- /
- Riverside RV
The best river, stream, or creek caravan sites in Magnetic Island
92% (1.4K) • 26 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Magnetic Island
Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
1. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
88%
(1172)
Mutarnee, QLD · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
Crystal Creek Campsite is a large camp area with private access to the creek. Large area with plenty of shade. Dog friendly (on a lead). Fires allowed
27/01/2026 WARNING .Water over road with heavy flash flooding in low areas , be aware when swimming and stay on destinated roads, Looks to be clearing
Caretaker Number is
0498 692 998 Stephen.
Close walk to natural swimming pools which are absolutely picturesque.
We offer large shady spots with , fire pits and amenities. Plenty of fishing and swimming to enjoy.
Amenities include hot showers (10 MINS ONLY PLEASE).
Access to campsite passes our school so please drive very slowly if your accessing campsite during school hours.
Children under 6 stay for free. Do not include them at time of booking.
Please read all information, rule and directions (provided once you have a confirmed booking)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
Crystal Ridge
2. Crystal Ridge
97%
(572)
Mutarnee, QLD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$49
/ night
Mungalla Station
3. Mungalla Station
94%
(126)
Forrest Beach, QLD · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
Mount Elliot Park
4. Mount Elliot Park
96%
(114)
Shirbourne, QLD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Due to this year's wet season, we are hoping to reopen mid-February 2026.
Mount Elliot Park is a working cattle property that offers a bush experience to approved individuals. Located in the Burdekin Shire we are based in one of Australia’s best Barra fishing and bird watching areas. Sites are based on a slashed grassed paddock with access to a clear flowing creek. Campers can relax with open fire and surrounded by the beautiful mountain backdrop.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$37
/ night
Crystal Creek Caravan Park
5. Crystal Creek Caravan Park
97%
(59)
Coolbie, QLD · 59 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our beautiful 5-hectare, family-owned caravan park, is located near the renowned and beautiful Crystal Creek in the North Queensland region of Hinchinbrook. A spacious, tropical park, with grassy green gardens and palm trees dotted throughout.
Enjoy access to the caravan park's amenities block which includes toilets and showers, a camp kitchen, and a laundry.
This park is right across the road from the Paluma National Park, little Crystal Creek, Big Crystal Creek, and numerous natural swimming holes. Right behind the park is a boat ramp, and the beach is 10 minutes away. You will have access to walking tracks, mountain bike trails, bird-watching, swimming, fishing, crabbing... the list is endless!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$55
/ night
Mam Easy Stay
6. Mam Easy Stay
85%
(26)
Townsville, QLD · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Aprox an acre of vacant land with creek access, flowing in wet season. Fruit trees, natural wildlife including kangaroos, black cockatoos and kookaburras plus Luci longdog, pool access, games room, access to shower and toilet if needed. Outdoor kitchen and weekend share meals, such as pizza, ribs, BBQ , seafood and homemade sausage rolls and pasties.
Friendly family hosts welcome to join for music and drinks by the fire pit in cooler months with a camp stew.
NRL games on big screen in bar area every weekend during season.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$50
/ night
Coothara Farm
7. Coothara Farm
94%
(137)
Black River, QLD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just outside Townsville, this rural farm setting features lots of wildlife. There is a dam in a shaded paddock next to the camping area. You can hang out with the horses, cows, chickens and many other animals.
The campsite is quiet, peaceful and relaxing. We even have a MH therapy cow, Nemoo! (bring your camera!)
Enjoy a yarn around the campfire (firewood available depending on season) or a swim in the dam!
This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own toilet/shower amenities and can run off grid.
The Townsville region has much to offer. There's a free swimming pool on the esplanade. If you're up for a walk or bike ride the esplanade takes you through the gardens on the water's edge. You can also take a cruise out to Magnetic Island.
Pets on leashes are welcome.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
AU$46
/ night
Magnetic Island Retreat campsite
8. Magnetic Island Retreat campsite
83%
(27)
Picnic Bay, QLD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!!
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
from
AU$49
/ night
Our little peace of country
9. Our little peace of country
96%
(12)
Black River, QLD · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Peace and quiet in the country, sit by the water to watch the wildlife. Black River is only 10 minutes to Bushland Beach or Saunders Beach, boating, great pubs, walk on the beach, coles or Woolworths shopping centre and takeaways. Only 30 minutes to Townsville City to access airport, shops, Magnetic Island, Cowboy's stadium. Drive 4 hours north to Cairns, Tablelands or south to Proserpine, Airlie Beach and Mackay.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Crumpy's Place
10. Crumpy's Place
99%
(38)
Bluewater, QLD · 6 sites
Welcome to Crumpy's Place!
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578169520135
Nothing fancy, just a safe and secure, friendly, and quiet place to stay for 1 night through to a couple of weeks. Set on 20 acres and based in Bluewater, just north of Townsville, we are semi-screened from the road and have easy RV or Campervan access assuming you don't mind using a simple gate. We cater to fully Self Contained guests only but we do have some basic services available depending on what spots are already taken, but generally access to:
- Water
- Power (at some sites only via leads at an additional charge)
- Common fire pit area
- Recyclable disposal only (no general rubbish or black water disposal - suggest empty before arrival at the free dump point only 1.5km away)
- Free firewood readily available if you have a saw/chainsaw and a willingness to use it!
- Pets on leashes allowed at some sites and may depend on breed/ other guests at the time to avoid conflict)
- There is a beach and boat ramp just a couple of minutes down the end of the road, and only 15 minutes or so to a variety of shops including Groceries, Bunnings, Supercheap Auto, and BCF
- You are welcome to pat the horses and say g'day to Angus, our humongous cow, all under the watchful remaining eye of Milo the Pug, the true Lord of our Manor!!
Bookings are essential so you don't miss out, but please feel free to call or email us for any further information, and we will be happy to help. Once booked please call 0481002100 5 or 10 minutes in advance of arrival so we can greet and guide you in. If we are unable to take your call don't worry about leaving a message - please just text and we'll come back to you as fast as possible.
We look forward to joining you around the fire pit at some point for a cold one and a yarn. Cheers, and Safe Travels all!
Water hookup
Pets
from
AU$25
/ night
WillowVale Park
11. WillowVale Park
95%
(116)
Reid River, QLD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
“WillowVale Park” is 200 acres set on the banks of the Reid River, QLD 4816. Half way between Townsville and Charters Towers on the Flinders Highway.
Private area suitable for camping, caravans, RV’s right on the river bank.
All year swimming, fishing, kayaking and canoeing.
- Camp fires permitted.
- Pets welcome but contained or restrained at all times.
- No toilets so must have own toilet.
- Groups bookings or up to two seperate camps at any one time.
- Push bike riding and Hiking areas available.
- Plenty of room to run for the kids.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Cuddle Creek Homestead
12. Cuddle Creek Homestead
91%
(11)
Yabulu, QLD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
28 acres of bliss in the bush.
Not too far from town, but far enough for peace and quiet.
Kids or adults can ride bikes around our tracks through the property.
You can go fishing off the bank from the back of the block, or alternatively you can put a boat in the creek with a boat ramp accessible only about 1 klm down the road.
from
AU$19
/ night
92% (1.4K) • 26 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Magnetic Island
Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
1. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
88%
(1172)
Mutarnee, QLD · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
Crystal Creek Campsite is a large camp area with private access to the creek. Large area with plenty of shade. Dog friendly (on a lead). Fires allowed
27/01/2026 WARNING .Water over road with heavy flash flooding in low areas , be aware when swimming and stay on destinated roads, Looks to be clearing
Caretaker Number is
0498 692 998 Stephen.
Close walk to natural swimming pools which are absolutely picturesque.
We offer large shady spots with , fire pits and amenities. Plenty of fishing and swimming to enjoy.
Amenities include hot showers (10 MINS ONLY PLEASE).
Access to campsite passes our school so please drive very slowly if your accessing campsite during school hours.
Children under 6 stay for free. Do not include them at time of booking.
Please read all information, rule and directions (provided once you have a confirmed booking)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
Crystal Ridge
2. Crystal Ridge
97%
(572)
Mutarnee, QLD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$49
/ night
Mungalla Station
3. Mungalla Station
94%
(126)
Forrest Beach, QLD · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
Mount Elliot Park
4. Mount Elliot Park
96%
(114)
Shirbourne, QLD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Due to this year's wet season, we are hoping to reopen mid-February 2026.
Mount Elliot Park is a working cattle property that offers a bush experience to approved individuals. Located in the Burdekin Shire we are based in one of Australia’s best Barra fishing and bird watching areas. Sites are based on a slashed grassed paddock with access to a clear flowing creek. Campers can relax with open fire and surrounded by the beautiful mountain backdrop.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$37
/ night
Crystal Creek Caravan Park
5. Crystal Creek Caravan Park
97%
(59)
Coolbie, QLD · 59 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our beautiful 5-hectare, family-owned caravan park, is located near the renowned and beautiful Crystal Creek in the North Queensland region of Hinchinbrook. A spacious, tropical park, with grassy green gardens and palm trees dotted throughout.
Enjoy access to the caravan park's amenities block which includes toilets and showers, a camp kitchen, and a laundry.
This park is right across the road from the Paluma National Park, little Crystal Creek, Big Crystal Creek, and numerous natural swimming holes. Right behind the park is a boat ramp, and the beach is 10 minutes away. You will have access to walking tracks, mountain bike trails, bird-watching, swimming, fishing, crabbing... the list is endless!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$55
/ night
Mam Easy Stay
6. Mam Easy Stay
85%
(26)
Townsville, QLD · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Aprox an acre of vacant land with creek access, flowing in wet season. Fruit trees, natural wildlife including kangaroos, black cockatoos and kookaburras plus Luci longdog, pool access, games room, access to shower and toilet if needed. Outdoor kitchen and weekend share meals, such as pizza, ribs, BBQ , seafood and homemade sausage rolls and pasties.
Friendly family hosts welcome to join for music and drinks by the fire pit in cooler months with a camp stew.
NRL games on big screen in bar area every weekend during season.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$50
/ night
Coothara Farm
7. Coothara Farm
94%
(137)
Black River, QLD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just outside Townsville, this rural farm setting features lots of wildlife. There is a dam in a shaded paddock next to the camping area. You can hang out with the horses, cows, chickens and many other animals.
The campsite is quiet, peaceful and relaxing. We even have a MH therapy cow, Nemoo! (bring your camera!)
Enjoy a yarn around the campfire (firewood available depending on season) or a swim in the dam!
This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own toilet/shower amenities and can run off grid.
The Townsville region has much to offer. There's a free swimming pool on the esplanade. If you're up for a walk or bike ride the esplanade takes you through the gardens on the water's edge. You can also take a cruise out to Magnetic Island.
Pets on leashes are welcome.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
AU$46
/ night
Magnetic Island Retreat campsite
8. Magnetic Island Retreat campsite
83%
(27)
Picnic Bay, QLD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!!
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
from
AU$49
/ night
Our little peace of country
9. Our little peace of country
96%
(12)
Black River, QLD · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Peace and quiet in the country, sit by the water to watch the wildlife. Black River is only 10 minutes to Bushland Beach or Saunders Beach, boating, great pubs, walk on the beach, coles or Woolworths shopping centre and takeaways. Only 30 minutes to Townsville City to access airport, shops, Magnetic Island, Cowboy's stadium. Drive 4 hours north to Cairns, Tablelands or south to Proserpine, Airlie Beach and Mackay.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Crumpy's Place
10. Crumpy's Place
99%
(38)
Bluewater, QLD · 6 sites
Welcome to Crumpy's Place!
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578169520135
Nothing fancy, just a safe and secure, friendly, and quiet place to stay for 1 night through to a couple of weeks. Set on 20 acres and based in Bluewater, just north of Townsville, we are semi-screened from the road and have easy RV or Campervan access assuming you don't mind using a simple gate. We cater to fully Self Contained guests only but we do have some basic services available depending on what spots are already taken, but generally access to:
- Water
- Power (at some sites only via leads at an additional charge)
- Common fire pit area
- Recyclable disposal only (no general rubbish or black water disposal - suggest empty before arrival at the free dump point only 1.5km away)
- Free firewood readily available if you have a saw/chainsaw and a willingness to use it!
- Pets on leashes allowed at some sites and may depend on breed/ other guests at the time to avoid conflict)
- There is a beach and boat ramp just a couple of minutes down the end of the road, and only 15 minutes or so to a variety of shops including Groceries, Bunnings, Supercheap Auto, and BCF
- You are welcome to pat the horses and say g'day to Angus, our humongous cow, all under the watchful remaining eye of Milo the Pug, the true Lord of our Manor!!
Bookings are essential so you don't miss out, but please feel free to call or email us for any further information, and we will be happy to help. Once booked please call 0481002100 5 or 10 minutes in advance of arrival so we can greet and guide you in. If we are unable to take your call don't worry about leaving a message - please just text and we'll come back to you as fast as possible.
We look forward to joining you around the fire pit at some point for a cold one and a yarn. Cheers, and Safe Travels all!
Water hookup
Pets
from
AU$25
/ night
WillowVale Park
11. WillowVale Park
95%
(116)
Reid River, QLD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
“WillowVale Park” is 200 acres set on the banks of the Reid River, QLD 4816. Half way between Townsville and Charters Towers on the Flinders Highway.
Private area suitable for camping, caravans, RV’s right on the river bank.
All year swimming, fishing, kayaking and canoeing.
- Camp fires permitted.
- Pets welcome but contained or restrained at all times.
- No toilets so must have own toilet.
- Groups bookings or up to two seperate camps at any one time.
- Push bike riding and Hiking areas available.
- Plenty of room to run for the kids.
Pets
Campfires
from
AU$43
/ night
Cuddle Creek Homestead
12. Cuddle Creek Homestead
91%
(11)
Yabulu, QLD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
28 acres of bliss in the bush.
Not too far from town, but far enough for peace and quiet.
Kids or adults can ride bikes around our tracks through the property.
You can go fishing off the bank from the back of the block, or alternatively you can put a boat in the creek with a boat ramp accessible only about 1 klm down the road.
from
AU$19
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Maree
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Amazing place, love it here and look forward to the next time.
See moreD
Dylan
3 weeks ago
5 m car
Great spot with immediate access to the creek! Easy to get there. Nice and secluded!!
See more
E
Elijah
January 2026
Tent
Group trip
Camp grounds were very well kept and nice quiet location. Lovely to see so much wildlife roaming the area and the horses on the way in were beautiful.
See more
R
Rodney
December 2025
5 m car
Group trip
Unfortunately we were rained out and nearly flooded in but the host Vaughn offerered to refund the fees. The site looked great and I cant wait yo get back there
See more
Natasha
December 2025
5 m car
With pets
We loved staying at crystal creek! The dogs had a wonderful time in the creek and the area was so clean and tidy we were able to park anywhere. The added facilities were perfect - thank you
See moreL
Leigh
December 2025
Tent
Group trip
Absolutely beautiful place. Well maintained. Went for the day only as weather was not great
See more
D
Dan
December 2025
7 m pop-up camper
Beautiful spot, we had it all to ourselves showers where hot and clean, creek was gorgeous to hang out in for the day
See more
A
Audrey
December 2025
Tent
Very warm welcome, we loved sleeping in nature, the geese, the wallabies in the morning. However, we found the price a bit excessive.
See more
Marine
December 2025
Tent
With pets
It’s always a pleasure to be back here, we love this campground. We were so lucky to have the unpowered side just for us! It is one of the very rare cheap campgrounds near Townsville that offers amenities, shade and a beautiful swimming hole. We’ve been here many times and will come back many more!
See more
B
Ben
December 2025
Nicola
December 2025
7 m Class B
With kids
Great spot, easy access to the river. Will stay there again.
See more
A
Angela
December 2025
4 m travel trailer
With pets
Jenny and her husband are very friendly and welcoming. We had the whole property to ourselves. There are plenty of spots on the block to choose from. Our dog really enjoyed herself also. It was easy to find, very peaceful with plenty of birds and wildlife.
It was a great spot for an overnight stay on our way through.
See more
L
Leigh
December 2025
5 m travel trailer
Absolutely beautiful location. Very quiet and well kept.
See more
C
Christopher
December 2025
6 m travel trailer
It's so peaceful and serene. We camped at the top (water and powered sites), and it was perfect. The booking process is very simple and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
See moreJ
Jackie
December 2025
4 m travel trailer
Perfect directions. We booked powered sites, unfortunately no shaded area for powered sites but luckily we had bought our own gazebo’s for shade. Bathroom amenities were clean, sensor light inside was great, so you didn't have to find light switch. Fresh water creek was nice for a quick dip.
Will be on our list of places to return. Thank you
See more
Mimi
December 2025
9 m pop-up camper
★★★★★
I recently had the pleasure of staying at this beautiful site, located just 45 minutes north of Townsville, in the peaceful hamlet of Mutarnee. The location along the banks of Crystal Creek made for a perfect escape from the heat and everyday life in suburbia. Getting there was straightforward through the single locked gate at entry and the track was easy to follow to our site. Our host Michael was super responsive with the gate code and other communication.
I stayed at Site 1 for three nights with my husky, Mia and we both absolutely loved it. The site is incredibly well-maintained, with a solid concrete slab that made setting up camp a breeze. The flat surrounds and easy access to the creek were perfect for us – we both enjoyed splashing around in the clear, refreshingly cool water. It’s a great spot if you’re after some relaxation in nature with the sounds of the birds to keep you company.
The peacefulness and privacy of the area is one of its biggest pros. It’s far enough from the highway to ensure background noise pollution is only from occasional local traffic, but little enough to not detract from the serenity. We met the super friendly cows – Mia had her first cow kiss and even the bull came up to the fence for a friendly pat. There’s a rooster in residence as well, but we beat him up every morning for our sunrise walk.
I’ll definitely be returning and I highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful camping experience by a beautiful crystal clear creek.
See more
F
Freya
December 2025
Tent
Wow what a place! Absolutely stunning scenery & a huge thank you to TC who was super friendly and let us stay under cover due to the storm. Will definitely return ☺️
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J
Justin
November 2025
7 m Class A
With kids
5 star experience! We really appreciated the chance to see a little glimpse of life on the property, and the kids absolutely loved helping with the animals. Meeting all animals was such a special experience for them — and for us as well.
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A
Anne
November 2025
6 m travel trailer
We loved this place. Definitely our favourite campsite so far. Beautifully kept, totally tranquil and spotlessly clean.
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Chris
November 2025
5 m pop-up camper
With pets
A beautiful peaceful place to camp, right on the edge of the creek.
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The best river, stream, or creek caravan sites in Magnetic Island guide
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.