The best great views campgrounds near Mackay, Queensland

Mackay is best known for producing one-third of Australia’s sugar crop, but aside from the sweets, the area features plenty of natural attractions with access to the Great Barrier Reef and inland national parks. Leave the city centre’s Art Deco buildings and Bluewater Quay waterfront behind and venture out to area island national parks—Brampton, Newry, Smith, and South Cumberland are all within easy reach, while Cape Hillsborough and Eungella are best for wildlife.

98% (6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Mackay

Mackay is best known for producing one-third of Australia’s sugar crop, but aside from the sweets, the area features plenty of natural attractions with access to the Great Barrier Reef and inland national parks. Leave the city centre’s Art Deco buildings and Bluewater Quay waterfront behind and venture out to area island national parks—Brampton, Newry, Smith, and South Cumberland are all within easy reach, while Cape Hillsborough and Eungella are best for wildlife.

98% (6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Mackay

1. Hold It Flats

99%

(6729)

65km from Mackay · 153 sites · Tents, RVs

Hold it Flats is a 120 acre property that borders the beautiful O'Connell River that has water all year round. Take a walk around the property to check out some of the creatures that have been built out of scrap metal and bush bars that have been built all around the property. There is nice shady trees, green grass and flat camping sites right beside the river with hot showers and flushing toilets. There is plenty of room and some great tracks for the kids and the big kids to ride their push bikes on. The swimming hole is about 2 meters deep and has big shady trees on the edge. There is also enough room for kids to bring their kayaks and have a paddle along the river. We have some hiking tracks up around the hills of our property that have amazing views of the area. All campsites can be provided with their own fire pit. You just pick your spot and we will bring a portable fire pit to you. Fire wood can be purchased at the property. All rubbish must be taken when you, there are no rubbish bins provided.

2. Cattle Camp, Sarina, QLD

98%

(731)

34km from Mackay · 25 sites · Tents, RVs

Cattle Camp, Sarina is a 360 acre working cattle property with ample creek side camps, various bird and wild life with a peaceful family setting. We are also pet friendly and can cater to almost any camping set up. Please feel free to ring Lindsey on 0488-546-370 for any inquiries before 6pm every night.

3. Creek and Antique Camping

99%

(1354)

50km from Mackay · 55 sites · Tents, RVs

We have a selection of beautiful creek side locations where you can enjoy the clear, fresh running water and a selection of other sites only a short walk from the water. Conveniently located just a short drive off the Bruce Highway our sites are not designated, you choose your own on arrival KIDS UNDER 17 STAY FREE! MAX 2 ADULTS PER SITE! If coming with additional adults you MUST booking another site. While staying, you will have the opportunity to take a walk into the past to view a private collection of Australiana, including a working stationary, engine display and vintage kitchen with wood stoves. Access to the property is via a creek crossing so it is advisable to phone ahead if there has been recent rain or rainfall is forecast. Toilets are located on the property but campers will need their own shower facilities and take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are permitted but must be contained at all times in a fire pits that we also have for your use, we also sell firewood at $15 for a milk crate. Calen is a small cane growing and cattle town with a general store, pharmacy, service station, butcher and the local pub. Zarby's cafe is a short drive away if you would like to dine in for breakfast or lunch in a retro style setting. Each site fee is for 2 adults and kids stay at no cost. Pets are welcome.

4. Ilbilbie Station Farm Stay

100%

(480)

65km from Mackay · 20 sites · RVs

AS AT 26/12/25 WE ARE KEEPING A CLOSE EYE ON THE WEATHER ATM, WITH EXPECTED HEAVY RAINS PREDICTED. COULD WE ASK THAT YOU MESSAGE US ON OUR HIPCAMP SITE TO FIND OUT WEATHER AND CLOSURE CONDITIONS BEFORE BOOKING. STAY SAFE EVERYONE AND A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL Ilbilbie Station is 1001 acres. There are no neighbors to annoy, as we reside at the end of Landells Road. Our property is a small family-owned working cattle station. There is native wildlife, birds and kangaroos. Sit and relax, take a dip in the creek or explore the property. Please let me know if your going to be arriving after 5pm (scroll down further for full detailed instructions on how to get here)

5. Valley View Camping

94%

(208)

55km from Mackay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Valley View Camping is a 10-acre property, bordered by the magical Eungella National Park. Our place makes a great base to explore the remarkable Finch Hatton Gorge and its many waterfalls, lush flora and volcanic boulders. We have two large, flat, grassed paddocks with sweeping mountain views. We offer up to six campsites, all accessible for any type of vehicle, and you choose where you want to pitch/park on arrival. Both paddocks have easy access to flushing toilets and hot showers. However, the lower paddock has our playground and undercover areas. Your own pets are welcome, we just ask you to please pick up after them. Campfires are permitted in the 2 designated firepits, or if you have your own firepit, brazier or similar. Bring your own firewood. We welcome campers here to enjoy our stunning and peaceful corner of the world, so no loud music please and generators off between the hours of 10pm - 8am.

6. Platypus Bush Camp

98%

(259)

55km from Mackay · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Please note: Bookings made here are “request to book” only, to help us avoid double bookings. For real-time availability, instant booking, and our full range of campsites, please visit our website or phone us. Hi everyone and welcome to our home — the very special Platypus Bush Camp. Operating for over 40 years, this bush camp and rainforest retreat is often described as one of Australia’s most unique stays — and it really does feel that way. With a blend of rustic rainforest charm, a touch of Asia and South America in its building style, and a good dose of Aussie humour and hospitality, it’s a place that feels timeless. Four clear creeks flow all year into an absolutely stunning swimming hole, the largest and deepest in Finch Hatton Gorge. The camp facilities are off-grid but offer powered sites. You’ll find all the modern comforts: flushing toilets, beautiful hot showers with rainforest views, large camp kitchens with everything you need (including a pizza oven and USB charging ports), and peaceful dining areas where you can hear the creek. Accommodation options: – Powered or unpowered sites to suit all setups — some with private decks overlooking the creek, some shaded, some sunny for solar. – Tent-only sites on the grassy area near the main fire pit (no vehicles on the grass; parking close by). – Three private creekside huts/treehouses with stunning views, comfy beds, and full bedding. Visit our website to view the full range of accommodation options and the latest site updates. Pets are welcome if well behaved and cleaned up after. There’s a central fire pit with seating and a cooking plate, plus an undercover fireplace and dining area for rainy nights. You’re also welcome to bring your own fire pit. We’re in the Pioneer Valley, just outside Mackay, Queensland, 2 km from Finch Hatton Gorge in Eungella National Park — about 1 hour from Mackay or 2 hours from Airlie Beach along a beautiful drive. Two or three nights is ideal to explore the Gorge, Eungella National Park, and still have time to relax. We look forward to meeting you, Shane and Family

7. Wallaby Downs

95%

(66)

36km from Mackay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property backs onto the Sarina Range and is full of wallabies, birds and other wildlife. Our shed is shared with a communal kitchen, toilet and hot shower. We have a flat pad for 4 caravans and lots more room for tents and campers either on the pad with dam views or up the back amongst nature. We have a beautiful view over looking Middle Creek Dam where people can go swimming, boating, kayaking and canoeing. BBQ and public toilet facilities are also present near the boat ramp. A kids playground with swing set, totem tennis and zip line shall keep them busy. We look forward to hosting you.

8. Clearacre farmstay

100%

(212)

28km from Mackay · 22 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is roughly 1000 acres. Cane cutting season runs from June to November/December so you will see in those months how it runs. We do mixed cropping in between those months and also run approximately 100 head of cattle, give or take how the season is going and a feedlot for the cattle. Our fresh water creek runs through the property and will be able to be enjoyed at certain times of the year when full.

Camper favorites near Mackay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Ilbilbie Station Farm Stay

100%

(480)

65km from Mackay · 20 sites · RVs

AS AT 26/12/25 WE ARE KEEPING A CLOSE EYE ON THE WEATHER ATM, WITH EXPECTED HEAVY RAINS PREDICTED. COULD WE ASK THAT YOU MESSAGE US ON OUR HIPCAMP SITE TO FIND OUT WEATHER AND CLOSURE CONDITIONS BEFORE BOOKING. STAY SAFE EVERYONE AND A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL Ilbilbie Station is 1001 acres. There are no neighbors to annoy, as we reside at the end of Landells Road. Our property is a small family-owned working cattle station. There is native wildlife, birds and kangaroos. Sit and relax, take a dip in the creek or explore the property. Please let me know if your going to be arriving after 5pm (scroll down further for full detailed instructions on how to get here)

Valley View Camping

94%

(208)

55km from Mackay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Valley View Camping is a 10-acre property, bordered by the magical Eungella National Park. Our place makes a great base to explore the remarkable Finch Hatton Gorge and its many waterfalls, lush flora and volcanic boulders. We have two large, flat, grassed paddocks with sweeping mountain views. We offer up to six campsites, all accessible for any type of vehicle, and you choose where you want to pitch/park on arrival. Both paddocks have easy access to flushing toilets and hot showers. However, the lower paddock has our playground and undercover areas. Your own pets are welcome, we just ask you to please pick up after them. Campfires are permitted in the 2 designated firepits, or if you have your own firepit, brazier or similar. Bring your own firewood. We welcome campers here to enjoy our stunning and peaceful corner of the world, so no loud music please and generators off between the hours of 10pm - 8am.

Platypus Bush Camp

98%

(259)

55km from Mackay · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Please note: Bookings made here are “request to book” only, to help us avoid double bookings. For real-time availability, instant booking, and our full range of campsites, please visit our website or phone us. Hi everyone and welcome to our home — the very special Platypus Bush Camp. Operating for over 40 years, this bush camp and rainforest retreat is often described as one of Australia’s most unique stays — and it really does feel that way. With a blend of rustic rainforest charm, a touch of Asia and South America in its building style, and a good dose of Aussie humour and hospitality, it’s a place that feels timeless. Four clear creeks flow all year into an absolutely stunning swimming hole, the largest and deepest in Finch Hatton Gorge. The camp facilities are off-grid but offer powered sites. You’ll find all the modern comforts: flushing toilets, beautiful hot showers with rainforest views, large camp kitchens with everything you need (including a pizza oven and USB charging ports), and peaceful dining areas where you can hear the creek. Accommodation options: – Powered or unpowered sites to suit all setups — some with private decks overlooking the creek, some shaded, some sunny for solar. – Tent-only sites on the grassy area near the main fire pit (no vehicles on the grass; parking close by). – Three private creekside huts/treehouses with stunning views, comfy beds, and full bedding. Visit our website to view the full range of accommodation options and the latest site updates. Pets are welcome if well behaved and cleaned up after. There’s a central fire pit with seating and a cooking plate, plus an undercover fireplace and dining area for rainy nights. You’re also welcome to bring your own fire pit. We’re in the Pioneer Valley, just outside Mackay, Queensland, 2 km from Finch Hatton Gorge in Eungella National Park — about 1 hour from Mackay or 2 hours from Airlie Beach along a beautiful drive. Two or three nights is ideal to explore the Gorge, Eungella National Park, and still have time to relax. We look forward to meeting you, Shane and Family

Wallaby Downs

95%

(66)

36km from Mackay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property backs onto the Sarina Range and is full of wallabies, birds and other wildlife. Our shed is shared with a communal kitchen, toilet and hot shower. We have a flat pad for 4 caravans and lots more room for tents and campers either on the pad with dam views or up the back amongst nature. We have a beautiful view over looking Middle Creek Dam where people can go swimming, boating, kayaking and canoeing. BBQ and public toilet facilities are also present near the boat ramp. A kids playground with swing set, totem tennis and zip line shall keep them busy. We look forward to hosting you.

Clearacre farmstay

100%

(212)

28km from Mackay · 22 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is roughly 1000 acres. Cane cutting season runs from June to November/December so you will see in those months how it runs. We do mixed cropping in between those months and also run approximately 100 head of cattle, give or take how the season is going and a feedlot for the cattle. Our fresh water creek runs through the property and will be able to be enjoyed at certain times of the year when full.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Peter & Lynda

2 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Creek and Antique Camping

Wow. What an amazing camp ground. Especially parking beside the River. Add bonus is a toilet which is very clean. Having free kayaks and push bikes is awesome too. Having a camp fire is wonderful. Definitely will be back.

K

Kateena

2 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Ilbilbie Station Farm Stay

10/10 would recommend staying here. Peaceful, well maintained, easy access and overall such a great spot to relax, explore and swim. Even though the creek wasn’t at its best the kayaks were still a hit with the kids and still plenty for them to do.

N

Nikkita

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Cattle Camp, Sarina, QLD

Hiya nice peaceful camp would return if required.

Jack

2 weeks ago

5 m car

With pets

2 nights at Ilbilbie Station Farm Stay

We stayed for 2 nights and were lucky enough to get the entire campgrounds to ourselves. It was peaceful, scenic and not so far out of the way in case we needed supplies. No reception which was exactly what we were after. The creek wasn’t running and a little low at the time (early December) so no swimming for us but our Labrador had the time of her life. We had frequent visits from the horses, specifically Bo who just wanted to see what we were doing, always… Apart from Bo trying to steal our bread, and our Labrador getting a bit too close to Bo, it was the perfect little getaway and an incredible spot. The horses made great entertainment! Highly recommend for anyone, especially those with kids as there would be plenty of fun things to do

Greg

2 weeks ago

13 m travel trailer

1 night at Creek and Antique Camping

Plenty of space to spread out along the creek and the grassy flats. Enjoyed looking over Terry's impressive collection of vintage collectables and stationary engines.

M

Megan

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Cattle Camp, Sarina, QLD

The location was easily accessible and has good facilities.

J

Jodie

3 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Creek and Antique Camping

Beautiful quiet spot. Plenty of space for you to camp without being ontop of anyone. Great space to take the dogs to. Definitely recommend.

D

Donna

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

I really enjoyed your camping site the only thing that was wrong was that I had a small dog there were other bigger dogs not on the leash running around. Lovely and clean thanks very much 😊

Sally

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

We love camping at hold it flats. Love the scenery especially walking up the hill there. Always great to have a shower and love that the toilets flush. Definitely worth the visit. We have been a few times now.

D

Damien

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ilbilbie Station Farm Stay

Awesome as usual, the area gets better every time we go, there is always grass at the camp sites, plenty of firewood and fire places, the creek is fantastic and the kids are in it nearly all day, the horses and cows are friendly and just wander about, a great camp and a credit to Gary and Carmen. For them we want it to grow in popularity, for us, not so much, we don't want to share it.

I

Ian

3 weeks ago

6 m Class B

1 night at Ilbilbie Station Farm Stay

Beautifully green camping spaces away from main roads and friendly helpful hosts.

A

Amanda

3 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

1 night at Cattle Camp, Sarina, QLD

This was a great little spot to stop for the night it was an added bonus with the cows, would love to have seen the camp area when it has water in the creek. We do recommend a night or two, we had the place to ourselves it was nice and peaceful. Thanks for sharing your farm with us.

Katrina

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Hold It Flats

Easy to find. Not far from Calen. Cute.little town

Ella

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Creek and Antique Camping

Beautiful property with nice flowing creek. Plenty of spots to choose from with/ without shade. Highly recommend.

B

Bettina

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

A great spot for relaxing and walking. The lookouts are well worth the hike and surprised us with more and improved creativity and quirkiness. The campgrounds are kept green and neat and there is ample room to spread out.

K

Karen

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Platypus Bush Camp

We camped on site 2/3 & 4 with a group of friends, this place is second to none. The facilities are amazing & the staff are delightful. We were travelling with dogs & the k9’s were well received. This place offers a range of accommodation from tenting/caravan sites with power if you need it , as well as Glamping/cabins./treetop accommodation. We loved this place so much that we booked another stay before we left.

Andrea

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

We hired the Private area so that we were able to enjoy our Christmas party late into the evening without the concern of disturbing others. Katie-Ann was really friendly and accommodating. The Grounds were well maintained - including the showers and toilets. We used the Barbeque for breakfasts and Dinners, and everyone had a great time. The small pool was a great escape from the heat as was the creek for a few of us. Thanks for sharing your beautiful part of the world

P

Peter

November 2025

11 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ilbilbie Station Farm Stay

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Ilbilbie Stn. The camping area was very well maintained & ran along each side of a beautiful creek with large trees. Even though the creek level was low, we still enjoyed a cooling dip. Hosts were friendly as too were the cows & horses.

P

Paul

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hold It Flats

Lovely sites so well kept one of the best sites l have say

K

Kait

November 2025

6 m pop-up camper

Group trip

2 nights at Hold It Flats

Perfect spot for a large group. Plenty of space, well kept and clean. Highly recommend!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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The best great views camping near Mackay guide

When to go

The cooler months of April to September are the best times to visit, as summer daytime temperatures can hit 35°C (95°F) and higher. Daytime temperatures and humidity can be high at any time of the year, while nights are generally cool. The area sometimes draws cyclones between November and April.

Know before you go

Do not feed agile wallabies or any other native animals on Cape Hillsborough Beach. Human food can make them sick, and they can also become aggressive if fed.
Take extreme care around waterfalls and fast-flowing streams, especially around Finch Hatton Gorge. Fatal accidents and serious injuries have occurred on slippery rocks and steep slopes.
Mackay offers a number of spots where you can stock up on supplies, in addition to a post office, pharmacy, visitor information centre, bank, and car hire companies.
Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forests, and reserves and must be booked online and paid for before arrival. Make camping bookings as early as possible, especially for around Christmas.