The best camping near Magnetic Island National Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Magnetic Island National Park adventure.
This Great Barrier Reef island has beaches, woodlands, and WWII forts.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Magnetic Island National Park
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near Magnetic Island National Park
97%
(86)
The Forts
3 sites · RVs3 acres · Horseshoe Bay, QLD
We are in the perfect location in Horseshoe Bay, Magnetic Island, and your camp spot is located a short walk to the beach, right on the walking tracks, WWII-era forts, and access to exploring more than 36 kilometres of bushwalking trails with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities.
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The Great Barrier Reef, is at our door step so taking to the water is a must— hire a canoe, kayak or jetski and start exploring the wonderlands of spy dugongs and sea turtles or go on a boat cruise, and dive in to snorkel along colourful coral reefs.
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Then there's the action of a buzzy seaside town with cafes and bars and skatepark, tennis courts all within a 5 minutes gentle walk!
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Welcome to The Forts of Magnetic Island, it's truly magic your views are the National Park.
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We offer easy access sites for:
CARAVAN up to 18ft.
ROOF vehicle tent
MOTORHOME up to 20ft.
VAN loads of room.
Tent- your tent can be pitched on a tucked away haven in the bush surrounded by natural boulders.
Please be SELF CONTAINED
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Please allow for some slight slope sites, come and enjoy your relaxed bushcamp stay.
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FERRY crossing
BOOK to arrive at your campsite during the "daytime" please.
Please prepare to "prebook your ferry" if travelling with a vehicle.
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Walking passenger or with your bicycle you do not need to prebook your ferry.
Great bus service on Magnetic Island runs every hour.
Abundance of wildlife, kangaroos, wallabies, kookaburra, superb sunsets and so much more.
Beach✔️
Cafes✔️
Spacious Sites✔️
Walking tracks✔️
The perfect paradise.
Potable water
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(271)
Mountain View Holiday Park
27 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Mount Surround, QLD
Former home of the Palm Creek Folk Festival.
Relax in this peaceful, family friendly campground, nestled in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range and nearby Mount Elliot.
Pick a spot and set up camp.
Enjoy the 70 acres of shady grounds with plenty of wildlife, including pretty face wallabies and abundant birdlife.
The 20-acre dam is great for non-motorised water sports where you can paddle about on your kayak, canoe or SUP.
Please be aware entry to the dam is a very muddy and there is a lot of weed at the moment. However, the water is beautiful and fresh once you get further in.
Bring Mosquito/sandfly spray especially if camping by the lake.
Settle down of an evening sit back and enjoy the spectacular starry night sky.
Campfires allowed. Fire rings are available scattered about the site, just roll one to your camp site.
Wood for sale at $10 cash per milk crate, from camp kitchen. Please place cash in the honesty box. Thankyou.
Located conveniently 45 km South from Townsville and Magnetic Island ferry terminal, 45km north of Ayr, 8km north of Giru.
Pet friendly (on a lead and under owners' control at all times please).
Powered and unpowered sites available.
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. ($2 x 2, BYO coins)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(22)
Hidden Corner Magnetic Island
2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Horseshoe Bay, QLD
Magnetic Island
Private fully fenced 751 square metre block of land one kilometre to Horseshoe Bay beachfront.
The perfect base to enjoy all the wonderful activities that Magnetic Island has to offer including swimming, bushwalking, birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Water and very limited electricity is available. There are no bathroom facilities so you need to be self contained. We are one kilometre from the nearest bus stop so you need to have your own transport. Please do not book this property if you do not have your own transport.
As the barge gets very busy, I suggest you book the barge before booking the site. Contact me and I am happy to hold the site for a short time while you make your barge booking.
Pets
Potable water
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
89%
(18)
BE Magnetic Island
1 site · RV2 acres · Horseshoe Bay, QLD
BE🌴
WELCOME to Magnetic Island
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Tucked away bordering the National Park is your campsite a quiet oasis.
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Wildlife bouncing, exotic birds chirping, koalas roaming, cute chickens and a spacious tiered entertainment area to totally relax.
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Just a 2second walk to the track to take you on the famous FORTS walk.
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Beaches, sunsets, and incredible views are just moments away from your campsite.
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Plenty of watersports!
Hire kayaks from your campsite
Go on a sailing trip, extra fees and weather dependent.
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Hire jet ski
Hire a scooter
Hire a cute car
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See butterfly, birds, kangaroo, koalas, wallabies, and much more from your camp
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Cafes, bars, shops and bustop just a moment away.
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Don't forget we are a true natural eco STAY bring your own toilet,cooking facilities.
Looking forward to seeing YOU 👣
Potable water
from
AU$32
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(859)
Crystal Creek
25 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · 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). Campers must be self contained with their own toilet/shower facilities and take all waste with them. Our current facilities are unable to be regularly cleaned so will be closed to guests.Campers MUST provide car registration details at time of booking.This is a privately run camp (Operated by Mungulla Station). It is not part of the National Park. 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.DUE TO CORONAVIRUS PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN TOILET PAPERPlease read all information, rule and directions (provided once you have a confirmed booking) carefully before contacting your host. We have done out best to provide all the information for you so messages should not be required.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
86%
(14)
Pete’s Lookout
6 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Townsville, QLD
Located on the Eastern foothills of Mt Stuart, Pete’s lookout consists of six separate campsites, each with a spectacular view.
The panorama stretches from Cape Bowling Green, through to Castle Hill and Magnetic Island, all the way to Pallaranda and Many Peaks.
Relax in the idealic open Eucalyptus forest as you enjoy the views. You will feel like you are 1000 miles away, but only have a short 25 minute drive from Townsville to get here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$15
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(28)
Black River Dam Camp Site
4 sites · Lodging150 acres · 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 metre long barra and 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.
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$36
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(4)
BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville
77 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Townsville, QLD
Enjoy the taste of the tropics and surround yourself with palm trees and landscaped gardens at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville. Located a short 10-minute drive from the airport and 16 kilometres from Townsville CBD, you’ll find the city’s main attractions, such as The Strand, Castle Hill and Botanic Gardens a delight.
The holiday park is set up to make the most of the 320 days of sunshine North Queensland enjoys each year, with two resort-style pools and shaded gazebos for you to stay cool. The kids will be kept entertained with a water park, two playgrounds, a jumping cushion, volleyball court, basketball court, trikes and an 18-hole mini-golf course.
To check-in, choose between cabins, villas, caravan sites or campgrounds. With enough amenities to keep everyone entertained, as well as BBQ areas and a children’s playground nearby, there’s plenty of places to prepare your daily meals and relax while keeping an eye on the little ones.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$42
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(105)
Coothara Farm
4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$34
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(17)
Black River Bush Retreat
4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Black River, QLD
A perfect spot to relax under the stars! A quiet, private, bush camp experience with a seasonal creek, mango orchard and dam.
Pitch your tent or set up your caravan either down near the dam, in a secluded bush setting, or closer to the house yard depending on what you prefer.
Enjoy a bush walk around the property, taking in the natural Australian bush environment and enjoy the native wildlife. You may find kookaburras, king fishers, kangaroos, goannas and wallabies while exploring and can relax by a crackling fire at night.
Each camp site is private with no other campers booked in the space on the same day.
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.
Property has secure key pad access.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(382)
Bee Haven
11 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Oak Valley, QLD
Semi-rural property set on 22 acres. We offer a camping ground it is not a caravan park. Limited numbers, no crowding. Oak Valley is only 20 minutes from Townsville CBD and 10 minutes to the nearest major shopping centre. The campsites are nestled along a shady tree-lined creek looking out over native flora and fauna.
Relax in the afternoon with a beverage as the sun rays move across the mountain tops. Sit by a warm fire in complete darkness with the sky lit up by stars. During the day explore the creek line and Billabongs.
The property is surrounded by wildlife, therefor you will see large areas of land that are unspoilt with long native grasses . Also some friendly farm animals. Suitable for RVs camper trailers and tents. Groups are welcome. There is plenty of room for push bike riding and outdoor games. Property is home to bush turkeys, kangaroos, wallabies possums reptiles and many bird species and fish life.
Dog friendly. Flushing toilet available. Plenty of firewood to gather your own, bring a saw as large logs.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(1)
Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles
11 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Toonpan, QLD
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$10
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
The best camping near Magnetic Island National Park guide
Overview
About
Beaches, eucalyptus forests, and bush-clad mountains make up Magnetic Island National Park. Cruise out to the island from Townsville, climb the peak of Mount Cook to discover WWII-era forts, and explore more than 36 kilometres of bushwalking trails with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities. The island is part of the Great Barrier Reef, so taking to the water is a must—spy dugongs and sea turtles on a boat cruise or dive in to snorkel along colorful coral reefs. Camping is not permitted in the park, but campers have options on the island or along the mainland.
When to go
The best time for hiking and wildlife-watching on Magnetic Island is during the dry season (May to November), but it’s possible to visit year-round. Humidity is high in the summer months (December to April) and temperatures can reach more than 30°C, so bring plenty of water and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. Birds, koalas, and rock wallabies are most active in the early morning or evening.
Know before you go
- Magnetic Island lies within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area and takes about 30 minutes by ferry from Townsville. The national park encompasses just over half of the island.
- Bikes and motorbikes are available for hire on the island, and island buses link the main towns. Car ferries allow visitors to bring their own transport.
- The island’s towns have gas stations, shops, and grocery stores where you can purchase essentials. For specialist camping gear, you might need to go to Townsville.
- The island is pest-free, so be sure your clothing, shoes, and bags are free of soil, weeds, seeds, and pests before boarding the boat. Don’t bring any plants, seeds, or fresh food to the island either.
Top cities near Magnetic Island National Park
- Magnetic Island National Park
Safety at Hipcamp
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