Free Camping Townsville

Any traveller heading to the heart of North Queensland should pay a visit to Townsville – a city with a laid back vibe, along with coastal views and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. But, one of the things that makes Townsville even more appealing to adventurers from all over the world, especially those on a budget, is the array of free camping options available in and around the city.

Whether you’re planning a long holiday or a short break, the free camping Townsville has to offer means you can stay close to nature (often just a stone’s throw from beaches or national parks) and plan a road trip like no other. And, to make things even easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best campervan-friendly free camping in Townsville, along with a list of amenities you’ll find at each.

Are you ready? Let’s explore these awesome free campgrounds in more detail!

Free Townsville Camping Spots

• BP Service Station
• Bluewater Park Camping Rest Area
• Saunders Beach Park Rest Area
• Balgal Beach Campground
• Toomulla Beach Campground

Before we take a closer look at each of these free campgrounds, it’s important to note that they are best visited by campervan. This doesn’t only make them much easier to access, but means you’ll have a safe place to call home for the duration of your trip. Contact Travellers Autobarn today to find out more about hiring a campervan, and let us help you get on the road to adventure.

BP Service Station

Townsville, Queensland

While not the most exciting of places to stay, the BP Service Station on the Bruce Highway is a great place to stop if you need to rest your head after a long drive. It’s also a very good option if you’ve just arrived in Townsville and want to get a decent night’s sleep in your campervan before starting your holiday.

Here, you can park overnight or for up to 24 hours without any need to check-in, and best of all, it’s totally free of charge. You’ll also find that you have easy access to fuel and basic supplies, as well as amenities including toilets, rubbish bins, and for $5 you can even grab a hot shower. The only thing you need to keep in mind is, as it’s a fuel station, no cooking, open fires, or smoking is permitted here.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Rubbish Bins
• Hot Showers ($5 Fee)
• Drinking Water
• Fuel
• Supplies

Bluewater Park Camping Rest Area

Bluewater, Queensland

Offering much more in terms of natural beauty and space, Bluewater Park Camping Rest Area is located just 30 minutes from Townsville City Centre and is a particular favourite amongst campers for its peaceful surroundings and easy access to essential amenities. It’s also a great spot for families, couples, or solo travellers who want to enjoy a more laid-back camping experience, and it is equipped with 15 spaces, toilets, picnic tables, a playground, and shaded areas, making it comfortable for a longer stay.

Along with the views and excellent facilities, one of the best things about camping at Bluewater Park is the opportunity to explore the nearby nature trails or take a dip in the creek on a hot day. The area is also known for its birdlife, so don’t forget to bring your binoculars if you’re a keen birdwatcher!

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Picnic Tables
• Shaded Areas
• Dump Point
• Rubbish Bins
• Playground

Saunders Beach Park Rest Area

Saunders Beach, Queensland

A further 10 minutes along the road will take you to Saunders Beach Park Rest Area, a small coastal free campsite that is perfect for beach lovers looking to feel the sand between their toes and wake to the sound of crashing waves. There are some good facilities on offer here, including toilets, outdoor cold showers, drinking water, rubbish bins, and a playground. Dogs are also welcome here, so it’s ideal if you’re travelling with your canine companion!

What sets Saunders Beach apart is its location – you’re literally steps away from the beach, making it easy to enjoy morning walks along the shore, afternoon swims, or simply relaxing by the water as the sun sets. It’s also a great spot for stargazing as the 33km distance from Townsville City Centre means the skies are dark enough at night to admire the heavens without any light pollution. Just keep in mind that there is a 48-hour maximum stay here.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Outdoor Cold Showers
• Drinking Water
• Rubbish Bins
• Playground
• Picnic Tables
• Barbecues

Balgal Beach Campground

Balgal Beach, Queensland

Located approximately 60km from Townsville City, Balgal Beach Campground offers a more remote and tranquil camping experience that is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s also nestled right beside the water, providing you with stunning views of the Coral Sea, and it is well-equipped with facilities that include toilets and barbecues. However, there are two things you need to know before deciding the camp overnight here.

Firstly, there are two different areas, and the camping area you need to head to in a campervan is signposted as “Balgal Beach Rest Area 1”, as this has sealed roads and is the only area accessible to campervans. Secondly, you are limited to a stay of 48-hours here, so you’ll need to move to another site after a couple of days.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Barbecues

Toomulla Beach Campground

Toomulla Beach, Queensland

If you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back place to camp with a touch of old-school charm, Toomulla Beach Campground might be just what you’re after. Located about 30 minutes north of Townsville, Toomulla Beach offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, with plenty of natural beauty to enjoy.

Because it’s less well-known than some of the other camping spots in the area, Toomulla Beach Campground is also often quieter and less crowded, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more secluded experience. Don’t worry about feeling completely cut off, though, as you can easily catch the ferry from here to Magnetic Island for an exciting day trip!

The atmosphere at Toomulla Beach Campground is relaxed and friendly, with a strong sense of community among campers, making it a welcoming spot for all kinds of campers. The beach itself is a short walk from the campground, too, and provides beautiful ocean views and plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Picnic Tables

From the convenient and practical BP Service Station to the serene and secluded Toomulla Beach Campground, these free Townsville sites offer a range of experiences that showcase the natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle of North Queensland. But remember – the easiest way to visit them is by campervan!

At Travellers Autobarn, you’ll find a range of campervans that come with unlimited kilometres, making it easy to explore Townsville at your own pace. Get in touch with our expert team today, and we’ll match you with the perfect campervan for your needs, whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure or taking a family holiday. All that’s left to do is gather your essentials, hit the open road, and discover everything that Townsville has to offer – it’s an adventure you won’t forget!

DISCLAIMER: Any prices displayed are correct at the time of publishing. We highly recommend contacting any campsite or caravan park prior to booking to confirm prices. Please ensure you review our Terms and Conditions before visiting certain campsites.