The Mareeba Shire and Atherton Tablelands offer some of the best camping in Far North Queensland. Whether you're after a full-service caravan park, lakeside camping at Lake Tinaroo, or free bush camping under the stars, you'll find the perfect spot here.
From waking up with rock wallabies at Granite Gorge to fishing at Lake Tinaroo, camping on the Tablelands puts you right in the heart of nature.
Camping Locations
Mareeba Riverside Caravan Park
In Mareeba
Well-maintained park near the Barron River with powered and unpowered sites. Perfect for families and travellers.
Tinaroo Falls Dam
19km from Mareeba
Popular lakeside camping with powered sites. Great for fishing, swimming, and water sports at Lake Tinaroo.
Platypus Camping Area (Lake Tinaroo)
22km from Mareeba
Peaceful lakeside camping area. Bring your own water. Great spot for birdwatching and kayaking.
Fong-On Bay (Lake Tinaroo)
25km from Mareeba
Remote lake camping with basic facilities. Ideal for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Kauri Creek (Lake Tinaroo)
24km from Mareeba
Secluded camping area surrounded by rainforest. Perfect for a quiet getaway.
Granite Gorge Nature Park
12.5km west of Mareeba
Unique bush camping among ancient granite boulders. Wake up with friendly rock wallabies! Swimming holes nearby.
Kuranda Rainforest Accommodation Park
35km from Mareeba
Rainforest setting near Kuranda village. Convenient base for exploring markets and Skyrail.
Davies Creek National Park
30km from Mareeba
FREE bush camping near beautiful swimming holes and waterfalls. Basic facilities only.
Emerald Creek Area
20km from Mareeba
Day use area with some nearby bush camping options. Popular swimming and picnic spot.
Camping Tips for the Tablelands
Wet Season (Nov-April)
Heavy rain is common. Check weather forecasts and road conditions. Some creek crossings may be impassable. Creek levels can rise rapidly - never camp in dry creek beds.
Fire Restrictions
Fire bans are common in dry season (June-Nov). Always check current restrictions at qld.gov.au/bushfire. Use gas cookers where wood fires are banned. Never leave fires unattended.
Wildlife
Store food securely (wallabies, possums, and goannas are clever!). Check shoes and sleeping bags for spiders and snakes. Don't feed wildlife. Crocs are NOT found in Tablelands creeks.
Drinking Water
Many bush camping areas don't have drinking water. Bring your own or water purification tablets. Lake Tinaroo water should be treated before drinking. Plan for 4-5L per person per day.
Booking Information
Queensland National Parks: All Lake Tinaroo camping areas and Davies Creek are managed by Queensland Parks. Book online at qld.gov.au/camping or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68). Bookings open 6 months in advance. School holidays fill up fast!
Private Caravan Parks: Contact parks directly for bookings. Most accept phone bookings and walk-ins (availability permitting). Ask about weekly rates for longer stays.
Free Camping: No bookings required for Davies Creek National Park or Emerald Creek area. Self-register on arrival where sign-in books are provided. First-come, first-served.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Lake Tinaroo?
Yes! Lake Tinaroo has multiple camping areas managed by Queensland Parks. Options include Tinaroo Falls Dam (powered sites), Platypus camping area, Fong-On Bay, Kauri Creek, and Downfall Creek. Book online at qld.gov.au/camping. Costs range from $15-35 per night.
Is there free camping near Mareeba?
Yes! Davies Creek National Park (30km from Mareeba) offers FREE bush camping with basic facilities near swimming holes and waterfalls. Emerald Creek area also has free camping options. Both are self-register sites with toilets but no showers or drinking water.
Are dogs allowed at camping areas near Mareeba?
Pets are allowed at private caravan parks like Mareeba Riverside Caravan Park and Kuranda Rainforest Accommodation Park. However, Queensland National Parks (including Lake Tinaroo and Davies Creek) do NOT allow pets to protect native wildlife. Always check pet policies before booking.
Combine Your Camping Trip
Disclaimer: Camping information is subject to change. Always check current conditions, booking requirements, and access restrictions before travelling. Contact relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information. MareebaShire.com is a community information hub and not affiliated with Queensland Parks or private operators.