The best river, stream, or creek camping near Cooktown

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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% (314) 22 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cooktown

Lakeland Downs Camping

1. Lakeland Downs Camping

99%
(227)
54km from Cooktown · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night
Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield

2. Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield

98%
(62)
42km from Cooktown · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$19
 / night
Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls

3. Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls

97%
(55)
23km from Cooktown · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$25
 / night
Idriess Creek

4. Idriess Creek

100%
(1)
53km from Cooktown · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
AU$91
 / night
Yindilli Camping and Guided Walks

5. Yindilli Camping and Guided Walks

98%
(27)
65km from Cooktown · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Rossville Retreat Lodges & Camping

6. Rossville Retreat Lodges & Camping

97%
(33)
24km from Cooktown · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
Twin Rivers Orchard

7. Twin Rivers Orchard

100%
(4)
46km from Cooktown · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from 
AU$25
 / night
Helenvale Farm - Van/Camper Stay

8. Helenvale Farm - Van/Camper Stay

100%
(8)
26km from Cooktown · 37 sites · RVs
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.
from 
AU$37
 / night
Kaiteri Farm

9. Kaiteri Farm

27km from Cooktown · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$23
 / night

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% (314) 22 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cooktown

Lakeland Downs Camping

1. Lakeland Downs Camping

99%
(227)
54km from Cooktown · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$25
 / night
Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield

2. Gap Creek Camping Bloomfield

98%
(62)
42km from Cooktown · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$19
 / night
Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls

3. Scrubby Creek Trevethan Falls

97%
(55)
23km from Cooktown · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$25
 / night
Idriess Creek

4. Idriess Creek

100%
(1)
53km from Cooktown · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
AU$91
 / night
Yindilli Camping and Guided Walks

5. Yindilli Camping and Guided Walks

98%
(27)
65km from Cooktown · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$37
 / night
Rossville Retreat Lodges & Camping

6. Rossville Retreat Lodges & Camping

97%
(33)
24km from Cooktown · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$43
 / night
Twin Rivers Orchard

7. Twin Rivers Orchard

100%
(4)
46km from Cooktown · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from 
AU$25
 / night
Helenvale Farm - Van/Camper Stay

8. Helenvale Farm - Van/Camper Stay

100%
(8)
26km from Cooktown · 37 sites · RVs
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.
from 
AU$37
 / night
Kaiteri Farm

9. Kaiteri Farm

27km from Cooktown · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
AU$23
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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