The FORTS

🏕️ The Forts, Horseshoe Bay (Magnetic Island) QLD

PAID CAMP

🌄 Description & Location

Set in thick island bushland near the start of the historic Forts Walk, this unique and low-impact campsite is just a short stroll from Horseshoe Bay. Nestled among boulders and eucalyptus, the setting provides natural shade, wildlife viewing, and direct access to WWII ruins—offering a rare combination of heritage and nature right from your tent flap.

🏞️ History

The area is part of Wulgurukaba Country, whose people have lived across Yunbenun (Magnetic Island) and the mainland coast for millennia—using island tracks, seasonal campsites, and fishing grounds. During World War II, the Australian military constructed “The Forts” to defend Townsville Harbour, including gun emplacements, signal posts, and lookout bunkers. These installations remain as one of Queensland’s best-preserved coastal military relics, surrounded by national park land.

🧰 Facilities and Amenities

• 🔌 Unpowered bush camping only

• 🚽 Basic toilet block with flush toilets

• 🚿 Cold outdoor bush showers

• 💧 Drinking water tap available near camping area

• 🐾 Pet policy not stated—contact host before arrival

• 🚮 Rubbish bins provided—leave no trace encouraged

• 📶 No mobile reception on site

• 🅿️ Small carpark approx. 200 m from tent area

🚗 Vehicle Access

• 🚐 Accessible for cars and small campervans only—no large rigs

• 🚶 Walk-in to campsites from parking (~2–5 minutes)

• 🛣️ Entry via sealed road from Horseshoe Bay township

Stay Information (as at July 2025)

• 💰 Tariff Rates:

  • Unpowered Sites: Tariff Rate 1(Tariff Price Chart at bottom of page)

• 📅 Booking essential via private host

• 🏢 Privately managed on land adjoining national park

• 🏕️ Site type: informal bush campground among ruins

• ⏳ Max stay: not stated—confirm with host

• 🐾 Pet policy: not known, contact host directly

• 🚪 Daylight check-in hours only

• 🚿 Must be fully self-contained

🍺 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• 🍺 Horseshoe Bay Hotel (~800 m): seaside pub with bistro meals

• 🍻 Scallywags Café (~2 km): casual café fare

• 🍷 Barefoot Art Wine (~2 km): local food and wine spot

🏕️ Nearby Campgrounds

• 🌴 Balding Bay and Radical Bay (walk-in only): remote tent spots within the park

• 🏞️ Magnetic Island Caravan Park, Nelly Bay (~5 km): full-service option

🎣 Nearby Attractions

• 🐨 Forts Walk: scenic 3.8 km return trail with historic WWII sites and panoramic lookouts

• 🏖️ Horseshoe Bay Beach: popular for kayaking, swimming, and sunsets

• 🌿 High chance of seeing wild koalas, wallabies, and birdlife in surrounding bush

🛒 Nearest Supplies

• 🛍️ Horseshoe Bay (~1 km): general store, takeaway, fuel

• ⛴️ Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal (~5 km): access to Townsville and larger shops

📋 Reviews Summary

👍 Positive

• 🐨 Excellent wildlife encounters and bush ambience

• 🌄 Unmatched access to The Forts heritage trail

• 🌌 Quiet, secluded island atmosphere

• 🧍 Friendly host and well-kept bush shower/toilet facilities

⚠️ Cautionary

• 🔌 No power—must bring full camping setup

• 📶 No mobile or internet coverage

• 🧺 Carry gear to site from parking area

• 🚫 Not suitable for large vans or RVs

🚨 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• ☎️ Emergency: Dial 000

• 📡 UHF channels: Road = 40, Emergency = 5

• ⛑️ Nearest services via ferry to Townsville

• 🧭 Bring torch, water containers, and insect repellent

🧭 Final Note

The Forts campground is ideal for minimalist campers looking to truly unplug. With koalas in the trees and WWII bunkers nearby, it’s a rare blend of nature, history, and peace—perfect for explorers with a sense of adventure and respect for the land.