A comprehensive guide to camping on Moreton Island

Kristie Lau-AdamsBy Kristie Lau-Adams
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Camping on Moreton Island provides a front-row seat to the majesty of Mother Nature.

When you’re camping on Moreton Island, also known by its Indigenous name of Mulgumpin, the unspoilt coastline invites instant serenity. Part of the spectacular Moreton Island National Park, just a hop, skip and ferry ride from Brisbane, the world’s third-largest sand island is surrounded by turquoise blue waters and flows with amazing activity for every holiday speed. From four-wheel driving and surfing sand dunes to chilled-out snorkelling and uninterrupted stargazing, kicking back your way is easy. Here are the basics to get you moving.

How to get to Moreton Island

an aerial view of Micat ferry on Moreton Island
The ferry ride to Moreton Island takes approximately 90 minutes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Let’s get familiar with paradise. Located 40 kilometres offshore from Brisbane, Moreton Island is mostly accessed via the Micat ferry, which takes about 90 minutes and departs from the Port of Brisbane, the city’s main shipping port. If you’re making the trek from Brisbane’s CBD to go camping on Moreton Island, it’s a 30-minute drive north-east of the city.

It’s worth noting that Micat is a passenger and vehicle ferry, and the only option for visitors who plan on taking their 4WD with them (which is highly advised). Ferry scheduling fluctuates depending on the season, but during peak periods, it can run up to five times each day. Check the website for up-to-date information.

Make sure you book well in advance, too. School holiday periods attract serious crowds, which cram those regular runs right up. We advise securing tickets at least four weeks in advance, no matter when you’re visiting, and if you’re planning an Easter or Christmas trip, get organised six months in advance. Ticket pricing differs depending on when you’re travelling, but expect a minimum of around $79 each way if you’re taking your car. Passenger-only tickets are cheaper.

Permits and regulations

bush camping in Mulgumpin
Lush surrounds on Moreton Island invite instant serenity. (Image: Queensland Government)

If you’re bringing your wheels, a vehicle access permit is a must. Furthermore, all campsites require camping permits, so you’ll need to sort them before you go, too.

The vehicle access permit, which must be clearly displayed within your vehicle so your booking number can be viewed at any time you’re camping on Moreton Island, can be purchased as either an annual or monthly pass — there are no single trips. If you’re going for anywhere up to one month, you’ll need to fork out $57.80 per vehicle. If you’re adventuring for more than one month and up to one year, it’s $291 per vehicle. Check out the website  for more information.

a tent and hammock setup in Mulgumpin
You can set up a tent for a minimal fee. (Image: Queensland Government)

Camping fees are less steep. No matter where you’re setting up your tent (literally and figuratively) on Moreton Island, you’ll pay $7.25 per person or $29 per family, per night. Additionally, all sites, even the facility-free camping areas, require bookings in advance, so don’t assume you can just rock up and pay when you jump off the ferry.

You can also live out those dreams of roasting marshmallows as the sun sets, given many of Moreton Island’s camping grounds allow for fires, but you’ll need to BYO firewood.

Activities and attractions

quadbiking in Tangalooma Island Resort
Pump up your adrenaline on a thrilling ATV Quad Bike ride at Tangalooma Island Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Adventure seekers will bask in four-wheel driving along nature’s highway, in addition to climbing the extraordinary sandstone formations of Cape Cliff and kayaking and snorkelling through crystal-clear waters.

Hiking is another popular pastime when you’re camping on Moreton Island, and Mt Tempest is the highest point to help you gaze adoringly at Mother Nature’s handiwork.

Tobogganing or sandboarding down Moreton Island’s sand dunes, some of the tallest examples in the world, is always a fun choice. The best spot is The Desert, located right behind Tangalooma Island Resort .

swimming at Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island
Be transported to a bygone era at Tangalooma Wrecks. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Those looking for restoration will enjoy observing the rich variety of wildlife on display, including birds, dolphins, whales and turtles. Relaxing at Honeymoon Bay, soaking in the natural Champagne Pools and dipping into the Blue Lagoon will also feed the soul effortlessly.

But Moreton Island’s most-visited attraction has got to be the Tangalooma Wrecks, a stack of ancient ships scuttled by the government to help recreational boaties anchor in safely during the 1960s, 70s and 80s.

Your inner explorer will delight in stickybeaking through the rusting bones of old ship hulls, transporting you to a thrilling bygone era without sacrificing those Instagram-perfect surroundings.

Best camping spots on Moreton Island

Yellow Patch Camping Zone

Surfers froth for the Yellow Patch Camping Zone as the exposed beaches offer sensational waves. 14 sites are dotted throughout the stretch, with some offering more exposed conditions than others. Choose your own adventure with various-sized sites and surf proximity. The North Point Camping Area is just a short drive from this area.

Address: It’s all that space on the western side of the island between North Point and Heath Island.

Facilities: None.

Accessibility: It’s reachable via 4WD, and you can park it beside your campsite. Camper trailers are welcome.

Dog-friendly? No.

The Wrecks Campground

an aerial view of The Wrecks Campground, Moreton Island
Camp on a sheltered bay next to a shipwreck. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Set right off a sheltered bay and wrapped in a blanket of native trees and shrubs, The Wrecks Campground offers 21 sites. It’s near the main barge point, so anybody without a car can access it, but be prepared to walk a little to get to the actual sites.

Nearby attractions include the Tangalooma Wrecks, and there’s also great snorkelling with coral growing on the ships themselves. Top-notch fishing is also on tap.

Address: Near the main barge landing point, where the ferries arrive.

Facilities: Cold showers, non-flush toilets, water (but treat before drinking), rubbish bins and Wi-Fi (but it’s extremely patchy).

Accessibility: Camper trailers aren’t supported as the Wrecks can only be reached via 4WD and boats. Even then, you’ve got to walk to the site itself because vehicles need to be parked on the beach.

Dog-friendly?: No.

Ben-Ewa Camping Area

Hands down, the best option for first-time campers. A hit amongst families and school groups, the Ben-Ewa Camping Area  provides sheltered waters right off shaded sites. Located north of The Wrecks on the western beach side of the island, just 12 sites are on offer. If you can nab one, you’ll spend your days dipping in dreamy waters, enjoying calm kayaking and SUP paddleboarding with fellow nature lovers. The conditions are perfect for it all. 

Address: Just a short stroll north of the main barge landing point, where the ferries arrive.

Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), hybrid toilets, a portable toilet waste disposal system and cold showers.

Accessibility: You can get to the campground in your 4WD with parking available either right next to or close to the sites themselves. Camper trailers are welcome.

Dog-friendly?: No.

Comboyuro Point Campground

This beautiful spot is close to 4WD tracks that lead to some of the island’s main attractions. Boasting 49 camping plots of various sizes, the Comboyuro Point Campground  offers plenty of shade and calm swimming conditions for the whole family to enjoy. Even better, the sunsets across the bay from this site are majestic.

Address: It’s located on the western side of Moreton Island, within walking distance of the Bulwer township.

Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), septic toilets, rubbish bins, a portable toilet water disposal system and cold showers.

Accessibility: You can park your car right next to your site, and campervans are also welcome.

Dog-friendly?: No.

North Point Camping Area

an aerial view of the beach at North Point Camping Area
North Point Camping Area offers direct access to the beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Want to be within walking distance of Honeymoon Bay and the Champagne Pools? North Point Camping Area is your go-to. The area offers a large grassy patch close to the beach, and there are 21 sites available.

Kids love it as the nearby swimming is shallow and calm. Note that open fires are not permitted.

Address: It’s found at the northern tip of Moreton Island, between Yellow Patch and Cape Moreton.

Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), hybrid toilets, cold showers and pedestrian access to the beach.

Accessibility: It can only be reached by 4WD, and just four of the sites are suitable for camper trailers. It’s impossible to park next to your campsite.

Dog-friendly?: No.

North-West Camping Zone

Ready to really rough it? The North-West Camping Zone is one of Moreton Island’s facility-free campgrounds, offering unadulterated connectivity to your natural surroundings. Fires are permitted, and generator use is green-lit between 8 am and 7 pm. This camping ground has a capacity of 76 beach campsites, all with fabulous access to calm bay waters. Some sites are even located a walk away from the Bulwer township.

Address: It’s anywhere between the Ben-Ewa Camping Area and the Comboyuro Point Campground.

Facilities: None.

Accessibility: You can park your 4WD beside your campsite, and camper trailers are welcome.

Dog-friendly?: No.

Blue Lagoon Camping Area

swimming at Blue Lagoon Camping Area, Moreton Island
Go for a refreshing dip. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The beautiful, beach-centred Blue Lagoon Camping Area offers easy access to an ocean surf beach and scenic walking trails. Even sweeter, it’s just a stroll away from the Blue Lagoon, a natural freshwater lake renowned for heavenly swimming and birdwatching. There are 25 sites in total to choose from.

Address: You’ll find it on the eastern length of Moreton Island, between Middle Road and Cape Moreton.

Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), septic toilets and cold showers.

Accessibility: It can be reached via 4WD, and parking is provided right next to the sites.

Dog-friendly?: No.

North-East Camping Zone

Another completely stripped-back camping pick, the North-East Camping Zone offers 89 sites scattered beyond Middle Road and up towards Spitfire Creek on the Eastern beach. Secluded conditions equal exceptional surf beach views, but be mindful of the narrow, soft-sanded Middle Road if you’re bringing a camper trailer.

Address: The space between Middle Road and Spitfire Creek, so basically everything on the eastern side of the island.

Facilities: None.

Accessibility: It can be reached via 4WD, and parking is provided right next to the sites. Camper trailers are welcome, but plan cautiously as Middle Road’s soft sand makes life tough.

Dog-friendly?: No.

South-West Camping Zone

Get your hands (and everything else) dirty at the South-West Camping Zone , the island’s most challenging region to access. But the rewards are priceless. This pick offers 24 (mostly tent) sites situated right by picture-perfect waters. The campground is even more exclusive, given that some of its sites are completely impacted by the tide, so be warned that some are only accessible during low tide.

Address: You’ll find it on the western side of Moreton Island from Tangalooma Bypass to Toulkerrie.

Price: Your camping permit, detailed in the section above, will cover you.

Facilities: None.

Accessibility: You can reach the sites via 4WD, on foot or via a boat or kayak. Some by-your-site parking is available.

Dog-friendly?: No.

South-East Camping Zone

With 35 sites to choose from, the South-East Camping Zone presents killer digs to explore the exposed surf beaches between Middle Road and Rous Battery. You’ll need to be mindful in this neck of the woods, though, particularly if you’re towing a trailer, as high tide times can obstruct beaches.

Address: You’ll find it on the eastern side of Morton Island between Middle Road and heading south to Rous Battery.

Price: Your camping permit, detailed in the section above, will cover you.

Facilities: None.

Accessibility: It’s reachable via 4WD, and you can park it beside your campsite. Camper trailers are welcome.

Dog-friendly?: No.

Now read our travel guide to visiting Moreton Island.

Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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You haven’t heard of this Qld outback town, but history buffs can’t miss it

    Kassia ByrnesBy Kassia Byrnes
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    Under wide-open outback skies, discover a fossicking gem that’s managed to slip under the radar.

    While the name Clermont may feel new to even the most intrepid traveller, its gilded history stretches back centuries. You’ll find it just off the highway, humming quietly under the hazy veil of Queensland’s outback sun. It’s here, hemmed in by mountains and perched atop soil heavy with the earth’s treasures, that one of Australia’s most accessible outback adventures awaits.

    Thanks to deposits of gold, copper and gemstones – souvenirs left by exploding supernovas and the heave of tectonic plates – Clermont became a centre point of Queensland’s Gold Rush. And now? Australia’s fossicking capital is yours to discover.

    Getting there

    car driving along Capricorn Way in queensland
    Take a drive through Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. (Image: Sean Scott/ TEQ)

    You’ll find Clermont in Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. To get here, it’s an easy three-hour drive over sealed roads from Mackay. Or, if you’re heading from the Sapphire Fields of Emerald, the drive will carve out just over an hour from your day.

    Whether you’re road-tripping through outback Queensland or just tracing your way through all that Australia has to offer, Clermont is remote but easily accessible.

    Best accommodation in Clermont

    Theresa CreekDam in clermont
    Camp by Theresa Creek Dam. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    All accommodation comes with a generous helping of country hospitality here. The choice is yours between modern hotels, parking up the camper or pitching a tent.

    Theresa Creek Dam lies just outside town. Begin each day with crisp country air and bright outback sunrises. Spend the night under the sparkling country stars and your days out on the dam fishing or kayaking. Even if you aren’t camping, be sure to save space in your itinerary for an afternoon on the red dirt shore.

    To stay closer to town, opt for a central hotel to base yourself between exploring and fossicking, like Smart Stayzzz Inn and Clermont Country Motor Inn .

    Things to do in Clermont

    three people on a tour with Golden Prospecting
    Join a tour with Golden Prospecting.

    One does not visit Clermont without trying their hand at fossicking. There are strict rules when it comes to fossicking, so stick to areas dedicated for general permission and make sure you obtain your license beforehand. Try your luck at McMasters , Four Mile , Town Desert, McDonald Flat and Flat Diggings . To increase your odds, sign on for a tour with the expert team at Golden Prospecting . They’ll give you access to exclusive plots and expert advice along the way.

    Once you’ve tried your luck on the gold fields, head to the Clermont Township and Historical Museum . Each exhibit works like an archaeologist’s brush to dust away the layers of Clermont’s history. Like the steam engine that painstakingly relocated the entire town inch by inch to higher ground after it was decimated by flooding in 1916. See the tools that helped build the Blair Athol mine, historic fire engines, shearing sheds and all sorts of relics that make up Clermont’s story.

    The historic Copperfield Chimney offers a change of pace. Legend has it that fossickers found a solid wall of copper here, over three metres high, kick-starting Queensland’s first-ever copper mine.

    Bush Heli Services flying over clermont queensland
    See Clermont from above with Bush Heli Services. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

    For hiking, nearby Dysart is the best place to access Peak Range National Park. Here, mountainous horizons stretch across the outback as if plucked from another world. Set off for a scenic drive along the Peak Downs Highway for access to countless geological wonders. Like the slanting rockface of Wolfang Peak. Summit it, and you’ll find yourself looking out across a scene surely conjured up by Banjo Paterson. Dry scrub dancing in the warm breeze, grazing cattle, eucalypts and the gentle creak of windmills. Don’t miss visiting Gemini Peaks, either, for one of the park’s best vistas, and a blanket of wild flowers after rain.

    Then, take to the skies with a scenic helicopter tour with Bush Heli-Services . Shift your perspective and cruise above all the sights from your trip. Spots like Lords Table Mountain and Campbell’s Peak are best viewed from the skies.

    Before you head home, be sure to explore the neighbouring townships. Spend a lazy afternoon in the shade of Nebo Hotel’s wrap-around verandahs . The hotel’s 1900s dance hall has since been replaced with one of the area’s biggest rodeo arenas, so consider timing your trip to line up with a boot scootin’ rodeo. Or, stop by a ghost town. Mount Britton was once a thriving town during the 1880s Gold Rush. It’s been totally abandoned and now lies untouched, a perfect relic of the Gold Rush.

    Best restaurants and cafes in Clermont

    meal at Commercial Hotel
    Stop into the Commercial Hotel Clermont.

    Days spent fossicking, bushwalking and cramming on history call for excellent coffee and hearty country meals. Luckily, Clermont delivers in spades.

    Lotta Lattes Cafe is beloved by locals for a reason. Start your days here for the best caffeine fix in town and an impeccable brunch menu.

    For a real country meal, an icy cold beer and that famed country hospitality, head straight to the town’s iconic hotel: the Commercial Hotel (known endearingly to locals as ‘The Commie’). It’s been a staple in Clermont since 1877. The hotel even survived the flood of 1916 when it was sawn in two and moved to higher ground.

    Naturally, time spent in the outback must include calling into the local bakery. For delicious pies and a tantalising array of sweet treats, make Bluemac Bakehouse your go-to while in town.

    Discover more of The Mackay Isaac region, and start planning your trip at mackayisaac.com.