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

Pitch your tent by the water in Cooktown—this region lines up 68 river camping spots where fishing, wildlife-watching, and hiking are just part of the daily rhythm. Expect sites that welcome pets, offer showers, and allow campfires, so you can keep comfortable after a day out. You’ll find options starting at $15 a night, with the average siting at $21. Local standouts include Lakeland Downs Camping (91 reviews), Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls (39 reviews), and Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield (38 reviews). These sites hug the riverbanks, where you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of water and wake to flocks of birds overhead. Bring your rod, lace up your boots, and let the river set the pace.

99% (312)

Top-rated campgrounds

Beautiful sunset over the camp ground on Blackburn Dam

Pitch your tent by the water in Cooktown—this region lines up 68 river camping spots where fishing, wildlife-watching, and hiking are just part of the daily rhythm. Expect sites that welcome pets, offer showers, and allow campfires, so you can keep comfortable after a day out. You’ll find options starting at $15 a night, with the average siting at $21. Local standouts include Lakeland Downs Camping (91 reviews), Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls (39 reviews), and Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield (38 reviews). These sites hug the riverbanks, where you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of water and wake to flocks of birds overhead. Bring your rod, lace up your boots, and let the river set the pace.

99% (312)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Lakeland Downs Camping

99%

(225)

54km from Cooktown · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · Lakeland, QLD

We provide 10 spacious campsites next to Blackburn Dam that has two rock jetties to allow fishing for Barra, Spangled Perch, Eeltailed Catfish and other native fish. There is also Redclaw and Cherabin so bring your Yabby pots and canoes or kayaks. Campers have access to a modern amenities block which has flushing toilets and hot showers. There is a powered camp kitchen for communal use. Big skies that are great for stargazing and abundant birdlife in a peaceful setting provide a backdrop for your next getaway. Cattle graze the property with the occasional donkey guarding the herd as we don't kill our dingoes. There is prolific bird life and 7 types of wallabies and kangaroos as well as other wildlife in several ecosystems. The property is located about 3 hours from Cairns or 1 hour from Cooktown on a sealed road. Once you turn off the highway, access is 4.5kms on a gravel road. The town of Lakeland is just 8kms away with a Hotel, Roadhouse, Coffee shop and 2 well stocked local fresh produce stalls. We are within an hour of Cooktown and Laura if you would like to do a day trip to the historic towns.

2. Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls

97%

(55)

23km from Cooktown · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Rossville, QLD

Discover beautiful rainforests and open pastures at Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls, a very special property just 30 minutes from Cooktown. We offer various grass and bush sites spread out over 160 acres, each peaceful and secluded, within walking distance of amazing natural waterfalls, the clear-running creek dotted with swimming holes, as well as established hiking trails. There is a variety of bird life and wildlife. Trevethan Falls is just a short walk away. Finish the day around your open campfire. You cut or collect your wood from around the property just contact your host. The property has had changes to 3 sites which happened on December the 17th 2023 at around 6am in the Morning we were awoken to the sounds of timber and dirt hitting the house and in a matter of 2 hrs sites 1 /2 and 3 were totally destroyed and the Trevethan Creek was directed through our property, This event was a Landslide from the top of the Moutain which went through the Trevethan Falls and the trees and dirt got caught up in a bottle neck down from the falls. We already had 3 .5 Meters of rain in 4 days! the bottle neck broke out at 6 am hitting us like a freight train and the rest is a good story to tell around a fireplace. We are working hard to clean up sites 1 /2 and 3 which I can see results. Site 1 is open and is very good with water running by the site/ Site 2 is open and we are currently doing work on the new site 2 / Site 3 is currently moved until we clean up the old site. We have a new Site which is Site7 on the creek and very private and Site 4 on the dam and Sites 5 and 6 are bush camps and are very Private. We are hoping to see the tree Kangaroos coming back as well which are good viewing from Midnight on wards to 3 am. Please come and stay we have more sites planed for the future. Please be sure to read the descriptions carefully Pets are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. There is also a hobby farm in operation on the property, so you may hear and see the workings of the farm as you explore. We are confident that once you discover this place, you'll return time and time again.

3. Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield

98%

(61)

42km from Cooktown · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cooktown, QLD

We are a tropical fruit botanical garden established 50 years ago on the banks of Gap Creek situated on the edge of the Cedar Bay National Park Queensland. We have fruit in season, and cows. It is 7km to the beach and 8km to the shop. It is also possible to hike to Cedar Bay from this location. Safe swimming in the creek. Some mobile reception. Check in after 3pm.

4. Idriess Creek

100%

(1)

53km from Cooktown · 1 site · Lodging · Daintree, QLD

Directly opposite the public boat ramp access to the Great Barrier Reef, I have a fenced camping area that includes one cabin (which has an outside flush toilet and a hot/cold shower), Campsites includes, one site with water only and three sites with water and power. Telstra phone reception is available. It is a fisherman's dream location. Pets are allowed but has to be on leash at all times. 4WD only as access is difficult for 2WD vehicles.

5. Yindilli Camping and Guided Walks

98%

(27)

65km from Cooktown · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Daintree, QLD

Yindilli Camping Ground is set amongst some of the most beautiful open eucalypt forests and rainforests of north Queensland and is located on the CREB Track, a popular 4WD tourist route. Nearby is the iconic Roaring Meg Falls. The track is not suitable for towing caravans. We are 38klms from Daintree Village on the CREB Track (also known as Upper Daintree Rd) and it will take about 2.5hrs to drive as the road is unsealed, steep in sections and narrow. Be aware of weather conditions before travelling on this road as minimal rainfall can make the track slippery. An alternative route to Yindilli Camping ground is from the northern end of the track from Bloomfield via the China Camp Rd or the Zig Zag Track - both meet up with the CREB Track. We are 27klms from Bloomfield or 1 hour to drive, this section is graded regularly and easy to traverse in the dry season.The campsites have access to a freshwater creek for swimming and relaxing. The birdlife is abundant, including the occasional glimpse of a Cassowary. Camp sites are on 2.5ha of lush green lawns, lots of shade and within metres of a fresh water creek for swimming and relaxing. Facilities include: septic toilets, showers, dry firewood (on request) and spacious sites Children and pet friendly. Guests are advised to only light fires in designated areas and these must be fully extinguished before departure.

6. Rossville Retreat Lodges & Camping

97%

(33)

24km from Cooktown · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rossville, QLD

Connect with nature, abundant wildlife and the shining stars above! Immerse yourself in nature and culture in private, eco-friendly lodges or unpowered camp sites and an Indigenous guided bush tour with world renowned bush medicine expert, Mooks. Set in the bush backing on to the Little Annan River, Rossville Retreat offers a riverside picnic area, a private airstrip and bush walks, all overlooked by magical Kalkajaka (Black Mountain), only 20 minutes from Cooktown and 2kms from the iconic Lion’s Den Hotel. At the base of Cape York, just off the Mulligan highway at Black Mountain, Rossville Retreat is perfectly located on the Bloomfield Track, 70kms north of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest.

7. Helenvale Farm - Van/Camper Stay

100%

(8)

26km from Cooktown · 37 sites · RVs · Rossville, QLD

Helenvale Farm offers sites for campers with their own toilet at $ 30.00/night per vehicle and is located directly next door to the historic Lion’s Den Hotel which is within a 1-5 minute walk from all of the campsites and has a private gate access from the farm to the pub. There is also 300 metres of water frontage alongside the Little Annan River that flows all year around and is within walking distance from the campsites which are located on 25 acres of flat farmland giving plenty of space, peace and quite. There are multiple campsites available at Helenvale Farm including: Sunny sites for those requiring solar power. River views from river frontage sites. Easy access to wide open spaces with plenty of room for big rigs. Semi-shaded, tree lined campsites that offer either secluded, or family sized areas. Shaded enclosed areas for those wanting cool areas. Pub Crawl, Fig Tree, Sunnyside Up and River Views are all fenced so kids can roam free. Good wifi coverage if you have your own wifi. Boar water is available on request. Helenvale Farm is centrally located to numerous tourist spots including: Cape Tribulation (caravans not encouraged) 2-2.5 hours South. Wujal Wujal Falls all tar sealed (40 mins South). Bloomfield all tar sealed (30 mins South). Cedar Bay National Park (20 mins South). Black Mountain National Park (10 mins North). Trevathan Falls (20 mins North). Archer Point lighthouse ( 20 mins). Historic Cooktown (25 mins North). There is array of sights and activities to indulge in while staying at Helenvale Farm including: Watching the lambs and sheep grazing and playing or chickens scratching in their pen. Enjoy a fish in the river. Indulge in your own campfire with plenty of wood for free. Nature walks with an abundance of bird, fauna and wildlife. Star gazing, sunrises and sunsets. Or you can just relax on the sandy riverside beaches. You can spend quality time with friends and family relaxing in the beauty of nature while enjoying the peace and quiet of farm life on sites that are not overcrowded. If you wish to have an unforgettable stay at Helenvale Farm please contact us by phoning or texting: 0488 007 739 or 0429 832 314 Email us: helenvale.farmstay@gmail.com Channel Nine UHF within a 4 kms range.

8. Kaiteri Farm

27km from Cooktown · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cooktown, QLD

Welcome to Kaiteri, a tropical outback farm 30 km from the historic coastal town of Cooktown. Get a personalised experience with your hosts only take one booking at a time and have a lovely spot down by the creek for campers! The site suits tent campers only (no caravans or trailers), and you need 4WD access to take the track that leads to the creek. The farm has cattle, pet pigs, chickens, horses and dogs. A well behaved medium size dog or a couple of tiny dogs are welcome. Definitely no cats unless kept in a locked area. We have a picnic table and rubbish/recycling facilities but you will need to be self-contained with your own camping toilet and shower. Campfires are allowed (subject to firebans). The small community of Hopevale is just up the road with access to the famous Coloured Sands. Endeavour Valley Road is the gateway access to the rest of the Cape. There is also a beautiful secret waterfall and picnic spot within walking distance of the farm. Camp in an open field or find a spot in the rainforest. Fresh water is available at the farm hut 70 metres away.

9. Twin Rivers Orchard

100%

(4)

46km from Cooktown · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Hope Vale, QLD

Camp in the front paddock near the hoestead for quick road access to Cape Flattery or Starke River and surrounds. Stop in for a break after completing or before starting the Wakooka 4WD track to cape Melville or camp down by the McIvor river for an excellent bird watching rainforest camping experience. Just don't go swimming as our usually shy local local Crocs might come and say hello. Registered Kitchen available for purchases fri-sunday 8:30am to sunset.

Camper favorites near Cooktown

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Idriess Creek

100%

(1)

53km from Cooktown · 1 site · Lodging · Daintree, QLD

Directly opposite the public boat ramp access to the Great Barrier Reef, I have a fenced camping area that includes one cabin (which has an outside flush toilet and a hot/cold shower), Campsites includes, one site with water only and three sites with water and power. Telstra phone reception is available. It is a fisherman's dream location. Pets are allowed but has to be on leash at all times. 4WD only as access is difficult for 2WD vehicles.

Yindilli Camping and Guided Walks

98%

(27)

65km from Cooktown · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Daintree, QLD

Yindilli Camping Ground is set amongst some of the most beautiful open eucalypt forests and rainforests of north Queensland and is located on the CREB Track, a popular 4WD tourist route. Nearby is the iconic Roaring Meg Falls. The track is not suitable for towing caravans. We are 38klms from Daintree Village on the CREB Track (also known as Upper Daintree Rd) and it will take about 2.5hrs to drive as the road is unsealed, steep in sections and narrow. Be aware of weather conditions before travelling on this road as minimal rainfall can make the track slippery. An alternative route to Yindilli Camping ground is from the northern end of the track from Bloomfield via the China Camp Rd or the Zig Zag Track - both meet up with the CREB Track. We are 27klms from Bloomfield or 1 hour to drive, this section is graded regularly and easy to traverse in the dry season.The campsites have access to a freshwater creek for swimming and relaxing. The birdlife is abundant, including the occasional glimpse of a Cassowary. Camp sites are on 2.5ha of lush green lawns, lots of shade and within metres of a fresh water creek for swimming and relaxing. Facilities include: septic toilets, showers, dry firewood (on request) and spacious sites Children and pet friendly. Guests are advised to only light fires in designated areas and these must be fully extinguished before departure.

Rossville Retreat Lodges & Camping

97%

(33)

24km from Cooktown · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rossville, QLD

Connect with nature, abundant wildlife and the shining stars above! Immerse yourself in nature and culture in private, eco-friendly lodges or unpowered camp sites and an Indigenous guided bush tour with world renowned bush medicine expert, Mooks. Set in the bush backing on to the Little Annan River, Rossville Retreat offers a riverside picnic area, a private airstrip and bush walks, all overlooked by magical Kalkajaka (Black Mountain), only 20 minutes from Cooktown and 2kms from the iconic Lion’s Den Hotel. At the base of Cape York, just off the Mulligan highway at Black Mountain, Rossville Retreat is perfectly located on the Bloomfield Track, 70kms north of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest.

Helenvale Farm - Van/Camper Stay

100%

(8)

26km from Cooktown · 37 sites · RVs · Rossville, QLD

Helenvale Farm offers sites for campers with their own toilet at $ 30.00/night per vehicle and is located directly next door to the historic Lion’s Den Hotel which is within a 1-5 minute walk from all of the campsites and has a private gate access from the farm to the pub. There is also 300 metres of water frontage alongside the Little Annan River that flows all year around and is within walking distance from the campsites which are located on 25 acres of flat farmland giving plenty of space, peace and quite. There are multiple campsites available at Helenvale Farm including: Sunny sites for those requiring solar power. River views from river frontage sites. Easy access to wide open spaces with plenty of room for big rigs. Semi-shaded, tree lined campsites that offer either secluded, or family sized areas. Shaded enclosed areas for those wanting cool areas. Pub Crawl, Fig Tree, Sunnyside Up and River Views are all fenced so kids can roam free. Good wifi coverage if you have your own wifi. Boar water is available on request. Helenvale Farm is centrally located to numerous tourist spots including: Cape Tribulation (caravans not encouraged) 2-2.5 hours South. Wujal Wujal Falls all tar sealed (40 mins South). Bloomfield all tar sealed (30 mins South). Cedar Bay National Park (20 mins South). Black Mountain National Park (10 mins North). Trevathan Falls (20 mins North). Archer Point lighthouse ( 20 mins). Historic Cooktown (25 mins North). There is array of sights and activities to indulge in while staying at Helenvale Farm including: Watching the lambs and sheep grazing and playing or chickens scratching in their pen. Enjoy a fish in the river. Indulge in your own campfire with plenty of wood for free. Nature walks with an abundance of bird, fauna and wildlife. Star gazing, sunrises and sunsets. Or you can just relax on the sandy riverside beaches. You can spend quality time with friends and family relaxing in the beauty of nature while enjoying the peace and quiet of farm life on sites that are not overcrowded. If you wish to have an unforgettable stay at Helenvale Farm please contact us by phoning or texting: 0488 007 739 or 0429 832 314 Email us: helenvale.farmstay@gmail.com Channel Nine UHF within a 4 kms range.

Kaiteri Farm

27km from Cooktown · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cooktown, QLD

Welcome to Kaiteri, a tropical outback farm 30 km from the historic coastal town of Cooktown. Get a personalised experience with your hosts only take one booking at a time and have a lovely spot down by the creek for campers! The site suits tent campers only (no caravans or trailers), and you need 4WD access to take the track that leads to the creek. The farm has cattle, pet pigs, chickens, horses and dogs. A well behaved medium size dog or a couple of tiny dogs are welcome. Definitely no cats unless kept in a locked area. We have a picnic table and rubbish/recycling facilities but you will need to be self-contained with your own camping toilet and shower. Campfires are allowed (subject to firebans). The small community of Hopevale is just up the road with access to the famous Coloured Sands. Endeavour Valley Road is the gateway access to the rest of the Cape. There is also a beautiful secret waterfall and picnic spot within walking distance of the farm. Camp in an open field or find a spot in the rainforest. Fresh water is available at the farm hut 70 metres away.

Twin Rivers Orchard

100%

(4)

46km from Cooktown · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Hope Vale, QLD

Camp in the front paddock near the hoestead for quick road access to Cape Flattery or Starke River and surrounds. Stop in for a break after completing or before starting the Wakooka 4WD track to cape Melville or camp down by the McIvor river for an excellent bird watching rainforest camping experience. Just don't go swimming as our usually shy local local Crocs might come and say hello. Registered Kitchen available for purchases fri-sunday 8:30am to sunset.

Stories from the community

M

Michael

November 2025

7 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

Joy has created a lovely haven for campers Good facilities and plenty of room Great interaction with animals Would highly recommend staying here Kenny

Megan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Lakeland Downs Camping

What a beautiful spot .. we were there mid week and had the place to ourselves .. lots of shady spots with campfires accessible.. great to have a toilet and shower block and camp kitchen well maintained . The campsites all close to the lake to enjoy fishing and birdlife. We loved having the local characters .. Wolf the retired kelpie hanging out with us .. “Bird” the local duck who adopted us after our morning fishing .. and the horses and cattle who were curious but delightful having them so tame to not fear us invading there territory. Joy a great host ..location perfect from Cairns .. if night skies, campfire and time out is what your seeking .. this is the perfect spot .. had a great time and look forward to taking my family back here .

J

Jennifer

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

Perfect setting with no one else here and wonderful Kelpie to keep us company

P

Philip

October 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield

A lovely, unique, private campsite. Would return in a heartbeat.

Sarah

October 2025

5 m car

1 night at Lakeland Downs Camping

What a magical place, wish we could have spent more time! Thank you for having us

Relax with your own campfire under a full moon and listen to the river only 1 minute away.

r

rodney

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Helenvale Farm - Van/Camper Stay

Awesome spot next to lions den hotel. Great access to the river for kids to have a fish

C

Chris

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

We have stayed here twice now and would definitely come back. Joy is an awesome host and is always popping in and out to make sure the place is spotless and all campers are happy and catered for.

Campsite No.2 spot after Cyclone Jasper and Flooded

Steve

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls

Great spot, nice and peaceful. Enough water to sit in and relax

J

Jamie

October 2025

15 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

Nicely set up by the lagoon, lots of friendly animals, cows, donkeys, horses.ect. Joy is a very nice person easy to get along with, comes and sees everyone in the afternoon to see if all is good, plenty of camping spots, lots of canoes for you to use. Very nice spot

S

Salvador

October 2025

15 m travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

This place is a hidden gem, big open space with fire pits to cater for all sized groups. The campground was spotless and well set out. The dam was great for a paddle in the canoes and also a walk around if feeling energetic. Will definitely put on the list to come back… thanks Joy

A

Andi

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

We had a great time camping at Joys property over the long weekend. The toilets and hot showers were well maintained and clean and the camp kitchen was equipped with a microwave and kettle which was very handy. The kids had an absolute ball out in the canoes fishing on the dam. The campgrounds were busy but everyone was spaced out with plenty of room. Highly recommend staying here, we will definitely be back 😀🎣🐾

D

David

October 2025

7 m Class A

With pets

2 nights at Lakeland Downs Camping

Really enjoyed our 2-night stay. Would be easy to stay for longer and we’ll definitely be back. Thanks to Joy for being such a great host.

J

Julia

October 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With kids

1 night at Lakeland Downs Camping

Easily accessible, beautiful space to camp having a fire looking over the lake. Able to fish and use canoes which was a wonderful bonus!

D

David

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Lakeland Downs Camping

Great little stop on the way back, kids had a ball and the amenities were perfect for what we intended on, Joy and her family have done a great job on the station to suit us visitors and we really appreciate it... thank you

D

David

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With kids

1 night at Lakeland Downs Camping

Beautiful stop by during the trip, kids went canoeing and the amenities were enough for what we needed

F

Francoise

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

WHAT A GREAT PLACE. So peacefully. Joy and family are lovely.

n

nathan

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Lakeland Downs Camping

The hospitality of Joy was unsurpassed. The camping ground was clean and well maintained. The shower and faculty’s were well and truly above standard The animals being horses , donkeys , cows that freely roamed were all friendly, we even had a the cattle dog sleep in the camping spot and felt like he was looking after us . Recommend the spot highly

Andrew

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

Great place to stay with excellent amenities and a great host to boot. Would definitely stay there again, thank you

D

Daryl

September 2025

7 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Lakeland Downs Camping

Lovely un crowded farm style camping. Fire places with best ever wind shelter in the form of rain water tank corrugated iron half shells. Hot showers and we'll equipped camp kitchen. Canoes provided for paddling around the lake. Tame donkey Winston and tame cows and Brahman bull wandering about. Lots of birds and Barra in the lake (we caught and ate one...delicious, not muddy at all....). Lovely off grid alternative to a caravan park.