Camping in Magnetic Island with swimming

Find koalas, snorkelling, and hiking on magical “Maggie.

96% (1069 reviews)
96% (1069 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Magnetic Island

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds in Magnetic Island with swimming

97%
(78)

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. ..... 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. .... 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! .... Welcome to The Forts of Magnetic Island, it's truly magic your views are the National Park. ..... 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 ...... Please allow for some slight slope sites, come and enjoy your relaxed bushcamp stay. ... FERRY crossing BOOK to arrive at your campsite during the "daytime" please. Please prepare to "prebook your ferry" if travelling with a vehicle. .... 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.
from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(20)

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. 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.
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
91%
(16)

BE Magnetic Island

1 site · Tent2 acres · Horseshoe Bay, QLD
BE🌴 WELCOME to Magnetic Island . Tucked away bordering the National Park is your campsite a quiet oasis. . Wildlife bouncing, exotic birds chirping, koalas roaming, cute chickens and a spacious tiered entertainment area to totally relax. . Just a 2second walk to the track to take you on the famous FORTS walk. . Beaches, sunsets, and incredible views are just moments away from your campsite. . Plenty of watersports! Hire kayaks from your campsite Go on a sailing trip, extra fees and weather dependent. . Hire jet ski Hire a scooter Hire a cute car . See butterfly, birds, kangaroo, koalas, wallabies, and much more from your camp . Cafes, bars, shops and bustop just a moment away. . Don't forget we are a true natural eco STAY bring your own toilet,cooking facilities. Looking forward to seeing YOU 👣
from 
AU$32
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(255)

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 swim or paddle about on your kayak, canoe or SUP. Please be aware entry to the dam is a bit muddy and there is alot 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 under owners' control at all times). 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 x2 BYO)
from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(3)

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.
from 
AU$42
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(846)

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.
from 
AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(27)

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.
from 
AU$36
 / 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.
from 
AU$34
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Barefoot Island Escape MAGNETIC ISL

4 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Horseshoe Bay, QLD
Looking for that perfect location for a PRIVATE EXCLUSIVE EVENT?Birthday Promotional Sport Event Rustic Wedding Private function We can accommodate your Group Booking. ... SEND us a message to discuss how we can help . EXTERNAL Hire available Marquees can be set up. Bathrooms BBQs Tables Linen Floristy Private Chef or catering .... Location: Photographic scenery. Beaches nearby. . . Barefoot Island Escape Magnetic Island Queensland could be perfect! . Sitting on 3 acres of rustic land with National Park as a backdrop. . Camping available for up to 20 vehicle. Important: No Bathroom Facilities No Kitchen Facilities THESE Can be hired for EVENTS . A central entertainment area, landscaped with hammocks and lounging chairs. ... So what's there to do? Amazing walks Beaches in abundance Fishing Rock climbing Nature discovery Butterfly, Koalas, Wallabies Birds Kookaburra. Galahs.Finch. +++ Snorkeling Hire a bike Hire a scooter Hire a cute convertible Yoga classes Cafes, and great restaurants Trip to Palm or outer reef or go sailing on a yacht Hire a jet ski and find your private oasis.
from 
AU$500
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(1)

Magnetic Naturally Island Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · QLD
Our island cabin is purpose built for guests and is fully self contained. Comfortable queen bed, lounge, kitchen, bathroom with a beautiful under cover outdoor shower, fans, air-conditioning and washing machine. There is a covered deck attached to cabin and a paved area to relax in by outdoor BBQ. Large outdoor pool for your use, in a shared area with the owners. The cabin is very private, surrounded by native flora and fauna and growing gardens. The cabin is completely separate to our family home. It is a truely peaceful spot with the beach less than a kilometre away. Horseshoe Bay is the gateway to many of our beautiful bays and tracks including the famous Forts walk. There are water activities and a life guard patrolled swim area. Several little cafes restaurants and a local pub are also in the bay. There is a great bus service on the island and nearest bus stop is less than 2 km away. Rental cars are also available at good rates.
from 
AU$300
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 2 times

Mykitoville

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · 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.
from 
AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(425)

Crystal Ridge

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · 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. 
from 
AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Star Hosts in Magnetic Island

Available this weekend

Value Prop
Value Prop

Camping in Magnetic Island with swimming guide

Overview

Just eight kilometres and 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville, Magnetic Island (“Maggie” to locals) is a national park offering watersports, hiking, history, and wildlife in abundance. Several small settlements, the largest of which is Nelly Bay, are surrounded by eucalyptus woods, rainforest, and granite tors where koalas are easily spotted, and rock wallabies are often seen in the early morning. Outdoor activities are heavily water-based: snorkelling and swimming at about 20 bays and beaches, plus sailing, waterskiing, parasailing, scuba diving, kayaking, and fishing.

Where to go

Horseshoe Bay

Bungalow Bay Koala Village at Horseshoe Bay is the only camping ground on Magnetic Island. Home to a wildlife sanctuary where you can visit koalas, a python, or a small saltwater crocodile, the campground also offers ranger-guided bush walks to explore nearby habitats and learn the history of the area’s traditional owners, the Wulgurukaba people.

Nelly Bay–Arcadia Trail

One of the best and most popular of the island’s 36-km network of hiking trails is the Nelly Bay–Arcadia Trail, a one-way journey of 5 km (3 miles) that takes between two and three hours to complete. The World War II fortifications provide an interesting setting for part of the trail, a likely place to spot koalas in the wild. (The best koala spotting is on the track up to the Forts off Horseshoe Bay Road.) And at the top are terrific 360-degree views of the Coral Sea and Bowling Green Bay National Park.

Geoffrey Bay

Geoffrey Bay offers excellent snorkelling, straight off the beach. Local shops offer “swim cards” to strap to your wrist—these carry useful information about the coral and fish you can see. For strong swimmers, the wreck of the World War II plane Moltke is another good snorkelling spot.

When to go

Townsville can be hot and humid in summer (December to February)—and sometimes in the path of cyclones—but is spared the worst of the wet-season rains and claims 300 days of sunshine a year. Magnetic Island tends to be cooler with more breezes. The best months to visit are May to September, when the weather is cool and the seas are free of the toxic marine stingers that can prevent ocean swimming without special stinger suits.

Know before you go

  • Magnetic Island is not on the Great Barrier Reef, but the surrounding waters are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The best reef snorkeling is at Florence Bay, Arthur Bay and Geoffrey Bay.
  • Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forests, and reserves. Book your spot online and in advance.
  • Despite its size and popularity, there is no information centre on Magnetic Island. Try the one at Townsville Bulletin Square instead if you need assistance.
  • Magnetic Island Bus Services will get you anywhere on the island for just a few dollars, but many visitors prefer the freedom of hiring a mini-moke (an open-sided vehicle similar to a golf cart) to get around. You’ll see them all over the island.

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