Camping in the Mackay region
The Mackay region is the perfect place to escape on your next camping trip. With beautiful waterfalls, kilometres of pristine beaches and freshwater dams teeming with barramundi, the region is popular for fishing, outdoor adventures and relaxing with family and friends.
Mackay Regional Council operates camping reserves at Seaforth, Ball Bay and St Helens Beach, located in some of the region’s most picturesque settings.
Note - Bookings are not required for St Helens Beach and Ball Bay reserves, and powered sites are not available at Seaforth, Ball Bay or St Helens Beach.
Access council’s camping guidelines brochure here for more information.
Camping in Cape Hillsborough
While there are no free camping options available in Cape Hillsborough, there are plenty of low-cost options available.
Mackay Regional Council encourages campers and caravanners to make use of the designated camping grounds at Seaforth and Ball Bay. These campgrounds are close to Cape Hillsborough and offer an affordable option for anyone travelling through in a caravan, camper trailer or tent. Sites are unpowered, however basic amenities are provided and hot showers are available at Seaforth’s camping grounds for a small fee.
For those wanting to camp in Cape Hillsborough, Big4 Holiday Parks operates the Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park on the beach frontage at the southeast corner of Cape Hillsborough National Park. They offer powered and unpowered sites as well as beach huts and cabins to suit all tastes and budgets.
The Queensland Government also operates the low-cost Smalleys Beach camping area on the western side of Cape Hillsborough National Park, featuring 11 unpowered sites suitable for caravans, camper trailers and tents.
No camping along Risley Parade, Cape Hillsborough
Campers and caravanners are advised that Risley Parade in Cape Hillsborough is not to be used for camping or overnight stays in Cape Hillsborough and fines can be issued for anyone caught camping illegally.
