So you’re looking for free camping in QLD? Well, you have landed in the right place as we have curated the best free camping location from around QLD. We have searched high and low for the campsites that have amazing ratings so you can rest assured even though free you will be heading to an awesome location.
As with all our posts and suggestion, we do ask for feedback or any suggestions in the comments suggestion below. We are always for improving our lists based on peoples experiences at sites we have listed or that they have and want to share with the broader camping community. With all that said enjoy our list of free camping gound around the state of QLD.
Best Free Camping in Queensland (Rest Areas, Pet Friendly and Suitable for Caravans)
Notch Point Free Campground
RATED 4.7/5 – Check Google Reviews
The first free camping spot is a beach location which is on the northside of QLD, between Mackay and Rockhampton. It is a perfect location to just sit down relax and enjoy the environment. For those of you unaware of how big QLD is, this spot is located 10 hours north of Brisbane. It’s not a day trip from town.
This campsite by reviews is definitely a must-stop for the frugal camper. It is an absolutely spectacular spot and when planning your road trip around Australia, make sure you plant this as one of your stops. It has been voted in the top 5 best camping spots in all of Queensland and it really lives up to it.
Notch Point campground is set in quite the tropical scenery with palm trees which sway in the winds. You can actually find coconuts sitting under the trees waiting for your devouring. The weather in this area being tropical is obviously quite humid and muggy.
Bear in mind the trip to this location is a little remote and can be a bit of a rough drive from the end of Notch Point Rd to Yarrawonga Park Reserve. It is recommended to be only accessed via 4WD only. The campsite is randomly set in a cattle property where you will find cows roaming and you may also find that they snuggle up near your tent at night. A very unique camping experience.
There are amazing views on the hill which gives views around the whole peninsula. The one massive word of warning is that its not exactly a location for swimming. It is infested with saltwater crocs and sharks. At your own risk, couldn’t be emphasised any stronger.
This is just the ideal spot for people wanting to laze around and just relax, the weather is ideal and the windy weather at times can make for a refreshing change.
Details about Notch Point camping site
- Location on Google Maps from Brisbane
- Distance from Brisbane: 10 Hours 13 mins – 892kms
- Notch Point Rd, Ilbilbie QLD 4738
- Close to Beaches
- Access: Dirt roads and recommended for 4wd vehicles only.
- Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers
- Facilities: None
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
Babinda Rotary Park Free Campground
RATED 4.3/5 – Check Google Reviews
The Babinda Rotary Park Rest area is in the North Queensland region and in the grand scheme of free camping facilities, this provides pretty much all that’s needed. It even has a shower block which will provide you with hot water showers for a lazy $2 if you’re in need of a real shower with hot water.
The area of Babinda is located just south of Cairns and has so many amazing natural beauties to check out while you are in the neighbourhood. On that includes the Babinda Boulders (has its own campground also), Josephine Falls, Bramston Beach and Millaa Millaa falls. Great spot to wander and take photos of this amazing spot.
The other bonus of the area which makes it perfect for families is the shallow creek which is just next to the campsite. It is the perfect place to lay and relax, especially when it’s hot. Another big bonus is the fact that it is pet-friendly with plenty of parklands to run around in. (Unlike the Babinda Boulders campground).
The other great feature is the fact that it’s in short walking distance to the local town and shops, where you can pick up supplies, get some breakfast and for those that are craving REAL coffee. Apparently, both the baker and butcher have a great fresh goods to bring back to camp as well.
Details about Babinda Rotary Park camping site
- Location on Google Maps from Brisbane
- Distance from Brisbane: 18 Hours 12 mins – 1622 kms29 Howard Kennedy Dr, Babinda QLD 4861
- Close to Beaches, rivers, waterfalls
- Access: Sealed roads, great access
- Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, BBQ, table and chairs, shaded sites
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
Lake Elphinstone Free Campsite
RATED 4.4/5 – Check Google Reviews
Lake Elphinstone is a super popular spot in the Nebo Shire. It is a large natural lake which makes it a very popular spot for water sports. Bear in mind this is always dependent on the water height at the time, so if planning on doing so please contact the local council for a report.
Due to its popularity, the local council has updated amenities with new eco-friendly toiler and shower block. When planning on coming to the campsite it is suggested to arrive early as the spot while very large can attract up to 50 plus visitors per day.
The lake area is also great for swimming with the family along with taking in the local wildlife. Especially the birdlife in the area. It makes for the perfect spot for the avid bird watcher.
The site is also very accessible to all types of vehicles and is very close to the township of Lake Elphinstone. In the town, you will be able to gather your grocery supplies for your camping trip and top on petrol if you require. The town is just 25kms away from the campsite.
The lake is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking and water skiing. Red Claw crayfish can be caught here. So don’t forget to pack your fishing rods and plan a lazy day by the lake trying to catch dinner for that night.
A major bonus for this free camping location is that it is also accessible for your furry friends. So family trips with your dogs are welcome.
Details about Lake Elphinstone camping site
- Location on Google Maps from Brisbane
- Distance from Brisbane: 11 Hours 15 mins – 12003 kms
- Elphinstone QLD 4742
- Close to lake
- Access: Sealed roads, great access
- Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, BBQ, table and chairs, shaded sites
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
Julia Creek Free Campsite
RATED 4.5/5 – Check Google Reviews
I’m gonna start by saying that Julia Creek campsite is in the middle of nowhere, alas its attraction to myself. The area has continued to offer their free camping site in this rural community and is a great example of what can be achieved when providing such a spot for travelling campers and the value they bring to the town.
When I said it’s in the middle of nowhere I meant it. It is 660 kilometres inland from Townsville and you are able to camp in this location for up to for days, next to the serene waters of Julia Creek.
One thing you will feel at this location is welcomed. The reviews of this location speak to the hospitality of the caretakers. Which makes it a great spot to chill and relax by the waters.
They even have free push bikes if you want to go for a ride into town to grab some groceries. An ideal spot for fishing and a great location to just sit by the river all day in your attempts to catch dinner for that night.
The only downfall of this location is that there are no amenities to use. If you are not equipped for this, unfortunately, you will not have much luck here but if you are, well enjoy Julia Creek!
Details about Julia Creek Free camping site
- Location on Google Maps from Brisbane
- Distance from Brisbane: 18 Hours 35 mins – 1700 kms
- Punchbowl Rd, Julia Creek QLD 4823
- Close to river
- Access: Sealed roads, great access
- Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers
- Facilities: none
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
Toomulla Beach Free Campsite
RATED 4.1/5 – Check Google Reviews
Toomulla Beach Rest Area, Toomulla, is a large shady, creek front rest area close to town and the beach. It has basic facilities including toilets, non-potable water, bins, BBQ’s, boat ramp and a playground. It is suitable for Caravans, Trailers, Vans and Tent based camping. Perfect for large and small groups.
Close to Townsville this area is popular with fisherman and the traveling public. The site is FREE and Pet friendly.
Toomulla Beach Camping Area is at the Southern end of the village. Turn off the Bruce Highway at Toomulla Beach Road around 44km North of Townsville and follow the road to a turn right into Herald Street just before the end;
Details about Julia Creek Free camping site
- Location on Google Maps from Brisbane
- Distance from Brisbane: 15 Hours 46 mins – 1381 kms
- Toomulla QLD 4816
- Close to beach
- Access: Sealed roads, great access
- Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers
- Facilities: toilets, BBQ, table and chairs, shaded sites
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
Vincent ‘Bushy’ Parker Park Campsite
RATED 4.3/5 – Check Google Reviews
A great little spot that can be accessed by all kinds of vehicles. It can be commonly known as Rollingstone Campsite due to its proximity to the township of Rollingstone.
The major bonus of this location is how much shade it offers, especially on those sunny days. Plus it does have the water nearby to dip your toes in the shallow creek. It makes for a super kid-friendly spot due to the nature of the creek.
It is a very well maintained site by the local council and it offers powered push button barbecues which are handy when you do not have any cooking gear. The campgrounds are also quite large and offer those with large rigs the room to maneuver.
Bear in mind that this is a super busy campsite and it does fill up very quickly. Be sure to get in early and claim your spot.
You will find it is super family-friendly and is also pet-friendly for those with their dogs. There is a playground for the kiddies and as mention, the bbq’s come with picnic tables where you can enjoy your meals at.
Details about Bushy Parker Free camping site
- Location on Google Maps from Brisbane
- Distance from Brisbane: 15 Hours 45 mins – 1388 kms
- Rollingstone St, Rollingstone QLD 4816
- Close to creek
- Access: Sealed roads, great access
- Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, BBQ, table and chairs, shaded sites
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
Kauri Creek Free Campgrounds
RATED 4.2/5 – Check Google Reviews
So if you’re in the need for some space, here it is Kauri Creek at Lake Tinaroo. There is so much space and it has plentiful of activities to do in the area. It’s a great spot to set up and explore the surrounding areas.
There are no specific places set aside for camping, you kind of just set up where ever you like and just get camping. There is access to the large dam and it is perfect for fans of water sports. Go for a swim, go for a kayak or if you’ve got a boat, go water skiing.
It also makes for a lazy day by the water with a rod in hand and getting some fishing in. For those who are a little more active, you can go for day walks in the surrounding areas, where you will come across an abundance of birds.
For the fans of open fires, you are permitted to do. The biggest warning for this site is to make sure that you have got a load of insect repellant on hand as it can get pretty brutal. Stock up and spray on!
Details about Kauri Cree at Lake Free camping site
- Location on Google Maps from Brisbane
- Distance from Brisbane: 19 Hours 39 mins – 1708 kms
- Kauri Creek Access Road, Danbulla QLD 4872
- Close to lake and forest.
- Access: Sealed roads, great access
- Suitable for: Tents, caravans, camper trailers
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, BBQ, table and chairs
- Pet-Friendly: Yes
QLD Free Camping FAQs
What are the best free camping spots in Queensland for travellers?
From Brisbane to Cairns, Queensland offers a variety of beautiful free camping spots for travellers to enjoy. Some popular options include Wuruma Dam, Creek Camping Reserve, and Cumberland Historic Mine Site. Many of these sites offer amenities like BBQs, rubbish bins, and picnic areas, making them perfect for a night under the stars.
How can I find free camping spots in Queensland?
To find free camping spots in Queensland, you can use an interactive map, visit information centres, or consult online resources. Travellers across Australia have put together lists of their favorite free campsites, so you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
What facilities are typically available at free campsites in Queensland?
Facilities at free campsites in Queensland vary, but many offer amenities like BBQs, hot showers, rubbish bins, and picnic areas. Some also have dump points for self-contained vehicles. However, it’s important to remember that not all free campsites offer the same level of comfort, so be prepared for a more rustic experience at some locations.
Are there pet-friendly free camping options in Queensland?
Yes, many free camping spots in Queensland are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Some popular dog-friendly sites include Scenic Rim and Mission Beach. Always check the rules and regulations of each campsite before bringing your pet to ensure a smooth trip.
Can I camp for free in Queensland’s national parks?
Free camping in Queensland’s national parks is not typically allowed. However, there are some exceptions, such as campgrounds that offer low-cost camping options or designated free camping areas. It’s important to check the specific rules for each park before setting up camp.
How far apart are free camping spots along the Brisbane to Cairns route?
Free camping spots along the Brisbane to Cairns route are located at various intervals. The distance between these sites varies, but you can generally find a free or low-cost camping spot within a few hours’ drive. Planning your journey with an interactive map or guide can help you find the perfect overnight stays throughout your trip.
Can I camp for free with a tent in Queensland?
Yes, tent camping is allowed at many free campsites in Queensland. These sites often provide ample space for setting up your tent and enjoying the great outdoors. Be sure to check the specific rules and regulations for each site, as some may have restrictions or require self-contained vehicles.
Are there free campsites along the Gold Coast in Queensland?
While free campsites along the Gold Coast are limited, you can find several low-cost and budget-friendly options in the surrounding areas. Keep in mind that beachside locations tend to be more popular, so it’s a good idea to plan and book ahead when possible.
What are some tips for finding free campsites in Queensland?
- Research online: Use websites, forums, and blogs to find recommendations for free campsites from fellow travellers.
- Visit local information centres: These centres often have up-to-date information on free camping spots and can provide maps and advice.
- Download camping apps: There are several apps dedicated to helping travellers find free and low-cost campsites.
- Talk to locals: Locals can be a great source of information on lesser-known free camping spots.
- Be flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans and explore new areas as you discover unique camping options.
Are there any safety concerns when camping for free in Queensland?
When camping for free in Queensland, it’s essential to follow general camping safety guidelines. Be aware of local wildlife, weather conditions, and fire safety regulations. Also, consider the safety of the area you choose to camp in, such as avoiding flood-prone locations or camping too close to roads. By staying vigilant and respecting the environment, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
What should I expect when camping for free in Queensland?
When camping for free in Queensland, expect a mix of beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and various camping options. From beachside locations to bush camping surrounded by national parks, you’ll find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors. Keep in mind that free campsites may not have all the amenities of paid caravan parks, so be prepared to be self-sufficient.
