Beach and dog-friendly camping near Mission Beach

With its backdrop of green mountains, palm-fringed sands, and ocean, Mission Beach is a top choice for beach-loving campers. Swim, snorkel, or enjoy water sports at one of four beaches, or go hiking and birdwatching in the surrounding rainforest—look out for endangered cassowaries. Outdoor adventures are plentiful, whether you want to go white-water rafting along the Tully River, try skydiving with a beach landing, or take in the views from Clump Point. Cruise out to the Family Islands to camp along deserted beaches or venture further afield to snorkel and scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef. 

Cassowary Coast 

Mission Beach lies along Queensland’s Cassowary Coast, where white-sand beaches hug the shores and boat cruises set sail for the Great Barrier Reef islands. Hop between sleepy beach towns, go fishing along the Tully River, or visit beauty spots such as the Babinda Boulders. For the ultimate adventure, cruise out to Hinchinbrook Island to trek the rugged Thorsborne Trail, kayak between secluded coves, and camp out at remote bush campgrounds.

Wet Tropics

Hemmed in by lush bands of rainforest, Mission Beach is a strategic basecamp from which to explore the UNESCO-listed Wet Tropics. Head north to Wooroonooran National Park to hike or mountain bike through the Goldsborough Valley, or trek to the top of Queensland’s highest peak. To the west, enjoy riverside camping, rafting, and kayaking in the Tully Gorge National Park, or continue south to Girringun National Park and hike to waterfalls and backcountry campsites.

Atherton Tablelands 

The wild landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands stretch north of the Tully Gorge all the way to Kuranda. Hike along rainforest trails, swim beneath natural waterfalls, or go mountain biking along rugged forest trails. Campers will find plenty of options around the towns of Atherton, Malanda, and Ravenshoe.

Beach days can be enjoyed year-round at Mission Beach, but take care from October through June—this is stinger season, so avoid swimming outside of the designated areas where stinger nets are in place. If you can, time your visit to enjoy the popular Mission Beach markets, held on the first and third Sundays of each month. 

• Mission Beach can be tricky to reach by public transport, and having your own transport is useful for exploring the coast and surrounding national parks.

• There is a large selection of shops, cafés, and restaurants at Mission Beach, so stock up on supplies before heading out into the tablelands.
• Fire bans are common in Queensland during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before starting a fire and always use designated fire pits.