Nestled in remote coastal wilderness on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, just a short boat trip from Yeppoon, there are four completely off-grid islands offering isolation and social distancing at its best.
For completely self-sufficient campers with a desire to live out their Robinson Crusoe fantasy, these hidden gems offer a special location to experience the tranquil life of a castaway.
If you are ready to disconnect from reality and check out of civilization, your island paradise awaits. With campsites just metres from the beach, your temporary backyard is filled with the excitement of snorkelling, fishing, diving and hiking, straight off your doorstep!
There’s camping, and then there’s remote island camping, and for just a few dollars a night, you can have an island all to yourself.
So, toss away your phones, iPads and watches; fuel up the boat, grab your tent, torch and tucker, and prepare to become fully immersed in island life, where the rising sun and falling tide will be your guide.
Miall Island
Located 11km east of Rosslyn Bay Harbour on the Capricorn Coast, this 20-hectare retreat which is only accessible by boat, features some of the best snorkelling and diving in Keppel Bay. The 1-site camping area is open to a maximum group of 6 people. There are no facilities and generators are not permitted.
Conical Island
Conical Island’s small size together with its stunning views make it an intimate camping destination. Just a hop, skip and jump (3km) from Great Keppel Island, Conical boasts large coral bommies within easy snorkelling distance from the beach. Access is by boat only to this 1 site camping area, which includes picnic tables.
Image credit – @type_2_fun_adventures
Divided Island
Only 6 hectares in size, Divided Island can be found 10km south-east of Emu Park. With only 1 camping site on offer, your only neighbours will be ospreys and white-bellied sea-eagles. There are no facilities and generators are not permitted. Gas and fuel stoves are recommended as open fires are prohibited.
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Pelican Island
The quiet and secluded Pelican Island is a rarely visited, rugged island covered in grassland and low vine thickets. Located 5km east of Emu Park, and around 15 hectares in size, this beauty offers only 1 campsite and no facilities.
Image credit – @slightlylostau
If you are happy to share your space with other groups, Humpy, Middle and North Keppel Islands offer camping areas and additional facilities.
It may take a little more hustle and bustle to get there, but once you set up camp and sit back to enjoy the peace and tranquility, you won’t even think about the world outside of ‘your’ island and you will be glad you put in the effort.
For campsite bookings and important information for your stay, visit Queensland Government’s Parks and Forest website.
No boat? No worries. Freedom Fast Cats Wild Duck Taxi, Keppel Explorer and Keppel Dive and Snorkel will get you where you need to go.
