The best campgrounds in The Whitsundays with swimming

You’ll find over 180 spots in The Whitsundays where you can pitch a tent, cool off in fresh water, and wake up to the sound of birds. Swimming is the star here—expect creeks deep enough for a proper dip and clear water for lazy afternoons. Top picks like Hold It Flats (3541 reviews), Creek and Antique Camping (657 reviews), and Mushroom Valley Eco Camp (600 reviews) let you camp right by the water—no long hikes with towels and goggles. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and don’t stress about showers—most sites have you covered. Prices start at just $10 a night, with the average sitting around $30. Pack your swimmers, a good pair of thongs, and maybe a fishing rod. This isn’t just camping—it’s a swim between rainforest trees and a creekside nap, all in one day.

96% (5.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

You’ll find over 180 spots in The Whitsundays where you can pitch a tent, cool off in fresh water, and wake up to the sound of birds. Swimming is the star here—expect creeks deep enough for a proper dip and clear water for lazy afternoons. Top picks like Hold It Flats (3541 reviews), Creek and Antique Camping (657 reviews), and Mushroom Valley Eco Camp (600 reviews) let you camp right by the water—no long hikes with towels and goggles. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and don’t stress about showers—most sites have you covered. Prices start at just $10 a night, with the average sitting around $30. Pack your swimmers, a good pair of thongs, and maybe a fishing rod. This isn’t just camping—it’s a swim between rainforest trees and a creekside nap, all in one day.

96% (5.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Hold It Flats

99%

(6710)

153 sites · Tents, RVs · Yalboroo, QLD

Hold it Flats is a 120 acre property that borders the beautiful O'Connell River that has water all year round. Take a walk around the property to check out some of the creatures that have been built out of scrap metal and bush bars that have been built all around the property. There is nice shady trees, green grass and flat camping sites right beside the river with hot showers and flushing toilets. There is plenty of room and some great tracks for the kids and the big kids to ride their push bikes on. The swimming hole is about 2 meters deep and has big shady trees on the edge. There is also enough room for kids to bring their kayaks and have a paddle along the river. We have some hiking tracks up around the hills of our property that have amazing views of the area. All campsites can be provided with their own fire pit. You just pick your spot and we will bring a portable fire pit to you. Fire wood can be purchased at the property. All rubbish must be taken when you, there are no rubbish bins provided.

2. Creek and Antique Camping

99%

(1342)

55 sites · Tents, RVs · Calen, QLD

We have a selection of beautiful creek side locations where you can enjoy the clear, fresh running water and a selection of other sites only a short walk from the water. Conveniently located just a short drive off the Bruce Highway our sites are not designated, you choose your own on arrival KIDS UNDER 17 STAY FREE! MAX 2 ADULTS PER SITE! If coming with additional adults you MUST booking another site. While staying, you will have the opportunity to take a walk into the past to view a private collection of Australiana, including a working stationary, engine display and vintage kitchen with wood stoves. Access to the property is via a creek crossing so it is advisable to phone ahead if there has been recent rain or rainfall is forecast. Toilets are located on the property but campers will need their own shower facilities and take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are permitted but must be contained at all times in a fire pits that we also have for your use, we also sell firewood at $15 for a milk crate. Calen is a small cane growing and cattle town with a general store, pharmacy, service station, butcher and the local pub. Zarby's cafe is a short drive away if you would like to dine in for breakfast or lunch in a retro style setting. Each site fee is for 2 adults and kids stay at no cost. Pets are welcome.

3. Blackiron

98%

(499)

15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Proserpine, QLD

Situated on the bank of the Andromache River, setup camp at one of our cozy camp spots and enjoy the quiet of the bush. We have sites available in our grassy paddock which are accessible by all vehicles. Sand camping is available for 4x4's with tent/swag set ups during the dry seasons. No trailers or vans are permitted on the sand due to bogging. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a campfire and visual displays of local wildlife, try your hand at fishing in the river or just enjoy a cool swim just a few meters from our grassy sites. 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. Only a short distance from Airlie Beach and the islands for those interested in the local tourist attractions. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

4. Green Zone

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Kuttabul, QLD

Quiet place , previously used for cattle , but the property has been converted to a wildlife reserve or conservation area . Landcare activities can be arranged to offset camping fees There is a mixture of open paddocks to tree ridges and rainforest gullies. Plenty of space with walking tracks to seasonal creeks (creeks flow December-June)

from

AU$37

/ night

5. Jarravale Farm Stay

97%

(344)

9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marian, QLD

Jarravale farm stay is located in the picturesque pioneer valley amongst the peace and tranquillity of sugar cane fields. This is our beautiful home come and share it with No mean No so don't ask Josie for an exemption to dump Porta Potties down our toilet with our without chemicals. It is gross to start with think of you fellow campers and it kills our septic . No Check ins after 5.30 PM will be accepted, so plan your trip to arrive before 5.30 pm. Book in officer will be gone home for the day. No Check ins before 2pm Please, We do guide Tours of the Animal farm. So, for safety reason we do not want campers parking their van before the families leave. So please don't ask Josie for an early check in to jeopardize safety of these families. Check out 10am. If you want to visit the animal farm Closed in shoes Please. This is an insurance requirement. Set amongst the peace and quiet of the cane fields, Jarravale offers mountain views, beautiful sunsets and that fantastic country feeling. Jarravale offers free access to the miniature animal farm for Hipcampers. Jarravale has a wide range of aviary birds and farm animals for children and animal lovers to enjoy. You are welcome to help Josie with the daily running of the farm, all you have to do is ask her. We are perfectly situated if you want to explore the Mackay region and what the Pioneer Valley has to offer. Come and watch Platypus and turtles play in the billabong. No fires allowed at all, not even for cooking, except in winter. Fire pits will be provided, in winter, not individual fires allowed. We have fire pits to keep you warm on the cool winter nights as you sit around and share your travel stories. Sit back in tranquility as you watch the platypus, turtles and wild life gather in and around the billabong as the sun sets. It's a great way to finish the day. We also offer indoor accommodation for those who prefer all the mod cons. There are toilets and hot showers for campers, and access to the laundry. We have potable water hookups at most camp sites and we also offer four powered sites. You can use one of the two camp kitchens to cook your meals and use the picnic table for meals. Power is available at one of the camp kitchens to recharge your phones and appliances.

6. Brindabella

98%

(25)

1 site · RV · Airlie Beach, QLD

We are situated on 4 acres only mins to Airlie Beach and a part of the beautiful Whitsunday s. 74 Islands around and great boating and fishing . Restaurants and taverns near by also taxis and courtesy vans available. Day trip s to local islands, Bredyls Animal farm and so so much more. Come visit paradise!!

from

AU$50

/ night

7. Grasstree Ridge

100%

(11)

68 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomsbury, QLD

Grasstree Ridge is our little slice of heaven; 150 luscious acres of tropical bushland, just off the coastline of Bloomsbury, QLD. Our convenient location puts you one hour north of Mackay, forty-five minutes south of Airlie Beach, or head inland to Finch Hatton, fifty-five minutes. Effectively, we are in the middle of some gorgeous spots & popular tourists attractions! ⛱️ 🏞️ We have fresh water creeks a short drive from the property to cool off in, just ask us for directions to them during your stay! Lucky for us, Bredl's Wild Life farm is just around the corner! (12km) Take a selfie with a wombat, cuddle a koala, or brave holding some freaky reptiles-plus much more! 🐨 And for the thrill-seeking adventurists, Airlie Beach Skydiving is only twenty-five minutes from the property, are you brave enough? 😉 If that's not you, and you're just looking for a taste of the quiet life, then bring the boat and your fishing gear, and get ready to catch some tasty reef fish! The Midge Point boat ramp is only a 15 minute drive from the property. However you choose to spend your day, you'll be happy to know that also in the beachside town of Midge Point, you'll find the Point tavern, for delicious dinner and cold beers! And for only a five minute drive, you'll find the 24hr BP service station, with a bottle shop open 10am-8pm. They also provide hot showers! The property is roamed by many farm and wild animals! Keep an eye out for the gorgeous wildlife amongst the property, as you may be lucky enough to see an echidna or a dear! We have domesticated donkeys, pigs, goats, sheep, birds etc-please note our animals are free range so please ensure you secure your food and belongings. And don't worry, they're all very friendly and love a pet! 🐷🫏 We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful oasis. 🍄✨

8. Ballantyne's Strawberry Farm

96%

(77)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Mount Charlton, QLD

Nestled in the foothills of Eungella National Park, in behind Calen (Camerons Pocket), this great campsite offers you the opportunity to go swimming, fishing in the fresh water, put a tube in the creek and relax by a campfire. Oh, and there's berries! You will be camping right beside St Helen Creek, just a throwing distance from the Strawberry Farm which is open during the winter months (July- September). There is access to toilets and showers, but you will need to bring your own drinking water. You are welcome to have a small campfire in one of our dedicated firepits, and enjoy the starry skies at night. This campsite offers the perfect experience for the whole family. For an additional fee, you can pick strawberries from July- September. Blueberry picking is from October to January. There is lots of wildlife around from kookaburras to kangaroos. Plenty of places to swim if you wanted it to be more private. The campsite area is 2WD accessible and we can accommodate tents through to caravans, campervans and larger camping vehicles. No pets please.

9. Leila Bank

80%

(15)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Habana, QLD

We are a working farm located in Habana. 110 acres of farm land beside the beautiful Leila Creek Habana. We have a range of farm animals here on the property. Enjoy the rural views and quiet, serene surroundings. Stroll up to the dam past all the farm animals. You can also enjoy a swim in the creek or dam. Forget something? We are only 15 minuted back to town. Have a horse? Bring it as well. We are pet friendly. Enjoy your fire at night while listening to the sound of running creek at your campsite. Fireplaces and firewood available. Bring your fishing gear along as the waterhole is stocked with barramundi if you are into fishing. Currently has a weed infestation so lure fishing challenging. Use weed free lures. Septic toilet and tapped bore water available. Firewood and farm goods for sale eg. eggs, honey and seasonal fruit.

Camper favorites in and near The Whitsundays

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Green Zone

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Kuttabul, QLD

Quiet place , previously used for cattle , but the property has been converted to a wildlife reserve or conservation area . Landcare activities can be arranged to offset camping fees There is a mixture of open paddocks to tree ridges and rainforest gullies. Plenty of space with walking tracks to seasonal creeks (creeks flow December-June)

from

AU$37

/ night

Jarravale Farm Stay

97%

(344)

9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marian, QLD

Jarravale farm stay is located in the picturesque pioneer valley amongst the peace and tranquillity of sugar cane fields. This is our beautiful home come and share it with No mean No so don't ask Josie for an exemption to dump Porta Potties down our toilet with our without chemicals. It is gross to start with think of you fellow campers and it kills our septic . No Check ins after 5.30 PM will be accepted, so plan your trip to arrive before 5.30 pm. Book in officer will be gone home for the day. No Check ins before 2pm Please, We do guide Tours of the Animal farm. So, for safety reason we do not want campers parking their van before the families leave. So please don't ask Josie for an early check in to jeopardize safety of these families. Check out 10am. If you want to visit the animal farm Closed in shoes Please. This is an insurance requirement. Set amongst the peace and quiet of the cane fields, Jarravale offers mountain views, beautiful sunsets and that fantastic country feeling. Jarravale offers free access to the miniature animal farm for Hipcampers. Jarravale has a wide range of aviary birds and farm animals for children and animal lovers to enjoy. You are welcome to help Josie with the daily running of the farm, all you have to do is ask her. We are perfectly situated if you want to explore the Mackay region and what the Pioneer Valley has to offer. Come and watch Platypus and turtles play in the billabong. No fires allowed at all, not even for cooking, except in winter. Fire pits will be provided, in winter, not individual fires allowed. We have fire pits to keep you warm on the cool winter nights as you sit around and share your travel stories. Sit back in tranquility as you watch the platypus, turtles and wild life gather in and around the billabong as the sun sets. It's a great way to finish the day. We also offer indoor accommodation for those who prefer all the mod cons. There are toilets and hot showers for campers, and access to the laundry. We have potable water hookups at most camp sites and we also offer four powered sites. You can use one of the two camp kitchens to cook your meals and use the picnic table for meals. Power is available at one of the camp kitchens to recharge your phones and appliances.

Brindabella

98%

(25)

1 site · RV · Airlie Beach, QLD

We are situated on 4 acres only mins to Airlie Beach and a part of the beautiful Whitsunday s. 74 Islands around and great boating and fishing . Restaurants and taverns near by also taxis and courtesy vans available. Day trip s to local islands, Bredyls Animal farm and so so much more. Come visit paradise!!

from

AU$50

/ night

Grasstree Ridge

100%

(11)

68 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomsbury, QLD

Grasstree Ridge is our little slice of heaven; 150 luscious acres of tropical bushland, just off the coastline of Bloomsbury, QLD. Our convenient location puts you one hour north of Mackay, forty-five minutes south of Airlie Beach, or head inland to Finch Hatton, fifty-five minutes. Effectively, we are in the middle of some gorgeous spots & popular tourists attractions! ⛱️ 🏞️ We have fresh water creeks a short drive from the property to cool off in, just ask us for directions to them during your stay! Lucky for us, Bredl's Wild Life farm is just around the corner! (12km) Take a selfie with a wombat, cuddle a koala, or brave holding some freaky reptiles-plus much more! 🐨 And for the thrill-seeking adventurists, Airlie Beach Skydiving is only twenty-five minutes from the property, are you brave enough? 😉 If that's not you, and you're just looking for a taste of the quiet life, then bring the boat and your fishing gear, and get ready to catch some tasty reef fish! The Midge Point boat ramp is only a 15 minute drive from the property. However you choose to spend your day, you'll be happy to know that also in the beachside town of Midge Point, you'll find the Point tavern, for delicious dinner and cold beers! And for only a five minute drive, you'll find the 24hr BP service station, with a bottle shop open 10am-8pm. They also provide hot showers! The property is roamed by many farm and wild animals! Keep an eye out for the gorgeous wildlife amongst the property, as you may be lucky enough to see an echidna or a dear! We have domesticated donkeys, pigs, goats, sheep, birds etc-please note our animals are free range so please ensure you secure your food and belongings. And don't worry, they're all very friendly and love a pet! 🐷🫏 We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful oasis. 🍄✨

Ballantyne's Strawberry Farm

96%

(77)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Mount Charlton, QLD

Nestled in the foothills of Eungella National Park, in behind Calen (Camerons Pocket), this great campsite offers you the opportunity to go swimming, fishing in the fresh water, put a tube in the creek and relax by a campfire. Oh, and there's berries! You will be camping right beside St Helen Creek, just a throwing distance from the Strawberry Farm which is open during the winter months (July- September). There is access to toilets and showers, but you will need to bring your own drinking water. You are welcome to have a small campfire in one of our dedicated firepits, and enjoy the starry skies at night. This campsite offers the perfect experience for the whole family. For an additional fee, you can pick strawberries from July- September. Blueberry picking is from October to January. There is lots of wildlife around from kookaburras to kangaroos. Plenty of places to swim if you wanted it to be more private. The campsite area is 2WD accessible and we can accommodate tents through to caravans, campervans and larger camping vehicles. No pets please.

Leila Bank

80%

(15)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Habana, QLD

We are a working farm located in Habana. 110 acres of farm land beside the beautiful Leila Creek Habana. We have a range of farm animals here on the property. Enjoy the rural views and quiet, serene surroundings. Stroll up to the dam past all the farm animals. You can also enjoy a swim in the creek or dam. Forget something? We are only 15 minuted back to town. Have a horse? Bring it as well. We are pet friendly. Enjoy your fire at night while listening to the sound of running creek at your campsite. Fireplaces and firewood available. Bring your fishing gear along as the waterhole is stocked with barramundi if you are into fishing. Currently has a weed infestation so lure fishing challenging. Use weed free lures. Septic toilet and tapped bore water available. Firewood and farm goods for sale eg. eggs, honey and seasonal fruit.

Stories from the community

Kingfisher showing how it sits high on the embankment of the creek

T

Tim

2 weeks ago

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Blackiron

Great spot on the creek, plenty of fresh sand around. Thanks for hosting

P

Patrick

2 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Well set out camping area. Plenty of grass due to recent rain. Quiet, good place to get away from the city life. Creek was flowing enough to sit in and cool down.

J

Jill

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

Everything was clean and very well laid out. Kate was a lovely host nothing was too much trouble. Family oriented campsite. I would definitely camp there again.

P

Patrick

2 weeks ago

3 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Good spot to camp. Nice and quiet. Area nicely grassed and mowed,fairly level . Unfortunately no campfire. Total fire ban. Didn't miss it. Creek was running enough to go sit in. Had rain second night. Definately will be going into our favourite's list to return. Saw an echidna, wallabies, galahs, kookaburras. Plenty of area for kids to run around in. Just a word advice though: if you don't know how to drive on soft river sand, don't venture there.

K

Kimberley

2 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

Another great camping trip place is always clean, tidy and mowed. Will definitely come again.

C

Chase

3 weeks ago

5 m car

1 night at Hold It Flats

Beautiful spot by the river. The facilities are well kept. I stayed in Early November and it was very quiet. Abundant with wildlife.

T

Therese

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Hold It Flats

Easy to contact and very accommodating as we had a caravan issue and had to delay our camp dates.

M

Michelle

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creek and Antique Camping

Great area, plenty of shade, Beautiful cool fresh water. Have swim shoes for rocks entrance to water. We will be back for sure

V

Vicky

3 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

It was an absolutely beautiful spot. Well maintained, with nice green grass. Amenities are bloody awesome! Great toilets and showers ! Will definitely be back with the kids.

S

Sharon

3 weeks ago

5 m car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

Beautiful spot and is always neat and tidy with well maintained facilities. Thanks again team for a lovely stay.

d

danial

3 weeks ago

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

Lovely camp ground, very tidy and well kept. Amenities are are clean and well looked after. Kids loved swimming and paddling in the creek

T

Trent

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

Wonderful location, lovely and clean amenities. Owners are wonderful and laid back and fast to respond to any issues. Will be back again and again for sure.

Rick

3 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Hold It Flats

What a great property, just sit and relax by the water, walk around the camp grounds or do the challenging track to the top of the hill. Awesome shower and toilets are on site that are very clean and maintained.

A

Aimee

November 2025

8 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Creek and Antique Camping

Well set up, friendly and responsive hosts. We loved that you could choose your own spot and there weren't designated spots which can get cramped when busy. Some permanents living there but away from the camping area. We were lucky to be the only ones there. Small creek to cross on entrance so be mindful before booking if theres been heavy rain. Definitely recommend, thanks for having us!

S

Steve

November 2025

6 m Class B

1 night at Hold It Flats

Great place to stay! The toilets and showers were so clean! Beautiful well kept property. Friendly hosts. Will definitely be back! Thanks for the stay - so much wildlife 😊

k

kelly

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Leila Bank

It was truly a wonderful experience, and Darryl's warmth and friendliness made my partner and I feel genuinely welcomed and cared for.

Leanne

November 2025

13 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Creek and Antique Camping

We loved the whole set out very spacious and the creek was refreshing. It was great they provided kayaks and bikes. Nice and peaceful and close to the town if you wanted to duck in for a pub meal. Hosts also checked to make sure we were happy while there.

Wendell

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

There ia a amenities, peaceful camping site and safe for the campers to stay in. Playground for kids to run.

J

John G

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

The views are very good. The public toilet and shower are very clean and tidy. Also the stars at night time is superb. I would go back here anytime soon.

A

Amjad

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hold It Flats

Had an amazing time at Hold It Flats! The area is clean, peaceful, and perfect for relaxing. The views are beautiful, the atmosphere is safe, and the surroundings are well maintained. Great spot for families, friends, or anyone who wants a quiet getaway. Highly recommended — will definitely come back!