Camping in Airlie Beach, QLD, AU: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

Australia
—
Queensland
—
Airlie Beach

97% (4954 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Airlie Beach

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Eungella National Park

80 campgrounds

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Cape Palmerston National Park

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Available this weekend

98%

(320)

Blackiron

12 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Andromache, QLD

Situated on the bank of the Andromache River, setup camp at one of our cozy camp spots and enjoy the quiet of the bush. We have sites available in our grassy paddock which are accessible by all vehicles. Sand camping is available for 4x4's with tent/swag set ups during the dry seasons. No trailers or vans are permitted on the sand due to bogging. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a campfire and visual displays of local wildlife, try your hand at fishing in the river or just enjoy a cool swim just a few meters from our grassy sites. 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. Only a short distance from Airlie Beach and the islands for those interested in the local tourist attractions. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(5658)

Hold It Flats

152 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 trees, 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. We have some hiking tracks up around the hills of our property that have amazing views of the area. 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.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(907)

Creek and Antique Camping

55 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Calen, 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.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(76)

Gully Getaway

17 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Proserpine, QLD

Bush camping along the banks of a seasonal Gully that is lined with huge, majestic paperbark trees. There are 10 separate camp spots and all have a slashed track to the pit toilet. 3 in shady areas away from the gully that are suitable for Caravans. 3 located near the Gully, suitable for Caravans and larger groups and 4 that are located near the Gully but only suitable for camp trailers, roof top tents and smaller groups. Enjoy nature and feel free to explore the gully with it's many natural bridges and hidden animal habitats. As this is a working family farm, cattle from the remaining property will graze this Gully block from time to time so all gates must remain closed. We also ask that children are supervised at all times and advise that the Gully is not suitable for swimming. Kelsey Creek is a cane farming district and a small gauge train line goes past the property which makes for a lovely rural experience. Keep an eye out for the glow in the sky and you might get to witness a cane fire also. Being only 7 minutes west of Proserpine it is well located to take in the beauty of the Whitsundays. Gully Getaway is in an Environmental Protection Zone that restricts trees being felled and the removal of debris in the watercourse, so please do not use for firewood.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(650)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Hideaway Bay, QLD

Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.

* Before taxes and fees

12 top campgrounds near Airlie Beach

99%

(5658)

Hold It Flats

152 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 trees, 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. We have some hiking tracks up around the hills of our property that have amazing views of the area. 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.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(907)

Creek and Antique Camping

55 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Calen, 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.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(650)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Hideaway Bay, QLD

Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(76)

Gully Getaway

17 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Proserpine, QLD

Bush camping along the banks of a seasonal Gully that is lined with huge, majestic paperbark trees. There are 10 separate camp spots and all have a slashed track to the pit toilet. 3 in shady areas away from the gully that are suitable for Caravans. 3 located near the Gully, suitable for Caravans and larger groups and 4 that are located near the Gully but only suitable for camp trailers, roof top tents and smaller groups. Enjoy nature and feel free to explore the gully with it's many natural bridges and hidden animal habitats. As this is a working family farm, cattle from the remaining property will graze this Gully block from time to time so all gates must remain closed. We also ask that children are supervised at all times and advise that the Gully is not suitable for swimming. Kelsey Creek is a cane farming district and a small gauge train line goes past the property which makes for a lovely rural experience. Keep an eye out for the glow in the sky and you might get to witness a cane fire also. Being only 7 minutes west of Proserpine it is well located to take in the beauty of the Whitsundays. Gully Getaway is in an Environmental Protection Zone that restricts trees being felled and the removal of debris in the watercourse, so please do not use for firewood.

* Before taxes and fees

97%

(319)

Blackiron

12 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Andromache, QLD

Situated on the bank of the Andromache River, setup camp at one of our cozy camp spots and enjoy the quiet of the bush. We have sites available in our grassy paddock which are accessible by all vehicles. Sand camping is available for 4x4's with tent/swag set ups during the dry seasons. No trailers or vans are permitted on the sand due to bogging. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a campfire and visual displays of local wildlife, try your hand at fishing in the river or just enjoy a cool swim just a few meters from our grassy sites. 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. Only a short distance from Airlie Beach and the islands for those interested in the local tourist attractions. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(14)

Brindabella

1 site · RV4 acres · Airlie Beach, QLD

We are situated on 4 acres only mins to Airlie Beach and a part of the beautiful Whitsunday s. 74 Islands around and great boating and fishing . Restaurants and taverns near by also taxis and courtesy vans available. Day trip s to local islands, Bredyls Animal farm and so so much more. Come visit paradise!!

from

AU$35

/ night

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(57)

Paradise in the Pocket

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · Mount Charlton, QLD

Our property is a 7 acre property split into 2. Across the road is your very own 2 acres next to the creek. On the 2 acres is an old lychee orchard, a yoga pad, fire pit, creek access, and our veggie garden. Up the road is the strawberry farm, banana farm, and access to the amazing Helen’s Ck waterhole. Pitch your tent under the yoga pad while you listen to the creek. Enjoy the fire pit while you watch the rapids flow by. Access the creek via 2 bush tracks. 1 will take you to the magnificent waterhole, the other to the rapids. Fairly flat but not completely level. The owner has some beautiful vegetables growing, these are available at an additional fee. The pumpkins are amazing! Guests must be full self contained with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste with them on departure. Campfires are welcome in the fire pit provided. Pets are allowed on leash.

* Before taxes and fees

Booked 18 times

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

193 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Cannonvale, QLD

Looking for Airlie Beach accommodation with a whole lot of activities?! BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort in Airlie Beach is one big Whitsunday holiday destination in itself. Nowhere in the Whitsundays will you find so much fun in one place. You’ll probably spend hours on the BIG, HUGE, MEGA waterslide park and in our resort lagoon-style pool, the biggest in Airlie Beach. Then you can choose from tennis, mini golf, jumping pillows, pedal karts, Kids Craft Club, outdoor cinema, poolside massages, our Animal Park… the list goes on! As one of Queensland’s leading resort holiday parks, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort offers a range of accommodations from tropical landscaped campsites and purpose-built dormitory style accommodation for groups, to self-contained studios, one, two and three-bedroom cabins, offering the ultimate holiday escape.

* Before taxes and fees

92%

(46)

Menilden Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Bowen, QLD

Our property is 38 acres in size and is primarily used as an equestrian facility where coaching, clinics and training in dressage are conducted as well as providing agistment. The camping area is 100 metres or so from the nearest road and next to a dam and provides some of the most gorgeous sunsets around. Currently you will need to be self sufficient as we don’t have any toilet or shower facilities and we are still working on our shade with the trees having only just been planted. We are are only 2km from the Bruce hi-way and a comfortable 10 minute drive to the beautiful Bowen beaches, shops, pubs, restaurants making this a great spot to base yourself for your next Bowen getaway or if you are just passing through.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(102)

Cameron's Pocket Creek Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Mount Charlton, QLD

Located in the hinterland northwest of Mackay, our campground is very private with a maximum of only 2 campsites on our 100 metre long flat lawn. The site is fringed with rainforest and not visible from the road. A private track leads through the rainforest to a swimming hole. We are on beautiful St Helen's creek below Mount Dalrymple, just outside of Eungella National park's eastern boundary. Walk to the creek for a swim or walk around the gardens. Bring your goggles as the creek is clear and there are fish and turtles. There are many tropical butterflies including Cairns Birdwings and Ulysses to be seen. Birdwatching is also great here with many tropical species including the Wompoo and Rose-crowned fruit doves, azure kingfisher and torresian pigeons. The campsite has its own toilet, showers and drinking water. Campers can enjoy the "Tiki Hut" camp kitchen with BBQ, offset smoker, some comfy chairs, hot showers, flushing toilet, colourful lighting, kitchen bench with hot water and some 240v power available for light duties such as charging phones or running laptops. Power is all battery stored off-grid solar and can't provide heavy power such as cooking, heating or air-conditioning. Walk to the Strawberry farm for pick-your-own strawberries (available at certain times of the year only). Hang out in a hammock in the Tiki Hut or walk to another local swimming hole nearby. In the evenings, warm your feet by the campfire. You will need to BYO firewood. Please note that there is no mobile phone coverage here. You will be "Offline" throughout your stay in paradise. We have a landline at our house which can be used in an emergency. We are "friendly dog" friendly. So if your dog greets strangers and other dogs with a smile and a tail wag, they are welcome. If they bark or don't get on well with other people and dogs, then please leave them at home.

* Before taxes and fees

100%

(6)

Jenkins Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Bowen, QLD

Situated only 10 minutes drive from the beautiful town of Bowen with its amazing beaches, our 10 acre hobby farm with sheep, cattle and pigs has 1 acre set aside for fully contained travellers. Our block is flat with easy access, amazing sunsets and situated in a quiet, peaceful location off the Collinsville rd. The Don River is very close by with easy access to a great viewing area for the upcoming Don River dash. Our open block is ideal for self contained caravans and camper vans with individual or group bookings welcome. Kayaks available to hire upon request. Fireplaces also supplied with firewood available. We look forward to seeing you soon.

from

AU$15

/ night

* Before taxes and fees

Booked 2 times

Crystal Brook Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Crystal Brook, QLD

This campsite is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. It's a peaceful spot with basic amenities, perfect for a weekend getaway. Located just 1km from Proserpine Dam, the campsite offers easy access to serene water views and activities. For those willing to explore further, Girraween National Park is about an hour's drive from Crystal Brook. This national park is renowned for its spectacular granite landscapes, wildflowers, and walking trails. The Bald Rock Creek camping area within the park is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. The campsite is pet-friendly and caters to self-sufficient campers only, as there are no toilets or showers available. Enjoy a truly off-the-grid experience in this beautiful natural setting.

* Before taxes and fees

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(320)

Blackiron

12 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Andromache, QLD

Situated on the bank of the Andromache River, setup camp at one of our cozy camp spots and enjoy the quiet of the bush. We have sites available in our grassy paddock which are accessible by all vehicles. Sand camping is available for 4x4's with tent/swag set ups during the dry seasons. No trailers or vans are permitted on the sand due to bogging. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a campfire and visual displays of local wildlife, try your hand at fishing in the river or just enjoy a cool swim just a few meters from our grassy sites. 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. Only a short distance from Airlie Beach and the islands for those interested in the local tourist attractions. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(5658)

Hold It Flats

152 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 trees, 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. We have some hiking tracks up around the hills of our property that have amazing views of the area. 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.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(76)

Gully Getaway

17 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Proserpine, QLD

Bush camping along the banks of a seasonal Gully that is lined with huge, majestic paperbark trees. There are 10 separate camp spots and all have a slashed track to the pit toilet. 3 in shady areas away from the gully that are suitable for Caravans. 3 located near the Gully, suitable for Caravans and larger groups and 4 that are located near the Gully but only suitable for camp trailers, roof top tents and smaller groups. Enjoy nature and feel free to explore the gully with it's many natural bridges and hidden animal habitats. As this is a working family farm, cattle from the remaining property will graze this Gully block from time to time so all gates must remain closed. We also ask that children are supervised at all times and advise that the Gully is not suitable for swimming. Kelsey Creek is a cane farming district and a small gauge train line goes past the property which makes for a lovely rural experience. Keep an eye out for the glow in the sky and you might get to witness a cane fire also. Being only 7 minutes west of Proserpine it is well located to take in the beauty of the Whitsundays. Gully Getaway is in an Environmental Protection Zone that restricts trees being felled and the removal of debris in the watercourse, so please do not use for firewood.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(650)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Hideaway Bay, QLD

Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(907)

Creek and Antique Camping

55 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Calen, 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.

* Before taxes and fees

Star Hosts in Airlie Beach

97%

(319)

Blackiron

12 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Andromache, QLD

Situated on the bank of the Andromache River, setup camp at one of our cozy camp spots and enjoy the quiet of the bush. We have sites available in our grassy paddock which are accessible by all vehicles. Sand camping is available for 4x4's with tent/swag set ups during the dry seasons. No trailers or vans are permitted on the sand due to bogging. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a campfire and visual displays of local wildlife, try your hand at fishing in the river or just enjoy a cool swim just a few meters from our grassy sites. 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. Only a short distance from Airlie Beach and the islands for those interested in the local tourist attractions. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(650)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Hideaway Bay, QLD

Ben Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available. We are a nature based camping area. Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace. Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance. Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead. There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers. Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(5658)

Hold It Flats

152 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 trees, 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. We have some hiking tracks up around the hills of our property that have amazing views of the area. 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.

* Before taxes and fees

99%

(907)

Creek and Antique Camping

55 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Calen, 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.

* Before taxes and fees

96%

(76)

Gully Getaway

17 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Proserpine, QLD

Bush camping along the banks of a seasonal Gully that is lined with huge, majestic paperbark trees. There are 10 separate camp spots and all have a slashed track to the pit toilet. 3 in shady areas away from the gully that are suitable for Caravans. 3 located near the Gully, suitable for Caravans and larger groups and 4 that are located near the Gully but only suitable for camp trailers, roof top tents and smaller groups. Enjoy nature and feel free to explore the gully with it's many natural bridges and hidden animal habitats. As this is a working family farm, cattle from the remaining property will graze this Gully block from time to time so all gates must remain closed. We also ask that children are supervised at all times and advise that the Gully is not suitable for swimming. Kelsey Creek is a cane farming district and a small gauge train line goes past the property which makes for a lovely rural experience. Keep an eye out for the glow in the sky and you might get to witness a cane fire also. Being only 7 minutes west of Proserpine it is well located to take in the beauty of the Whitsundays. Gully Getaway is in an Environmental Protection Zone that restricts trees being felled and the removal of debris in the watercourse, so please do not use for firewood.

* Before taxes and fees

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Airlie Beach guide

Overview

Impossibly blue waters and 74 islands draw campers, sailors, snorkelers and divers to the Whitsundays, and the hub is the relaxed village of Airlie Beach. Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea, Airlie Beach is a laid-back place to base yourself while exploring the Whitsunday islands and walking trails. Cool off in the artificial Airlie Beach lagoon, with its man-made beach and surrounding 10 acres of parkland, or take boat trips to the Great Barrier Reef or to nearby islands for camping, snorkelling, diving, fishing and hiking.

Whitsunday Island

The jewel in the crown here is Whitehaven Beach, famed as one of Australia’s best beaches, for its 7km of dazzling pure-white silica sand and good swimming and snorkeling. Boat transfers for campers can be arranged from Airlie Beach. Camp sites are behind the beach in eucalypt forest. Fishing, kayaking and hiking are all excellent pastimes in this little piece of the Whitsunday Islands National Park, and there are five other camping areas on the island.

Hook Island

Part of the Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail, a blend of seaways and picturesque walks across Hook, Whitsunday and South Molle islands, this island has four beachside camping grounds. Curlew Beach is the closest to the Ngaro Cultural Site at Nara Inlet, honouring the indigenous Ngaro people, where there are shell middens and rock art sites.

Conway National Park

Conway National Park, on the mainland has lots of short walks but for those who want something more challenging, the three-day 27.1km Conway Circuit has two campsites. Feast your eyes on giant strangler fig trees, palms and ferns and spot the large electric-blue Ulysses butterflies.

Hardy Reef

For a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, take the chance to camp overnight on a pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef with Cruise Whitsundays’ Reefsleep. Join a day trip cruise to dive and snorkel at Hardy Reef, but when the daytrippers leave, stay on to experience the reef at night. Tents (or “reefbeds”) are erected on the top level of the pontoon, under the stars, for a maximum of 20 people. It’s expensive, but unforgettable.

When to go

The best months to visit are May to September, when the weather is balmy and the waters are free of toxic marine stingers, which prevents ocean swimming (unless you don a special ‘stinger suit’). The busiest times are June to August, so make sure you book early. December to March is hotter and more humid. Expect ocean temperatures of at least 72F year-round. The rainy season is January to March, and cyclones are possible between November and April.

Know before you go

There are 28 camping areas across the islands or mainland National Parks. Camping permits are required for all Queensland parks, forest and reserves and must be booked online and paid for before arrival.
Saltwater crocodiles are found in the nearby Proserpine River and other waterways in the region.
Manta Ray Bay on Hook Island is a great spot for snorkelling, with big fish such as the protected Maori wrasse, trevally and lots of smaller reef fish.
Cid Harbour, on the western side of Whitsunday Island, is a known site for shark attacks, so is best avoided by swimmers.