Places to Car Camp around Townsville

Whether you have a camper trailer, a caravan, a motorhome, or just doing the "van life", it's always nice to escape the city life and live a little. Here are our suggested places to immerse yourself in nature around Townsville.

Places to Car Camp around Townsville

Whether you have a camper trailer, a caravan, a motorhome, or just doing the "van life", it's always nice to escape the city life and live a little. Here are our suggested public car camping places to immerse yourself in nature within two hours of Townsville. Each location offers unique experiences, from tranquil waterfalls and scenic hikes to excellent fishing spots and historical trails, all within a two-hour drive from Townsville.

Big Crystal Creek (Paluma Range National Park)

Escape to the refreshing waters of Big Crystal Creek, perfect for swimming and picnicking. The area provides amenities like toilets and BBQ facilities amidst lush rainforest surroundings.

Paluma Dam (Paluma Range National Park)

Lake Paluma is a serene spot surrounded by dense forest, ideal for kayaking and swimming. Explore the area on foot or by bike on its numerous trails. Basic camping facilities are available.

Saunders Beach

Basic facilities, including toilets, cold showers, non-potable water, bins, BBQ and a playground.

Saunders Beach

This coastal retreat offers basic amenities such as toilets, cold showers, and BBQ facilities. Enjoy beachfront camping with easy access to fishing and swimming spots.

Jourama Falls (Paluma Range National Park)

Camp among towering waterfalls and clear pools. Facilities include toilets and picnic areas. The falls are a short hike from the camping area, offering stunning views.

Bluewater Creek (Rollingstone)

A peaceful camping spot with access to fresh water and fishing areas. Basic facilities are provided at the rest area, ensuring a comfortable stay in nature.

Broadwater Creek (Broadwater State Forest)

Surrounded by lush forest, this secluded spot offers an authentic bush camping experience. Access to water and minimal facilities.

Wallaman Falls (Girringun National Park)

Stay near Australia's tallest single-drop waterfall. The camping area is equipped with basic amenities and serves as a starting point for several walking tracks.

Blencoe Falls (Girringun National Park)

Offers dramatic views of cascading waterfalls and gorges. Basic camping facilities are available, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.

Murray Falls (Girramay National Park)

Enjoy the beauty of Murray Falls from this tranquil camping spot, which provides amenities like toilets and picnic areas. The falls are a short walk away.

Salmon Beach (Bowling Green Bay National Park)

A remote beach camping experience with basic facilities. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy coastal scenery.

Barratta Creek (Bowling Green Bay National Park)

A fisherman’s paradise, offering serene spots for camping near the water. Basic amenities are provided.

Alligator Creek (Bowling Green Bay National Park)

Features clear waters and rocky pools, with several walking tracks nearby. Camping facilities include toilets and picnic areas.

Fanning River (Hervey Range)

A quiet spot for bush camping, with access to the river for fishing. No facilities, allowing for a back-to-nature experience.

Keelbottom Creek (Hervey Range)

Offers a bush camping experience with access to water. It's an excellent spot for those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting.

Macrossan Park (Charters Towers)

This riverside camping area provides basic facilities and is a good base for exploring the historical places of Charters Towers.

Fletchers Creek & Dalrymple National Park (Charters Towers)

Enjoy camping in open woodland, with access to historical sites and walking tracks. Basic facilities are available.

Big Bend (Charters Towers)

Situated on the banks of the Burdekin River, offering a peaceful camping experience with fishing opportunities. No facilities.

Valley of Lagoons

A remote camping destination for a weekend getaway, offering stunning landscapes and wildlife. Prepare for a self-sufficient stay, as facilities are limited.

Porcupine Gorge National Park

Known as Australia's "Little Grand Canyon", it provides breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. Camping facilities include toilets and picnic tables.

White Mountains National Park

A weekender destination offering rugged landscapes and unique flora. Bush camping is available, with minimal facilities.

Hervey Range Camping Reserve

A historical area offering a quiet camping experience. No amenities. Explore the nearby heritage tea rooms and trails.


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