Some camps are memorable because of the scenery.
Others are memorable because of a moment you’ll never forget.
For Gary, camping beside the Einasleigh River in Far North Queensland delivered both.
Located just a few kilometres south of Einasleigh township, this peaceful bush camp offers clean river water, sandy river access and three well-spaced campsites where you can enjoy the sounds of nature without feeling crowded.
Shared as part of The Campground Project, this campground yarn comes from Gary’s June 2026 visit while travelling Australia with his wife, a caravan and two small dogs.
Quick Campfire Notes
Campground: Einasleigh River Bush Camp
Location: Approximately 3 km south of Einasleigh, Queensland
Visited: June 2026
Cost: Free
Setup: Caravan
Travelling with: Couple and two dogs
Best for: Bush camping, river access, birdlife, swimming and peaceful camping
Facilities: Basic bush camp / no facilities
Fires: Allowed when visited
Dogs: Dog-friendly when visited
Access: High-clearance 4WD recommended, particularly for the northern and middle campsites
Would they go back? Absolutely
A peaceful camp beside the Einasleigh River
Gary described this as one of those simple bush camps that doesn’t need much to make it memorable.
There are three campsites spread out along the Einasleigh River, each offering direct access to the water across soft river sand.
One of the things Gary appreciated most was the amount of space between each campsite.
Even if other campers are staying nearby, you are unlikely to see them, creating the sort of peaceful atmosphere many travellers spend days searching for.
The river was clean and refreshing during Gary’s visit, while the surrounding bush was alive with birdlife throughout the day.
Three campsites, each with its own character
Although all three camps sit beside the same stretch of river, access varies depending on which site you choose.
The northern and middle campsites require a reasonably capable high-clearance 4WD due to the steeper entry and exit tracks and the soft river sand.
Smaller caravans, camper trailers and rooftop tents are well suited to these sites.
For travellers prepared with the right vehicle, the reward is a quiet riverside camp well away from the crowds.
A reminder from above
Sometimes nature reminds you that you’re only a visitor.
While camped beside the river, one of Gary’s small dogs was happily exploring the riverbank.
Gary suddenly noticed a Wedge-tailed Eagle circling high overhead before making a direct approach towards the dog.
Realising what was happening, he quickly ran over and picked the dog up.
The eagle immediately changed direction and flew away.
It was a moment Gary won’t forget.
For anyone travelling Australia with small dogs, it served as a valuable reminder that birds of prey, dingoes and other native predators are always part of the bush environment.
Keeping a close eye on smaller pets can make all the difference.
Getting there
The Einasleigh River Bush Camp is located approximately three kilometres south of Einasleigh township in Far North Queensland.
Travelling south from Einasleigh on the Gregory Developmental Road, look for a well-used track leading down towards the Einasleigh River.
The campground consists of three riverside campsites spread along the riverbank, with the northern and middle sites requiring a high-clearance 4WD due to sandy approaches and steeper entry and exit points.
The campground is also listed on Wikicamps.
Map reference
The map below shows the approximate location of the Einasleigh River Bush Camp, around 3 kilometres south of Einasleigh.
Approximate GPS coordinates: -18.526429, 144.119910
Google Maps: Open campground location
Photos from the camp
Gary’s photos capture the peaceful nature of this river camp beautifully.
From the drone images showing the winding river and secluded campsites to the evening campfire beneath the gum trees, they give a real sense of what makes this place special.
Thanks to Gary Barten
Gary Barten is a long-time traveller exploring Australia by caravan with his wife Christine and their two dogs.
Gary prefers the road less travelled and has a good eye for quiet bush camps, remote tracks and the sort of places many travellers drive straight past.
Gary’s campground yarn was shared as part of The Campground Project, Country Campfire’s mission to collect real campground stories, photographs and practical notes from people who’ve actually camped there.
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If you’ve stayed somewhere worth sharing, we’d love to hear about it. Whether it’s a quiet bush camp, a station stay, a free riverside camp or somewhere the whole family keeps returning to, your experience might help another traveller discover a new favourite.
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A quick note before you travel
Campground access, river levels, road conditions, fire restrictions, dog rules and facilities can all change over time.
These notes are based on Gary’s visit in June 2026 and should not replace current local information.
Always check current road conditions, river conditions and any relevant land manager information before heading off.
