The best campgrounds near Townsville, Queensland with campfires

Against the backdrop of the dramatic Castle Hill, Townsville is a tropical city with a strong military history and great diving opportunities on the Great Barrier Reef. The Strand is Townsville’s waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants and popular for its water park, playgrounds and swimming pools. Among the city’s major attractions is Jezzine Barracks, a parkland dotted with outdoor sculptures and memorials honoring the city’s wartime history and the American forces who served here in World War II, but outside of town, caravan parks and campgrounds await. Cruises depart from Townsville harbor for the Great Barrier Reef, about 2.5 hours away. Experienced divers can also tackle the Yongala shipwreck.

95% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Against the backdrop of the dramatic Castle Hill, Townsville is a tropical city with a strong military history and great diving opportunities on the Great Barrier Reef. The Strand is Townsville’s waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants and popular for its water park, playgrounds and swimming pools. Among the city’s major attractions is Jezzine Barracks, a parkland dotted with outdoor sculptures and memorials honoring the city’s wartime history and the American forces who served here in World War II, but outside of town, caravan parks and campgrounds await. Cruises depart from Townsville harbor for the Great Barrier Reef, about 2.5 hours away. Experienced divers can also tackle the Yongala shipwreck.

95% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Mount Surround Campground

98%

(1392)

36km from Townsville · 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%

(1157)

65km from Townsville · 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. Crystal Ridge

97%

(564)

63km from Townsville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Mutarnee, QLD

Welcome to Crystal Ridge, a peaceful location where you can enjoy peace and privacy. Campers can fish, swim, bird watch or just relax by the water and watch the cows grazing around the property. Nearby you'll find Mount Spec, Paluma Range National Park straddles the summit and escarpment of the Paluma Range, rising 1,000m above the Big Crystal Creek floodplain. This is the most southerly national park in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Located approximately 45 minutes north of Townsville on the Bruce Highway, Mutarnee is a small peaceful hamlet nestled on the banks of beautiful Crystal Creek. At the local caravan park there's a small shop and service station and just a minute down the road you'll find the Crystal Creek boat ramp. There is great bushwalks in the area and place to mountain bike. Any camping set up is welcome to pull up on the flat, grassy site. You are welcome to bring your pet, but please ensure they are kept on a leash and under control. You will need to get gate code day before you arrive. Either text or on the hipcamp site.

4. Bush Retreat

100%

(44)

16km from Townsville · 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.

5. Coothara Farm

94%

(137)

19km from Townsville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

Located just outside Townsville, this rural farm setting features lots of wildlife. There is a dam in a shaded paddock next to the camping area. You can hang out with the horses, cows, chickens and many other animals. The campsite is quiet, peaceful and relaxing. We even have a MH therapy cow, Nemoo! (bring your camera!) Enjoy a yarn around the campfire (firewood available depending on season) or a swim in the dam! This campsite suits self-contained campers who bring their own toilet/shower amenities and can run off grid. The Townsville region has much to offer. There's a free swimming pool on the esplanade. If you're up for a walk or bike ride the esplanade takes you through the gardens on the water's edge. You can also take a cruise out to Magnetic Island. Pets on leashes are welcome.

6. Mam Easy Stay

84%

(25)

16km from Townsville · 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.

7. WillowVale Park

95%

(115)

57km from Townsville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Reid River, QLD

“WillowVale Park” is 200 acres set on the banks of the Reid River, QLD 4816. Half way between Townsville and Charters Towers on the Flinders Highway. Private area suitable for camping, caravans, RV’s right on the river bank. All year swimming, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. - Camp fires permitted. - Pets welcome but contained or restrained at all times. - No toilets so must have own toilet. - Groups bookings or up to two seperate camps at any one time. - Push bike riding and Hiking areas available. - Plenty of room to run for the kids.

8. Crumpy's Place

99%

(36)

27km from Townsville · 6 sites · RVs · Bluewater, QLD

Welcome to Crumpy's Place! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578169520135 Nothing fancy, just a safe and secure, friendly, and quiet place to stay for 1 night through to a couple of weeks. Set on 20 acres and based in Bluewater, just north of Townsville, we are semi-screened from the road and have easy RV or Campervan access assuming you don't mind using a simple gate. We cater to fully Self Contained guests only but we do have some basic services available depending on what spots are already taken, but generally access to: - Water - Power (at some sites only via leads at an additional charge) - Common fire pit area - Recyclable disposal only (no general rubbish or black water disposal - suggest empty before arrival at the free dump point only 1.5km away) - Free firewood readily available if you have a saw/chainsaw and a willingness to use it! - Pets on leashes allowed at some sites and may depend on breed/ other guests at the time to avoid conflict) - There is a beach and boat ramp just a couple of minutes down the end of the road, and only 15 minutes or so to a variety of shops including Groceries, Bunnings, Supercheap Auto, and BCF - You are welcome to pat the horses and say g'day to Angus, our humongous cow, all under the watchful remaining eye of Milo the Pug, the true Lord of our Manor!! Bookings are essential so you don't miss out, but please feel free to call or email us for any further information, and we will be happy to help. Once booked please call 0481002100 5 or 10 minutes in advance of arrival so we can greet and guide you in. If we are unable to take your call don't worry about leaving a message - please just text and we'll come back to you as fast as possible. We look forward to joining you around the fire pit at some point for a cold one and a yarn. Cheers, and Safe Travels all!

9. Crystal Creek Caravan Park

97%

(59)

65km from Townsville · 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!

10. Blue Tiger Campsite Magnetic Island

100%

(1)

16km from Townsville · 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."

11. Country Camping Dam Site BlackRiver

95%

(66)

21km from Townsville · 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.

12. Black River Outback Ranch

100%

(1)

21km from Townsville · 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.

13. Mykitoville

83%

(3)

21km from Townsville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

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

14. Morris Creek Camp

83%

(3)

45km from Townsville · 6 sites · RVs · Giru, QLD

Our property is an excellent choice for those wanting peace and quiet. The property is a safe and secure place to unhook vans so you can visit the surrounding area,. Townsville is located 50kms north, where you can accsess the stunning Magnetic Island. The Historic town of Charters Towers is just 80kms away, the gateway to the West. It's a fantastic area for fishing and boating enthusiasts - Morris Estuary provides a plethora of fish varieties including Barramundi and crabbing opportunities.

from

AU$25

/ night

Camper favorites near Townsville

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Blue Tiger Campsite Magnetic Island

100%

(1)

16km from Townsville · 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."

Country Camping Dam Site BlackRiver

95%

(66)

21km from Townsville · 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.

Black River Outback Ranch

100%

(1)

21km from Townsville · 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.

Mykitoville

83%

(3)

21km from Townsville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Black River, QLD

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

Morris Creek Camp

83%

(3)

45km from Townsville · 6 sites · RVs · Giru, QLD

Our property is an excellent choice for those wanting peace and quiet. The property is a safe and secure place to unhook vans so you can visit the surrounding area,. Townsville is located 50kms north, where you can accsess the stunning Magnetic Island. The Historic town of Charters Towers is just 80kms away, the gateway to the West. It's a fantastic area for fishing and boating enthusiasts - Morris Estuary provides a plethora of fish varieties including Barramundi and crabbing opportunities.

from

AU$25

/ night

Stories from the community

A

Anne

1 week ago

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Bush Retreat

Perfect for a night or a month. All you need. Shower is a bonus to wash off the salt water. When Matthew is not around, his dad Wayne is a marvelous host. Really missed the camp fire due to fire restrictions. Lots of natural bush life. Would definitely go back

O

Oli

2 weeks ago

2 m Class B

With kids

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

I spent 1 night here with my family. The camp is big, so lot of space between each camper which allow privacy. Dylan who welcomed us was super friendly and very helpful. We saw a lot of wallabies all around, our kids loved it. Electricity and water work great. Toilets and shower are also meeting expectations. We did not use kitchen equipment, however it looked a bit messy and it old.

L

Lucrece

3 weeks 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!

J

Justin

3 weeks ago

7 m Class A

With kids

1 night at Coothara Farm

5 star experience! We really appreciated the chance to see a little glimpse of life on the property, and the kids absolutely loved helping with the animals. Meeting all animals was such a special experience for them — and for us as well.

C

Christine

3 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

1 night at Mount Surround Campground

Quiet location even though not far off the highway. Plenty of room and shady trees. Good showers and toilets but the camp kitchen needs attention.

J

Josh

3 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Beautiful surroundings, easy to park up our caravan amenities were okay kept clean every day but when people use them, they don’t keep them clean

j

jake

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Friendly as caretakers, beautiful spot to bring the paddle boards and set up for a few days Amenities were also nice and clean. Heaps of space to choose from as an unpowered set up!

D

Donna

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Great quiet place to stay and unwind.Nice and neat and clean .Ammenties very clean also ,we recommend this place to people we talk too.

K

Kelli

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mount Surround Campground

Lovely quiet area close to home for us to get away on a weekend

X

Xavier

November 2025

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

November 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Bush Retreat

Absolutely great! Lovely host and amazing facilities

A

Amelia

November 2025

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

November 2025

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

November 2025

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

November 2025

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

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Mount Surround Campground

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

P

Paul

November 2025

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.

C

Chris

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

A beautiful peaceful place to camp, right on the edge of the creek.

C

Chris

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

Yet again Crystal Ridge did not disappoint. Absolutely relaxing, creek was a little low but was still deep enough to have a nice cool down. Michael is a great host, with great communication. Looking forward to our next visit. 10 out of 10.

A

Aimee

November 2025

8 m Class B

With kids

1 night at Crystal Ridge

Lovely spot right on the water. Only 2 sites to choose from, we were lucky to be the only ones there but I definitely recommend booking the whole place to yourself if you want privacy as the sites are right next to each other. Not as well kept as other camps we have been to but overall would recommend. The concrete pad on site 1 was useful.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Townsville with campfires guide

Where to go

Magnetic Island

Take a day trip—or longer—to Magnetic Island, just five miles offshore. an hour’s ferry ride from Townsville. Much of the island is National Park (where camping is banned) and there are plenty of beautiful bays to snorkel, swim or tackle various watersports. A highlight is koala-spotting along the Forts Walk, which features ruins of World War II fortification.

Charters Towers

Charters Towers is a charming Outback town with a fascinating gold mining history, about 90 minutes’ drive west of Townsville. Among its attractions is the Venus Gold Battery, the largest surviving battery in Australia, and some elegant and impressive colonial buildings. There are two large camping and caravan parks in town.

Paluma Range National Park

Jourama Falls is the highlight of a visit to Paluma Range National Park, about 90 minutes’ drive northwest of Townsville. There is a popular camping area at Jourama Falls on the banks of Waterview Creek, walking tracks and day-use facilities including picnic tables, barbecues and toilets.

When to go

Claiming more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Townsville’s average temperature is 28°F. The best time to visit is April to November. Summers (December to February) are hot, humid and sticky, and marine stingers inhabit coastal waters from November to April, when it is best to swim in netted zones or wear a “stinger suit.” Summer is also a time when Townsville can sometimes be in the path of cyclones.

Know before you go

Remember to pack sunscreen; the tropical Queensland sun can be fierce. If you are heading to the Great Barrier Reef, check out sunscreens that won’t damage the coral reefs (those that don’t contain oxybenzone or BP-3).
Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forest and reserves and must be booked online and paid for before arrival. Make camping books as early as possible, especially in holiday periods.
Townsville is a great place to stock up before you go camping, with everything you’d expect of a major city, a post office, pharmacy, visitor information centre, bank, and car hire companies.
Townsville can be reached by road, air and rail. Townsville Airport is a seven-minute drive from the city centre, and Queensland Rail’s Spirit of Queensland long-distance train travels to Townsville several times a week from Brisbane and Cairns.