Beach camping near Daintree with horseback riding
This riverside village is surrounded by UNESCO-listed rainforest.
- Daintree
Popular camping styles for Daintree
Beach camping near Daintree with horseback riding guide
Overview
Perched on the south bank of the Daintree River and hemmed in by lush rainforest and tropical fruit farms, the small village of Daintree is the gateway to the Daintree National Park. You can take in the park’s two rainforest sections, north and south of the river, over the course of a few days, but there are natural attractions closer to home too. Set sail on a scenic cruise and enjoy fishing, bird-watching, and crocodile-spotting along the Daintree River. Park your campervan in town along the riverside or venture into the national park to camp out amid the rainforest.
Where to go
Cape Tribulation
The northern section of the Daintree National Park is a wild tangle of rainforest leading up to pristine white-sand beaches. Hike through dense rainforest, admire the views along the Jindalba and Marrja boardwalks, and look out for wildlife, including crocodiles and endangered cassowaries. Campers can get back to basics at the Noah Beach camping area, with direct access to the beach.
Mossman Gorge
Natural wonders and cultural heritage meet head-on in the southern section of the Daintree National Park. Discover the Mossman Gorge along rugged 4WD trails, hike along the Mossman River, and take a Dreamtime walk to learn about the traditional culture of the Ngadiku people. There’s no camping in this part of the park, so base yourself in Daintree village or nearby Port Douglas.
Port Douglas and the Great Barrier Reef
South of Daintree, Port Douglas is a popular starting point for cruises to the Great Barrier Reef. Set sail on an island-hopping cruise, stop to snorkel and scuba dive along the reefs, or even spend a night on-board. Or, take in the views from the shore with a road trip along the Great Barrier Reef Drive.
When to go
The most pleasant time to explore the Daintree National Park is during the dry season from May through September. Campsites can book up quickly at this time, so plan ahead. Prepare for extreme weather if you visit during the wet season (December through April). Daytime temperatures are often above 30°C, with high humidity and heavy showers most days. Depending on conditions, access to some parts of the park may be limited, and river cruises may not run.
Know before you go
- There is no public transport to Daintree Village, so you will need your own vehicle or to visit as part of a tour.
- Daintree Village has a handful of shops, including a café, post office, and general store. For camping gear or to stock up on supplies, you’ll need to head to Port Douglas, a 45-minute drive away.
- Fire bans are common in Queensland during summer and dry periods, so check local regulations in advance.
