Keppel Bay in Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef has four amazing private camping islands where you can get off the grid and far from the madding crowds. Who needs people, right?Turn the phone off and leave the laptop at home and live the life of a self appointed castaway, at least for a few days or weeks, on these hidden island gems.

But wait, there’s more. 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. Sign us up.

With campsites just metres from the beach, your holiday backyard is filled with snorkelling, fishing, diving and hiking and let time be measured by a rising sun and falling tide.

Miall Island

You’ll find Miall Island located 11km east of Rosslyn Bay Harbour, 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.

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.

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.

Go, camp out, chill out, forget your woes and send us a postcard when you get back.

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