The best camping near Cape Hillsborough National Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cape Hillsborough National Park adventure.
Rainforest, beach, and the Great Barrier Reef are all in reach in this coastal park.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Cape Hillsborough National Park
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Hillsborough National Park
99%
(4740)
Hold It Flats
139 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Yalboroo, QLD
Hold it Flats is a 120 acre property that borders the beautiful O'Connell River that has water all year round. Take a walk around the property to check out some of the creatures that have been built out of scrap metal and bush bars that have been built all around the property.
There is nice shady, green grass and flat camping sites right beside the river with hot showers and flushing toilets. There is plenty of room and some great tracks for the kids and the big kids to ride their push bikes on. The swimming hole is about 2 meters deep and has big shady trees on the edge. There is also enough room for kids to bring their kayaks and have a paddle along the river.
All campsites can be provided with their own fire pit. You just pick your spot and we will bring a portable fire pit to you. Fire wood can be purchased at the property. All rubbish must be taken when you, there are no rubbish bins provided.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$19
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(550)
Creek and Antique Camping
50 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Mackay, QLD
We have a selection of beautiful creek side locations where you can enjoy the clear, fresh running water and a selection of other sites only a short walk from the water. Conveniently located just a short drive off the Bruce Highway our sites are not designated, you choose your own on arrival
While staying, you will have the opportunity to take a walk into the past to view a private collection of Australiana, including a working stationary, engine display and vintage kitchen with wood stoves.
Access to the property is via a creek crossing so it is advisable to phone ahead if there has been recent rain or rainfall is forecast.
Toilets are located on the property but campers will need their own shower facilities and take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are permitted but must be contained at all times in a fire pits that we also have for your use
Calen is a small cane growing and cattle town with a general store, pharmacy, service station, butcher and the local pub. Zarby's cafe is a short drive away if you would like to dine in for breakfast or lunch in a retro style setting.
Each site fee is for 2 adults and kids stay at no cost
Pets are welcome.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(764)
Mushroom Valley Eco Camp
18 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Yalboroo, QLD
Everybody Welcome! Just bring a great attitude and enjoy a peaceful stay :)
Located on the beautiful O'Connell River, this camp site is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes including a mountain range and the river. The property boasts many areas to go for walks, enjoy the wildlife and relax.
You can enjoy spacious camping choices either along the river or on other selected areas throughout the property (we will show you where).
We always ensure a limited number of campers so you get the space and tranquility you deserve on your camping trip. No side by side camping, always spacious and comfortable.
There is access to a large number of compostable
toilets, and composting and recycling facilities are available (we ask that you
please take all general rubbish with you).
Wildlife is in abundance throughout the property and includes grazing wallabies, ducks and birdlife which are
an everyday occurrence. The property is also the home of our Festival - Mushroom Valley, throughout the site you will find different pieces of artwork, decor and permanent structures that bring artistic life to the site.
We are a friendly and relaxed family who live on the site and we look forward to welcoming you to our little piece of paradise.
Well behaved pets are welcome, please discuss with us upon booking :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$10
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Booked 17 times
Leila Bank
4 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Habana, QLD
We are a working farm located in Habana. 110 acres of farm land beside the beautiful Leila Creek Habana. We have a range of farm animals here on the property.
Enjoy the rural views and quiet, serene surroundings. Stroll up to the dam past all the farm animals. You can also enjoy a swim in the creek or dam.
Forget something? We are only 15 minuted back to town.
Have a horse? Bring it as well. We are pet friendly.
Enjoy your fire at night while listening to the sound of running creek at your campsite. Fireplaces and firewood available.
Bring your fishing gear along as the waterhole is stocked with barramundi if you are into fishing.
Septic toilet and tapped bore water available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$29
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(262)
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 guided Tours of the Animal farm .
So for safety reason we 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.
Council permit restriction 3 day stay Maximums.
Check out 10am.
If your 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
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
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(65)
Oh Deere Farm Stay and Sugar Cane Farm
16 sites · RVs, TentsCalen, QLD
A beautiful area to camp and learn more about Sugar Cane as we have travelled a lot ourselves with our large family in a caravan we want to offer other families an affordable place to stay. We are on a cane farm and have flat grassy area suitable for all types of vehicles, tents, camper trailers, caravans or just swags. The house site is a large area around the main homestead of the property with toilet and shower facilities right there, including washing machine and dryer at a small cost for your convenience, also a BBQ that can be used with table and chairs also, come and have a drink and a chat in the afternoons and if wether and wind permit and no fire bans in place a chat around the fire pot.We are just off the Bruce Highway 1 hr from Airlie Beach and 45 minutes from Mackay. Safe to pull up and leave your van while you go sight seeing in our beautiful area.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$27
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
93%
(68)
Kangaroo Tales
4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Midge Point, QLD
When you pay to stay here - you are helping us pay for the care of our injured and orphaned wildlife.
We are located on a secluded bush block across the road from the beach giving you access to great fishing and crabbing.
With a fire pit and plenty of wood to burn. Enjoy your tranquil escape to Midge Point.
We are pleased to announce that we are now proudly a member of the Wildlife Land Trust and listed as a Wildlife Sanctuary. This helps us become a release sit for our local native wildlife and furthers our efforts with wildlife Care and Rehabilitation.
There is a local takeaway and tavern just down the road.
Please note:
You must be self contained to stay here as there are no amenities.
Grey water can be placed on the trees.
Dogs are allowed however will need to be kept on leads at all times to ensure they do not chase the wildlife.
We do have wildlife in care behind fences and in cages :- however we ask that you please do not touch as the animals are being prepared to be released back into the wild.
Pets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(6)
Awaken Retreats
3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Kuttabul, QLD
Our property is a four-hectare, semi-rural site located near Kuttabul, just north of Mackay. It features areas of natural dry-rainforest, seasonal creeks and attracts a number of native bird and small marsupial species.
We are located close to Cape Hillsborough, Seaforth and the Pioneer Valley. Visit these sites or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of our property and some space to unwind.
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from
AU$18
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(31)
Platypus Bush Camp
19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Finch Hatton, QLD
The Platypus Bush Camp is nestled within the enchanting lowland palm-rivine rainforest of Finch Hatton Gorge. The stunning creek that meanders through the property provides fantastic swimming spots.
The property boasts modern amenities such as flush toilets, stunning rainforest showers, inviting picnic and dining spots, a fully equipped kitchen, and a charming dining hut, all set amidst the lush natural beauty of the rainforest and crystal clear creeks.
Accomodation options include:
- 10 unpowered sites available which suit a variety of set ups - please refer to each site description for specific site size and RV details.
- 6 unpowered tent sites in a common grassed area - no vehicles are permitted on the grassed area.
- 2 huts with provided bedding.
Pets are welcome - as long as they are well behaved and owners clean up after them.
There is a central fire pit for use.
The property is located in the scenic Pioneer Valley just outside Mackay, Queensland. It's conveniently located 2 kilometres from the breathtaking Finch Hatton Gorge in the Eungella National Park. Just 1 hour drive from Mackay and 2 hours from Airlie Beach.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(110)
Valley View Camping
10 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Finch Hatton, QLD
Valley View Camping is a 10-acre property, bordered by the magical Eungella National Park. Our place makes a great base to explore the remarkable Finch Hatton Gorge and its many waterfalls, lush flora and volcanic boulders.
We have two large, flat, grassed paddocks with sweeping mountain views. We offer up to six campsites, all accessible for any type of vehicle, and you choose where you want to pitch/park on arrival. Both paddocks have easy access to flushing toilets and hot showers. However, the lower paddock has our playground and undercover areas.
Your own pets are welcome, we just ask you to please pick up after them.
Campfires are permitted only if you have your own firepit, brazier or similar and you bring your own firewood.
We welcome campers here to enjoy our stunning and peaceful corner of the world, so no loud music please and generators off between the hours of 10pm - 8am.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
AU$22
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
The best camping near Cape Hillsborough National Park guide
Overview
About
Rainforest trails, mangrove forests, and golden beaches provide numerous wildlife-watching opportunities at Cape Hillsborough National Park. See kangaroos and wallabies hopping along the beach at sunrise, walk the causeway to Wedge Island to spot sea turtles from Turtle Point lookout, or escape inland to admire rare birds and butterflies in the rainforest. Follow the Discovery Trail to learn more about the Yuibera Aboriginal people, set sail for the Great Barrier Reef islands to swim and snorkel amid colourful coral reefs, then head back to shore for a beach barbecue. Smalleys Beach Camping Area is the park’s only camping spot and has grass and dirt pitches for caravans, camper trailers, and tents, all within a short stroll of the water.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Camping permits are required, and campsites must be reserved in advance. A tag with your booking number must be displayed on your pitch at all times.
- There are just 11 sites at Smalleys Beach, and they can fill up quickly—book at least three months in advance for busy periods such as the Queensland school holidays and bank holiday weekends.
When to go
Beach-goers can enjoy Cape Hillsborough year-round—daytime temperatures often reach 25°C even in winter, and it’s possible to bushwalk, swim, and cruise the Great Barrier Reef islands at any time. Summer showers are frequent, and the warmest months (October through April) are also ‘stinger season’, so wear protective clothing when swimming. Whenever you visit, set your alarm early—the views are most magnificent at sunrise when wallabies and kangaroos come down to the beach to feed.
Know before you go
- Cape Hillsborough National Park is located 50km north of Mackay or about a 40-minute drive along the Bruce Highway.
- Facilities include picnic and barbecue areas, restrooms, and drinking water (available at the camping area). For fuel or to pick up groceries, the closest town is Seaforth, a 10-minute drive away.
- Phone coverage is patchy throughout the park.
- Fire bans are common in Queensland during dry periods—if local regulations allow it, campfires are permitted in off-ground fire containers (not provided) only.
- The Diversity Boardwalk and Cape Hillsborough day-use area are accessible for wheelchairs, but there are no accessible facilities.
Top cities near Cape Hillsborough National Park
- Cape Hillsborough 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.