Cape Hillsborough National Park

⛺ Smalleys Beach Camping Area (Cape Hillsborough National Park, QLD)

📍 Description & Location

Set within rugged volcanic headlands and eucalypt forests, Smalleys Beach is a peaceful beachfront campground fringed by she-oaks and palms. Located approximately 50 km northwest of Mackay, the campground is accessed via a short gravel road branching off Cape Hillsborough Road. Sites back directly onto the sand, with sunrise views and frequent kangaroo sightings.

📜 History

Cape Hillsborough National Park holds cultural significance for the Yuibera people, who once camped along these shores. The park's unique geology was shaped by ancient lava flows, now forming cliffs, headlands, and rich tidal flats. Early European settlers used the coast for timber milling and coastal exploration.

🚿 Facilities and Amenities

• 11 numbered, shaded sites

• Flushing toilets

• Picnic tables

• Drinking water tap (boil before use)

• No bins—carry out all rubbish

• No showers

• Fires allowed in off-ground containers only

• Generators not permitted

🚗 Vehicle Access

• Gravel road access (suitable for 2WD vehicles)

• Accommodates caravans, camper trailers, and tents

• Site numbers selected at time of booking

📝 Stay Information (as at July 2025)

• Fees apply

• Booking: Essential

• Authority: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service

• Site Type: Formal beachfront campground

• Maximum stay: 21 consecutive nights

• Pet Policy: No pets allowed

• Self-containment: Not required

• Access Notes: Limited turning space for large rigs; seasonal potholes on gravel road

• Contact: Book through QPWS online

🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• The Leap Hotel (~35 km): country pub atmosphere

• Seaforth Bowls Club (~30 km): meals and social events

• Mackay’s northern pubs (~50 km): full pub selection

🏕️ Nearby Campgrounds

• Cape Hillsborough Tourist Park (~3 km): powered sites and cabins

• Ball Bay camping area (~15 km): beachside council-run site

• Haliday Bay Golf & Campground (~20 km): mix of powered and unpowered options

🌿 Nearby Attractions

• Cape Hillsborough sunrise with kangaroos

• Diversity Boardwalk and Beachcomber Cove Track

• Wedge Island—walkable at low tide

• Rockpools, birdwatching, and fossil spotting

🛒 Nearest Supplies

• Seaforth: fuel, groceries, takeaway food (~30 km)

• Mackay: full services including supermarkets, hospital, marine gear (~50 km)

⭐ Reviews Summary

Positives:

• Quiet beachfront setting with wildlife visits

• Well-spaced sites under shady trees

• Great access to park walks and beach activities

• Excellent sunrise views

Cautions:

• No bins—take all waste

• Limited phone reception

• Access road can become rough after rain

• Marine stingers present during warmer months

🆘 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• Emergency: 000

• Mobile Signal: Limited (Telstra better)

• UHF Channels:

  • Road Channel = 40

  • Emergency Only = 5

• Marine stinger season: October–May

• Wildlife risks: crocodile sightings occasionally noted in estuarine areas

📝 Final Note

Smalleys Beach is a rewarding spot for travellers seeking a quiet, beachside stay within reach of Mackay. While low on frills, the site delivers unspoiled natural beauty, peaceful camping, and early-morning kangaroo encounters—all in one of Queensland’s most photogenic coastal settings.