The best waterfall campgrounds near Russell Island, Queensland

On Russell Island, camping near waterfalls means waking to the sound of water and spotting wallabies at dawn. With over 30 sites catering to waterfall lovers, you’ll find options starting at just $11 a night, with the average sitting around $40. Campfires are allowed at most spots, and you’ll get basics like showers and toilets—no need to rough it more than you want. Lace up your boots for proper hiking, keep your binoculars handy for wildlife-watching, or just swim beneath a cascade. Locals rate Lakeview (1348 reviews), Larapinta (819 reviews), and Natural Bridge Retreat (810 reviews) as top picks. If you want to fall asleep to the sound of water and wake up to birdsong, this stretch of Queensland is hard to beat.

98% (3.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

On Russell Island, camping near waterfalls means waking to the sound of water and spotting wallabies at dawn. With over 30 sites catering to waterfall lovers, you’ll find options starting at just $11 a night, with the average sitting around $40. Campfires are allowed at most spots, and you’ll get basics like showers and toilets—no need to rough it more than you want. Lace up your boots for proper hiking, keep your binoculars handy for wildlife-watching, or just swim beneath a cascade. Locals rate Lakeview (1348 reviews), Larapinta (819 reviews), and Natural Bridge Retreat (810 reviews) as top picks. If you want to fall asleep to the sound of water and wake up to birdsong, this stretch of Queensland is hard to beat.

98% (3.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Lakeview

99%

(2225)

68km from Russell Island · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · Beachmere, QLD

Lakeview is situated near the seaside village of Beachmere on just under 50 picturesque acres of Australian bushland, 45 minutes from the Brisbane CBD and 10 minutes off the Bruce Highway. Experience the stunning vistas by the three billabongs while nestled in nature. Take nature walks, canoe and swim. Enjoy the flora, native animals and abundant birdlife or just relax by the campfire with the cooling sea breezes to add to the comfort and laid back lifestyle beside your own private open fire. You can have the best of both worlds, the bush on one hand and the bay on the other with Caboolture River boat ramp just 5 minutes away, giving you access to Moreton Bay. So why not kick back and relax away from the stress of city life. Lakeview is a private property not a commercial business, Lakeview is suitable for self-sufficient campers. There are no amenities, so you need to bring or hire your own. All payments are accepted as a donation to help maintain the grounds for our extended Lakeview family. Dogs permitted, see our FAQs in Property Rules. Campfires permitted, see our FAQs in Property Rules. Firewood is available to purchase, Honesty box on site. Please read the cancelation/credit policy as set and prescribed through the hipcamp platform. Unfortunately to keep our bookings viable and our gates open, no special allowance is made for illness, weather, mechanical breakdowns ect. If you have concerns please book last minute

2. Larapinta

99%

(1923)

66km from Russell Island · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Laravale, QLD

Do you want to break free from life's constraints? Feel like getting back to nature but not too keen on sharing it with fifty other campers, their yapping dogs and their terrible taste in music. Then pack your swag and head to "Larapinta" in the heart of the Scenic Rim where the crackling of your campfire is all you'll hear.. The picture postcard views from the Jinbroken Range are all here awaiting your gaze from your own private camp-site. There are only 12 sites, all a few hundred metres from each other, linked by 4WD tracks spread over 540ac 500 year old Grasstrees are waiting to greet those who prefer the feel of the earth under their feet and can be found as you meander along the km's of cattle tracks. So book your secluded spot now for a taste of authentic camping Larapinta style. Oh and btw if you love bush camping but don't want to become a bush pig we have a hot shower & flushing toilet just for you. Please note; the tracks at Larapinta are definitely 4wd only, they are not smooth nor flat and If you struggle to read maps and understand directions given in English then Larapinta is possibly not for you. Price is per person not per site. 419 Christmas Creek Rd Laravale. Check us out at "Larapinta Campers & Cows" on Facebook and Google Maps.

3. Natural Bridge Retreat

99%

(1363)

69km from Russell Island · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · Natural Bridge, QLD

A special camping experience can be enjoyed at this spectacular location in QLD close to the NSW border for ADULTS ONLY i.e. 18 years and older and able bodied. Lamington National Park adjoins this outrageously beautiful property that features the waterfall made famous by actress Laura Dern in the iconic Sunsilk shampoo commercial filmed here in 1998. (LGBT welcome). A beautiful creek descends through the 135 acres which includes rainforest that is listed as State significant vegetation. There is a deep swimming hole at the waterfall and other swimming areas up and down the creeks. You can hike to the upper plateaus that feature two ancient Strangler Figs with ocean views and a view of Mt.Warning as well as to the Bushranger Caves and lookouts higher up on the Lamington Plateau. Natural beauty is everywhere you look with mountain views, volcanic boulders and rock formations, Upland Rainforest and lots of wildlife. This is a property for nature lovers. Mobile reception (Telstra works the best), flushing toilets (ladies & gents), hot shower, and campfires permitted in designated locations - sorry no pets. We will e-mail further details upon receiving your booking including a link to a Release and Indemnity form that must be completed prior to entering the property and a link to a form to advise your vehicle type and camping mode. *All bookings must be for 2 nights minimum and in the peak periods/long weekends 3 nights minimum and 4 nights for the Easter holidays.

4. Talweg of Talley Valley on the Gold Coast

100%

(26)

61km from Russell Island · 8 sites · Lodging · Tallebudgera Valley, QLD

Talweg of Talley Valley is the breath of fresh air you’ve been craving. Our Farm-Art Stay is the perfect escape from the city to experience nature, reflect on sunsets, listen to bird calls, watch the moon, or star gaze. We offer a unique creative retreat open to all types of artists, scientists, makers, designers, and educators looking for time and space to work on their creative projects. Only an hour from Brisbane, and minutes from Burleigh Heads, we offer tranquil and secluded farm stay accommodation connected to natural scenery, farmland and key geographical sites of interest in all directions. There is a strong arts presence in the wider area including major regional galleries like Home of the Arts and the Margaret Olley Art Centre,Tweed Regional Gallery and many festivals. Enjoy the best of the Gold Coast beaches and Southern Qld destinations. Talweg was an old 20-acre banana farm; now we are dedicated to the conservation of the pristine wilderness. We would love to share it with you.

5. Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

94%

(175)

65km from Russell Island · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Natural Bridge, QLD

Welcome to Cedar Waters Regenerative Living Hub, a 52-acre site managed by Grounded Permaculture Action Party Inc. Grounded is a not-for-profit community org on the mission to regenerate our sacred connection to country, community and culture. Our creek flat is set up to host guests for camping. It has; - 2WD accessibility, cars, vans, tents all ok. - RVs and camper suitable (no power, water, or disposal systems) - all campsites flat and well-grassed. - communal camp kitchen with pizza oven, water, and gas cookers available - compost toilets (no showers) The pristine waters of Cave Creek flow through the site after falling through the infamous Natural Bridge. Bordering Springbrook National Park there are plenty of hikes and walks nearby to satisfy exploratory vibes. Otherwise, you can just sit back and enjoy the beauty, peace and quiet of this little slice of paradise. We can also offer many optional extras for private group bookings (large tents/marquees, generators, wood-fired hot tub, sauna, guided farm tour, paddock-to-plate produce etc). The income generated from Hipcamp is used to continue to manage, maintain and regenerate the site.

6. Tallebudgera Veg Sanctuary.

96%

(48)

57km from Russell Island · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tallebudgera, QLD

Good Phone reception if you have Telstra. Simple juice cleansing programmes are available by design. WEDDING VENUE IN OUR CHAPEL OR DOWN BY THE WATERS EDGE IN COMPLETE PRIVACY. Call our wedding planner Melissa at celebratedlove .com

7. LoveNature Glamping Hut

100%

(4)

62km from Russell Island · 1 site · Lodging · Springbrook, QLD

Surrounded by the breathtaking views of this remarkable part of Hinterland, LoveNature glamping Hut Eco Structures offers a unique eco-friendly glamping experience. The Hut will keep you sheltered, dry and comfortable while you maximise your time in the great outdoors. You own your room with privacy and a shared bathroom beside, outdoor firepit keep you cozy in the winter and indoor heater keep you warm during the night. The Twin Falls Circuit at the Canyon lookout is a 4km walk considered the region's best short hike, Purling Brook Falls circuit is spectacular waterfalls and cool ancient forests await you in the beautiful World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest of Springbrook National Park. If you've got time, detour on the Warringa Pool track, which leads downstream from the base of the falls; you'll add another 2 kilometres to the walk and need to allow another 40 minutes to return. Note that parts of this circuit are arduous, so check your fitness to the difficulty rating before you go. Best of all lookout Springbrook National Park has breathtaking lookouts, magnificent waterfalls, dense rainforest and ancient Antarctic beech trees. The park is part of Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area. These lookouts are often shrouded by cloud, even when the weather is fine and sunny on the coast. For the best views, visit on clear, smoke-free days. Apple Tree Park Apple Tree Park forms part of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk and is just one of many entry points. The starting point for the walk is the Settlement Campground at Purlingbrook Falls. The walk is a 54-kilometre trek through the beautiful Springbrook rainforest. You can do a much smaller distance if you prefer and still take in the great views and tranquillity of the rainforest. Pack your walking shoes, a hat and drink bottle and enjoy. See the birds, hear them chirping, be amazed at the beautiful historic trees. This spectacular location is just 29 kilometres from Mudgeeraba, at the top of the Springbrook range and is the access point for many of the amazing walks in the Springbrook area. The park itself is lovely with a brand new amenities building, barbecues and picnic tables. -Fudge shop Address: 3 Lyrebird Ridge Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: (07) 5533 5329 (2 mins drive from the hut) -Dancing Water café Address: 33 Forestry Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: (07) 5533 5335 (10 mins walk from the hut) -Springbrook café and bar Address: 10 Forestry Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: (07) 5533 5154 (5 mins walk from the hut) -English Garden Address: 2934 Springbrook Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: 0421 745 799 (15mins drive from the hut) Where to shopping: -Sophie’s sustainable fashion (Vintage) and Local stall Address:2404 Springbrook Road, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone 0438468886 -Pure Vibration ( gem shop) Address: Repeater Station Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: 0432 561 690 -Eco Valley Farm stall Address 42 Lyrebird Ridge Road, Springbrook, QLD, Australia, Queensland Phone: 0414 574 484

Camper favorites near Russell Island

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Talweg of Talley Valley on the Gold Coast

100%

(26)

61km from Russell Island · 8 sites · Lodging · Tallebudgera Valley, QLD

Talweg of Talley Valley is the breath of fresh air you’ve been craving. Our Farm-Art Stay is the perfect escape from the city to experience nature, reflect on sunsets, listen to bird calls, watch the moon, or star gaze. We offer a unique creative retreat open to all types of artists, scientists, makers, designers, and educators looking for time and space to work on their creative projects. Only an hour from Brisbane, and minutes from Burleigh Heads, we offer tranquil and secluded farm stay accommodation connected to natural scenery, farmland and key geographical sites of interest in all directions. There is a strong arts presence in the wider area including major regional galleries like Home of the Arts and the Margaret Olley Art Centre,Tweed Regional Gallery and many festivals. Enjoy the best of the Gold Coast beaches and Southern Qld destinations. Talweg was an old 20-acre banana farm; now we are dedicated to the conservation of the pristine wilderness. We would love to share it with you.

Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

94%

(175)

65km from Russell Island · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Natural Bridge, QLD

Welcome to Cedar Waters Regenerative Living Hub, a 52-acre site managed by Grounded Permaculture Action Party Inc. Grounded is a not-for-profit community org on the mission to regenerate our sacred connection to country, community and culture. Our creek flat is set up to host guests for camping. It has; - 2WD accessibility, cars, vans, tents all ok. - RVs and camper suitable (no power, water, or disposal systems) - all campsites flat and well-grassed. - communal camp kitchen with pizza oven, water, and gas cookers available - compost toilets (no showers) The pristine waters of Cave Creek flow through the site after falling through the infamous Natural Bridge. Bordering Springbrook National Park there are plenty of hikes and walks nearby to satisfy exploratory vibes. Otherwise, you can just sit back and enjoy the beauty, peace and quiet of this little slice of paradise. We can also offer many optional extras for private group bookings (large tents/marquees, generators, wood-fired hot tub, sauna, guided farm tour, paddock-to-plate produce etc). The income generated from Hipcamp is used to continue to manage, maintain and regenerate the site.

Tallebudgera Veg Sanctuary.

96%

(48)

57km from Russell Island · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tallebudgera, QLD

Good Phone reception if you have Telstra. Simple juice cleansing programmes are available by design. WEDDING VENUE IN OUR CHAPEL OR DOWN BY THE WATERS EDGE IN COMPLETE PRIVACY. Call our wedding planner Melissa at celebratedlove .com

LoveNature Glamping Hut

100%

(4)

62km from Russell Island · 1 site · Lodging · Springbrook, QLD

Surrounded by the breathtaking views of this remarkable part of Hinterland, LoveNature glamping Hut Eco Structures offers a unique eco-friendly glamping experience. The Hut will keep you sheltered, dry and comfortable while you maximise your time in the great outdoors. You own your room with privacy and a shared bathroom beside, outdoor firepit keep you cozy in the winter and indoor heater keep you warm during the night. The Twin Falls Circuit at the Canyon lookout is a 4km walk considered the region's best short hike, Purling Brook Falls circuit is spectacular waterfalls and cool ancient forests await you in the beautiful World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest of Springbrook National Park. If you've got time, detour on the Warringa Pool track, which leads downstream from the base of the falls; you'll add another 2 kilometres to the walk and need to allow another 40 minutes to return. Note that parts of this circuit are arduous, so check your fitness to the difficulty rating before you go. Best of all lookout Springbrook National Park has breathtaking lookouts, magnificent waterfalls, dense rainforest and ancient Antarctic beech trees. The park is part of Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area. These lookouts are often shrouded by cloud, even when the weather is fine and sunny on the coast. For the best views, visit on clear, smoke-free days. Apple Tree Park Apple Tree Park forms part of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk and is just one of many entry points. The starting point for the walk is the Settlement Campground at Purlingbrook Falls. The walk is a 54-kilometre trek through the beautiful Springbrook rainforest. You can do a much smaller distance if you prefer and still take in the great views and tranquillity of the rainforest. Pack your walking shoes, a hat and drink bottle and enjoy. See the birds, hear them chirping, be amazed at the beautiful historic trees. This spectacular location is just 29 kilometres from Mudgeeraba, at the top of the Springbrook range and is the access point for many of the amazing walks in the Springbrook area. The park itself is lovely with a brand new amenities building, barbecues and picnic tables. -Fudge shop Address: 3 Lyrebird Ridge Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: (07) 5533 5329 (2 mins drive from the hut) -Dancing Water café Address: 33 Forestry Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: (07) 5533 5335 (10 mins walk from the hut) -Springbrook café and bar Address: 10 Forestry Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: (07) 5533 5154 (5 mins walk from the hut) -English Garden Address: 2934 Springbrook Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: 0421 745 799 (15mins drive from the hut) Where to shopping: -Sophie’s sustainable fashion (Vintage) and Local stall Address:2404 Springbrook Road, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone 0438468886 -Pure Vibration ( gem shop) Address: Repeater Station Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 Phone: 0432 561 690 -Eco Valley Farm stall Address 42 Lyrebird Ridge Road, Springbrook, QLD, Australia, Queensland Phone: 0414 574 484

Stories from the community

D

David

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Lakeview

Lovely spot close to home. Wide open sites for options of multiple vans. Grounds are clear of debris for casual activities. Very enjoyable Hipcamp overall with the Lakeview at your doorstep.

R

Ruth

2 weeks ago

5 m travel trailer

3 nights at Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

Beautiful spot, so peaceful, loved it! Creek was lovely to swim in. Thank you 🙏

J

Jesse

2 weeks ago

9 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Lakeview

Really beautiful spot that has very large sites. Very peaceful, and the owners are very kind and responsive by messages. Short drive to local shops. Highly recommend.

Z

Zoe

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Natural Bridge Retreat

We loved camping at Natural Bridge. We ended up at the Rock Pools site, not waterfall outlook, because it was really private. We had our own little swimming hole and it was completely private. The sites are well set up and the hosts (Keith and Zandra) are awesome!

Dominique

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Larapinta

Stunning views, unreal camping experience. Best experienced in dry weather, the clay tracks make it impossible to come and go in the wet.

Emma

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Natural Bridge Retreat

Waterfall Cascades camping at Keiths and Zandras property was the best located camp site spot we’d all stayed in. Each camp had plenty of space for themselves and there was a friendly vibe amongst other campers. The property is huge with lots of walks and areas to explore such that you don’t need to leave the property to adventure out.

Kate

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Larapinta

Lovely private site - no one within eyesight of our camp. 180 degree views were pretty too - looked great during the storm seeing the lightning in the distance. Be warned that the toilet is a fair walk - potentially a drive depending on how desperate you are :-)

A

Alison

3 weeks ago

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Larapinta

Site 10. This was an awesome spot. Outdoor shower was great. Cows are very friendly. Pity the waterfall was dry. But we found the creek about a 10 min drive away. We will be back.

K

Karen

3 weeks ago

9 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Lakeview

Lovely spot . We will be back. Very relaxing , great to be able to have a fire

Hannah

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

Loved this beautiful little campsite with great facilities and a stunningly clean creek to swim in. So many birds and wildlife to watch. Would definitely visit again.

M

Matheus

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

Very cozy place — our second time here, this time with friends. Beautiful, peaceful, and Rupert is an amazing host.

J

Jake

3 weeks ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

Great spot. Got in late but Rupert was ok with that. Nice spot by the creek, lovely in the morning.

Bianca

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

Such a fantastic camp by the river. Easily signed.

Peter

November 2025

11 m travel trailer

4 nights at Lakeview

Idyllic spot right on the edge of lake. But all those sites around Lake are open to view of (almost) every other site. Great for families/groups.

Felix

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Cedar Waters Regen. Living Hub

Love the spot, very far from civilization, a bit hard to find and the kitchen isn't that clean but it is worth it would recommend

Abigail

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Larapinta

Our stay at Larapinta was absolutely beautiful. The view from the campsite was beautiful. We got to watch the sunset every evening, and it was breathtaking. We even had some friendly visitors during our stay. Cows would wander by from time to time, and every morning a little bird would stop by to sing us a song to wake us up. It was such a lovely touch of nature. The road getting there is definitely rough, so make sure to take Cameron’s warnings seriously, especially if it’s been raining. Once we arrived, we really appreciated the privacy we had in the penthouse. Even when a storm rolled in, we still had an amazing time and made great memories. Thank you, Cameron, for sharing your beautiful land with us. We’ll definitely be back again in the future!

S

Sharon

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Lakeview

Big sites, dog friendly,hated the person on next door hip camp that had their generator running from 5.00am all day

A

Artur

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Natural Bridge Retreat

Really relaxing place, beautiful views and great atmosphere. definitely coming back.

Jonas

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Larapinta

Property is beautiful. Cameron was a great host, and the tracks aren't particularly challenging if you have a capable 4WD. The track to the lookout was closed and after walking up I can see why, it's rough as. Will be coming back.