Camping in Magnetic Island, Queensland: Best Magnetic Island Campgrounds 2023

Australia
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Queensland
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Magnetic Island

95% (2609 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Magnetic Island

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds in Magnetic Island

95%

(374)

Bee Haven

11 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Oak Valley, Townsville

Semi-rural property set on 22 acres. We offer a camping ground it is not a caravan park. Limited numbers, no crowding. Oak Valley is only 20 minutes from Townsville CBD and 10 minutes to the nearest major shopping centre. The campsites are nestled along a shady tree-lined creek looking out over native flora and fauna. Relax in the afternoon with a beverage as the sun rays move across the mountain tops. Sit by a warm fire in complete darkness with the sky lit up by stars. During the day explore the creek line and Billabongs. The property is surrounded by wildlife, therefor you will see large areas of land that are unspoilt with long native grasses . Also some friendly farm animals. Suitable for RVs camper trailers and tents. Groups are welcome. There is plenty of room for push bike riding and outdoor games. Property is home to bush turkeys, kangaroos, wallabies possums reptiles and many bird species and fish life. Dog friendly. Flushing toilet available. Plenty of firewood to gather your own, bring a saw as large logs.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(3)

Pete’s Lookout

6 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Townsville, Townsville

Located on the Eastern foothills of Mt Stuart, Pete’s lookout consists of six separate campsites, each with a spectacular view. The panorama stretches from Cape Bowling Green, through to Castle Hill and Magnetic Island, all the way to Pallaranda and Many Peaks. Relax in the idealic open Eucalyptus forest as you enjoy the views. You will feel like you are 1000 miles away, but only have a short 25 minute drive from Townsville to get here.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(25)

Tully Mountain Views

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Djarawong, Cassowary Coast

Our property is located 10 minutes north of Tully & 20 minutes to the beautiful Mission Beach, we are close to the highway so travellers can rest and enjoy our views. Camp sites are located around the dam & waterfall with views of the Tully mountains & Tully town with the mill stacks in the far distance. Come and enjoy our peaceful spot. It is a 5 minute drive to Alligators Nest which is the local swimming hole with crystal clear water but with no alligators, or try our local Feluga Pub for a coldie or a great pub meal a few minutes up the road. So come breathe in the fresh air and wake up the sounds of our beautiful bush birds. Please take all rubbish with you on departure.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(447)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Whitsunday

Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(51)

Clearview

6 sites · RVs, Tents350 acres · Dingo Pocket, QLD

We are a working cattle property with extensive permaculture inspired production gardens. Our goals are towards regenerating the land and being as self sufficient and organic in production as possible. We encourage you leave lasting marks on the farm by being apart of our regeneration, self sufficient projects, we provide the first hand experiences to our farming lifestyle and volunteer our knowledge to encourage everyone to do their part to a more sustainable future. Situated 15 minutes from the North Queensland town of Tully, on record as being the wettest places in Queensland. We also encourage you to explore our 350 acres of bushland, rainforest and open grasslands or used us as a base to explore the surrounding environment including the stunning Tully Gorge National Park or the beautiful Mission Beach and Dunk Island or just chill out and relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding farmland. Our campsites have near 300-degree views of the surrounding Tully Valley, down private gullies or open grasslands. Other options in the area include sky diving, white water rafting, bush or coastal walking, swimming in pristine fresh or saltwater or star gazing this region has it all. Pets are welcome but must be under control at all times. We have a passion for the environment, agriculture and reducing the amount of waste created by humans, we try to reuse and repurposing as much of our own and others waste as possible. You can follow our progress to transform our farm on the Facebook page Clearview - Tully. We are fully off-grid, so you will need to be fully self-contained, a dump point and laundry mat is available in Tully if required. Campfires permitted.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(183)

Mena Creek River Retreat Camp

10 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Germantown, Cassowary Coast

Our campsites are on a private horse property with pristine creek access and a beautiful spring. We are dog friendly.Enjoy beautiful grassed areas overlooking the property, or down by the creek, accessible to all campers.Please note that property access is generally suited to 4WDs, with some areas ok if you're towing a camping trailer with high clearance. Please check with us if unsure or if the weather has not been favourable.Please be mindful of our neighbours when driving to our property as there is a short distance of dirt, please drive slow not to kick up dust past the neighbouring houses. When you arrive at our property please be mindful of small children and animals roaming the grounds. There are pristine creek views from most of the camp sites, meaning you will be waking to the lovely sound of running water. There is also a beautiful spring for swimming. We are dog friendly, and can offer pet sitting. We ask you to please text us your arrival times the night before you are coming to make sure your arrival time will suit and to check on the weather for access.Children under 7 stay for free.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(101)

Katecallan

4 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Ravenshoe, Tablelands

This rainforest property is 6 kms from the highest town in Qld, Ravenshoe. Lawler Creek winds through the property with campsites next to the creek or away. The campsites around the property suit self-contained campers who bring their own camping toilet/shower, and drinking water supply. This rainforest property is 6 kms from the highest town in Qld, Ravenshoe. Lawler Creek winds through the property with campsites next to the creek or away. No pets please. Platypus Bend This campsite would accommodate multiple camper vans and cars, and is located on the bend of the creek with steps down into the water. There are large trees and abundant bird life, and you may spot a platypus if lucky. A large fire pit is set up for all your camp oven cooking. Chirpy Camp This is a very private camp for tent or a roof top camper, maximum 2 people. Camp by the creek and enjoy the birdlife, and peace and quite. There is an open fire available and plenty of wood to collect. Chicken Run Camp This is a peaceful campsite, with plenty of timber for an open fire, and flat grassy areas. It's a short walk to creek. Abundant bird life. Wake up to the rooster crowing, goats baaing and birds chirping. Enjoy the evenings around the campfire.

* Before taxes and fees

97%

(73)

Bowen Base Camp

8 sites · RVs10 acres · Bowen, Whitsunday

Welcome to the Whitsundays. Relax in country surroundings. We are located 10 minutes from the Don River where you can go 4WD driving and find some top swimming holes. Conveniently we are also 10 minutes into Bowen business centre for all your supply needs. Bowen is a relaxed town with old architecture and wide streets. The coastline is postcard perfect with turquoise water and white sandy beaches. There are beautiful beaches all around Bowen for swimming and snorkelling - checking out the small reefs close to shore is a must. Or just relax in front of the campfire with your dog.Explore Horseshoe Bay, Murrays Bay, Rose Bay, Grays, Kings and Queens Beaches, the Town Beach and Dalrymple Point. The local pubs offer great meals in beer gardens.You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet/shower, water and supplies.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(15)

Kurrimine Beach Bums Retreat

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Kurrimine Beach, QLD

This campsite suits guests in caravans, campervans and RV ,that are able to be self sufficient, ie shower and own toilets. off grid set up We have sites close to the main house that provide shade from the state forest or 2 acres of flat grassed areas a few hundred mtrs away . We have a large lap pool to use and fire pit area ,to enjoy in the evenings while chatting to other guests We have 2 Airbnb accommodation property's so at times your sharing the outdoor areas with guests. There is a bush shower for use hot water at a small $2.00 fee per shower We are 1klm from the beach and boat ramps ,and a 3 minute drive to the king reef pub. Pack packer and travellers welcome ,but should use the bush shower and the male and female toilets in the pool area . camping sites are $20.00 per night per couple including use off pool and amenities We are not able to provide power or water is not available to fill up your caravans /Rvs ect while staying at our property .

* Before taxes and fees

90%

(5)

Wonderland

4 sites · Tents10 acres · Mission Beach, QLD

Wonderland is only 9.5km from Mission Beach set on 12 acres of farm land and beautiful rainforest. The camp ground is nestled on the fringe of the rainforest with a beautiful little sandy creek. Must be self sufficient and take your rubbish with you. We have clean running water at taps around grounds.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(58)

Bramston Beach Passion Patch Bush Camping

6 sites · Tents100 acres · Bramston Beach, Cairns

We are a passionfruit farm located less than 1 km from the beautiful Bramston Beach. Situated on 100 acres part of which is World Heritage listed rainforest. There are six unique camp spots on the property featuring beach, rainforest or parkland views. Three spots are for the more adventurous and a 4WD is required ~ you won't be disappointed.This property suits self contained campers only (no toilet or shower facilities). These sites are unpowered but fresh water is available as there is a cold outdoor shower. We are children and dog friendly. Kids stay free!When you make a booking it is important to follow the directions you receive on your booking confirmation, there is poor Telstra coverage (Optus ok) and you must call 15 minutes before arrival so we can meet you at the gate.Also can you tell us the sort of camping rig you have.Thanks Ken & Eve

* Before taxes and fees

92%

(55)

TROPIKARMA camping & music

114 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Bramston Beach, Cairns

Welcome to TROPIKARMA camping and music at Bramston Beach Rainforest. The views of the rainforest are magnificent, and the peaceful serenity is the first thing you'll feel. We welcome self-contained caravans and tents, motorhomes etc. we now have a large open field available ideal for groups of campers as well as the secluded spots listed. NEW for 2023 is our entertainment room/camp kitchen. We encourage muso's to play together here acoustically and we have a stage for some events. Musos can and will gather any day or evening of the week. We are aiming at Folk, Country and traditional music not modern, and we have a friendly regular Saturday muso jam from 10am with no fixed finish time. Any instrument and voices welcome to join in. Usually its Guitars, Ukuleles, Banjo, Harmonica and voices etc. https://www.facebook.com/groups/530919777048594/?multi_permalinks=2552138081593410&ref=share Music is usually acoustic, and noise does not reach or disturb the camping areas. entertainment room is open daily from 8am to 8pm. unless we have a special event on and times can be extended. Ukuleles and accessories are for sale and introductory lesson free with every instrument. re-stringing & setting up your ukulele is also available. This beautiful property is set in 100 acres of beautiful rainforest. There is wonderful birdsong and forest walks set in lush rainforest. We grow exotic fruits in the cleared areas & there is surplus fruit seasonally for sale. We invite you to enjoy and share our rainforest setting near the ocean. Pets must be kept on a lead at all times as we have vulnerable wildlife, cassowary, wallabies etc. living here too. The cassowary do wander through the property with chicks and feed on the rainforest fruits which is one of the reasons why we strictly don't allow dogs off leash at any time here. There is an off-leash area at the beach. There are seasonal creeks with beautiful waterfalls within the property to explore. Please check your site on foot for ground condition & overhanging trees before driving in especially in the wet season, although most sites are very well drained.

* Before taxes and fees

Under $50

95%

(374)

Bee Haven

11 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Oak Valley, Townsville

Semi-rural property set on 22 acres. We offer a camping ground it is not a caravan park. Limited numbers, no crowding. Oak Valley is only 20 minutes from Townsville CBD and 10 minutes to the nearest major shopping centre. The campsites are nestled along a shady tree-lined creek looking out over native flora and fauna. Relax in the afternoon with a beverage as the sun rays move across the mountain tops. Sit by a warm fire in complete darkness with the sky lit up by stars. During the day explore the creek line and Billabongs. The property is surrounded by wildlife, therefor you will see large areas of land that are unspoilt with long native grasses . Also some friendly farm animals. Suitable for RVs camper trailers and tents. Groups are welcome. There is plenty of room for push bike riding and outdoor games. Property is home to bush turkeys, kangaroos, wallabies possums reptiles and many bird species and fish life. Dog friendly. Flushing toilet available. Plenty of firewood to gather your own, bring a saw as large logs.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(25)

Tully Mountain Views

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Djarawong, Cassowary Coast

Our property is located 10 minutes north of Tully & 20 minutes to the beautiful Mission Beach, we are close to the highway so travellers can rest and enjoy our views. Camp sites are located around the dam & waterfall with views of the Tully mountains & Tully town with the mill stacks in the far distance. Come and enjoy our peaceful spot. It is a 5 minute drive to Alligators Nest which is the local swimming hole with crystal clear water but with no alligators, or try our local Feluga Pub for a coldie or a great pub meal a few minutes up the road. So come breathe in the fresh air and wake up the sounds of our beautiful bush birds. Please take all rubbish with you on departure.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(51)

Clearview

6 sites · RVs, Tents350 acres · Dingo Pocket, QLD

We are a working cattle property with extensive permaculture inspired production gardens. Our goals are towards regenerating the land and being as self sufficient and organic in production as possible. We encourage you leave lasting marks on the farm by being apart of our regeneration, self sufficient projects, we provide the first hand experiences to our farming lifestyle and volunteer our knowledge to encourage everyone to do their part to a more sustainable future. Situated 15 minutes from the North Queensland town of Tully, on record as being the wettest places in Queensland. We also encourage you to explore our 350 acres of bushland, rainforest and open grasslands or used us as a base to explore the surrounding environment including the stunning Tully Gorge National Park or the beautiful Mission Beach and Dunk Island or just chill out and relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding farmland. Our campsites have near 300-degree views of the surrounding Tully Valley, down private gullies or open grasslands. Other options in the area include sky diving, white water rafting, bush or coastal walking, swimming in pristine fresh or saltwater or star gazing this region has it all. Pets are welcome but must be under control at all times. We have a passion for the environment, agriculture and reducing the amount of waste created by humans, we try to reuse and repurposing as much of our own and others waste as possible. You can follow our progress to transform our farm on the Facebook page Clearview - Tully. We are fully off-grid, so you will need to be fully self-contained, a dump point and laundry mat is available in Tully if required. Campfires permitted.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(447)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Whitsunday

Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(3)

Pete’s Lookout

6 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Townsville, Townsville

Located on the Eastern foothills of Mt Stuart, Pete’s lookout consists of six separate campsites, each with a spectacular view. The panorama stretches from Cape Bowling Green, through to Castle Hill and Magnetic Island, all the way to Pallaranda and Many Peaks. Relax in the idealic open Eucalyptus forest as you enjoy the views. You will feel like you are 1000 miles away, but only have a short 25 minute drive from Townsville to get here.

* Before taxes and fees

Star Hosts in Magnetic Island

100%

(3)

Pete’s Lookout

6 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Townsville, Townsville

Located on the Eastern foothills of Mt Stuart, Pete’s lookout consists of six separate campsites, each with a spectacular view. The panorama stretches from Cape Bowling Green, through to Castle Hill and Magnetic Island, all the way to Pallaranda and Many Peaks. Relax in the idealic open Eucalyptus forest as you enjoy the views. You will feel like you are 1000 miles away, but only have a short 25 minute drive from Townsville to get here.

* Before taxes and fees

95%

(374)

Bee Haven

11 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Oak Valley, Townsville

Semi-rural property set on 22 acres. We offer a camping ground it is not a caravan park. Limited numbers, no crowding. Oak Valley is only 20 minutes from Townsville CBD and 10 minutes to the nearest major shopping centre. The campsites are nestled along a shady tree-lined creek looking out over native flora and fauna. Relax in the afternoon with a beverage as the sun rays move across the mountain tops. Sit by a warm fire in complete darkness with the sky lit up by stars. During the day explore the creek line and Billabongs. The property is surrounded by wildlife, therefor you will see large areas of land that are unspoilt with long native grasses . Also some friendly farm animals. Suitable for RVs camper trailers and tents. Groups are welcome. There is plenty of room for push bike riding and outdoor games. Property is home to bush turkeys, kangaroos, wallabies possums reptiles and many bird species and fish life. Dog friendly. Flushing toilet available. Plenty of firewood to gather your own, bring a saw as large logs.

* Before taxes and fees

98%

(51)

Clearview

6 sites · RVs, Tents350 acres · Dingo Pocket, QLD

We are a working cattle property with extensive permaculture inspired production gardens. Our goals are towards regenerating the land and being as self sufficient and organic in production as possible. We encourage you leave lasting marks on the farm by being apart of our regeneration, self sufficient projects, we provide the first hand experiences to our farming lifestyle and volunteer our knowledge to encourage everyone to do their part to a more sustainable future. Situated 15 minutes from the North Queensland town of Tully, on record as being the wettest places in Queensland. We also encourage you to explore our 350 acres of bushland, rainforest and open grasslands or used us as a base to explore the surrounding environment including the stunning Tully Gorge National Park or the beautiful Mission Beach and Dunk Island or just chill out and relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding farmland. Our campsites have near 300-degree views of the surrounding Tully Valley, down private gullies or open grasslands. Other options in the area include sky diving, white water rafting, bush or coastal walking, swimming in pristine fresh or saltwater or star gazing this region has it all. Pets are welcome but must be under control at all times. We have a passion for the environment, agriculture and reducing the amount of waste created by humans, we try to reuse and repurposing as much of our own and others waste as possible. You can follow our progress to transform our farm on the Facebook page Clearview - Tully. We are fully off-grid, so you will need to be fully self-contained, a dump point and laundry mat is available in Tully if required. Campfires permitted.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(25)

Tully Mountain Views

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Djarawong, Cassowary Coast

Our property is located 10 minutes north of Tully & 20 minutes to the beautiful Mission Beach, we are close to the highway so travellers can rest and enjoy our views. Camp sites are located around the dam & waterfall with views of the Tully mountains & Tully town with the mill stacks in the far distance. Come and enjoy our peaceful spot. It is a 5 minute drive to Alligators Nest which is the local swimming hole with crystal clear water but with no alligators, or try our local Feluga Pub for a coldie or a great pub meal a few minutes up the road. So come breathe in the fresh air and wake up the sounds of our beautiful bush birds. Please take all rubbish with you on departure.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(447)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Whitsunday

Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.

* Before taxes and fees

”

Camping in Magnetic Island guide

Just eight kilometres and 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville, Magnetic Island (“Maggie” to locals) is a national park offering watersports, hiking, history, and wildlife in abundance. Several small settlements, the largest of which is Nelly Bay, are surrounded by eucalyptus woods, rainforest, and granite tors where koalas are easily spotted, and rock wallabies are often seen in the early morning. Outdoor activities are heavily water-based: snorkelling and swimming at about 20 bays and beaches, plus sailing, waterskiing, parasailing, scuba diving, kayaking, and fishing.

Where to Go

Horseshoe Bay

Bungalow Bay Koala Village at Horseshoe Bay is the only camping ground on Magnetic Island. Home to a wildlife sanctuary where you can visit koalas, a python, or a small saltwater crocodile, the campground also offers ranger-guided bush walks to explore nearby habitats and learn the history of the area’s traditional owners, the Wulgurukaba people.

Nelly Bay–Arcadia Trail

One of the best and most popular of the island’s 36-km network of hiking trails is the Nelly Bay–Arcadia Trail, a one-way journey of 5 km (3 miles) that takes between two and three hours to complete. The World War II fortifications provide an interesting setting for part of the trail, a likely place to spot koalas in the wild. (The best koala spotting is on the track up to the Forts off Horseshoe Bay Road.) And at the top are terrific 360-degree views of the Coral Sea and Bowling Green Bay National Park.

Geoffrey Bay

Geoffrey Bay offers excellent snorkelling, straight off the beach. Local shops offer “swim cards” to strap to your wrist—these carry useful information about the coral and fish you can see. For strong swimmers, the wreck of the World War II plane Moltke is another good snorkelling spot.

When to Go

Townsville can be hot and humid in summer (December to February)—and sometimes in the path of cyclones—but is spared the worst of the wet-season rains and claims 300 days of sunshine a year. Magnetic Island tends to be cooler with more breezes. The best months to visit are May to September, when the weather is cool and the seas are free of the toxic marine stingers that can prevent ocean swimming without special stinger suits.

Know Before You Go

Magnetic Island is not on the Great Barrier Reef, but the surrounding waters are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The best reef snorkeling is at Florence Bay, Arthur Bay and Geoffrey Bay.
Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forests, and reserves. Book your spot online and in advance.
Despite its size and popularity, there is no information centre on Magnetic Island. Try the one at Townsville Bulletin Square instead if you need assistance.
Magnetic Island Bus Services will get you anywhere on the island for just a few dollars, but many visitors prefer the freedom of hiring a mini-moke (an open-sided vehicle similar to a golf cart) to get around. You’ll see them all over the island.