The best campgrounds near Nelly Bay, Queensland with a private bathroom

In Nelly Bay, you’ll find over 370 camping spots with toilets—no digging required. Expect options from $25 a night, with the average sitting around $105. The terrain is a mix of bushland and open paddocks, so you can set up near shady gums or open skies. Top picks like Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds (629 reviews), Mount Surround Campground (592 reviews), and Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles (271 reviews) get high marks from campers who want toilets without sacrificing a bush experience. Bring your dog, enjoy a hot shower, and spend your days hiking, climbing, or casting a line. Facilities are straightforward, and rubbish bins are usually on hand. If you care about comfort but want to keep it real, Nelly Bay’s camping scene balances both.

90% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Nelly Bay, you’ll find over 370 camping spots with toilets—no digging required. Expect options from $25 a night, with the average sitting around $105. The terrain is a mix of bushland and open paddocks, so you can set up near shady gums or open skies. Top picks like Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds (629 reviews), Mount Surround Campground (592 reviews), and Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles (271 reviews) get high marks from campers who want toilets without sacrificing a bush experience. Bring your dog, enjoy a hot shower, and spend your days hiking, climbing, or casting a line. Facilities are straightforward, and rubbish bins are usually on hand. If you care about comfort but want to keep it real, Nelly Bay’s camping scene balances both.

90% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Mount Surround Campground

98%

(1382)

43km from Nelly Bay · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · Mount Surround, QLD

Formerly known as "Mountain View Lake holiday park". Relax in this peaceful, family friendly campground, nestled in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range and nearby Mount Elliot. Enjoy the 70 Acres of shady grounds with plenty of wildlife, including pretty faced wallabies and abundant birdlife. Located conveniently 45kms south of Townsville and Magnetic Island ferry terminal,45km north of Ayr and 8km north of Giru. The 20-acre dam is very dry at the moment (November/December) , with lots of weeds and Lilly pads. Birds are loving it! On arrival, powered sites, please phone our on-site caretaker Dylan 0488 611 706, and he can assist you to find a spot that suits you and your group. Unpowered sites can choose anywhere suitable for them. We do have internet reception. Occasionally reception can be weak depending on what the network is doing. Generally, it is not a problem. Bring Mosquito/sandfly spray especially if camping by the lake. Campfires allowed. Wood for sale, $10 cash per milk crate, from camp kitchen. Please be honest and place cash in the "Honesty Box". Fire rings are available at the sites. Please leave them where they are as moving them is destroying the surrounding areas. Thankyou. Pet friendly. Due to our wildlife all dogs must be on a lead or tethered by a rope and under owners' control at all times. Dog poo must be picked up. No one wants to step in your dog's poo. Separate men and women's toilets and hot showers. Camp kitchen with shared fridges, gas rings x2, large gas BBQ, toaster, kettle, microwave and picnic tables. BYO cooking gear, plates, cups, utensils. Washing up sinks x2 -cold water only. Laundry tubs have hot water that can be used in kitchen sink. Coin washing machines available. $4 a wash ($1- and $2-coins, BYO coins)

2. Crystal Creek Nywaigi Camp Grounds

88%

(1156)

64km from Nelly Bay · 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)

3. Bush Retreat

100%

(43)

3km from Nelly Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

Our property backs onto the National Park of Magnetic island. Wallabies roam through the yard daily and sometimes you will see a koala strolling past. There is a fire pit and a shared outdoor bathroom which is a highlight on the property. Easy walk down to the beach or up to the forts walks. Water and power is available.

4. Blue Tiger Campsite Magnetic Island

100%

(1)

3.3km from Nelly Bay · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

Our 10-acre undeveloped property is just a short walk from stunning Horseshoe Bay with its charming shops, cafés, and restaurants. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, casual dining, or a cozy café, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. If you have access to transport—or choose to take the convenient bus that stops at the end of our street—Alma, Nelly, and Picnic Bay offer even more opportunities for great food, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, watersports, shopping, and more. Nestled privately among pandanus stands and tall native eucalypts, our sites offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience. Wake up to the soothing sounds of nature and enjoy abundant wildlife all around you. Each site is selected for both relaxation and adventure, providing individual privacy as well as access to marked bush trails, the lagoon boardwalk, and the stunning sandy stretch of Horseshoe Bay beach. Our campsite features well-maintained facilities, including an environmentally friendly green toilet and an outdoor shower stall where you can watch wildlife wander by as you go about your daily routines. Enjoy a bonfire under the stars and embrace the laid-back island vibe of "Maggie."

5. Mungalla Station

94%

(125)

82km from Nelly Bay · 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.

6. Crystal Creek Caravan Park

97%

(59)

64km from Nelly Bay · 59 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Coolbie, QLD

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!

7. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville

88%

(24)

22km from Nelly Bay · 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.

8. Mam Easy Stay

84%

(25)

28km from Nelly Bay · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Townsville, QLD

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.

9. Forrest Beach Hotel Caravan Park

67%

(6)

76km from Nelly Bay · 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.

10. BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park

18km from Nelly Bay · 177 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Townsville, QLD

Welcome to BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park A tranquil holiday park just outside of Townsville in sunny Queensland. Shady native trees and beautiful birdlife provide the perfect setting to help you unwind on your tropical holiday. Features -Swimming Pool -Camp Kitchen -BBQ Facilities -Laundry Facilities -Kiosk -TV Room -Dump Point -Pet Friendly* -WiFi Our range of accommodation options include unpowered and powered sites, studio cabins and 1 and 2 bedroom units. We also have dog friendly cabins available.

11. Black River Outback Ranch

100%

(1)

30km from Nelly Bay · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Beautiful black river, quiet, access to black river; can 4wd and quad bike ride; swim in the river, three dams on the property, food truck on the property kebabs and pizzas, fire pit, away from city but only a 15 minute drive to local shops or 30 minutes to see the city centre. Saunders beach is only 13 minutes drive.

12. Country Camping Dam Site BlackRiver

95%

(66)

25km from Nelly Bay · 4 sites · Lodging · Black River, QLD

We are located in the Townsville region, 25 kms from the city centre and only 10 kms to Coles and BWS but close to the coast. The campsite is set on a private 150 acres with 3 swimming dams, portable toilet on site and motorcycle tracks including enduro. Camping and campfires are allowed near the dams in fire pits. Fish for jade perch (catch and release please). In Townsville itself you will find the headland at the north end featuring the military exhibits of Jezzine Barracks and a wide promenade which is great for walks as it heads south past the safe swimming zones. On the other end, at Ross Creek, you can catch the ferry to the Great Barrier Reef or take a 20-minute ferry ride to Magnetic Island, with its beautiful bays, bushland hikes, and wild koalas. Country Vows wedding reception centre is located on 5 acres at the front of the property.

13. Naturessence

4km from Nelly Bay · 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.

14. Magnetic Naturally Island Cabin

100%

(2)

3.5km from Nelly Bay · 1 site · Lodging · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

On Magnetic Island in Queenslands tropical north, you'll find our secluded island cabin. Set within a private resort style property, it is purpose built for guests and is fully self contained. Comfortable queen bed, lounge, kitchen, bathroom with a beautiful under cover outdoor shower, fans, air-conditioning and washing machine. Free wifi. There is a covered deck attached to cabin and a paved area to relax in by outdoor BBQ. There is only one guest cabin on the property, completely separate to the main home but you are welcome to share the large outdoor pool. The cabin is very private, surrounded by native flora and fauna and growing gardens. It is a truely peaceful spot with the beach less than a kilometre away. Horseshoe Bay is the gateway to many of our beautiful bays and tracks including the famous Forts walk. There are water activities and a life guard patrolled swim area. Several little cafes restaurants and a local pub are also in the bay. There is a great bus service on the island and nearest bus stop is less than 2 km away. Rental cars are also available at good rates.

Camper favorites near Nelly Bay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park

18km from Nelly Bay · 177 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Townsville, QLD

Welcome to BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park A tranquil holiday park just outside of Townsville in sunny Queensland. Shady native trees and beautiful birdlife provide the perfect setting to help you unwind on your tropical holiday. Features -Swimming Pool -Camp Kitchen -BBQ Facilities -Laundry Facilities -Kiosk -TV Room -Dump Point -Pet Friendly* -WiFi Our range of accommodation options include unpowered and powered sites, studio cabins and 1 and 2 bedroom units. We also have dog friendly cabins available.

Black River Outback Ranch

100%

(1)

30km from Nelly Bay · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Beautiful black river, quiet, access to black river; can 4wd and quad bike ride; swim in the river, three dams on the property, food truck on the property kebabs and pizzas, fire pit, away from city but only a 15 minute drive to local shops or 30 minutes to see the city centre. Saunders beach is only 13 minutes drive.

Country Camping Dam Site BlackRiver

95%

(66)

25km from Nelly Bay · 4 sites · Lodging · Black River, QLD

We are located in the Townsville region, 25 kms from the city centre and only 10 kms to Coles and BWS but close to the coast. The campsite is set on a private 150 acres with 3 swimming dams, portable toilet on site and motorcycle tracks including enduro. Camping and campfires are allowed near the dams in fire pits. Fish for jade perch (catch and release please). In Townsville itself you will find the headland at the north end featuring the military exhibits of Jezzine Barracks and a wide promenade which is great for walks as it heads south past the safe swimming zones. On the other end, at Ross Creek, you can catch the ferry to the Great Barrier Reef or take a 20-minute ferry ride to Magnetic Island, with its beautiful bays, bushland hikes, and wild koalas. Country Vows wedding reception centre is located on 5 acres at the front of the property.

Naturessence

4km from Nelly Bay · 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.

Magnetic Naturally Island Cabin

100%

(2)

3.5km from Nelly Bay · 1 site · Lodging · Horseshoe Bay, QLD

On Magnetic Island in Queenslands tropical north, you'll find our secluded island cabin. Set within a private resort style property, it is purpose built for guests and is fully self contained. Comfortable queen bed, lounge, kitchen, bathroom with a beautiful under cover outdoor shower, fans, air-conditioning and washing machine. Free wifi. There is a covered deck attached to cabin and a paved area to relax in by outdoor BBQ. There is only one guest cabin on the property, completely separate to the main home but you are welcome to share the large outdoor pool. The cabin is very private, surrounded by native flora and fauna and growing gardens. It is a truely peaceful spot with the beach less than a kilometre away. Horseshoe Bay is the gateway to many of our beautiful bays and tracks including the famous Forts walk. There are water activities and a life guard patrolled swim area. Several little cafes restaurants and a local pub are also in the bay. There is a great bus service on the island and nearest bus stop is less than 2 km away. Rental cars are also available at good rates.

Stories from the community

L

Lucrece

6 days ago

5 m car

2 nights at Bush Retreat

The site was really nice, and really good emplacement. Matty is such a nice person he helped us to find spot to swim, koalas and shared so much with us about the island !! We were 3 and we loved the vibe because all facilities are outdoors which is perfect for the weather. We really love our stay and would definitely recommend it to anyone!

X

Xavier

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

2 nights at Bush Retreat

Matt is the perfect host. He will help you with everything that you need if it is in his hands. His tips improoved our visit to Magnetic Island. Thank's Matt

J

Jasmine

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

1 night at Bush Retreat

Absolutely great! Lovely host and amazing facilities

A

Amelia

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bush Retreat

I can see why Matt has 100% reviews. Quirky little set up but gorgeous. (Definitely the best shower weve had on our trip too) The campsite was a bit more ‘exposed’ than I initially thought but it was on a quiet road and everyone was super friendly, so my first judgment was quickly put to rest as I felt we had plenty of privacy. Matt had solid recommendations for us to spend our day, and areas to explore. Definitely felt like we saw the hidden gems. For any solo female travelers-I felt save enough to walk into town and back on Saturday night, definitely enough street lighting and plenty of wildlife. I think we were only the second group not to see a koala, (but saw two on the Forts Walk) loved the bird love and hospitality. Keep up the great work Matt 🥰❤️

Kathleen

2 weeks ago

9 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Beautiful spot with plenty of space to find a private spot by the lake. Lots of bird life and wallabies to see.

S

Steve

2 weeks ago

6 m Class B

2 nights at Mount Surround Campground

Loved it here. Nice shady trees. Lots of room. Well maintained. Loved the dam with all the wild life everywhere. Would recommend it for sure 😊

A

Anne

2 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

1 night at Crystal Creek Caravan Park

We loved this place. Definitely our favourite campsite so far. Beautifully kept, totally tranquil and spotlessly clean.

D

Derek

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Mount Surround Campground

Quiet, plenty of shade and good breeze. Hot water and fishing toilets.

P

Paul

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

the camp was perfect and quiet. The site care takers were easy to deal with and talk too. I will be returning to Mount Surround.

D

Dianne

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

After travelling up the coast from Brisbane it was great to stay at such a peaceful place as Mount Surround Campgrounds. Plenty of space, good facilities in a beautiful natural setting. A relaxing way to end our trip. We’ll be back!

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.

G

Gene

October 2025

5 m car

2 nights at Mount Surround Campground

I booked an unpowered site for two nights away from the main group. It was extremely peaceful and quiet. At night there was the expected random noise from other guests but once that settled, I was left with the sound of the rain and the wildlife. Perfect stay. Thank you Cathy and Wayne.

J

Jose Ignacio

October 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Bush Retreat

Matty was a really great host, also you will sleep around wallabies and koalas 🙌🏼

A

Alexandra

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Beautiful spot. Far enough away from the road noise. Big open spaces with nice shady trees. Clean and well maintained amenities. Great communication and easy clear directions. Will definitely be back.

M

Molly

October 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

It was the perfect distance away from Townsville to enjoy a night away under the stars. The area was beautiful and there was lots of space to pick a camping spot. The backdrop of the hills was beautiful 🤩 we also took our dog who had a lovely time exploring a new area- you can walk around the little lake (approx 1 mile loop) . Toilets and showers were clean …. The kitchen faculties looked decent too , although we never used them . Will definitely be back 😊

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.

L

Lisa

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Country Camping Dam Site BlackRiver

The kids had a great time camping around the dam . Toasting marshmallows, fishing & best part riding their dirt bikes around the tracks . Good time had !! Only negative was the porta toilets, disgusting. Lucky there was a shovel on hand . My advice to owners / carers of property maybe more regular checks & changes of porta toilets .

K

Kylie

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Mount Surround Campground

Lovely and tranquil stay. Beautiful billabong and amazing bird life. Facilities were clean. Highly recommend.

S

Sandra

October 2025