Fraser Island Camping & 4WD- Everything You Need To Know!

Fraser Island at a Glance

Where is Fraser Island?

Fraser Island is located about 250km north of Brisbane, off the southeast Queensland coast. It holds the title of being the largest sand island in the world! 

 

Best time of year to visit

Fraser Island features a subtropical climate. Temperatures on the island remain relatively steady year-round.

• Spring and Autumn: Daily Average 22°C (71°F). 
• Summer (Dec to Feb): 22° to 30° C (73° to 86° F)
• Winter (Jun to Aug): 13° to 25°C (55° to 77°F)

Length of Stay

• 3 days is adequate to see all major attractions on the island.
• 5 days will result in a much more relaxing experience, allowing you to explore more off the beaten path and visit some of the hidden gems.

Popular Activities

• Sight Seeing – Guided tours also available
• 4WDing – Check out 75 mile beach
• Swimming – Highly Recommend Lake McKenzie
• Wildlife
• Hiking
• Finishing

Getting to Fraser Island

Vehicle access to Fraser Island is by Barge (Ferry) only. Barges take off from River heads (West) or Inskip Point (South) of the Island.

For those with limited time, taking the River Head option is a better option. This route takes you to the centre of Fraser Island where most of the accommodation and attractions are located. Assuming your time is generous, arriving on Fraser from the Inskip point is a great way to visit Rainbow Beach and its surrounding areas.

River Heads

River Heads is located 30km South-West of Harvey Bay. Two services are available from here to separate destinations on Fraser Island. Fraser Ventures operates 3 daily return services to Wanggoolba Creek. Another service is available to Kingfisher Bay Resort and operates 5 return services daily. Cost is roughly $160 return per vehicle with 3 passengers. Additional charges apply for more passengers, boats and trailers. Advanced bookings are required. Ph: 1800 227 437. Visit the operator’s website for more info.

From Inskip Point

Manta Ray Fraser Island Barge operates a return service from Inskip Point to Hook Point, Fraser Island’s southern point. The service departs roughly every 30 mins between 6:00 am to 5:15 pm daily. Due to such frequency, there no need to book in advance. Tickets are available from the Permit Office located at 66 Rainbow Beach Rd, Rainbow Beach Qld 4581. Cash and Card facilities are available.

The trip itself takes about 10mins and costs $130 return (Last updated Feb 2021) for a 4WD including passengers. Additional fees apply for Boats, Trailer and Campers. For more info, visit the operator’s website.

Inskip Point offers fantastic camping and fishing if you need somewhere to camp before embarking on your adventure.

Get OFFLINE maps of Fraser Island for your iPhone or iPad with the BillyGoat 4WD & Camping app.

Getting around on Fraser Island

Spanning over 130km from north to south, Fraser Island holds the title of being the world’s largest sand island. Despite its size, you won’t find a single sealed road on the island. Instead, unpaved tracks consisting of mostly sandy surfaces criss-cross the island. For these reasons, a well-setup 4WD is required to get around.

For visitors without a vehicle and looking for more of a guided experience, there are plenty of guided tours on offer. However, for those looking for adventure, exploring the island independently offers much more freedom. You can explore on your own timetable and personalise your destinations.

A well setup 4WD vehicle is a must for getting around the island. Diligent preparation of the vehicle is key to ensuring a safe and trouble-free experience. Your 4WD needs to feature plenty of ground clearance to handle uneven tracks and terrain. Recovery equipment and easy to access recovery points are essential. Vehicles equipped with low range is also highly recommended. These requirements rule out most SUVs. If you don’t have a vehicle with these capabilities, 4WD hire is an option to consider. Most hire companies are located in Harvey Bay, but you must be over 21 to rent one. Expect to pay between A$160 to A$300 a day plus excess and security bond. Also, be sure to obtain a vehicle permit from Qld Parks.

By now it should be abundantly clear that Fraser Island is a big place. Its also disconnected. Most of the island does not have adequate mobile phone coverage, if at all. Therefore, it’s essential to have navigation equipment with detailed mapping so you can stay on track and not get lost. While onroad mapping apps such as Google maps is great for normal driving, it’s not intended for offroad use. For Fraser Island, its mapping lacks detail and the app doesn’t work that well offline. For these reasons, we recommend downloading BillyGoat offroad, a mapping app focused on camping and 4WDing use.

Beach Driving on Fraser Island

An essential part of getting around is driving on beaches along the coast of the island. Driving on the sand is very different from sealed road. Below are some essential tips for novice and experienced explorers alike. Keeping these tips top of mind will help you stay safe and have a good beach driving experience.

Top Ten Tips when 4WDing on Fraser:

1)  Permits are required for beach driving at Fraser Island. They can be obtained from the Queensland National Parks Booking Website and should be obtained in advance.

2) Give your vehicle a thorough service before heading off. Check and grease EVERYTHING under your 4WD. Replacing parts or repairing your vehicle can be an expensive exercise on Fraser and can ruin your long-anticipated trip.

3) Vehicle preparation: Ground clearance enhancement is highly advised. As for tyres, a good set of all terrains will serve you better than an aggressive set of Muddies. Compared with Mud Terrains, All Terrain tyres generally have less aggressive tred patterns, causing the tyre to sit more on top of the sandy surface rather than dig into it.

Ensure you have adequate recovery points both front and back of the vehicle.

4) Ensure you pack all of the recovery gear needed. A set of recovery tracks often come in very handy for beach driving. For more info on recovery gear needed read our in-depth Beach Driving Guide.

5) Before you head off check track conditions and closures thoroughly. Fraser is prone to severe weather impact and conditions can change rapidly. Hazards are common as are track closures. For the latest on conditions, check out the Fraser Island conditions report from the Department of Environment & Science and the ALERTS page on their website.

6) If you are planning to drive on any of beaches, consult local tide charts. Plan your timing to ensure you have clear access to and from your destination. Only drive on the beach at low tide. The risk of a rollover or falling into a deep wash-away is too great at high tide.

7)  Make sure you know where you can and can’t drive before you head out. (ie. top end you can’t drive further than the lighthouse.) When you get up there, the only way back is to take the same route, which you can’t do if you get the tide wrong. If you do drive to sandy camp/lighthouse leave as the tides are going out and don’t linger too long or be prepared to camp somewhere.

8) Get decent mapping and GPS navigation equipment. We recommend the Billy Goat 4WD mapping app for iPhone and iPad. It highlights all camping areas and attractions, including relevant 4WD tracks and no driving zones of Fraser Island. Unlike most typical mapping apps for on-road driving, it works offline, so you can explore in confidence, even in the most remote regions without phone coverage.

9)  Look out for planes landing and taking off on the beach.

10) As soon as you have finished beach driving give your vehicle a thorough wash. Ensure you use a high-pressure blaster and remove all excess sand and saltwater. This will be easier on your mechanic and your wallet in the long run as severe damage can result from the residue.

Fraser Island Attractions

Maheno Shipwreck

The grand Maheno was built in 1904, weighing a massive 5, 323 tonnes. After she was launched, she held the blue ribbon in trans-Atlantic crossing. She then served as a hospital ship during World War 1. Now, this magnificent wreck rests on the coast of Fraser Island providing a portal into the past.

Champagne Pools

These naturally formed shallow rock pools provide a popular swimming spot. The ocean crashes into the surrounding rocks and fills the pools with bubbly foamy water, hence the name ‘Champagne Pools’. The pools are located just north of Indian Heads, along 75 mile beach and are certainly worth adding to the ‘To Do’ list while on Fraser Island.

The Pinnacles

Out of all of Fraser Island’s beautiful landmarks, the Pinnacle coloured Sands are one of the most breathtaking.  Best viewed in the morning light, the sands are a photographer’s delight. They have formed over hundreds of thousands of years as the elements interacted with minerals on the exposed sand dunes.

The Pinnacles Fraser Island. From our good friends at Austrail4X4

Get OFFLINE maps of Fraser Island for your iPhone or iPad with the BillyGoat 4WD & Camping app.

Lake McKenzie

Lake McKenzie is one of the most iconic destinations of Fraser Island. This stunning freshwater lake with crystal clear water and perfect white sand makes for the ideal spot to relax and gaze in ore at the magnificent beauty Fraser has to offer.

“Don’t drive dad’s 3 week old BMW on Fraser. Just because all wheels turn does not make it a 4WD. Just ask the 18 year old I scull dragged back to the shore from lake Mckenzie. It was a write off”  

– James Thomo Thompson (BillyGoat community Member)

Eli Creek

Eli Creek is the largest freshwater stream on the east coast of Fraser Island. It can be viewed via wooden walkways that snake around the edges of its immaculate natural beauty.  The swiftly flowing creek is a popular spot for walks, picnics and swimming. Swimming at the far end on the boardwalk can make for a very refreshing experience of a hot day.

Photo Credit

Fishing

Fraser Island is renowned for it’s rich and diverse fish population. Freshwater fishing is prohibited on the island but ocean fishing is welcomed.

Popular fishing spots on Fraser Island include

• Indian Head
• Sandy Cape
• Waddy Point
• Middle Rocks

These spots are home to bream, mackerel, shark and tailor and are very popular with anglers in particular between July and October when tailor are abundant.  During peak times fishing can become quite crowded so you may wish to explore around and find your own sweet fishing spot.

Over to the west of the island toward Wathumba flathead, bream and whiting maybe your catch of the day.

Whether you are new to fishing or a seasoned angler, be sure to pack your rod.  As no Fraser trip is complete without a little spot of fishing.

 

Get OFFLINE maps of Fraser Island for your iPhone or iPad with the BillyGoat 4WD & Camping app.

Camping on Fraser Island

Permits are required for camping at Fraser Island.  It is recommended that you book your campsites well in advance by visiting the  Queensland National Parks Website.

Fraser Island Camping Map

A map of Fraser Island with popular Campgrounds along with their facilities. Download a high-resolution version of this map.

Lighting Fires

Fires are not permitted in the majority of campsites around Fraser Island. Fines of up to $500 apply to those lighting fires in restricted areas. Hence it is recommended that you bring a portable BBQ or camper stove with you. There are a small number of sites that do allow you to light fires in designated fire rings such as Waddy Point and Dundubara.  If you do book one of these sites make sure you bring your own firewood as collecting firewood on Fraser Island is prohibited and purchasing firewood on the Island can be quite pricey.

Keep it clean

Leaving campsites in a good condition is the expected etiquette from any visitor. This includes taking back what you bring with you, including your rubbish. Leaving rubbish behind not only spoils the natural beauty of the island, its also harmful to the environment and wildlife.

“Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints”

— Bec Mitchell Milne (community member)

Drinking Water on Fraser Island

Ensure you bring your own drinking water and containers when camping on Fraser Island.  All water collected from the island must be treated prior to drinking. This includes water collected from taps, lakes or streams. There are water taps at Central Station, Dundubara and Waddy Point Campgrounds and at day-use areas. There is also a water collection tap in front of Eurong Information Centre.  To treat collected water you can use water treatment tablets or boil the water for 10-15 minutes.

National Park Run Campgrounds

National Park Campsites and Fraser Island require pre-booking via the Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Website. These sites provide basic facilities such as toilets, picnic areas, BBQs, running water and showers. Make sure you bring plenty of dollar coins with you if you want hot showers. There are also numerous signed campsites along the beach which make for beautiful spots to set up for the night. These sites do not provide the same facilities as National Park Campsites and require visitors to take all rubbish back with them.

Waddy Point

Waddy Point is situated on the northern edge of Fraser Island. Set in coastal woodland surroundings near a rocky headland, this campground is a fantastic place to pitch up a tent.

Two camping areas make up this recreational area.

• Waddy Point Upper is tucked away from the wind and sun and is suitable for tent camping.
• Waddy Point Beachfront feature trailer sites. As the name suggests, campsites are located north, on the beachfront, surrounded by Allocasuarina trees.

Pre-booking a site here is well worth it as it one of the few places on Fraser Island that allows for fires to be lit in concrete pots at each camp spot. Darren recommends bringing your own firewood as collecting and burning of wood from Fraser Island is not permitted,  and can be extremely expensive to purchase at Orchid Beach. Waddy Point is only one 1km away from Indian Head, which is an awesome fishing spot. Also a great place to camp when visiting Champagne Pools.

Location: North-east coast of the island, 5km north of Indian Head (Tukkee Wurroo).

Access: 4WD & off-road camper trailers only. High Clearance Required.

Be aware: Soft sand and rough track conditions exist between Indian Head and Waddy Point. Ensure your vehicle is well prepared to tackle such terrain.

Number of sites:

• 25 groups permitted (tent camping) in large open areas.
• 6 camper trailer sites.
• A large group site can cater to schools and large groups of 20 to 40 visitors.

Campsite surface: grass and sand

Map: Waddy Point Campground

Facilities:

• Campfires allowed (conditions apply)
• Water taps (treat water before drinking)
• Toilets (flush)
• Hot showers (Coin-operated. $2 coin)
• Picnic tables
• Communal fire rings.
• Washing-up facilities.
• Rubbish bins available at QPWS&P waste transfer station on the southern entrance to Orchid Beach township.
• Wheelchair access (may require assistance)

Generators: not permitted

Make sure to bring: first-aid kit, prescription medicines (if needed), fuel or gas stove, water containers, rubbish bags, insect repellent, $2 coins for showers, untreated milled timber off-cuts if you wish to use the communal fire rings, sand pegs, tarpaulins, extra poles, ropes and lockable food storage containers.

Bookings: book online via Qld Nat Park’s website. Availability is limited, especially during holiday periods. We recommend booking up to 6 months in advance.

Checkin: After 2pm

Departure: Before 11am

Mobile phone coverage: generally not available, the nearest payphone is at the Orchid Beach store.

Get OFFLINE maps of Fraser Island for your iPhone or iPad with the BillyGoat 4WD & Camping app.

Dundaburra

Set in coastal woodland, Dundaburra is one of the few fenced-off campgrounds around Fraser. Some of the facilities here include hot showers, gas barbecues, phone access and a rangers station. There are large areas for big groups as well as access for camper trailers.  There are also communal fire pots that can be used to light fires, however, no fires are permitted outside of these fire rings.  Advanced booking well in advance is essential.

Location: Central east coast of the island, 19km south of Indian Head (Tukkee wurroo).

Access: 4WD & off-road camper trailers only. High Clearance Required.

Number of sites:

• Tent: 42 tent sites available in large open areas.
• Trailer: 6 camper trailer sites.
• A large group site can cater to schools and large groups of 20 to 40 visitors.

Campsite surface: grass and sand

Map: Dundaburra Campground

Facilities:

• Campfires allowed (conditions apply)
• Water taps (treat water before drinking)
• Toilets (flush)
• Hot showers (Coin-operated. $2 coin)
• Picnic tables
• Communal fire rings.
• Washing-up facilities.
• Rubbish bins are at QPWS waste transfer station on the beach—1km north of the Dundubara entrance track. A portable toilet waste disposal facility is located on the Dundubara entrance track.
• Wheelchair access (may require assistance)
• Payphone

Generators: not permitted

Make sure to bring: first-aid kit, prescription medicines (if needed), fuel or gas stove, water containers, rubbish bags, insect repellent, $2 coins for showers, untreated milled timber off-cuts if you wish to use the communal fire rings, sand pegs, tarpaulins, extra poles, ropes and lockable food storage containers.

Bookings: book online via Qld Nat Park’s website. Availability is limited, especially during holiday periods. We recommend booking up to 6 months in advance.

Checkin: After 2pm

Departure: Before 11am

Mobile phone coverage: generally not available.

Get OFFLINE maps of Fraser Island for your iPhone or iPad with the BillyGoat 4WD & Camping app.

Wathumba Creek

Located on the western beaches of Fraser, at the mouth of creek, Wathumba Creek is the ideal spot for boat owners, with boat access and camping available.

Access:

• 4WD & off-road camper trailers only. High Clearance Required.
• Small boats & Kayaks!

Number of sites:

• Tent: 8 tent sites available in large open grass areas.
• Trailer: 3 camper trailer sites.

Campsite surface: grass and sand

Facilities:

• Campfires Prohibited
• Toilets (Flush)
• Picnic tables
• Boat Anchor Permitted

Generators: not permitted

Make sure to bring: fuel or gas stove, first-aid kit, prescription medicines (if needed), water containers, rubbish bags, insect repellent, sand pegs, tarpaulins, extra poles, ropes and lockable food storage containers.

Bookings: book online via Qld Nat Park’s website. Availability is limited, especially during holiday periods. We recommend booking up to 6 months in advance.

Checkin: After 2pm

Departure: Before 11am

Mobile phone coverage: generally not available.

Get OFFLINE maps of Fraser Island for your iPhone or iPad with the BillyGoat 4WD & Camping app.

Central Station

Central Stations is the site of an old logging station. The area is rich in history and there are many interesting historical landmarks to explore in the area. Central Station has a beautiful walk that takes you into Basin Lake. Visitors can follow the winding boardwalk and take in the surrounding sub-tropical vegetation and marvel at the stunning crystal clear water of Wanggoolba Creek which runs alongside.

4WD TIP:

CHECK PUDDLES before you drive into them. I had one mate submarine his vehicle and put a wave OVER his roof & snorkel. Thankfully it was short and smooth bottom in and out. Lukely he was able to use the momentum and get through it and only cause a scare. Could have been a lot worse!

-Tim Dudes (Community Member)

Lake Boomanjin

Lake Boomanjin Camping Area is set in open forest surrounds. Facilities include toilets, cold showers and day-use area.