Camping near Townsville with campfires

Explore a tropical city on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef to camp in lush national parks.

97% (1720 reviews)
97% (1720 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Townsville

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds near Townsville with campfires

99%
(410)

Mountain View Lake Holiday Park

26 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 . All dogs must be on a lead and under owners' control at all times. Dog poo must be picked up. Noone 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)
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AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(145)

Mountview Farm Stay and Poodles

82 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.
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AU$13
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
90%
(896)

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.
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AU$25
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(399)

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 5 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.
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AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
84%
(19)

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.
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AU$15
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
94%
(108)

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.
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AU$34
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(453)

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. 
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AU$40
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(6)

Crystal Creek Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Coolbie, QLD
We have over 12 acres of private, tropical parkland, that runs right along the Crystal Creek in Mutarnee, QLD. 2 hectares of this land is between the Crystal Creek Caravan Park and the Crystal Creek itself. This area has it's own amenities block (toilets and showers) and access to water. There is a large communal campfire in the middle, and plenty of space for a perfect getaway! Should you require it, there is also access to the caravan park's amenities block which includes more toilets and showers, a camp kitchen, and a laundry. This camp is right across the road from the Paluma National Park, little Crystal Creek, Big Crystal Creek, and numerous natural swimming holes. Right behind the camp is a boat ramp, and the beach is 10 minutes away. You will have access to walking tracks, mountain bike trails, bird-watching, swimming, fishing, crabbing... the list is endless!
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AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
95%
(43)

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.
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AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(115)

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
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AU$20
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(34)

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.
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AU$36
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(27)

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.
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AU$30
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
Value Prop
Value Prop

Camping near Townsville with campfires guide

Overview

Against the backdrop of the dramatic Castle Hill, Townsville is a tropical city with a strong military history and great diving opportunities on the Great Barrier Reef. The Strand is Townsville’s waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants and popular for its water park, playgrounds and swimming pools. Among the city’s major attractions is Jezzine Barracks, a parkland dotted with outdoor sculptures and memorials honoring the city’s wartime history and the American forces who served here in World War II, but outside of town, caravan parks and campgrounds await. Cruises depart from Townsville harbor for the Great Barrier Reef, about 2.5 hours away. Experienced divers can also tackle the Yongala shipwreck.

Where to go

Magnetic Island

Take a day trip—or longer—to Magnetic Island, just five miles offshore. an hour’s ferry ride from Townsville. Much of the island is National Park (where camping is banned) and there are plenty of beautiful bays to snorkel, swim or tackle various watersports. A highlight is koala-spotting along the Forts Walk, which features ruins of World War II fortification.

Charters Towers

Charters Towers is a charming Outback town with a fascinating gold mining history, about 90 minutes’ drive west of Townsville. Among its attractions is the Venus Gold Battery, the largest surviving battery in Australia, and some elegant and impressive colonial buildings. There are two large camping and caravan parks in town.

Paluma Range National Park

Jourama Falls is the highlight of a visit to Paluma Range National Park, about 90 minutes’ drive northwest of Townsville. There is a popular camping area at Jourama Falls on the banks of Waterview Creek, walking tracks and day-use facilities including picnic tables, barbecues and toilets.

When to go

Claiming more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Townsville’s average temperature is 28°F. The best time to visit is April to November. Summers (December to February) are hot, humid and sticky, and marine stingers inhabit coastal waters from November to April, when it is best to swim in netted zones or wear a “stinger suit.” Summer is also a time when Townsville can sometimes be in the path of cyclones.

Know before you go

  • Remember to pack sunscreen; the tropical Queensland sun can be fierce. If you are heading to the Great Barrier Reef, check out sunscreens that won’t damage the coral reefs (those that don’t contain oxybenzone or BP-3).
  • Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forest and reserves and must be booked online and paid for before arrival. Make camping books as early as possible, especially in holiday periods.
  • Townsville is a great place to stock up before you go camping, with everything you’d expect of a major city, a post office, pharmacy, visitor information centre, bank, and car hire companies.
  • Townsville can be reached by road, air and rail. Townsville Airport is a seven-minute drive from the city centre, and Queensland Rail’s Spirit of Queensland long-distance train travels to Townsville several times a week from Brisbane and Cairns.

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