Free Camping in Queensland: What You Need to Know Before You Pack the Swag
If you’re used to camping down south, where state forests often mean free bush camping, Queensland can be a bit of a shock. Here’s the deal straight up:
👉 There is no free camping in Queensland’s state forests or national parks.
Every official park and forest requires a permit and camping fees. Rangers patrol regularly, and fines apply if you try to sneak a freebie.
But don’t stress — Queensland still has plenty of free camping opportunities. They’re just found outside the park system, in roadside reserves, council-managed areas, and bush spots where you can roll in with your 4X4, set up camp, and enjoy a night under the stars without opening the wallet.
✅ Where You Can Free Camp in Queensland
Roadside Rest Areas – scattered along highways, often with toilets, tables, and bins. These are usually 24–48 hours max stay.
Council Free Camps – many regional councils offer free or low-cost camping to encourage travellers to stop and spend in town.
Donation Camps – gold-coin donation spots, usually with basic facilities like drop toilets or water tanks.
Remote Bush Spots – unofficial camps on Crown Land or outback areas.
🚫 Where You Can’t Free Camp
National Parks – all require paid permits.
State Forests – also require a camping permit (unlike Victoria or NSW).
Urban areas – towns, beaches, and carparks are usually “no overnight camping zones”.
🌟 Great Free Camping Spots in QLD
Here are a few popular and tested spots where you can camp for free:
Notch Point (near Mackay)
Arguably the best free camp in QLD. Beachfront, 4WD access only, fishing and crabbing on your doorstep. No facilities — self-contained rigs only.
Futter Creek (Boyne Valley)
Council-run free camp by the water, grassy sites, toilets on site. Good for caravans and 4X4s.
Mary Kathleen Abandoned Mine (west of Townsville)
Ghost town vibes! Explore the old mining ruins and camp under the stars. No facilities — bring everything.
Bundaberg Riverside Parklands
A council-supported free overnight stop close to town. Handy for topping up supplies.
Alkoomi Adventure Farm (Gladstone region)
Technically a donation camp — stay free or toss in a few dollars. Family-friendly, with farm activities.
🛑 The Rules of Free Camping in QLD
Stay limits: often 24–72 hours max in rest areas.
Self-contained rigs: many sites expect you to bring your own loo and water.
Leave no trace: no bins at a lot of spots, so pack it out.
Respect locals: these spots are offered by councils and communities — do the right thing or risk them being shut down.
Final Word
While Victoria and NSW offer loads of free state forest camping, Queensland plays by different rules. You won’t find free camping in state forests or national parks, but the Sunshine State still shines bright for budget adventurers — you just need to aim for rest areas, council reserves, and remote bush spots.
Load up the Cruiser, plan your stops, and you’ll find plenty of ways to camp for free while still exploring Queensland’s coasts, ranges, and outback.