The best camping near Cape Palmerston National Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cape Palmerston National Park adventure.
Bushwalkers, beach lovers, and bird watchers should add this spot to their itinerary.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Cape Palmerston National Park
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Palmerston National Park
100%
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Tony and Liz's Block
4 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Ilbilbie, QLD
The town of Ilbilbie is located in the center of the locality. However, the larger town of Greenhill is located on the coast of the locality.The Bruce Highway passes through the locality from south to north passing through the town of Ilbilbie. The North Coast railway line passes through the locality from south to north, very close to the highway. The Ilbilbie railway station served the town (21.7035°S 149.3557°E). The Koota railway station to the south of the town (21.7213°S 149.3596°E) is now abandoned.The land to the east of the highway and railway line is close to the coast and is low-lying land mostly used to grow sugarcane. There is a sugarcane tramway through this area.The land to the west of the highway and railway is more mountainous, rising to 430 metres at Bulls Head Bluff. The West Hill State Forest is in the far west of the locality
Pets
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from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(377)
Cattle Camp, Sarina, QLD
20 sites · RVs, Tents360 acres · Sarina, QLD
Cattle Camp, Sarina is a 360 acre working cattle property with ample creek side camps, various bird and wild life with a peaceful family setting. We are also pet friendly and can cater to almost any camping set up. Please feel free to ring Lindsey on 0488-546-370 for any inquiries before 8pm every night.
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AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(39)
Blue Tree Campground
10 sites · RVs100 acres · Sarina, QLD
Blue Tree Campground is an off-grid escape, just a breezy 12km drive west of the charming township of Sarina.
Nestled amidst nature's embrace, the campground sits alongside a tree-lined, freshwater creek - fantastic for swimming & exploring in the wet season!
Be enchanted by the abundance of bird life, the mesmerising blue-forest kingfisher, and glimpse the striking Ulysses butterfly, while chilled wallabies graze close by.
Each campsite boasts its own fire pit for memorable gatherings under the stars or there's a central fire pit for get-togethers.
We're basically 'off-grid', with only the occasional bar or two of phone service, so bring your music or movie downloads if needed or simply watch the Aussie Bush TV (camp fire.)
Take a walk along 'slashed' walking tracks and check out the surroundings, help yourself to the bush lemons, the trees are plentiful in season.
We have capped camping sites at only 10 spots reserved for self-contained vans at this stage, allowing our guests peace to enjoy nature at its finest.
Book today to secure your stay.... nature and tranquillity await!
Don’t hesitate to contact us via HipCamp messages or by messenger from our Facebook page.
See you soon…
Cheers, Carolyn and Rob
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from
AU$26
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 2 times
Undercliff
1 site · RV, Tent37000 acres · Clairview, QLD
Undercliff is a 37000 acre cattle station. It's a big valley with mountains each side.
There are big open creek flats that you can camp next to - 5 awesome creeks that all flow into the one murray creek which has crystal clear sand filtered water. Each of the permanent water holes are about 1km long and 50m wide or so and really deep with great fishing or boating.
The mountains are great for 4x4 or bush walking to see the beautiful waterfalls during the wet season.
For biosecurity reasons, campers will need to wash they set up upon entry and exit of the property.
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from
AU$40
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
78%
(51)
Mycow Caravan Park and Campground
92 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Mackay, QLD
This newly refurbished caravan park and camp ground is set out on the edge of picturesque Bakers Creek. We offer powered and unpowered sites.
A landscaped boardwalk extends the length of the water’s edge which leads to a BBQ deck, fishing pier and a number breakout grassed fishing areas complete with rod holders. There is sites catering for tents, camping trailers, caravans and up to 40 foot motorhomes.
There is access to toilet/shower amenities, drinking water and rubbish amenities. Guests also have use of the WiFi, picnic tables and laundry.
Our fully equipped camp kitchen has all the amenities you need to prep your meals, including a kitchen bench with stools, a kettle, dish-washing station and stove/oven, dining table and other seating, and a TV.
Enjoy the evenings warming your feet around the campfire under the milky way.
Sites are 2WD accessible and can accommodate caravans, campervans and motorhomes. You will need to reverse into your designated spot.
Dogs are welcome to holiday with you.
Pets
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from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 1 time
Clearacre farmstay
21 sites · RVs, Tents1000 acres · Sarina, QLD
Our property is roughly 1000 acres. Cane cutting season runs from June to November/December so you will see in those months how it runs. We do mixed cropping in between those months and also run approximately 100 head of cattle, give or take how the season is going and a feedlot for the cattle. Our fresh water creek runs through the property and will be able to be enjoyed at certain times of the year when full.
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AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(12)
Middle Creek Dam Campsites
1 site · RV, Tent142 acres · Sarina, QLD
This picturesque mountain gully is place of old growth rainforest, seasonal waterfalls and large ancient fig trees.
Situated adjacent to Middle Creek Dam there is abundant swimming and paddling available. Kayaks available.
There are numerous hiking trails and a look out with stunning views.
One only campsite available so privacy and solitude are guaranteed. You’ll have the whole place to yourself.
Abundant wildlife. Wallabies, echidnas, and bird life.
20 minutes from the Bruce Highway and Sarina township.
Campsite is 20x12m not including car spaces.
Fire pit provided - please bring your own firewood.
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from
AU$21
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
80%
(5)
Wallaby Downs
10 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Sarina, QLD
Our property backs onto the sarina range and is full of wallabies and birds and other wildlife.
We will be supplying a toilet and hot shower and have a flat pad for 4 caravans and lots more room for tents and campers.
We have a beautiful view over looking middle creek dam where people can go swimming, fishing, boating kayaking. And there is also toilets down at the park at the dam.
We also have a kids motorbike track that can be used if they have a bike.
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AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(266)
Jarravale Farm Stay
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents19 acres · Marian, QLD
Jarravale farm stay is located in the picturesque pioneer valley amongst the peace and tranquillity of sugar cane fields.
No Check ins after 6.00 PM will be accepted, so plan your trip to arrive before 6.00pm. 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
The best camping near Cape Palmerston National Park guide
Overview
About
Sandy beaches, dunes, and rugged headlands hug the coast of Cape Palmerston National Park, while inland, the distinctive peak of Mount Funnel provides the backdrop for photos. Cruise around the coastal estuaries and along the creeks in a boat or canoe, go fishing along the waterways, or spot whales, turtles, and dugongs around Ince Bay. Birdwatching opportunities are excellent along Cape Palmerston, with common sightings including ospreys, sea eagles, and white-breasted woodswallows. You’ll need a 4WD to explore, and adventurous types can venture off-road along the beaches and bush trails, before pitching a tent right by the seaside.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for creekside camping: Cape Creek Camping Area has sand and grass pitches right by the waterfront—ideal for fishing and boating.
- Best for a family camping experience: Windmill Bay Camping Area has tent pitches, picnic tables, and bush-style pit toilets, plus direct access to both beach and bush.
- Best for beach lovers: Cape Palmerston camping area has sand tent pitches in the dunes with magnificent beach views.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Camping permits are required for all the park’s campsites and must be reserved in advance. A tag with your booking number must be displayed on your tent at all times.
- Space is limited to just six people at some campsites, so book at least three months in advance for busy periods such as Queensland school holidays.
When to go
Mild year-round temperatures make Cape Palmerston a year-round destination for campers. Summers (December through March) can be hot, humid, and wet, with temperatures reaching 30°C, plus heavy downpours. May through September provides more pleasant weather for outdoor activities, and this is also the time to spot migrating whales, shorebirds, and sea turtles along the coast.
Know before you go
- Access to the park is by 4WD only, and sand-driving experience is recommended.
- Cape Palmerston is remote with limited facilities and self-sufficient camping, so you must bring everything you need with you, including drinking water. The last fuel station on route to the park is in Ilbilbie, but it’s best to stock up on supplies before leaving the city.
- On-ground fires and generators are prohibited at the park’s campsites. Bring your own above-ground fire containers and timber, and check the latest fire ban regulations before lighting your campfire.
- There are no wheelchair-accessible trails or facilities in Cape Palmerston National Park.
Top cities near Cape Palmerston National Park
- Cape Palmerston National Park
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.