Queensland’s jewel, Moreton Island (Mulgumpin), lies just 40 km from Brisbane and offers an unforgettable island escape. This massive sand island features crystal-clear waters, endless beaches, and diverse adventures. Over 95% remains a wild national park, giving you the choice of beachfront sites or secluded inland valleys. Your perfect campsite awaits.
Moreton Island Camping Essentials You Must Know
The island stretches 38 km long, dominated by rolling dunes. Iconic spots include the Tangalooma Wrecks, Mount Tempest, and the Blue Lagoon. Dolphins are resident year-round, while humpback whales migrate past from May to November.
The Micat ferry from Brisbane to Tangalooma takes about 75–90 minutes. Only high-clearance 4WD vehicles are permitted on island tracks—2WD and standard AWD are not allowed.
Best Camping Areas and Permits
There are two kinds of camping on Moreton Island. You may select a location with real toilets and showers. Or camp on the distant beaches to experience the wilderness.
There are two main camping styles: facilitated campgrounds with basic facilities, or remote beach zones for true wilderness.
Facilitated campgrounds
Five managed sites offer toilets, cold showers, and designated spaces (no power):
- Ben-Ewa: 12 family-friendly sheltered sites in a valley.
- The Wrecks: 21 walk-in tent sites, 5 minutes from ferry drop-off.
- Comboyuro Point: 49 large sites near Bulwer store.
- North Point: 21 grassy sites by surf beaches.
- Blue Lagoon: 25 sites around a freshwater lake.
Facilities include toilets and cold showers; Bulwer store stocks basic emergency supplies only.
Remote Beach Camping Zones
Five unfacilitated wilderness zones on beaches (carry portable toilet and all water; use nearest campground facilities):
- North-West Zone: 76 beachfront sites with some shade—good for trailers.
- North-East Zone: 89 private surf beach sites.
- South-West Zone: 24 quiet spots—requires skilled driving.
- South-East Zone: 35 remote fishing sites—check tides carefully.
- Yellow Patch: 14 fishing spots near Cape Moreton.
Camping Permits and Costs
Book all camping via the Mulgumpin Camping website or app before arrival. The camp charge is $7.50 per adult per night. Students pay only $4.10. There are family permits that accommodate up to 8 people (2 adults + children).
All vehicles require a monthly access permit, which costs $59.80/month. Display camping and vehicle permits at all times. There should be one vehicle per campsite.
Transport and Ferry Services
The MICAT ferry operates from the Port of Brisbane to Tangalooma Wrecks (The Wrecks landing). Foot passengers are charged $38-45 per way. 4WD vehicles are charged $78-120 per way. Peak season runs up to five trips per day. Pinkenba to Tangalooma is an adult return fare of $88. It does not carry vehicles.
Note: The Tangalooma Resort ferry from Brisbane (Pinkenba/Holt Street Wharf) carries passengers only (no vehicles/camping gear) to the resort jetty. It does not service camping areas.
Critical 4WD Driving Skills
Sand driving is essential. Deflate tyres to 18–20 PSI before leaving the ferry ramp for better grip and flotation.
Maintain momentum in loose sand—avoid sudden stops, braking, or acceleration, which can bury tyres.
Key Driving Tips for Sand
- Use low-range gears (1st–4th) in soft sections.
- Engage centre differential lock (if equipped) for traction.
- Drive 20–35 km/h on beaches.
- Time beach driving within 2 hours either side of low tide (firmest sand).
- Avoid high tide—beaches narrow significantly.
- Maintain steady momentum in loose sand; avoid sudden stops or aggressive acceleration that digs the vehicle in.
Recovery Equipment Required
Carry these 4WD tools:
- Long-handled shovel for digging out tyres
- Recovery/snatch strap
- Traction boards (e.g., MaxTrax)
- Tyre pressure gauge
- Air compressor to reinflate tyres
- UHF radio (Channel 40) for communication
They are useful in the event that your car gets stuck.
Activities and Must-See Attractions
There are numerous activities on Moreton Island. There are water sports, land adventures, and wildlife watching.
Top Water Activities
- Snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks: 15 shipwrecks teeming with fish, turtles, and rays.
- Kayaking: Paddle crystal-clear waters.
- Fishing: Tailor, bream, whiting—cast from the beach.
- Swimming: Cool tea-tree freshwater at Blue Lagoon.
Land-Based Adventures
Mount Tempest: At 285 metres, this is the world's highest coastal sand dune. The 360° views span from the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane and the Gold Coast on clear days. The hike is steep (allow 45-60 minutes).
Sandboarding: The "Desert" sand blow is located near the Tangalooma Wrecks area (accessed via 4WD track), not at the resort. Big Sand Hills on the southern end offer steeper terrain for experienced riders.
Cape Moreton Lighthouse: Built in 1857, this operational lighthouse offers panoramic Pacific Ocean views and is prime whale watching territory (May-November).
Natural Wonders
The freshwater in Blue Lagoon is always cool. Although named Blue Lagoon, the water is surprisingly a brown colour, thanks to the natural tea tree oils infused within the lake.
Honeymoon Bay Champagne Pools are natural rock pools. The waves have a champagne-like bubbling effect. When the ocean conditions are good, you can swim there.
Gear and Portable Power Solutions
Moreton Island camping requires planning. It is safer and better with preparedness.
Complete Gear List
- Water: Minimum 20 L per person per day
- Tent: Heavy-duty sand pegs, extra guy ropes
- Shade: Tarp or awning for sun protection
- Food: Stock up before ferry—Bulwer store limited
- Cooking: Gas or fuel stove (mainland firewood only)
- Toilet: Portable toilet (mandatory in remote zones)
- Tide Charts: Essential daily reference for beach driving safety.
Gas stoves are more favourable than campfires. Bring only firewood from the mainland.
Staying Powered Off-Grid
There is no electricity anywhere on the island. Refrigeration, lighting, and communication devices require reliable portable power. BLUETTI offers solutions specifically suited to sand island conditions:
For Extended Camping: BLUETTI Elite 100 V2
- 1,024Wh capacity / 1,800W output
- Weight: 11.5kg (portable for base camp)
- Ultra-fast charging via BLUETTI Charger 1 (560W) or Charger 2 (1000W alternator charger) while you drive between locations—recharging in approximately 1-2 hours of driving.
- Silent operation (<30dB) preserves wilderness tranquility
- Powers portable fridges for 2-3 days, charges cameras/phones, and runs CPAP machines for sleep apnea sufferers.
Pairs with BLUETTI 200W portable solar panels (23.4% efficiency) for supplementary charging when stationary (5-6 hours for full charge in optimal sun).
For High-Capacity Needs: BLUETTI Elite 200 V2
For families running large fridges, multiple devices, or requiring longer autonomy between charges, the Elite 200 V2 (2,073Wh) provide robust power reserves. These can be recharged rapidly using the BLUETTI Charger 2 (1,000W) via your vehicle alternator during travel between campgrounds or beach zones.
BLUETTI Charger 2 charges at 1200W through a car alternator. It works during the drives to campgrounds. It is 13 times faster than a conventional cigarette lighter in charging. Fill up on the way between locations. It fully protects your car battery. In addition to that, it is compatible with all BLUETTI stations and most other models.
Environmental and Safety Guidelines
Moreton Island is remote. Preparedness keeps you safe.
The Crucial Safety Preparations
- Comprehensive first-aid kit
- Offline maps (coverage patchy)
- Daily weather and tide checks
- Stinger suits (October–May)
- High-SPF sunscreen
The weather can change fast. Marine stingers are visible from October to May.
Conserving the Environment of Moreton Island
- Drive only on designated tracks and beaches. Vegetation damage causes erosion.
- Turtle nesting occurs November-March. Do not disturb nests or tracks.
- Observe all fire bans. When fires are permitted in designated fire rings, extinguish completely with water (not sand—hot sand burns).
- Carry out all toilet waste from Zone camping (cassette toilets must be emptied at designated dump points at campgrounds).
- Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not feed animals.
When to Visit Moreton Island
The peak season is September to May, with December to February offering warmest water but highest humidity and crowds.
Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot, humid. Book essential months in advance. The risk of jellyfish stings is lower but still possible.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Cooler (days 20°C, nights 10°C), less crowded. Prime whale watching (July-August peak).
Spring/Autumn: Mild weather, fewer crowds, active turtles/dolphins, best for comfortable camping.
Additional Camping Places on the Island
Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island): Located south of Moreton, offering similar 4WD beach camping and surf beaches, accessible via vehicle ferry from Cleveland.
Bribie Island: Connected by bridge (no ferry required). 4WD access to the northern beach via permit. More crowded than Moreton Island.
FAQs
Do I need a 4WD?
Yes, for all camping areas except "The Wrecks" campground, which is accessible by foot from the MICAT ferry (you can unload gear and walk, but cannot drive to other locations without 4WD). 2WD and AWD vehicles are not permitted on island tracks.
Can I bring a dog?
No. Dogs are strictly prohibited to protect wildlife and comply with National Park regulations.
What are the fees?
Approximately $7.50 per adult/night (subject to QPWS annual adjustments). Family permits available. Vehicle access permit required ($59.80 monthly). Confirm current rates.
Are campfires allowed?
Only in designated fire rings at specific campgrounds (e.g., North Point, Comboyuro) when no Total Fire Ban is in effect. "The Wrecks" and some other areas prohibit fires entirely. Must use island-purchased firewood or gas. No collection of driftwood or bringing mainland wood.
What is the whale-watching season?
Humpback whales migrate from May through November, with peak activity in July-August. Best viewing from Cape Moreton Lighthouse or North Point.
Your Moreton Island Adventure Experience
Moreton Island delivers true wild Australian camping right on Brisbane’s doorstep—sand dunes, clear waters, and unforgettable sunsets.
With proper planning, 4WD skills, and reliable portable power, every trip becomes seamless. With a BLUETTI power station – whether the portable Elite 100 V2 for weekends or the high-capacity Elite 200 V2 for family expeditions – your essential gear stays charged.
Book permits, pack smart, load your 4WD, and head to Mulgumpin—beaches, wildlife, and starry nights are waiting.
