Cylinder Beach Camping Ground, Point Lookout QLD

For an absolute beachfront camping experience that perfectly captures the laid-back, natural beauty of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), Cylinder Beach Camping Ground is an iconic and highly sought-after destination. Nestled in a protected cove right on the shores of the stunning, north-facing Cylinder Beach, this campground offers the ultimate beach holiday where the sand and surf are literally on your doorstep. It is particularly famous for being one of the most family-friendly beaches on the island, as the headlands at either end provide protection from the elements, creating calm, gentle waves perfect for swimming. The beach is also patrolled by surf lifesavers, adding an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for families with young children.

The campground itself is beautifully integrated into the natural environment, with sites tucked in amongst the shade of mature Pandanus and She-oak trees. Waking up to the sound of the ocean, enjoying breakfast with a sea view, and being able to wander back and forth from your campsite to the water’s edge all day is the quintessential Cylinder Beach experience. The sites cater to a range of setups, from simple tents to camper trailers and caravans, with both powered and unpowered options available. The facilities are well-maintained, with amenity blocks providing hot showers and toilets, as well as laundry services and a camp kitchen.

What truly sets this campground apart is its unbeatable location. Not only are you on a spectacular beach, but you are also just a short, scenic walk from the main hub of Point Lookout. A stroll along the beach or the coastal path will lead you to cafes, shops, and the famous Point Lookout pub with its multi-million-dollar views. It’s also the perfect starting point for exploring the island’s other treasures, including the breathtaking North Gorge Walk, where spotting dolphins, turtles, and migrating humpback whales (in season) is a common occurrence. Due to its immense popularity, booking well in advance is absolutely essential.

Cylinder Beach Camping Ground – QLD Location Map

Cylinder Beach Camping Ground

Address: 300 Dickson Way, Point Lookout QLD 4183
Website: minjerribahcamping.com.au/camp-grounds/cylinder-beach
GPS Coordinates: -27.42683, 153.53313

Site Information

Location: Absolute beachfront at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island.
Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, small Motorhomes. Check site size when booking.
Road Access: Sealed roads on the island. Access is via vehicle ferry from Cleveland.
Site Surface: Sand and grass.
Camping Permitted: Yes, powered and unpowered sites available. Booking is mandatory.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Please check with Minjerribah Camping.
Number of Powered Sites: Available.
Number of Un-powered Sites: Available.

Facilities

Facilities: Amenity blocks with toilets and hot showers, laundry, camp kitchen, BBQs.
Picnic Tables: Yes, in communal areas.
Potable Water: Yes.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
TV Reception: Good.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, for guests.
Ullage: A dump point is available at nearby Adder Rock campground.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
Generator Use: Strictly prohibited.

Essentials & Activities

Essentials to Bring: Beach gear, surfboards/bodyboards, fishing rods, walking shoes, binoculars for whale watching.
Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted at this campground.
Fishing: Good beach fishing from Cylinder and nearby beaches.
Short Walks: Excellent coastal walks to Point Lookout village and the spectacular North Gorge Walk.

Local Amenities

Local Pubs:
- Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel (approx. 1 km walk)
- The Little Ship Club, Dunwich (near the ferry terminal)
Places to Eat: Numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants within easy walking distance at Point Lookout.
Local Attractions:
- North Gorge Walk (a must-do) (approx. 2 km)
- Point Lookout for whale watching (in season)
- Main Beach and Frenchman’s Beach
- Myora Springs
Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Adder Rock Camping Ground (approx. 1 km)
- Amity Point Camping Ground (approx. 15 km)
- Adams Beach Camping Ground (near Dunwich)
Next Free Camps: There are no free camps on North Stradbroke Island.
Nearest Dump Points: Adder Rock Camping Ground (for registered campers).
Nearest Petrol Station: Available at Point Lookout.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
Public Toilets: Available onsite for guests and public facilities at the beach park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and humid, perfect for swimming and beach activities. This is the peak season, so expect crowds. Average temperatures range from 21°C to 29°C.
Autumn (Mar – May): Often considered the best time to visit, with warm sunny days, lower humidity, and beautiful clear water. Temperatures average 16°C to 27°C.
Winter (Jun – Aug): The whale watching season! Days are mild, dry, and sunny, with cool nights. Perfect for hiking the Gorge Walk. Temperatures range from 10°C to 21°C.
Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the weather warms up and wildflowers bloom. Excellent for all outdoor activities. Temperatures average 15°C to 26°C.