Farm stays near Townsville, Queensland 2026

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.

97% (1K) • 17 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Townsville

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.

97% (1K) • 17 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Townsville

1. Crystal Ridge

97%

(567)

63km from Townsville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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

2. THE BLOCK

99%

(246)

15km from Townsville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to The Block , Located just 20Kms from Townsville. As fellow campers we love space, the Aussie Bush and a camp fire. Offering value for money we have limited our sites, offering a fire pit, solar light and plenty of space for all size rigs. Dump Point available on site. Bush Shower. The Happy Hour Hut offers games, seating and a fire pit to enjoy social drinks with fellow travelers or to just sit and relax in the Bush. Overnight or long term available. Enjoy this tucked away location set on a 160 acre property running a few head of Cattle, Horses and a small Mango Farm. A Bush setting with Iron Bark and Ghost Gum trees, relaxing Mountain views just sit back and take in the night sky. Firewood for sale on Site

3. Coothara Farm

94%

(137)

19km from Townsville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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

4. Crumpy's Place

99%

(37)

27km from Townsville · 6 sites · RVs

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!

5. Mount Elliot Park

96%

(114)

43km from Townsville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

We are now open after the weather event closure. We look forward to welcoming you! Mount Elliot Park is a working cattle property that offers a bush experience to approved individuals. Located in the Burdekin Shire we are based in one of Australia’s best Barra fishing and bird watching areas. Sites are based on a slashed grassed paddock with access to a clear flowing creek. Campers can relax with open fire and surrounded by the beautiful mountain backdrop.

6. Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

98%

(476)

26km from Townsville · 245 sites · RVs

Welcome to our idyllic farm stay, where the best of both worlds awaits you just 15 minutes away from Kmart Idalia and a mere 25 minutes from the bustling Townsville city centre. Nestled in nature's embrace, our farm offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of majestic mountains and a constant, refreshing breeze that sweeps across the landscape. Our farm stay is a haven for both nature enthusiasts and city dwellers seeking a peaceful retreat. Picture waking up to the sight of rolling hills and the sounds of chirping birds, mooing cows, baaaing sheep all while being conveniently close to urban amenities. if your lucky enough the farm animals will come up to say hello at the fence lines For those traveling with furry companions, our dog-friendly farm stay features a securely fenced-off area, ensuring a worry-free environment for your four-legged friends. We also provide the option of dog day pens, allowing your pets to roam and play freely. Caravanning enthusiasts will find our farm to be an ideal stop, for those with fully self-contained setups. Embrace the freedom of the open road while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped farm stay. Our camp kitchen is available for your culinary needs, and fresh water is readily accessible to enhance your stay. Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of our farm stay. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a getaway, or a family on an adventure, our welcoming retreat promises an unforgettable experience. Come unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories at our Mountview farm stay oasis.

7. Cuddle Creek Homestead

91%

(11)

25km from Townsville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

28 acres of bliss in the bush. Not too far from town, but far enough for peace and quiet. Kids or adults can ride bikes around our tracks through the property. You can go fishing off the bank from the back of the block, or alternatively you can put a boat in the creek with a boat ramp accessible only about 1 klm down the road.

from

AU$19

/ night

8. Black River Outback Ranch

100%

(1)

21km from Townsville · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Ben

3 weeks ago

7 m Class A

1 night at Crumpy's Place

Nice spot. Andrew was very welcoming and friendly.

Nicola

December 2025

7 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Great spot, easy access to the river. Will stay there again.

Mimi

December 2025

9 m pop-up camper

3 nights at Crystal Ridge

★★★★★ I recently had the pleasure of staying at this beautiful site, located just 45 minutes north of Townsville, in the peaceful hamlet of Mutarnee. The location along the banks of Crystal Creek made for a perfect escape from the heat and everyday life in suburbia. Getting there was straightforward through the single locked gate at entry and the track was easy to follow to our site. Our host Michael was super responsive with the gate code and other communication. I stayed at Site 1 for three nights with my husky, Mia and we both absolutely loved it. The site is incredibly well-maintained, with a solid concrete slab that made setting up camp a breeze. The flat surrounds and easy access to the creek were perfect for us – we both enjoyed splashing around in the clear, refreshingly cool water. It’s a great spot if you’re after some relaxation in nature with the sounds of the birds to keep you company. The peacefulness and privacy of the area is one of its biggest pros. It’s far enough from the highway to ensure background noise pollution is only from occasional local traffic, but little enough to not detract from the serenity. We met the super friendly cows – Mia had her first cow kiss and even the bull came up to the fence for a friendly pat. There’s a rooster in residence as well, but we beat him up every morning for our sunrise walk. I’ll definitely be returning and I highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful camping experience by a beautiful crystal clear creek.

J

Justin

November 2025

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.

Peak dry season, still beautiful in its own right

M

Michael

November 2025

10 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

The Block is a wonderful Hipcamp just outside Townsville on the south side. Depending on your time of year it may be a little on the dry side or lush and green. No matter when it is, it’s absolutely stunning with the gums and the camp setup. Amazingly there’s a dump point too. We will be making this one a regular stop when we’re travelling.

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.

K

Kristy

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Crumpy's Place

Toni & Andrew were so lovely and made us feel very welcome. We have a 22ft van and two little kids and this stop was great for us. Flat enough land that we could stay hitched for our one night stop, also! Thanks guys!

P

Pam

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

With pets

12 nights at Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

Lovely peaceful place with very friendly hosts. Plenty of room to set up our van. We loved having access to the dog pens for our boy Yogi. So handy having the large washing machine available for $5 a load.

S

Steve

October 2025

8 m travel trailer

1 night at Crumpy's Place

The location was very convienent for us on travel home. It was very quiet and we enjoyed the wandering Geese and Chooks.

M

Melissa

October 2025

8 m Class A

1 night at Crystal Ridge

The site was really gorgeous! Very private and the stream is lovely. The only drawback is that the host isn't the best communicator... I had to send two messages, one at 9am and another at 1:30ish because I hadn't heard back from him, to find out what the code for the gate was before he responded. I also asked him some detailed questions about our stay which were answered with two short, unhelpful messages! The details on the website are not accurate either, so we found it confusing and irritating to locate the site, after a long drive. There was rubbish from other campers left in the fire pit which should have been removed before we arrived as well.

Anett

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

Lovely place close to Townsville, very spacious! The camp kitchen is really cool with all the games and things, great new shower and even dump point. Stayed there while attending an event at the stadium in town, only took 20 mins to get there! Would definitely stay again!

S

Samantha

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

We enjoyed our stay! Kids absolutely loved the place it has such a great vibe, nice and laid back with loverly host!

Peter & Lynda

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

1 night at THE BLOCK

What an awesome campground away from everyone peace and quiet huge sites great little camp kitchen and a beautiful cold shower lovely fire pits and will definitely stay again. Absolutely loved it. Highly recommended. Thanks again Janet and David.

T

Tristan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to THE BLOCK

Great location - close to Townsville but still feels like youre out bush. Easy to find, nice area with plenty of space.

R

Ryan

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Unreal spot , would recommend needs to be 2 - 3 night minimum booking as people have booked just for one night and that takes up the possibility of a whole weekend booking something to think about as it’s such a beautiful spot, will be back 😁

G

Gary

October 2025

4 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

Great campground - large area with water connections. Hosts are really friendly and helpful. They show movies on Friday and Saturday nights. Kid and pet friendly

Jos

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at THE BLOCK

Great spot, lots of choices of sites, shaded or sunny, whichever suits you. Firewood only $10. Very easy to get to and not that far out of Townsville. Bonus, there is a dump point, easy access

r

robert

October 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Crystal Ridge

Close to Townsville and Ingham, with lots to do in the area. Quite open (good solar) location next to Crystal Creek. Decent shade in the afternoon. Not the best swimming this time of year, but to be expected at the end of the dry season. That being said, we still say I. The creek and enjoyed a drink. Our neighbours kids were having a fantastic time in a canoe. Creek access is best from site 1 but still easily accessible from site 2. Quiet, relaxing, a fire and clear sky’s. Would definitely stay here again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Farm stays near Townsville 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.