)

34km from Brandon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Shirbourne, QLD

We are now open after the weather event closure. We look forward to welcoming you! Mount Elliot Park is a working cattle property that offers a bush experience to approved individuals. Located in the Burdekin Shire we are based in one of Australia’s best Barra fishing and bird watching areas. Sites are based on a slashed grassed paddock with access to a clear flowing creek. Campers can relax with open fire and surrounded by the beautiful mountain backdrop.

7. Gumtree Rest

100%

(91)

49km from Brandon · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · Millaroo, QLD

In the small rural town of Millaroo, you will find nestled around sugar cane, horses & a small herd of quiet cattle, a laid back bush camp in a paddock by two dams on the bank of Millaroo Creek. Here you can bird watch, take leisurely walks down to the creek, enjoy a spot of fresh water fishing/red-clawing, launch the kayak where you may spot the odd fresh water crocodile or sit and relax in tranquility on the creek bank. During harvesting season you may visit regular cane fires in the local area, and may be even lucky enough to catch the burn straight across from the campground! On your way, pull into Cornfords Lookout for a great view of the Burdekin River. The local Millaroo Social Club is a short ten minute drive, where meals are served most Friday nights. The Burdekin river is also a short drive away where you can access the river closer to the township of Millaroo by 4WD for an afternoon barbecue and fish! Campground offers plenty of fresh water for drinking and filling tanks, does requires campers to be self contained and is pet friendly providing they are supervised at all times. ** Fire pits around campground - Firewood supplied at small cost per night **

Camper favorites near Brandon

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

WillowVale Park

95%

(115)

60km from Brandon · 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.

Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

98%

(476)

51km from Brandon · 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.

Mount Elliot Park

96%

(114)

34km from Brandon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Shirbourne, QLD

We are now open after the weather event closure. We look forward to welcoming you! Mount Elliot Park is a working cattle property that offers a bush experience to approved individuals. Located in the Burdekin Shire we are based in one of Australia’s best Barra fishing and bird watching areas. Sites are based on a slashed grassed paddock with access to a clear flowing creek. Campers can relax with open fire and surrounded by the beautiful mountain backdrop.

Gumtree Rest

100%

(91)

49km from Brandon · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · Millaroo, QLD

In the small rural town of Millaroo, you will find nestled around sugar cane, horses & a small herd of quiet cattle, a laid back bush camp in a paddock by two dams on the bank of Millaroo Creek. Here you can bird watch, take leisurely walks down to the creek, enjoy a spot of fresh water fishing/red-clawing, launch the kayak where you may spot the odd fresh water crocodile or sit and relax in tranquility on the creek bank. During harvesting season you may visit regular cane fires in the local area, and may be even lucky enough to catch the burn straight across from the campground! On your way, pull into Cornfords Lookout for a great view of the Burdekin River. The local Millaroo Social Club is a short ten minute drive, where meals are served most Friday nights. The Burdekin river is also a short drive away where you can access the river closer to the township of Millaroo by 4WD for an afternoon barbecue and fish! Campground offers plenty of fresh water for drinking and filling tanks, does requires campers to be self contained and is pet friendly providing they are supervised at all times. ** Fire pits around campground - Firewood supplied at small cost per night **

Stories from the community

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

B

Bronwyn

5 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😊❤️

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.

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

Derek

November 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Gumtree Rest

Wonderful hosts well maintained . Dam camp was so relaxing and quiet . The dog loved the swim. Will be back

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.

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.

Leo

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Mount Elliot Park

We have stayed here a couple of times. Close to Townsville with a great little creek. We will be back again

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 😊

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!

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

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.

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.