The best dog-friendly glamping near Cairns

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.

• 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.