Beach Camping Near Horseshoe Bay, Queensland, AU: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

Beach camping in Horseshoe Bay gives you over 170 ways to wake up to salt air and the sound of waves. You’ll find everything from simple beachfront spots to sites with hot showers and flushing toilets. Surf breaks draw boardriders, while fishing and hiking tracks start just steps from where you’ll sleep. Prices average $42 a night, with options dipping as low as $25. Campsites like Crystal Ridge (236 reviews), The Forts (106 reviews), and Mungalla Station (75 reviews) keep regulars coming back for the sunrise views and easy access to the sand. Many sites allow campfires—just check the rules before you spark up. Travelling with a board, rod, or hiking boots? You’re set.

87% (507)

Top-rated campgrounds

Beach camping in Horseshoe Bay gives you over 170 ways to wake up to salt air and the sound of waves. You’ll find everything from simple beachfront spots to sites with hot showers and flushing toilets. Surf breaks draw boardriders, while fishing and hiking tracks start just steps from where you’ll sleep. Prices average $42 a night, with options dipping as low as $25. Campsites like Crystal Ridge (236 reviews), The Forts (106 reviews), and Mungalla Station (75 reviews) keep regulars coming back for the sunrise views and easy access to the sand. Many sites allow campfires—just check the rules before you spark up. Travelling with a board, rod, or hiking boots? You’re set.

87% (507)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Forts

96%

(156)

1.5km from Horseshoe Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

We are in the perfect location in Horseshoe Bay, Magnetic Island, and your camp spot is located a short walk to the beach, right on the walking tracks, WWII-era forts, and access to exploring more than 36 kilometres of bushwalking trails with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities. ..... The Great Barrier Reef, is at our door step so taking to the water is a must— hire a canoe, kayak or jetski and start exploring the wonderlands of spy dugongs and sea turtles or go on a boat cruise, and dive in to snorkel along colourful coral reefs. .... Then there's the action of a buzzy seaside town with cafes and bars and skatepark, tennis courts all within a 5 minutes gentle walk! .... Welcome to The Forts of Magnetic Island, it's truly magic your views are the National Park. ..... We offer easy access sites for: CARAVAN up to 22ft. ROOF vehicle tent MOTORHOME up to 22ft. VAN campervan Tent- your tent can be pitched on a tucked away haven in the bush surrounded by natural boulders. * Please be SELF CONTAINED ...... Please allow for some slight slope sites, come and enjoy your relaxed bushcamp stay. ... BOOK FERRY CROSSING Please prepare to "prebook your ferry" if travelling with a vehicle. ... OUR OPENING HOURS -come to your campsite during the "daytime" DAYLIGHT HOURS please. ... ARRIVE - between 8am to 4 pm ONLY .... Great bus service on Magnetic Island runs every hour. Abundance of wildlife, kangaroos, wallabies, kookaburra, superb sunsets and so much more. Beach✔️ Cafes✔️ Spacious Sites✔️ Walking tracks✔️ The perfect paradise.

2. Crystal Ridge

97%

(562)

62km from Horseshoe Bay · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Mutarnee, QLD

Welcome to Crystal Ridge, a peaceful location where you can enjoy peace and privacy. Campers can fish, swim, bird watch or just relax by the water and watch the cows grazing around the property. Nearby you'll find Mount Spec, Paluma Range National Park straddles the summit and escarpment of the Paluma Range, rising 1,000m above the Big Crystal Creek floodplain. This is the most southerly national park in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Located approximately 45 minutes north of Townsville on the Bruce Highway, Mutarnee is a small peaceful hamlet nestled on the banks of beautiful Crystal Creek. At the local caravan park there's a small shop and service station and just a minute down the road you'll find the Crystal Creek boat ramp. There is great bushwalks in the area and place to mountain bike. Any camping set up is welcome to pull up on the flat, grassy site. You are welcome to bring your pet, but please ensure they are kept on a leash and under control. You will need to get gate code day before you arrive. Either text or on the hipcamp site.

3. Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

83%

(27)

6.6km from Horseshoe Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Picnic Bay, QLD

Our property on Magnetic Island in beautiful Picnic Bay is a stunning, flat, block of land, located just 400m from the beaches, restaurants and hotel. The block is private and secluded, with NO amenities, but just metres from everything! The Golf course is located right behind us and a bus stop is within 50m walk, that will take you all around the island. There are several glorious camp spots shaded by mature paperbark trees, overlooking Butler's Creek, which often runs during the wet season. The block is large and flat, perfectly suitable for campervans, tents, caravans and large motorhomes. There is a water available onsite for campers' use. You are able to fill your tank but are asked not to 'connect up', as it is for the use of ALL guests. To stay with us, you MUST be FULLY SELF-CONTAINED with your own toilet/shower facilities and power. Please leave no waste on the property and NO trace of your stay. The property is located in a wildlife corridor and we have koalas, kookaburras, curlews, wallabies and other animal residents nearby. Your dog is welcome onsite but must be on a leash at all times so as not to disturb guests or upset our wildlife. Please pick up it's waste at all times. IMPORTANT NOTE: If your dog disrupts other guests or neighbours by barking, or is threatening in anyway, you will be asked to leave the property without refund. Magnetic Island is located 8km offshore from Townsville and is accessed via a passenger ferry that operates every hour from the city and a vehicle barge that operates several times a day. Book via the 'Sealink' website. "Maggie" as the island is affectionately known, has a permanent population of about 3000 people. There are a two supermarkets, a medical centre, several resorts, dozens of restaurants and many other amenities to cater for residents and tourists. There are spectacular beaches, bush walks, koala spotting, boat tours, reef dive operators, art galleries, homeware shops, restaurants, coffee shops, a brewery, pubs and a bus stop nearby. Whilst here, be sure to feed the wild rock wallabies in Arcadia, go to the Toad Races at Arcadia Hotel, enjoy the Forts Walk to learn about the region's history, and take a boat tour on Aquascene cruises. It is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway!!

4. Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

1.6km from Horseshoe Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

GROUP BOOKING Are looking for that perfect location for a PRIVATE EXCLUSIVE EVENT .... ..... ..... ..... ..... Sport Event- Rustic Wedding- Private function- Birthday Celebration- Homeschool group- Walking group- Family get-together - ...... ...... ....... ....... ..... We can accommodate your Group Booking. ... SEND us a message to discuss how we can help . EXTERNAL Hire available to suit your event type. Marquees can be set up. Bathrooms BBQs Tables Linen Floristy Private Chef or catering .... Location: Photographic scenery. Beaches nearby. . Sitting on 3 acres of rustic land with National Park as a backdrop. . DESIGNATED Camping available for up to 10 vehicle. These Camp sites are suitable: Caravans✔️ Rooftop tents✔️ Campervan ✔️ Motorhomes ✔️ All designated sites are spacious and flat. .... There is further space available for pitch up camping ... Plus Plenty more room in a separate lower paddock for Marquee set up or activities area. ... Important: No Bathroom Facilities No Kitchen Facilities You either need to be self contained - meaning have your own cooking set up and your own toilets. Although, if required you can hire external toilet blocks. BATHROOMS Can be hired for EVENTS . A central entertainment area, landscaped with hammocks and lounging chairs. ... So what's there to do? Amazing walks Beaches in abundance Fishing Rock climbing Nature discovery Butterfly, Koalas, Wallabies Birds Kookaburra. Galahs.Finch. +++ Snorkeling Hire a bike Hire a scooter Hire a cute convertible Yoga classes Cafes, and great restaurants Trip to Palm or outer reef or go sailing on a yacht Hire a jet ski and find your private oasis. Book a boat - go snorkeling or fishing

5. Mungalla Station

94%

(125)

80km from Horseshoe Bay · 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.

6. Forrest Beach Hotel Caravan Park

67%

(6)

74km from Horseshoe Bay · 85 sites · Tents, RVs · Allingham, QLD

Nestled between the beach and tropical rainforest, FBH Caravan Park has 52 shady powered Caravan sites and unpowered campsites for up to 200 campers. Watch the sunrise over the Coral Sea and Palm Islands, or go fishing on the 14km of sandy beach, just metres from your caravan. The park has a fully equipped Amenities block, with hot showers, toilets and a coin operated laundry. Unlike most Caravan Parks, there is also a fully licenced Hotel, with Bottleshop, Poker Machines and a beachfront Bar and Bistro, to keep guests entertained.

7. BE Magnetic Island

92%

(25)

1.6km from Horseshoe Bay · 1 site · RV · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

BE🌴 WELCOME to Magnetic Island . Tucked away bordering the National Park is your campsite a quiet oasis. . Wildlife bouncing, exotic birds chirping, koalas roaming, cute chickens and a spacious tiered entertainment area to totally relax. . Just a 2second walk to the track to take you on the famous FORTS walk. . Beaches, sunsets, and incredible views are just moments away from your campsite. . Plenty of watersports! Hire ocean kayaks and paddle off the beaten track. Go on a sailing trip. Do a Dive Course. Go on a Fishing trip. Book a snorkeling tour. Book a Island Bay exploring experience . Hire a paddle board from Horseshoe Bay Hire jet ski Hire a scooter Hire a cute car . Do a Art Class Yoga Class Mediation Workshop . See butterfly, birds, kangaroo, koalas, wallabies, and much more from your camp . Cafes, bars, shops and bustop just a moment away. . Don't forget we are a true natural eco STAY PLEASE bring your own toilet,cooking facilities. SELF CONTAINED REQUIRED . ARRIVE at campsite Between 8am to 4pm . Looking forward to seeing YOU 👣

Camper favorites near Horseshoe Bay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

1.6km from Horseshoe Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

GROUP BOOKING Are looking for that perfect location for a PRIVATE EXCLUSIVE EVENT .... ..... ..... ..... ..... Sport Event- Rustic Wedding- Private function- Birthday Celebration- Homeschool group- Walking group- Family get-together - ...... ...... ....... ....... ..... We can accommodate your Group Booking. ... SEND us a message to discuss how we can help . EXTERNAL Hire available to suit your event type. Marquees can be set up. Bathrooms BBQs Tables Linen Floristy Private Chef or catering .... Location: Photographic scenery. Beaches nearby. . Sitting on 3 acres of rustic land with National Park as a backdrop. . DESIGNATED Camping available for up to 10 vehicle. These Camp sites are suitable: Caravans✔️ Rooftop tents✔️ Campervan ✔️ Motorhomes ✔️ All designated sites are spacious and flat. .... There is further space available for pitch up camping ... Plus Plenty more room in a separate lower paddock for Marquee set up or activities area. ... Important: No Bathroom Facilities No Kitchen Facilities You either need to be self contained - meaning have your own cooking set up and your own toilets. Although, if required you can hire external toilet blocks. BATHROOMS Can be hired for EVENTS . A central entertainment area, landscaped with hammocks and lounging chairs. ... So what's there to do? Amazing walks Beaches in abundance Fishing Rock climbing Nature discovery Butterfly, Koalas, Wallabies Birds Kookaburra. Galahs.Finch. +++ Snorkeling Hire a bike Hire a scooter Hire a cute convertible Yoga classes Cafes, and great restaurants Trip to Palm or outer reef or go sailing on a yacht Hire a jet ski and find your private oasis. Book a boat - go snorkeling or fishing

Mungalla Station

94%

(125)

80km from Horseshoe Bay · 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.

Forrest Beach Hotel Caravan Park

67%

(6)

74km from Horseshoe Bay · 85 sites · Tents, RVs · Allingham, QLD

Nestled between the beach and tropical rainforest, FBH Caravan Park has 52 shady powered Caravan sites and unpowered campsites for up to 200 campers. Watch the sunrise over the Coral Sea and Palm Islands, or go fishing on the 14km of sandy beach, just metres from your caravan. The park has a fully equipped Amenities block, with hot showers, toilets and a coin operated laundry. Unlike most Caravan Parks, there is also a fully licenced Hotel, with Bottleshop, Poker Machines and a beachfront Bar and Bistro, to keep guests entertained.

BE Magnetic Island

92%

(25)

1.6km from Horseshoe Bay · 1 site · RV · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

BE🌴 WELCOME to Magnetic Island . Tucked away bordering the National Park is your campsite a quiet oasis. . Wildlife bouncing, exotic birds chirping, koalas roaming, cute chickens and a spacious tiered entertainment area to totally relax. . Just a 2second walk to the track to take you on the famous FORTS walk. . Beaches, sunsets, and incredible views are just moments away from your campsite. . Plenty of watersports! Hire ocean kayaks and paddle off the beaten track. Go on a sailing trip. Do a Dive Course. Go on a Fishing trip. Book a snorkeling tour. Book a Island Bay exploring experience . Hire a paddle board from Horseshoe Bay Hire jet ski Hire a scooter Hire a cute car . Do a Art Class Yoga Class Mediation Workshop . See butterfly, birds, kangaroo, koalas, wallabies, and much more from your camp . Cafes, bars, shops and bustop just a moment away. . Don't forget we are a true natural eco STAY PLEASE bring your own toilet,cooking facilities. SELF CONTAINED REQUIRED . ARRIVE at campsite Between 8am to 4pm . Looking forward to seeing YOU 👣

Stories from the community

We didn’t see even one mozzie the whole time we were camped.

B

Bronwyn

5 days ago

8 m Class B

8 nights at The Forts

Tee's place is an absolute gem. From the moment I drove off the barge onto the island and was greeted by Tee, I knew I was going to have the perfect island getaway. A special mention to Neil, who welcomed me and showed me around Tee's place while they were on the mainland. Five stars Neil! The place itself is quiet, private and an easy walk to Horseshoe Bay, the start of walks and the bus stops. Native birds and wildlife are everywhere and I loved sharing their space. Not to mention the little ladies (The chickens), who made me feel right at home. The bush shower is divine, private and surrounded by native plants. A blessing in the heat. And then of course there is Tee and Steve. Well, they are the most wonderful, down to earth, fun and genourus people. They have a knack for making you feel like you're home on their beautiful slice of heavenly bush. I couldn't have imagined a more perfect place to be for the 10 days I was there. Thank you superstars.... I will be back, Bronnie😊❤️

C

Chris

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

A beautiful peaceful place to camp, right on the edge of the creek.

C

Chris

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

Yet again Crystal Ridge did not disappoint. Absolutely relaxing, creek was a little low but was still deep enough to have a nice cool down. Michael is a great host, with great communication. Looking forward to our next visit. 10 out of 10.

A

Aimee

November 2025

8 m Class B

With kids

1 night at Crystal Ridge

Lovely spot right on the water. Only 2 sites to choose from, we were lucky to be the only ones there but I definitely recommend booking the whole place to yourself if you want privacy as the sites are right next to each other. Not as well kept as other camps we have been to but overall would recommend. The concrete pad on site 1 was useful.

M

Melissa

October 2025

8 m Class A

1 night at Crystal Ridge

The site was really gorgeous! Very private and the stream is lovely. The only drawback is that the host isn't the best communicator... I had to send two messages, one at 9am and another at 1:30ish because I hadn't heard back from him, to find out what the code for the gate was before he responded. I also asked him some detailed questions about our stay which were answered with two short, unhelpful messages! The details on the website are not accurate either, so we found it confusing and irritating to locate the site, after a long drive. There was rubbish from other campers left in the fire pit which should have been removed before we arrived as well.

R

Ryan

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Unreal spot , would recommend needs to be 2 - 3 night minimum booking as people have booked just for one night and that takes up the possibility of a whole weekend booking something to think about as it’s such a beautiful spot, will be back 😁

r

robert

October 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Close to Townsville and Ingham, with lots to do in the area. Quite open (good solar) location next to Crystal Creek. Decent shade in the afternoon. Not the best swimming this time of year, but to be expected at the end of the dry season. That being said, we still say I. The creek and enjoyed a drink. Our neighbours kids were having a fantastic time in a canoe. Creek access is best from site 1 but still easily accessible from site 2. Quiet, relaxing, a fire and clear sky’s. Would definitely stay here again.

Amazing vantage points right across the island.

F

Fiona

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

5 nights at Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

Close to shops, beach. Clean space. Quiet, with only one other group sharing the space.

D

Dot

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Crystal Ridge

Excellent camping site on the river. Very quite and great swimming Would highly recommend this camp to everyone

D

Davo

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Crystal Ridge

Great camp site. River nice and close to camp. Host was easy to get in contact with. Fantastic spot will be back again

D

David

October 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

The camp ground was good, clean and mowed as usual, Micheal always has it nice and clean But the creek was wrecked from the February/March floods, the rock slides from up the range at Crystal creek have really damaged the whole Crystal creek, the creek was only about knee deep where as before it was six to eight feet deep and it was not flowing at all, but that’s Mother Nature But the camping are was good, rock fire pit areas set up and it looks like a lot of work has gone into repairing it after the floods to make it clean and level and nice

C

Cathy

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

What a peaceful and serene place. Having booked both sites, we had the place to ourselves. It was picturesque and we lived wading and cooling off in the creek. The breeze was beautiful. We will definitely return.

Cara

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

Beautiful place. Close to gorgeous golf course, koalas, awesome strip of funky restaurants (try the Italian place) and beautiful beaches. Bring everything you need as no facilities, but 100% it's worth it!

D

Dorothee

October 2025

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Forts

Great place for camping with tandem you can lend. High chance for seeing koalas nearby. We really enjoyed our stay here.

Cara

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

We enjoyed camping at Magnetic retreat. It is very close to beautiful picnic bay, with its iconic jetty and vibrant restaurants. Magnificent bird life and the golf course is right there with the possibility of koala spotting. Definitely need to bring everything you need as it's a self sufficient spot.

K

Kate

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Great private spot, Michael was very helpful. Watched the NRL grand final under the stars. Large area to set up.

T

Travis

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

9 nights at The Forts

We really enjoyed our selves we had a large 23.6 ft van and travelling with 2 kids. Plenty of space. The kids loved putting the chickens away every evening. The hosts were very helpful with local information and general advice.

T

Trudi

October 2025

6 m Class B

3 nights at The Forts

Excellent base camp for exploring the island. Great communication from the host.

Maree

October 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Crystal Ridge

We absolutely LOVE this place! The creek is amazing and can let the grandson go do his thing (with supervision of course) swim, kayak etc as the water right now isn’t too deep. Highly recommend booking both camp sites so you have the whole place to yourself. Will definitely be a regular spot for us, the grandkid and the dogs.