The best camping near Bowling Green Bay National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bowling Green Bay National Park adventure.

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

Discover the diverse landscapes of Bowling Green Bay National Park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Bowling Green Bay National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville
  • BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville
  • BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville
88%
(12)

BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville

113 sites · Lodging, 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$45.90
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Crumpy's Place
  • Crumpy's Place
  • Crumpy's Place
100%
(10)

Crumpy's Place

5 sites · RVs20 acres · Bluewater, QLD
Welcome to Crumpy's Place! 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!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Gorge Creek Bushcamp
  • Campground set in amongst the trees.
  • Gorge Creek Bushcamp
Booked 3 times

Gorge Creek Bushcamp

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Horseshoe Bay, QLD
Private campsites in amongst the trees on the outskirts of Horseshoe Bay. Two sites offering power and water suitable for vehicles and caravans up to 5.3m. Outside shower available. No toileting facilities currently available onsite. Shared picnic and BBQ area. 400m from the beach and 2km from the centre of Horseshoe. Surrounded by wildlife including wallabies, echidnas, curlews, plovers, black cockatoos to name a few. Walking distance to shops, restaurants, patrolled swimming area, and local bus. Bushwalks, secluded beaches, island tours, beach hire, snorkelling and many more. Please make sure to book the Magnetic Island Ferries barge transfer across from Townsville. The barge books out in holidays and maybe subject to tides for larger vehicles. This property suits campervans, camper trailers and small to mid-size caravans. Contact Derek directly for larger vehicle options.
Potable water
Showers
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Town and Country Caravan Park
  • Town and Country Caravan Park
  • Town and Country Caravan Park

Town and Country Caravan Park

10 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Townsville, QLD
Both powered and unpowered sites available for caravans, campervans and tents. Facilities include power, water, camp kitchen and laundry. No Wifi or dumb point available. Walking distance to shops and other facilities. Pet friendly.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$26
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Coothara Farm
  • Coothara Farm
  • Coothara Farm
94%
(117)

Coothara Farm

3 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$32
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Black River Outback Ranch
  • Black River Outback Ranch
  • Black River Outback Ranch
100%
(1)

Black River Outback Ranch

11 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$31.50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Cuddle Creek Homestead
  • Cuddle Creek Homestead
  • Cuddle Creek Homestead
100%
(10)

Cuddle Creek Homestead

2 sites · RVs, Tents28 acres · Yabulu, QLD
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.
Campfires
Trash
from 
AU$15
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Nestled in Nelly
  • Nestled in Nelly
  • Nestled in Nelly
Booked 6 times

Nestled in Nelly

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Nelly Bay, QLD
The location- central to everything. Two minute walk to coral and palm tree line Nelly bay beach, coffee cart/shop, grocery store, bottle shop, pharmacy, bus stop, boat ramp and public toilet block. The site- flat, easily accessible, mostly shaded and fully fenced on peaceful street. Power and water available. -The Island- located on the great barrier reef, 20 ferry/ 40min barge from mainland. Characterised by over 75% national Park, with an abundance of hikes, snorkel trails and opportunities to see wildlife (wallabies, koalas, turtles, and many birds). *stinger suits recommended in summer
Pets
Potable water
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Top-rated campgrounds near Bowling Green Bay National Park

  • Mount Surround Campground
  • Mount Surround Campground
  • Mount Surround Campground
99%
(807)

Mount Surround Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · 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. The 20-acre dam is full of fresh water from all the rain but is still weedy and muddy on the banks. Great for kayaking or SUP. On arrival simply pick a spot you like and set up camp. 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. 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, $10 cash per milk crate, from camp kitchen. Please be honest and 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. All dogs must be on a lead and under owners' control at all times. Dog poo must be picked up. No one wants to step in your dog's poo. 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
  • Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles
  • Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles
  • Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles
98%
(341)

Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

159 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$16
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Mam Easy Stay
  • Mam Easy Stay
  • Mam Easy Stay
96%
(14)

Mam Easy Stay

10 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · 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. If required 2 bedroom granny flat but must share bathroom with other campers. NRL games on big screen in bar area every weekend during season.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$41
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • THE BLOCK
  • THE BLOCK
  • THE BLOCK
98%
(139)

THE BLOCK

9 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Brookhill, QLD
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. 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
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Hidden Corner Magnetic Island
  • Hidden Corner Magnetic Island
  • Hidden Corner Magnetic Island
98%
(90)

Hidden Corner Magnetic Island

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Horseshoe Bay, QLD
Magnetic Island Private fully fenced 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 is a tap and a hose. 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. PLEASE NOTE: ***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.*** Please check in before 6pm so we can show you where to park. You can always go back out and continue enjoying the island.
Pets
Potable water
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Black River Bush Retreat
  • Black River Bush Retreat
  • Black River Bush Retreat
100%
(49)

Black River Bush Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Black River, QLD
A perfect spot to relax under the stars! A 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, lizards, goannas and wallabies while exploring and can relax by a crackling fire at night. Help feed the farm animals when the owners are home. The goats love a good scratch! 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
  • WillowVale Park
  • WillowVale Park
  • WillowVale Park
94%
(85)

WillowVale Park

2 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Nome, 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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$35
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Just a short walk to this spectacular secluded beach .....
  • Magnetic Island is home to a large koala population - it's not hard to spot one in nearby trees.
  • Just a short walk to this spectacular secluded beach .....
94%
(9)

Magnetic Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Picnic Bay, QLD
Our property is a stunning, flat, private block of land, located just 400m to the beaches, restaurants and hotel of Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island. We have a small creek that runs through the property during the wet season, and several perfect camp spots bordered by mature paperbark trees, overlooking Butler's Creek. There is water available on the site - but you will need to bring your own hose (20-40m long) to have access it. You MUST be FULLY SELF-CONTAINED with your own toilet/shower facilities and power. Please leave no waste on the property or any trace of your stay. Although not fenced, your dog is more than welcome - but please watch him with our resident wildlife ... as we are located in a koala corridor. And also be sure to please clean up all dog waste. Magnetic Island is located 8km offshore from Townsville and is accessed via a passenger ferry that operates every hour from the city and a vehicle barge that operates several times a day. Book via the 'Sealink' website. "Maggie" as the island is affectionately known, has a permanent population of about 3000 people. There are a two supermarkets, a medical centre, resorts, restaurants to cater for tourist. Our block in beautiful Picnic Bay has been in our family for over 100 years and is home to a host of animal and bird life - we have resident kookaburras, nesting curlews and occasional koalas. Despite it's central location, it is very private. The Golf course is located right behind us and the beach is a 400m stroll. There is a bus stop nearby within 50m, that will take you all around the island. Be sure to stop at Arcadia to feed the wild rock wallabies and to go to the Toad Races held weekly at the Arcadia pub. There are spectacular beaches, bush walks, koala spotting, boat tours, reef dive operators, art galleries, homeware shops, restaurants, coffee shops, a brewery, pubs and a bus stop nearby. It is perfect for a relaxing getaway!!
Pets
Potable water
from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Country Camping Dam Site
  • Country Camping Dam Site
  • Country Camping Dam Site
97%
(49)

Country Camping Dam 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 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$32
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • One of many wallabies that came to say hello!
  • Bush Retreat
  • One of many wallabies that came to say hello!
100%
(10)

Bush Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$50
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Alva Beach Tourist Park
  • Alva Beach Tourist Park
  • Alva Beach Tourist Park
75%
(4)

Alva Beach Tourist Park

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Alva, QLD
A friendly welcome to Alva Beach Tourist Park tucked away in the small coastal village of Alva and just a 15km drive from the town of Ayr and Burdekin Shire. We are located a few hundred meters at the back of the dunes of the beach. The park consists of 5 acres of tropical grounds with park sites and cabins set amongst coconut palms and hibiscus hedges. We offer powered and non-powered sites with or without slabs. We have En-suite Cabins that can sleep up to six persons or budget cabins that will sleep up to 4 persons. Our park being coastal catches the great cooling sea breezes during the hotter summer months and our sparkling pool is a great spot to soak up the sun and cool off with a few laps. We have 4WD access from the park onto the beach for boat launching, fishing, and crabbing. The region is a well-known fishing mecca, with access to Barramundi, mud crabs, other estuary species, and off-coast reef fishing. Alva is also the closest point to the world-famous SS Yongala wreck. Ranked as one of the top ten dive sites in the world.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
AU$45
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
  • Mount Elliot Park
  • Mount Elliot Park
  • Mount Elliot Park
96%
(67)

Mount Elliot Park

4 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Shirbourne, QLD
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

The best camping near Bowling Green Bay National Park guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at Bowling Green Bay National Park, where rugged mountains meet coastal wetlands. Traverse scenic trails, witness cascading waterfalls at Alligator Creek, and explore the rich habitats that support a plethora of birdlife. With a variety of camping options available, from bush camping to remote sites, the park offers an immersive experience for every nature enthusiast.

Notable campgrounds

  • Cocoa Creek camping area, Cape Cleveland: Accessible by four-wheel drive, offering a rustic bush camping experience amid coastal woodlands.
  • Salmon Creek camping area, Cape Cleveland: A remote getaway for seasoned campers, with access to fishing and boating opportunities.
  • Alligator Falls camping area, Mount Elliot: Perfect for hikers looking to camp near the mesmerizing waterfalls and lush rainforest.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book online in advance to secure your preferred camping spot, as sites can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • Consider visiting during off-peak times for a better chance at snagging a reservation and a more tranquil experience.
  • Keep an eye on park alerts for any updates on campground availability and potential closures.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your desired campground is fully booked, as the park offers several alternatives.

When to go

The best time to visit Bowling Green Bay National Park is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is cooler and trails are accessible. The wet season, from December to April, can bring heavy rains, making some areas of the park inaccessible due to flooding.

Know before you go

  • Check the latest park alerts for any closures or safety information before planning your visit.
  • Be Crocwise: Estuarine crocodiles inhabit the park's waterways, so always stay vigilant near the water.
  • Prepare for remote hiking with adequate supplies, a first-aid kit, and reliable communication equipment.
  • Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available at the Alligator Creek day-use area.
  • Remember to pack out all your trash, as bins are not provided within the park.
100%
2 Ratings · 0 reviews

Top national parks near Bowling Green Bay National Park

Halifax Bay Wetlands National Park
Paluma Range National Park
Orpheus Island National Park
Djiru National Park
Kirrama National Park
Brook Islands National Park
Family Islands National Park

Top cities near Bowling Green Bay National Park

Townsville
Ayr
Balgal Beach
Black River
Ingham
Bowen
Charters Towers
Mission Beach

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