The best forest campgrounds near Cardwell, Queensland

Set up camp beneath towering gums and tangled rainforest in Cardwell, where forest sites offer privacy and a soundtrack of birdsong. Hipcamp lists over 70 forest campsites here—some tucked along creeks, others shaded by dense canopy. Prices start at just $18 a night, with the average around $81. Top picks like Mena Creek River Retreat Camp (80 reviews), Mungalla Station (75 reviews), and Clearview (70 reviews) rank high with travellers for their access to trails, swimming holes, and fishing spots. Campfires are allowed at most sites, showers are common, and plenty welcome pets. Cardwell’s forests aren’t just a backdrop—they’re the main event, whether you’re here to hike, cast a line, or just breathe in the eucalyptus-scented air.

94% (279)

Top-rated campgrounds

Set up camp beneath towering gums and tangled rainforest in Cardwell, where forest sites offer privacy and a soundtrack of birdsong. Hipcamp lists over 70 forest campsites here—some tucked along creeks, others shaded by dense canopy. Prices start at just $18 a night, with the average around $81. Top picks like Mena Creek River Retreat Camp (80 reviews), Mungalla Station (75 reviews), and Clearview (70 reviews) rank high with travellers for their access to trails, swimming holes, and fishing spots. Campfires are allowed at most sites, showers are common, and plenty welcome pets. Cardwell’s forests aren’t just a backdrop—they’re the main event, whether you’re here to hike, cast a line, or just breathe in the eucalyptus-scented air.

94% (279)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Clearview

99%

(101)

47km from Cardwell · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Dingo Pocket, QLD

We are a working cattle property with extensive permaculture inspired production gardens. Our goals are towards regenerating the land and being as self sufficient and organic in production as possible. We encourage you leave lasting marks on the farm by being apart of our regeneration, self sufficient projects, we provide the first hand experiences to our farming lifestyle and volunteer our knowledge to encourage everyone to do their part to a more sustainable future. Situated 15 minutes from the North Queensland town of Tully, on record as being the wettest places in Queensland. We also encourage you to explore our 350 acres of bushland, rainforest and open grasslands or used us as a base to explore the surrounding environment including the stunning Tully Gorge National Park or the beautiful Mission Beach and Dunk Island or just chill out and relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding farmland. Our campsites have near 300-degree views of the surrounding Tully Valley, down private gullies or open grasslands. Other options in the area include sky diving, white water rafting, bush or coastal walking, swimming in pristine fresh or saltwater or star gazing this region has it all. Pets are welcome but must be under control at all times. We have a passion for the environment, agriculture and reducing the amount of waste created by humans, we try to reuse and repurposing as much of our own and others waste as possible. You can follow our progress to transform our farm on the Facebook page Clearview - Tully. We are fully off-grid, so you will need to be fully self-contained, a dump point and laundry mat is available in Tully if required. Campfires permitted.

2. Mena Creek River Retreat Camp

98%

(125)

69km from Cardwell · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Germantown, QLD

Our campsites are on a private horse property with pristine creek access and a beautiful spring. We are dog friendly.Enjoy beautiful grassed areas overlooking the property, or down by the creek, accessible to all campers.Please note that property access is generally suited to 4WDs, with some areas ok if you're towing a camping trailer with high clearance. Please check with us if unsure or if the weather has not been favourable.Please be mindful of our neighbours when driving to our property as there is a short distance of dirt, please drive slow not to kick up dust past the neighbouring houses. When you arrive at our property please be mindful of small children and animals roaming the grounds. There are pristine creek views from most of the camp sites, meaning you will be waking to the lovely sound of running water. There is also a beautiful spring for swimming. We are dog friendly, and can offer pet sitting. We ask you to please text us your arrival times the night before you are coming to make sure your arrival time will suit and to check on the weather for access.Children under 7 stay for free.

3. Mungalla Station

94%

(126)

52km from Cardwell · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Forrest Beach, QLD

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.

4. Mission Beach Farm Stay

100%

(17)

46km from Cardwell · 4 sites · Lodging · Mission Beach, QLD

The property is a tropical fruit farm, zoned 'rural' and is nestled amongst other banana farms and small acreages. The property has mountain, rainforest and farm views. We live on a country road. It is very peaceful and quiet at night. Great for star gazing, as there is low light pollution. You can walk to the beach in around 10-15 minutes. Shops are a little further and include post office, tourist information, restaurants and cafes, clothing, massage, Lennie's fruit shop and a small supermarket. You can purchase take away alcohol from The Tavern in the main shopping area. Woolworth supermarket, chemist, banks and bottles-shops are in Wongaling, about 10 a minute drive.

5. Tranquil Estate

96%

(12)

17km from Cardwell · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · Bilyana, QLD

Tranquil Estate is and ECO tourist site that is located 10 mins north of Cardwell and positioned in between Cardwell and Tully in North Queensland. Tranquil Estate is located at the foothills in a beautiful part of the world called Bilyana that overlooks the magnificent Hinchinbrook Island and waterway. Tranquil Estate has approximately 10 acres of flat grassed area for parking your RV, caravan or camping for the night. We are less than 2km off the Bruce highway and the road into Tranquil Estate is a dirt road that is well maintained. There is a common use fire pit area and two wood BBQ's for use in the middle of the paddock. There is also a potable water tank for washing only. There are no toilets and drinking water available, so being self-sufficient is a requirement. There is a massive 50-year-old Mango tree that provides a heap of shade to sit under and enjoy the environment. Behind the Mango tree are walking tracks that take you across a bridge and into the rainforest. This is a pristine environment that we want to share with our visitors. Please be mindful that we have the usual wild animals that are native to the area (Cassowary's, pythons & snakes, wallabies & kangaroos) that should always be treated with the respect that they deserve. This is a beautiful part of the world to stay, and you will enjoy stopping and recharging your batteries!

6. Wildside camp retreat Mission Beach

100%

(4)

47km from Cardwell · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Maria Creeks, QLD

Wildside Camp Retreat — Rainforest & Reef Escape Tucked away in a clearing surrounded by rainforest just minutes from the reef and the Tully River, Wildside Camp Retreat offers a peaceful base to camp, unwind, and explore. A freshwater creek flows gently through the property, bordered by palms and beautifully maintained green lawns — the perfect setting to relax or set up camp. Wake to the sounds of birdsong, wander beneath tropical palms, and keep an eye out for cassowaries and wallabies that often pass through. With easy access to Mission Beach, Dunk Island, and the Tully Gorge, this private spot is ideal for adventurers, families, and travellers seeking a true North Queensland nature escape. Facilities are simple and rustic, making it best suited for self-sufficient campers. Whether you’re here for rafting, island hopping, or simply relaxing by the creek, Wildside Camp Retreat is your gateway to rainforest and reef. Bitumen road to the gate with flat, easy access to your campsite.

7. Twitchers Rest

80%

(5)

50km from Cardwell · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Upper Stone, QLD

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.

Camper favorites near Cardwell

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mission Beach Farm Stay

100%

(17)

46km from Cardwell · 4 sites · Lodging · Mission Beach, QLD

The property is a tropical fruit farm, zoned 'rural' and is nestled amongst other banana farms and small acreages. The property has mountain, rainforest and farm views. We live on a country road. It is very peaceful and quiet at night. Great for star gazing, as there is low light pollution. You can walk to the beach in around 10-15 minutes. Shops are a little further and include post office, tourist information, restaurants and cafes, clothing, massage, Lennie's fruit shop and a small supermarket. You can purchase take away alcohol from The Tavern in the main shopping area. Woolworth supermarket, chemist, banks and bottles-shops are in Wongaling, about 10 a minute drive.

Tranquil Estate

96%

(12)

17km from Cardwell · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · Bilyana, QLD

Tranquil Estate is and ECO tourist site that is located 10 mins north of Cardwell and positioned in between Cardwell and Tully in North Queensland. Tranquil Estate is located at the foothills in a beautiful part of the world called Bilyana that overlooks the magnificent Hinchinbrook Island and waterway. Tranquil Estate has approximately 10 acres of flat grassed area for parking your RV, caravan or camping for the night. We are less than 2km off the Bruce highway and the road into Tranquil Estate is a dirt road that is well maintained. There is a common use fire pit area and two wood BBQ's for use in the middle of the paddock. There is also a potable water tank for washing only. There are no toilets and drinking water available, so being self-sufficient is a requirement. There is a massive 50-year-old Mango tree that provides a heap of shade to sit under and enjoy the environment. Behind the Mango tree are walking tracks that take you across a bridge and into the rainforest. This is a pristine environment that we want to share with our visitors. Please be mindful that we have the usual wild animals that are native to the area (Cassowary's, pythons & snakes, wallabies & kangaroos) that should always be treated with the respect that they deserve. This is a beautiful part of the world to stay, and you will enjoy stopping and recharging your batteries!

Wildside camp retreat Mission Beach

100%

(4)

47km from Cardwell · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Maria Creeks, QLD

Wildside Camp Retreat — Rainforest & Reef Escape Tucked away in a clearing surrounded by rainforest just minutes from the reef and the Tully River, Wildside Camp Retreat offers a peaceful base to camp, unwind, and explore. A freshwater creek flows gently through the property, bordered by palms and beautifully maintained green lawns — the perfect setting to relax or set up camp. Wake to the sounds of birdsong, wander beneath tropical palms, and keep an eye out for cassowaries and wallabies that often pass through. With easy access to Mission Beach, Dunk Island, and the Tully Gorge, this private spot is ideal for adventurers, families, and travellers seeking a true North Queensland nature escape. Facilities are simple and rustic, making it best suited for self-sufficient campers. Whether you’re here for rafting, island hopping, or simply relaxing by the creek, Wildside Camp Retreat is your gateway to rainforest and reef. Bitumen road to the gate with flat, easy access to your campsite.

Twitchers Rest

80%

(5)

50km from Cardwell · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Upper Stone, QLD

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.

Stories from the community

F

Freya

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Mungalla Station

Wow what a place! Absolutely stunning scenery & a huge thank you to TC who was super friendly and let us stay under cover due to the storm. Will definitely return ☺️

K

Kristy

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Wildside camp retreat Mission Beach

Our stay with Allan was absolutely beautiful. He greeted us when we arrived and made us feel very welcome and safe! The land was beautifully maintained, flat and gorgeous to relax in. We have two little kids (5&3) and we also have a 22ft caravan and this stay was perfect for us. Thank you for having us, Allan :)

Lisa

October 2025

9 m pop-up camper

With pets

5 nights at Wildside camp retreat Mission Beach

Oh boy, this place has such special nurturing energy. I loved every moment spent here and was sorry to have to leave! Al is an excellent host and the space is truly so beautiful and soothing. One of my all time favourite places to camp for how well I rested! The creek is beautiful, a perfect walk for a morning cuppa or lunchtime escape from the sun. The grounds themselves are so well maintained and are stunning and spacious. The nature envelopes you here in a way that truly makes you feel held. I really cannot recommend this hipcamp enough hey. Definitely book this place if you are thinking of doing so, u will be SO happy you did!

M

Michael

October 2025

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wildside camp retreat Mission Beach

Allan was a wonderful host, the site is fantastic, clean and well maintained. Wildlife is close to Mission Beach which makes it an awesome bascamp for exploring the region and all its offerings. The wildlife was plentiful with wallabies and lots of birds. Put this one high on your list if you’re looking for a quiet Basecamp retreat for exploring the Cassowary Coast.

L

Liz

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Wildside camp retreat Mission Beach

We were Allans first hipcampers and loved his property. Fantastic campsite, close to Mission Beach and surrounded by rain forest. Excited to see a Cassowary dad with 2 chicks 😁 Would thoroughly recommend this campsite.

Anett

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Clearview

Absolutely stunning place! The camping spot is about 800m from the homestead so there is total privacy, has 360 degree views, cows and horses wondering around, a dam below, vast grassy areas, forest...... Welcoming and friendly hosts, Katie delivered fresh hot bread, eggs and firewood that we added to our booking to our site. Great location to explore the region.

P

Peter

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mena Creek River Retreat Camp

We really enjoyed our stay here. The property is beautiful, with a lovely creek and plenty of space to explore. We especially liked the cows wandering past our site in the late afternoon – they made for very welcome company. The campsites are well spaced apart, so it felt private and peaceful (we really saw or heard other campers). Everything was very well maintained and the host was warm and welcoming. Highly recommend!

G

Guy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mena Creek River Retreat Camp

Great spot. Private sites and a lot of wildlife and fishing opportunities.

A

Aleisha

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Clearview

What a beautiful slice of paradise! We were up on the hill with a dam at the bottom. It was amazing. Such a lush site with panoramic views. Kids and dogs loved it. Good communication and flexibility from host with wet weather conditions. Defs need a 4wd for access.

S

Steve

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Clearview

What a most amazing area to stop and relax. The area by the dam was secluded and picturesque. Katie was wonderfully welcoming. We could have easily stayed longer in this serene spot. Directions for our arrival were clear. We couldn't (and neither did the weather bureau) account for the poor weather that would befall us. We were so fortunate that Katie was able to come to our rescue and assist our recovery from half way up the hill. What an amazing adventure! It was a truly memorable end to a gorgeous weekend (memorable for Katie too I'd reckon.) And absolutely yes we will love to go back. Thanks Katie! You should be in a Marvel sequel!

S

Suzanne

September 2025

5 m Class A

With pets

1 night at Tranquil Estate

Very peaceful. Large flat grassy area with two fire pits/bbq and free firewood. The host, Sonya, is lovely, very warm and hospitable. She wants guests to enjoy the tranquil space and local area and allows later check outs to accommodate this. Loved my time here under the huge mango tree!

B

Bhaskar

September 2025

6 m Class B

2 nights at Clearview

Nice place with good view. Enjoyed staying for a night.

D

Diane

August 2025

10 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Clearview

We enjoyed our stay here. The view was amazing, the horses and cows were friendly. The only downfall was the owners 8 dogs barking at happy hour because they were wanting to be fed. It really destroyed the peaceful day we were having.

B

Bridie

August 2025

9 m travel trailer

3 nights at Tranquil Estate

Beautiful spot, with just a lace monitor for company! Pretty creek, just a short stroll from the campground. Large firepits stocked with plenty of qood. A little road and train noise, but didn't affect our enjoyment of the camp. Great location for exploring Murray Falls, which are spectacular. Thank you, I am sure we will return again.

R

Ray

August 2025

4 m Class B

1 night at Clearview

Spent 2 amazing nights at Clearview (ended up at Island View) after Katie provided the option! Probably the best Hipcamp we have ever experienced. Beautiful green rolling hills and views to die for, coupled with visits from cows and horses and what’s not to love! Do yourself a favour and book - now!

B

Belinda

August 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Clearview

We had such a wonderful stay at Dingo Pocket. The property is incredibly peaceful, surrounded by beautiful scenery and plenty of space to unwind. It’s the perfect spot to switch off, enjoy nature, and soak up the tranquility. Watching the cows wander through the paddocks and stop by for a friendly hello was such a relaxing highlight. We also loved our walk down to the dam—since there were no other campers, it felt like our own private adventure. The climb back up rewarded us with breathtaking views from the top of the hills where our camp was set. We’ll definitely be back again!

B

Bridie

August 2025

8 m travel trailer

3 nights at Clearview

Absolutely stunning views! Very quiet and Katie was a great host. Highly recommend.

J

Joshua

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Clearview

Awesome Spot, views are amazing. Sunset and sunrise the hills around glow. One of the best spots we have been too. Katie was so nice doing what they can to make our stay comfy.

M

Michelle

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Clearview

Last minute booking as travelling through the area, what a brilliant find! Cooking dinner alongside the grazing horses was brilliant, the stars were breathtaking on top of the hill, fairly flat land for our rooftop tent. The morning sunrise was phenomenal too! Highly recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

S

Sandra

August 2025

6 m travel trailer

2 nights at Mungalla Station

Very quiet location beside a lovely billabong full of birdlife. Cattle wandered by occasionally to mix it up. Fifteen minutes to Ingham and 25 to the coast. Great spot.