The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Cardwell, Queensland

Cardwell’s river campsites deliver easy access to swimming holes, shady banks, and the peace that comes with flowing water. With over 110 sites tucked along creeks and rivers, you’ll find spots where platypus slide through the shallows and kingfishers dart past your tent. Expect options from just $18 a night, with an average stay running about $45. Top picks include Mena Creek River Retreat Camp (80 reviews), Mungalla Station (75 reviews), and Clearview (70 reviews). Bring your rod for fishing, or just watch wallabies pick their way through the grass. Many sites allow pets and campfires, and you’ll find showers if you want to rinse off after a day on the riverbank. If you’re after a laid-back spot close to Cardwell’s best bushwalks and fishing holes, you’re in the right place.

94% (467)

Top-rated campgrounds

Cardwell’s river campsites deliver easy access to swimming holes, shady banks, and the peace that comes with flowing water. With over 110 sites tucked along creeks and rivers, you’ll find spots where platypus slide through the shallows and kingfishers dart past your tent. Expect options from just $18 a night, with an average stay running about $45. Top picks include Mena Creek River Retreat Camp (80 reviews), Mungalla Station (75 reviews), and Clearview (70 reviews). Bring your rod for fishing, or just watch wallabies pick their way through the grass. Many sites allow pets and campfires, and you’ll find showers if you want to rinse off after a day on the riverbank. If you’re after a laid-back spot close to Cardwell’s best bushwalks and fishing holes, you’re in the right place.

94% (467)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

99%

(193)

46km from Cardwell · 6 sites · RVs · Djarawong, QLD

Just 10 minutes north of Tully and 15 minutes to the beautiful Mission Beach, we are close to the highway so traveler’s can rest and enjoy our views, this peaceful rainforest retreat is the perfect base for your next adventure. Camp sites are located around the dam and waterfall with views of the Tully mountains and Tully town with the mill stacks in the far distance. Come and enjoy our peaceful spot. It is a 5 minute drive to Alligators Nest which is the local swimming hole with crystal clear water but with no alligators, or try our local Feluga Pub for a coldie or a great pub meal a few minutes up the road. Or why not check out the great little town of Tully and that giant gumboot. So come breathe in the fresh air and wake up the sounds of our beautiful bush birds. Fire wood available for a small fee. Please take all rubbish with you on departure.

2. Mungalla Station

94%

(125)

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.

3. Crystal Creek Caravan Park

97%

(59)

80km from Cardwell · 59 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Coolbie, QLD

Our beautiful 5-hectare, family-owned caravan park, is located near the renowned and beautiful Crystal Creek in the North Queensland region of Hinchinbrook. A spacious, tropical park, with grassy green gardens and palm trees dotted throughout. Enjoy access to the caravan park's amenities block which includes toilets and showers, a camp kitchen, and a laundry. This park is right across the road from the Paluma National Park, little Crystal Creek, Big Crystal Creek, and numerous natural swimming holes. Right behind the park is a boat ramp, and the beach is 10 minutes away. You will have access to walking tracks, mountain bike trails, bird-watching, swimming, fishing, crabbing... the list is endless!

4. 4Peakes Farm

69km from Cardwell · 1 site · Tent, RV · Belvedere, QLD

THE FOUR PEAKES Cattle and Cocoa (chocolate trees) Property Immerse yourself among the cocoa trees and relax in nature’s beauty. Located in the picturesque Utchee Creek–Mena Creek area, the property features a small creek along one boundary, perfect for exploring, with many turtles and the rare and beautiful Utchee Creek rainbow fish occasionally spotted. A birdwatcher’s paradise! Friendly farm animals include horses, sheep, and chickens. You’re only minutes from Paronella Park (Queensland’s No. 1 tourist destination), Mena Falls, and an abundance of great swimming locations. This is the perfect spot to set up camp, watch the sunset, and unwind. Visit the wonders of World Heritage rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef, secluded islands, waterfalls—the list is endless. The property also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Atherton Tablelands.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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!

8. Herbert River Valley PasturesThat S

90%

(5)

31km from Cardwell · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Cardwell, QLD

The serene and beautiful Herbert River awaits your visit to enjoy the breathtaking views the valley offers. Base yourself with us and explore the Yammanie National Park along the Herbert River. Gowerie creek has never stopped running in 60 years fed from the Mountains back towards Cardwell this creek presents beauty in every aspect.

9. Hinchinbrook View

100%

(12)

42km from Cardwell · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Macknade, QLD

Park up amongst the Mango Tree orchard on manicured lawn with views to Hinchinbrook Island. Ideal spot to base yourself while exploring Lucinda, The Palm Islands and Wallaman Falls or for a quick over nighter. Plenty of room to spread out.

10. 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.

4Peakes Farm

69km from Cardwell · 1 site · Tent, RV · Belvedere, QLD

THE FOUR PEAKES Cattle and Cocoa (chocolate trees) Property Immerse yourself among the cocoa trees and relax in nature’s beauty. Located in the picturesque Utchee Creek–Mena Creek area, the property features a small creek along one boundary, perfect for exploring, with many turtles and the rare and beautiful Utchee Creek rainbow fish occasionally spotted. A birdwatcher’s paradise! Friendly farm animals include horses, sheep, and chickens. You’re only minutes from Paronella Park (Queensland’s No. 1 tourist destination), Mena Falls, and an abundance of great swimming locations. This is the perfect spot to set up camp, watch the sunset, and unwind. Visit the wonders of World Heritage rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef, secluded islands, waterfalls—the list is endless. The property also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Atherton Tablelands.

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.

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.

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!

Herbert River Valley PasturesThat S

90%

(5)

31km from Cardwell · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Cardwell, QLD

The serene and beautiful Herbert River awaits your visit to enjoy the breathtaking views the valley offers. Base yourself with us and explore the Yammanie National Park along the Herbert River. Gowerie creek has never stopped running in 60 years fed from the Mountains back towards Cardwell this creek presents beauty in every aspect.

Hinchinbrook View

100%

(12)

42km from Cardwell · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Macknade, QLD

Park up amongst the Mango Tree orchard on manicured lawn with views to Hinchinbrook Island. Ideal spot to base yourself while exploring Lucinda, The Palm Islands and Wallaman Falls or for a quick over nighter. Plenty of room to spread out.

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

A

Anne

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

1 night at Crystal Creek Caravan Park

We loved this place. Definitely our favourite campsite so far. Beautifully kept, totally tranquil and spotlessly clean.

R

Robyn

October 2025

5 m car

1 night at Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Lovely private little escape with great views and close to Alligators Nest. Sheree was wonderful and very helpful. Recommend a stay here.

Plenty of room for a camper trailer and vehicle.

Pedro

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

2 nights at Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

We enjoyed the privacy of Site 3. We reversed out camper trailer in and there was sufficient room to open our awning. The convenience of the shower and toilet at the shed was an added bonus. We also enjoyed the short but well maintained walking track.

M

Matt

October 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Awesome spot with great views, only ones on the site that night. Showers clean and close to top pitches, owner Cherie very friendly. Had Sweet the horse in the field next to us and she was a week overdue, hoping she’s got a healthy foal!

M

Mia

October 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Loved camping at the Dam Site. Beautiful scenery and lovely, clean amenities. Sheree was very friendly and welcoming.

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.

J

Joshua

October 2025

9 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Herbert River Valley PasturesThat S

One of our favourite stops this trip! Just a short drive from Wallaman Falls, with picturesque views and rolling green paddocks dotted with the most curious cows, a donkey, a pony and other friendly animals. The hosts are absolute gems and made our experience even better. If you go, bring a couple of extra dollars to grab some of their local Bullock Creek grassfed Beef — Its well worth it!

J

Jeffrey

October 2025

5 m car

2 nights at Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Site #3 was a great campsite over looking the horse paddock and Tully sugar mill in the distance. Mill lit up at night below a starry sky was nice. Waterfall was nice to fall asleep listening to. Close to Tully and Mission Beach! Clean full bathroom a short distance from all campsites.

B

Brad

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Herbert River Valley PasturesThat S

Nice quiet secluded site, cattle roaming around the paddocks. Host Colin was fantastic.

T

Trudy

September 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Such a nice property. The waterfall site had great privacy.

J

Julie

September 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Sheree's camping spot is lovely. Great view and a gentle creek and waterfall. Close to Tully and so quiet. We loved it.

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.

c

christina

September 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

I had such a great time at Tully Mountain Views! The mountain views were amazing, and having a fire pit at night was the perfect way to chill out. The facilities were really clean, and Sheree, the owner, was super helpful with clear directions. Definitely a spot I’d go back to!

M

Michael

September 2025

5 m car

3 nights at Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Beautiful spot with the sound of the waterfall, very peaceful.

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!

A

Alex

September 2025

5 m car

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tully Mountain ⛰️ Views

Very nice camp site, with nearby amenities. Responsive hosts

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!

A

ALASDAIR

September 2025

5 m car

1 night at Crystal Creek Caravan Park

A beautiful slice of paradise with lush tropical gardens between sites, with a friendly, welcoming team running things. An excellent place to stop off when travelling tropical NQ

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.