Camping in Magnetic Island: The 20 Best Campgrounds

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.

91% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

91% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

88%

(1160)

27 sites · Tents, RVs · Mutarnee, QLD

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 Caretaker Number is 0498 692 998 Stephen. Campers MUST provide car registration details at time of booking and display booking number on their windscreens. Close walk to natural swimming pools which are absolutely picturesque. We offer large shady spots with a few BBQ's, 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)

2. Crystal Ridge

97%

(565)

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. Coothara Farm

94%

(137)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

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.

4. Donnington Airpark

8 sites · RVs · Woodstock, QLD

Donnington Airpark is a 160-acre privately-owned airfield located at Woodstock, 40 km from Townsville on the Flinders Highway. It is home to a number of private aircraft and a couple of flying training organisations from Towsville use it for touch-and-go circuits, first solo etc. A monthly Social Fly-In Breakfast is staged (4th Sunday), which features visiting aircraft, occasional car/bike club displays, market stalls, hot food and coffee van plus special attractions or guest speakers and presentations (when available). There is ample level ground available for campers. Sunsets can be glorious (depending on the time of year). Kangaroos and wallabies visit daily, as does a variety of birdlife - crows, hawks, ibis, magpies, willy-wag-tails, pee-wees, finches, parrots, doves, kookaburras to name a few. The airpark is easily accessible from the highway and Townsville is only 40 km away for shopping, restaurants, Magnetic Island trips. Fuel is available at Caltex Calcium, 13 km towards Charters Towers. Donnington can be used for an overnight stay or base yourself here for a few days and radiate outwards to Townsville, Charters Towers, Ravenswood or the Burdekin.

5. Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

98%

(476)

245 sites · RVs · Toonpan, QLD

Welcome to our idyllic farm stay, where the best of both worlds awaits you just 15 minutes away from Kmart Idalia and a mere 25 minutes from the bustling Townsville city centre. Nestled in nature's embrace, our farm offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of majestic mountains and a constant, refreshing breeze that sweeps across the landscape. Our farm stay is a haven for both nature enthusiasts and city dwellers seeking a peaceful retreat. Picture waking up to the sight of rolling hills and the sounds of chirping birds, mooing cows, baaaing sheep all while being conveniently close to urban amenities. if your lucky enough the farm animals will come up to say hello at the fence lines For those traveling with furry companions, our dog-friendly farm stay features a securely fenced-off area, ensuring a worry-free environment for your four-legged friends. We also provide the option of dog day pens, allowing your pets to roam and play freely. Caravanning enthusiasts will find our farm to be an ideal stop, for those with fully self-contained setups. Embrace the freedom of the open road while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped farm stay. Our camp kitchen is available for your culinary needs, and fresh water is readily accessible to enhance your stay. Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of our farm stay. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a getaway, or a family on an adventure, our welcoming retreat promises an unforgettable experience. Come unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories at our Mountview farm stay oasis.

6. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville

88%

(25)

110 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Townsville, QLD

Enjoy the taste of the tropics and surround yourself with palm trees and landscaped gardens at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville. Located a short 10-minute drive from the airport and 16 kilometres from Townsville CBD, you’ll find the city’s main attractions, such as The Strand, Castle Hill and Botanic Gardens a delight. The holiday park is set up to make the most of the 320 days of sunshine North Queensland enjoys each year, with two resort-style pools and shaded gazebos for you to stay cool. The kids will be kept entertained with a water park, two playgrounds, a jumping cushion, volleyball court, basketball court, trikes and an 18-hole mini-golf course. To check-in, choose between cabins, villas, caravan sites or campgrounds. With enough amenities to keep everyone entertained, as well as BBQ areas and a children’s playground nearby, there’s plenty of places to prepare your daily meals and relax while keeping an eye on the little ones.

7. Crumpy's Place

99%

(36)

6 sites · RVs · Bluewater, QLD

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!

8. Our little peace of country

96%

(12)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

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.

9. Mount Elliot Park

96%

(114)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Shirbourne, QLD

We are now open after the weather event closure. We look forward to welcoming you! 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.

10. WillowVale Park

95%

(115)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Reid River, QLD

“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.

11. Mungalla Station

94%

(126)

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.

12. Magnetic Island Retreat campsite

83%

(27)

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!!

13. Forrest Beach Hotel Caravan Park

67%

(6)

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.

14. Cuddle Creek Homestead

91%

(11)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Yabulu, QLD

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

15. Mykitoville

83%

(3)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Just off the Bruce Highway, just 30 mins north of Townsville. It can be hot, it can be dusty, it can be noisy, it can be quiet, it could get wet. Fun will be had night & day. There are no facilities here, campers must be self contained and leave no trace. Take your waste with you! Pet welcome, on leash. You can have a contained campfire in the fire pit, please bring your own firewood.

16. Naturessence

1 site · Lodging · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

Naturessence is naturist accommodation in a self-contained Retreat. The Retreat has its own lounge/dining room, queen-size bedroom with ensuite, a kitchenette with a private deck overlooking Horseshoe Bay lagoon. We offer shared use of the mineral pool, the private yard and laundry. We are naturists ourselves and offer naturist accommodation only. Our property is located within walking distance (15 minutes) to Horseshoe Bay foreshore and shops, which includes a pub, two cafes, four restaurants, fish and chips shop, an enclosed patrolled swimming area and beach water hire activities. We are close to two unofficial naturist beaches, with arguably the best nudist beach in Australia (Balding Bay) a short 30 minute walk from our door.

17. Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

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

18. Magnetic Glamping Safari Tent 2

1 site · Lodging · Nelly Bay, QLD

Luxury Safari Tent 2, is a King size lodge. Ideal for couples, solo travellers and nature-loving friends Not suited to party groups or loud gatherings Designed for guests who value quiet, privacy and presence Limited availability by design This is glamping for people who don’t want crowds, noise or screens. Our safari-style tents are thoughtfully nestled into the natural landscape, surrounded by eucalypts, granite boulders and open sky. Days unfold slowly here — morning tea on your private deck, wildlife passing through, long lunches, golden-hour walks, and evenings softened by the sounds of the bush. Each tent is designed for comfort and calm, with proper beds, luxury linens, curated interiors, private bathrooms & Kitchenette and generous space to breathe. Nothing flashy. Nothing forced. Just a beautifully considered place to pause. Piping hot water. Magnetic Glamping is proudly eco-certified, operating with low impact and deep respect for the island we call home. Guests often tell us they arrive feeling busy — and leave feeling lighter. If you’re seeking a stay that feels grounded, private and quietly special, you’ll feel right at home here.

Camper favorites in and near Magnetic Island

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Forrest Beach Hotel Caravan Park

67%

(6)

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.

Cuddle Creek Homestead

91%

(11)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Yabulu, QLD

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

Mykitoville

83%

(3)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Just off the Bruce Highway, just 30 mins north of Townsville. It can be hot, it can be dusty, it can be noisy, it can be quiet, it could get wet. Fun will be had night & day. There are no facilities here, campers must be self contained and leave no trace. Take your waste with you! Pet welcome, on leash. You can have a contained campfire in the fire pit, please bring your own firewood.

Naturessence

1 site · Lodging · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

Naturessence is naturist accommodation in a self-contained Retreat. The Retreat has its own lounge/dining room, queen-size bedroom with ensuite, a kitchenette with a private deck overlooking Horseshoe Bay lagoon. We offer shared use of the mineral pool, the private yard and laundry. We are naturists ourselves and offer naturist accommodation only. Our property is located within walking distance (15 minutes) to Horseshoe Bay foreshore and shops, which includes a pub, two cafes, four restaurants, fish and chips shop, an enclosed patrolled swimming area and beach water hire activities. We are close to two unofficial naturist beaches, with arguably the best nudist beach in Australia (Balding Bay) a short 30 minute walk from our door.

Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

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

Magnetic Glamping Safari Tent 2

1 site · Lodging · Nelly Bay, QLD

Luxury Safari Tent 2, is a King size lodge. Ideal for couples, solo travellers and nature-loving friends Not suited to party groups or loud gatherings Designed for guests who value quiet, privacy and presence Limited availability by design This is glamping for people who don’t want crowds, noise or screens. Our safari-style tents are thoughtfully nestled into the natural landscape, surrounded by eucalypts, granite boulders and open sky. Days unfold slowly here — morning tea on your private deck, wildlife passing through, long lunches, golden-hour walks, and evenings softened by the sounds of the bush. Each tent is designed for comfort and calm, with proper beds, luxury linens, curated interiors, private bathrooms & Kitchenette and generous space to breathe. Nothing flashy. Nothing forced. Just a beautifully considered place to pause. Piping hot water. Magnetic Glamping is proudly eco-certified, operating with low impact and deep respect for the island we call home. Guests often tell us they arrive feeling busy — and leave feeling lighter. If you’re seeking a stay that feels grounded, private and quietly special, you’ll feel right at home here.

Stories from the community

Dam on site to enjoy or watch the wildlife go by

A

Angela

1 week ago

4 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Our little peace of country

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.

L

Leigh

2 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

Absolutely beautiful location. Very quiet and well kept.

C

Christopher

2 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

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.

J

Jackie

2 weeks ago

4 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

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

J

James

2 weeks ago

7 m Class B

Group trip

1 night at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville

Comfy spot, plenty of space, nice amenities and easy check in process. Overall very convenient

Mimi

2 weeks ago

9 m pop-up camper

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

★★★★★ 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.

F

Freya

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Mungalla Station

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 ☺️

J

Justin

3 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With kids

1 night at Coothara Farm

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.

C

Chris

November 2025

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

November 2025

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.

R

Rowan

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Our little peace of country

Jenny is an excellent host. She is super friendly and the property is lovely. We have returned for a second time because our first experience was so good. The kids love going down to the river which is just nearby the campsites. Definitely will return at some point maybe after the weather has cooled down.

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.

K

Kristy

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Crumpy's Place

Toni & Andrew were so lovely and made us feel very welcome. We have a 22ft van and two little kids and this stop was great for us. Flat enough land that we could stay hitched for our one night stop, also! Thanks guys!

P

Pam

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

With pets

12 nights at Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

Lovely peaceful place with very friendly hosts. Plenty of room to set up our van. We loved having access to the dog pens for our boy Yogi. So handy having the large washing machine available for $5 a load.

S

Steve

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

1 night at Crumpy's Place

The location was very convienent for us on travel home. It was very quiet and we enjoyed the wandering Geese and Chooks.

R

Raymond

October 2025

7 m Class A

2 nights at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville

Staff were amazing. Answers for everything Ensure site was new to us. Awesome.

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.

Leo

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Mount Elliot Park

We have stayed here a couple of times. Close to Townsville with a great little creek. We will be back again

S

Sophie

October 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville

Great location and good amenities. Staff were friendly and helpful.

Keita

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

Beautiful creek (although a little low currently), and nice wide open campground. Unfortunately some rubbish left from previous campers. Facilities fairly standard (2 female showers functional). You can hear some road noise throughout the night but easily tuned out. Outstanding sunsets.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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The best camping 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.

Popular Magnetic Island holidays

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Horseshoe Bay

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