The Ultimate Campervan & Caravan Adventure

There’s something undeniably magical about Douglas Shire. From the golden sands of Port Douglas to the lush, primeval rainforest of the Daintree, this corner of Queensland feels like a world away. For the adventurous souls exploring in a campervan or caravan, Douglas Shire offers the perfect balance of comfort and adventure — but you’ll want to know a few local secrets before you hit the road.

 

Where to Rest Your Wheels

Unlike some parts of the outback, wild camping isn’t permitted in Douglas Shire. Instead, travellers must use licensed caravan parks or campgrounds. Luckily, the options are charming and well-located:

• Big4 Port Douglas – Glengarry Holiday Park: Nestled on the banks of the Mowbray River, it’s an ideal base for exploring the town and the coast.
• Pandanus Tourist Park & Tropic Breeze Caravan Park: Right in Port Douglas, these parks offer convenient access to shops, cafés, and the famous Four Mile Beach.
• Mossman Caravan Park: A short drive inland, this park puts you at the doorstep of Mossman Gorge and the southern edge of the Daintree rainforest.
• Daintree Riverview Lodges & Van Park and Daintree Siesta Camping: Further north, these are perfect for a rainforest immersion.
• Cape Tribulation Camping: The most remote option, where rainforest meets reef, offering unparalleled natural beauty.

 Many parks offer powered sites for larger rigs, and all have friendly staff who know the area’s ins and outs — invaluable for first-time RV travellers. 

 

Practicalities: Dump Points & Waste Disposal

 For those travelling in self-contained vehicles, waste disposal is a key consideration. The good news? Douglas Shire has several free public dump points: 

• Craiglie (Teamsters Park): Sewerage disposal for campervans and caravans.
• Mossman Riverside Leisure Park: Conveniently located if you’re heading inland.
• Daintree Village: Near the amenities block on Dagmar Street.

⚠️ Pro tip: North of the Daintree River, options are limited. Plan ahead — running out of disposal points in the rainforest is a headache you’ll want to avoid.

 

Navigating the Roads: What You Need to Know

 The Captain Cook Highway makes the journey from Cairns to Port Douglas scenic and stress-free. But once you start exploring the northern reaches, a few things come into play: 

• Port Douglas town centre: Parking a caravan here can be tricky during peak times. Consider parking slightly outside the main shopping strip and strolling in.
• Daintree access: To cross the river, you’ll need the Daintree River Ferry. It’s short, scenic, and offers a chance to spot crocodiles lounging nearby. But note the vehicle length and weight limits: caravans over 12.5 m or heavy rigs need to plan alternate arrangements.
• Cape Tribulation Road: Sealed up to the village; beyond that, 4WD is essential for tracks like Bloomfield. Single-lane sections on the Alexandra Range require patience and attention.

The roads are manageable, but the thrill of winding through rainforest valleys with glimpses of the Coral Sea makes every twist worthwhile.

 

Hidden Gems & Must-See Stops

• Mossman Gorge: Walk the boardwalk, swim in freshwater pools, and experience the rainforest’s serenity.
• Daintree Discovery Centre: Learn about the world’s oldest rainforest with elevated walkways through the canopy.
• Cape Tribulation: Where rainforest meets reef — beaches, wildlife, and incredible photography opportunities.
• Alexandra Lookout: Breathtaking panoramas of the coast and hinterland.

 For wildlife enthusiasts, cassowaries and colourful tropical birds are just part of the daily scenery. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready. 

 

Cost Considerations

• Caravan parks: Prices vary, especially during peak season. Expect powered sites to be higher, but worth it for comfort.
• Ferry crossing: The Daintree River Ferry charges a small fee, so factor it into your budget.
• Fuel & supplies: Stock up before heading north — remote areas have limited options, and prices can be higher.

 

Insider Tips for a Smooth Journey

1. Plan dump point stops — especially if heading into remote areas.
2. Check ferry and road conditions before venturing north. Wet season or post-storm travel can cause delays.
3. Respect the environment: This is World Heritage rainforest and fragile coastline.
4. Book ahead during peak season: Parks and ferries fill quickly.
5. Drive cautiously: Narrow roads and single-lane sections require patience, especially in larger rigs.

 

Why Douglas Shire Works for RV Travel

 There’s a certain freedom in driving your own route, parking by the beach, and waking to the sounds of the rainforest. Douglas Shire manages to balance adventure, accessibility, and natural beauty in a way few other destinations do. From Port Douglas’ relaxed coastal charm to the wild, untamed northern Daintree, a caravan or campervan trip here isn’t just travel — it’s an experience. 

 Whether it’s your first RV adventure or your tenth, Douglas Shire rewards careful planning with unforgettable scenery, wildlife encounters, and the joy of a road trip done right.