The best farm glamping near Cairns, Queensland

Cairns is the only place where two World Heritage-listed sites meet. Here, the Wet Tropics Rainforest meets the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and this tropical city is a great base for campers to see both. Join a day trip to the Outer Reef or laze beside the city’s man-made lagoon on the Cairns esplanade. There’s no beach in Cairns city, but the northern beaches begin just 15 minutes’ drive north of the city centre, one of the loveliest being Palm Cove. Don’t miss a visit to the Cairns Aquarium, a great introduction to the wonders of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.Fitzroy Island is the closest island to Cairns, only 45 minutes by ferry, and camping sites are right next to the beach, a five-minute walk from the jetty. You can hire snorkelling and diving equipment, take glass-bottom boat rides, or hike the rainforest trails or to the old lighthouse. The Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on the island is also well worth visiting.Kuranda is a rainforest village in the mountains near Barron Gorge National Park. It has two campgrounds, perfect for hikers, birdwatchers and nature lovers. Easy walking trails let you explore the Barron Falls and river and the rainforest. Other attractions will introduce you to koalas, butterflies and birds. A little further away is Davies Creek National Park, with granite boulders and swimming holes.Beach camping with stunning views of the Coral Sea and islands is found at Ellis Beach, about half-way between Cairns and Port Douglas is an hour’s drive north of Cairns, on one of Queensland’s most spectacular coastal roads. Swaying palms surround you, and there are great facilities, including a restaurant across the street. No bookings are required; just turn up and pitch your tent.Cape Tribulation's only national park camping area is near beautiful Noah Beach, where you can pitch your tent in a sheltered site under shady trees. This park is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, and is closed January to Good Friday. Wildlife abounds: you’re likely to see giant lace monitors (goannas) and perhaps crocodiles as you cross the Daintree River on the ferry.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Cairns is the only place where two World Heritage-listed sites meet. Here, the Wet Tropics Rainforest meets the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and this tropical city is a great base for campers to see both. Join a day trip to the Outer Reef or laze beside the city’s man-made lagoon on the Cairns esplanade. There’s no beach in Cairns city, but the northern beaches begin just 15 minutes’ drive north of the city centre, one of the loveliest being Palm Cove. Don’t miss a visit to the Cairns Aquarium, a great introduction to the wonders of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.Fitzroy Island is the closest island to Cairns, only 45 minutes by ferry, and camping sites are right next to the beach, a five-minute walk from the jetty. You can hire snorkelling and diving equipment, take glass-bottom boat rides, or hike the rainforest trails or to the old lighthouse. The Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on the island is also well worth visiting.Kuranda is a rainforest village in the mountains near Barron Gorge National Park. It has two campgrounds, perfect for hikers, birdwatchers and nature lovers. Easy walking trails let you explore the Barron Falls and river and the rainforest. Other attractions will introduce you to koalas, butterflies and birds. A little further away is Davies Creek National Park, with granite boulders and swimming holes.Beach camping with stunning views of the Coral Sea and islands is found at Ellis Beach, about half-way between Cairns and Port Douglas is an hour’s drive north of Cairns, on one of Queensland’s most spectacular coastal roads. Swaying palms surround you, and there are great facilities, including a restaurant across the street. No bookings are required; just turn up and pitch your tent.Cape Tribulation's only national park camping area is near beautiful Noah Beach, where you can pitch your tent in a sheltered site under shady trees. This park is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, and is closed January to Good Friday. Wildlife abounds: you’re likely to see giant lace monitors (goannas) and perhaps crocodiles as you cross the Daintree River on the ferry.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. KUR-Cow Farm Stay

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21km from Cairns · 7 sites · Lodging · Kuranda, QLD

KUR-Cow Farm was once known as Barnwell Farm. Coffee was extensively grown throughout the Kuranda/Myola region in the early 1890's until frosts wiped out large numbers crops in the early 1900's. Robert William Warren purchased portions of the land at Barnwell in the 1890s and established a coffee plantation on the property which was named "Downtown Farm." Dairy cattle were bought to Barnwell by William Henry Barnwell in 1936 and by 1939 he had managed to successfully establish for a dairy farmer and was advertising for a dairy hand with remuneration of 25 shillings per week and keep. Dairy cattle remained on the property until some point following World War II. It has been said that William Henry Barnwell was one of the earliest cattle farmers in the Myola and Kuranda areas to carry Droughtmaster cattle. He was well regarded as a 'cattle man' in the Myola area. Opening to public in August 2018, Barnwell Farm now welcome visitors daily from all over the world. Offering its guests an interactive, Australia cattle experience with a little adventure thrown in also and exquisite cuisine. Our accommodation consist of 2 cabins sleep 2 adult and 2 children, the room is not interconnect but fence with our private court yard for dinning. Price include Petting Zoo entry for 2 adult and 2 children. Guided Horse riding and ATV tour is available daily and minimum age is 4 years old for horse riding and 6 years old for ATV. Lunch is available on Saturday and Sunday. Sunset Wagyu BBQ offer daily.

2. Sundowners

24km from Cairns · 3 sites · Lodging · Mareeba, QLD

For all the sunset chasers, star gazers, vintage dreamers, soul seekers, and mindful wanderers – this one’s for you. Tucked away in the heart of Dinden State Forest, surrounded by the picturesque countryside of the Tablelands, this special spot transforms into a wonderland of natural beauty and warm community spirit. Slow down, relax, and explore: wander through the stunning landscapes, or take a peaceful stroll along the crystal-clear waters of beautiful Davies Creek. Please note this is a glamping style set up with an out door Hot Bath providing a unique experience under the stars and (one toilet and shower) Our Campsite offers a range of amenities , including a large fire pit for cosy evenings and an outdoor camp kitchen for preparing meals . Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with gum trees towering overhead and the sound of birds and wildlife in the background its the perfect place to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature. + Romantic evening dates + Family scenic adventures + Photography enthusiasts + Reconnecting with Nature + Soak up something super special Sundowners is perfect for those wanting to explore the local area. Here are some of the attractions within a small Radius - Kuranda is only a 10min drive with lots of wild life parks / indigenous experiences / local markets /cafes / national parks and more . Davies creek national park ( world renowned bike tracks) , bush walks , waterfalls. Emerald creek a scenic drive 20mins beautiful walking trails and swimming . Mareeba is also close which host lots of historical features and there is hot air ballooning in the close proximity Granite Gorge Nature Park / Tinaroo Dam fishing water sports /hot springs /crater lakes your opportunities are endless . The international airport in only an hour away and the Great Barrier Reef also awaits . If you are heading to the tip this is also a great stopover for last min shopping for supplies in Mareeba or a rest stop on your return .

3. Hitching Rail Retreat

40km from Cairns · 5 sites · Lodging · Barrine, QLD

This picturesque holiday destination is the perfect couple’s retreat! Take in the history of this unique and luxury Train Carriage! You will arrive to pristine views of the mountains, rain forest and lake Tinaroo. Be greeted with a complimentary local wine and cheese platter. Have everything you desire at your fingertips including a full kitchen, Double shower, air-conditioning, outdoor barbeque and most importantly your own slice of heaven on your private deck overlooking the scenic views. Set in a quiet and peaceful location, the Hitching Rail Retreat is so much more than somewhere to rest your head. Take a stroll around the garden to see our windmill, outdoor bath, climbing rose wall, outdoor swing, and meet our lovely quiet cows and horses.

Stories from the community

L

Linda

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to KUR-Cow Farm Stay

Wow ‘s experience at Kurcow farm stay. Amazing scenes from morning to evening . Great escape journey from city and work life , walk distance to the nature of rainforest and wildlife( horse , cows, ponny, goats….) . Amazing hosts Ken and Helen are very welcome for our visit. Introducing us the facilities and activities horse riding, ATV while we stay. Never forgettable farm experience . Love it! Thank you! Definitely come back again! Highly recommended to people for who loves luxury camping experience.

Bulou

January 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to KUR-Cow Farm Stay

Spent a couple of nights at Kur-Cow over the holidays. The hosts Ken and Helen was so kind and very accommodating. Kids got to do a few activities, they had an absolute blast . Good place to disconnect from my busy lifestyle.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best farm glamping near Cairns guide

When to go

April to November is the best time to visit Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef and the tropical north. Any other time, it’s hot and humid. It’s also the time of year when water visibility for snorkelling and diving is at its best. Summer is less popular, due to the heat, hence camping areas will be less crowded. May to September is the peak camping season.

Know before you go

Remember to pack sunscreen; the north Queensland sun can be fierce. Check out sunscreens that won’t damage the coral reefs (those that don’t contain oxybenzone or BP-3).
Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forest and reserves and must be booked online and paid for before arrival.
Despite its name, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island isn’t for those who want to bare all. In fact, nude beaches are banned in Queensland.
Boat transfers are available to the two free campsites on Russell Island in the Frankland Group National Park, just south of Cairns.