- Riverside Camping
The best river, stream, or creek camping near Nelly Bay
94% (1.4K) • 129 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Nelly Bay
Our little peace of country
1. Our little peace of country
96%
(13)
23km from Nelly Bay · 6 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
Coothara Farm
2. Coothara Farm
94%
(137)
23km from Nelly Bay · 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
Black River Bush Retreat
3. Black River Bush Retreat
99%
(83)
24km from Nelly Bay · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
A perfect spot to relax under the stars! A private bush camp experience with a seasonal creek, mango orchard and dam.
Pitch your tent or set up your caravan either down near the dam, in a secluded bush setting, or closer to the house yard depending on what you prefer.
Enjoy a bush walk around the property, taking in the natural Australian bush environment and enjoy the native wildlife. You may find kookaburras, king fishers, lizards, goannas and wallabies while exploring and can relax by a crackling fire at night.
Help feed the farm animals when the owners are home. The goats love a good scratch!
Each camp site is private with no other campers booked in the space on the same day.
Guests are required to be fully self sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure.
Property has secure key pad access.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Cuddle Creek Homestead
4. Cuddle Creek Homestead
91%
(11)
27km from Nelly Bay · 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.
Crumpy's Place
5. Crumpy's Place
99%
(38)
30km from Nelly Bay · 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
Crystal Ridge
6. Crystal Ridge
97%
(575)
62km from Nelly Bay · 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
Crystal Creek Caravan Park
7. Crystal Creek Caravan Park
98%
(61)
64km from Nelly Bay · 50 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
WillowVale Park
8. WillowVale Park
95%
(117)
69km from Nelly Bay · 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
Mungalla Station
9. Mungalla Station
94%
(126)
82km from Nelly Bay · 15 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
Mam Easy Stay
10. Mam Easy Stay
85%
(26)
28km from Nelly Bay · 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
Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
11. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
88%
(1181)
64km from Nelly Bay · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
How fantastic is the weather !! See you soon
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.
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
94% (1.4K) • 129 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Nelly Bay
Our little peace of country
1. Our little peace of country
96%
(13)
23km from Nelly Bay · 6 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
Coothara Farm
2. Coothara Farm
94%
(137)
23km from Nelly Bay · 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
Black River Bush Retreat
3. Black River Bush Retreat
99%
(83)
24km from Nelly Bay · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
A perfect spot to relax under the stars! A private bush camp experience with a seasonal creek, mango orchard and dam.
Pitch your tent or set up your caravan either down near the dam, in a secluded bush setting, or closer to the house yard depending on what you prefer.
Enjoy a bush walk around the property, taking in the natural Australian bush environment and enjoy the native wildlife. You may find kookaburras, king fishers, lizards, goannas and wallabies while exploring and can relax by a crackling fire at night.
Help feed the farm animals when the owners are home. The goats love a good scratch!
Each camp site is private with no other campers booked in the space on the same day.
Guests are required to be fully self sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure.
Property has secure key pad access.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Cuddle Creek Homestead
4. Cuddle Creek Homestead
91%
(11)
27km from Nelly Bay · 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.
Crumpy's Place
5. Crumpy's Place
99%
(38)
30km from Nelly Bay · 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
Crystal Ridge
6. Crystal Ridge
97%
(575)
62km from Nelly Bay · 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
Crystal Creek Caravan Park
7. Crystal Creek Caravan Park
98%
(61)
64km from Nelly Bay · 50 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
WillowVale Park
8. WillowVale Park
95%
(117)
69km from Nelly Bay · 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
Mungalla Station
9. Mungalla Station
94%
(126)
82km from Nelly Bay · 15 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
Mam Easy Stay
10. Mam Easy Stay
85%
(26)
28km from Nelly Bay · 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
Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
11. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds
88%
(1181)
64km from Nelly Bay · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
How fantastic is the weather !! See you soon
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.
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
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
I
Ian
1 week ago
8 m travel trailer
Lovely spot near the dam and thank you Jenny for the fruit. Very kind of you.
See more
C
Chris
2 weeks ago
Dy
2 weeks ago
6 m campervan
Great spot! Disappointed the taps in the camping area have been removed though. Also there are lots of sandflies midgies etc so bring your bug spray 😁
See moreDy
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great spot. Wish there were taps available otherwise very peaceful. Be warned lots of sandflies/ midgies
See more
Tania
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great spot to spend a few nights, only thing is there’s no water taps around the camp grounds
See more
S
Sarah
3 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
With kids
We stayed there after needing a quiet getaway. Park was very clean and tidy and not overcrowded. Son swam in the pool and played with the kids bikes and scooters available. The owners were lovely and also make homemade pies, which we took home to feed the wider family - a bit hit and very nice! Would stay again!!
See moreB
Brett
March 2026
7 m pop-up camper
With pets
Great spot. Great swim. Very easy access Highly reccomend
See moreM
Melanie
March 2026
Tent
Beautiful shady camp ground, clean toilets and showers. Great spot!
See more
J
Joanne
March 2026
7 m pop-up camper
Just off the highway and easy to reach. Very well cared for. Amenities extremely clean. The managers were welcoming and helpful 😁
See more
Lenore
February 2026
Tent
With pets
Amazing spot very well kept, relaxing, hot showers and clean toilets! Creek is amazing! Recomend a night time swim beautiful, rain drops shining on the surface of the water in the moonlight and firer flies in the air 😊😁🤗
See more
Maree
February 2026
Tent
With pets
Amazing place, love it here and look forward to the next time.
See moreD
Dylan
February 2026
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 moreR
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
