Camping information
Camping in Capricornia Cays National Park
Capricornia Cays National Park offers varied camping experiences on three separate coral cays. Completely self-sufficient camping is available on Masthead Island. Lady Musgrave Island and North West Island both have visitor facilities. Some commercial operators service the islands.
Camping permits are required and fees apply. Obtain your permit before setting up camp. A tag with your booking number must be displayed at your campsite.
Bookings can be made up to 11 months in advance. School holiday periods are often fully booked soon after bookings open.
- For more information read the Frequently asked questions
Park-specific conditions
An information pack must be collected before camping on the islands. Obtain your pack through the Gladstone DERM office or pick one up from the various charter vessels servicing the islands.
On arrival
Camp in designated areas only. Beach camping is not permitted. When selecting a site and setting up camp, consider others who may follow you. Do not spread your group too far—keep together and let other campers use sites as well.
Warning! Coral cays are remote. Strong winds, rough seas and cyclones can isolate campers. Carry emergency food and water for several days, AM/FM radio, spare batteries and medical supplies.
- All fuel and dive compressors must be kept in storage areas provided.
- Dive compressors may only be used between 9 am and 6 pm.
- Dive compressors are prohibited on Masthead Island.
- Fish cleaning scraps must be dumped more than 500 metres seaward of the reef edge. Vary dumping locations of fish scraps to stop sharks developing scavenging behaviour. Do not feed scraps to birds such as silver gulls.
- Seasonal camping and/or visitor closures are enforced on all three islands (see table).
- This reduces impact on turtle hatchlings, breeding seabirds and sensitive vegetation.
Guide to seasonal camping and day use opening periods.
| Island | Day use | Camping |
|---|---|---|
| North West | Open all year | Open Easter*–Australia Day† |
| Lady Musgrave | Open all year | Open Easter*–Australia Day† |
| Masthead | Easter*–14 October | Open Easter*–14 October |
*First day of Queensland Easter school holidays.
† Day after Australia Day long weekend or day after Australia Day public holiday (if holiday falls mid-week).
Read more about staying safe and looking after the park.
North West Island
Camp on the largest island in the Capricornia Cays. Photo: DERM
Campground features: Nestled in pisonia forest with access to island walking track. Snorkel and dive in surrounding waters or reef walk at low tide.
Location: 75 km north-east of Gladstone.
Access: The campground can be reached by boat only.
Number of sites: Open area without separately defined sites. Up to 150 people can camp here at any one time.
Campsites are suitable for: tent camping only.
Campsite surface: Sand.
Facilities: Composting toilets, fuel storage and compressor bunker.
Open fires: Prohibited. Gas and fuel stoves are recommended.
Generators: Not permitted.
Essentials to bring: All food and drinking water, sturdy rubbish bags, insect repellent, sun protection, first-aid kit, reliable torch. Read more about things to know before you go.
Bookings: Book online, over-the-counter or by phone.
Mobile phone coverage: Unreliable. Marine radios and satellite phones are recommended.
Lady Musgrave Island
Camping on Lady Musgrave Island. Photo: DERM
Campground features: Sheltered by pisonia trees with scenic views over the reef. Swim, dive and snorkel or enjoy the walking tracks.
Location: Southern-most island of the Capricorn Cays National Park, 96 km north-east of Bundaberg.
Access: The campground can be reached by boat only.
Number of sites: Open area without separately defined sites. Up to 40 people can camp here at any one time.
Campsites are suitable for: tent camping only.
Campsite surface: Sand.
Facilities: Composting toilets, emergency radio, fuel storage and compressor bunker.
Open fires: Prohibited, but gas and fuel stoves are recommended.
Generators: Not permitted.
Essentials to bring: All food and drinking water, sturdy rubbish bags, insect repellent, sun protection, first-aid kit, reliable torch. Read more about things to know before you go.
Bookings: Book online, over-the-counter or by phone.
Mobile phone coverage: Unreliable. Marine VHF radios and satellite phones are recommended.
Masthead Island
Camp under shady casuarinas at Masthead Island. Photo:DERM
Campground features: Self-sufficient camping under casuarina trees with lagoon views. Swim, dive and snorkel or view abundant local wildlife.
Location: 60 km north-east of Gladstone.
Access: This campground is accessible by boat only.
Number of sites: Open area without separately defined sites. Up to 50 people can camp here at any one time.
Campsites are suitable for: tent camping only.
Campsite surface: Sand.
Facilities: No facilities are provided.
Open Fires: Prohibited, but gas and fuel stoves are recommended.
Generators: Not permitted.
Essentials to bring: All food and water, first-aid kit, insect repellent, sun protection, reliable torch, sturdy rubbish bags. Portable chemical toilets are also recommended. Read more about things to know before you go.
Bookings: Book online, over-the-counter or by phone.
Mobile phone coverage: Unreliable. Marine VHF radios and satellite phones are recommended.
Last updated 9 March 2012