Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, Facing Island promises an unforgettable escape into nature. And what better way to enjoy it than bringing your four-legged friends along, with dog-friendly camping on offer.

Although there are permanent residents on the island, there are no shops, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient. Stock up in Gladstone before boarding the barge.

Lining up in Gladstone Harbour, excitement builds as you roll onto the Curtis Island barge – especially if it’s your first visit. The experienced deckhands work quickly to keep loading on schedule and avoid delays. Once the ferry departs, it’s the perfect time to air down your tyres. The ferry also services Quoin Island and Curtis Island, so depending on the load order you may have a few detours en route.

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After about an hour, the drawbridge lowers and you drive straight onto the beach. Hook a right to avoid campers waiting for the return ferry, roll the windows down and let the island breeze in – your holiday has begun.

It’s a short seven-minute sandy drive before you pop out onto the beach, splash through a washout, then head inland again. When you see the line of boat trailers, you’ve reached the campground entrance.

Campsites are easy to find thanks to large numbered pegs. Take your time setting up and soak in the view – every angle of the facilitated campground offers something different. Mornings come alive with the island’s wildlife, from red-tailed black cockatoos to other feathered locals, their sunrise chorus signalling the start of a new day and fresh adventures.

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A short walk from camp takes you to wild, untamed shores where you can launch your boat straight off the beach. Drop anchor nearby so you can keep an eye on it – perfect for spontaneous fishing trips right from camp. Whether you’re chasing flathead from the sand or rock cod and tuskfish in the bay, the surrounding islands and ocean side deliver plenty of species to keep you busy.

Golden hour is best enjoyed on the beach with a cold drink as the sun melts into the horizon – the perfect photo op. But don’t forget the bug spray; midges and mozzies arrive in relentless waves after dark.

When you feel like swapping boat keys for car keys, the island offers a web of 4×4 tracks. One standout run traces the east coast south to the township of Gatcombe, delivering beach runs, rocky outcrops, natural caves, bush tracks and secluded beaches. It’s a great day trip that adds variety to your stay.

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Tracks criss-cross the island, and getting “lost” is half the fun. The changing landscapes – from beach to bush to cliffs – will have you hunting for more spots to explore.

Facing Island has something for everyone, whether you’re chasing adventure or simply want to read a book in the sunshine. You’ll leave refreshed, reset, and armed with memories, photos, and stories to make your mates jealous.

What you need to know

Where: Facing Island, QLD
Camping: $7 pp/pn for unpowered beach sites
Facilities: Toilets, no showers

Getting There: Travel from Gladstone via Curtis Ferry Services. Boarding requires reversing onto the ferry – the deckhands are very helpful. The trip takes about an hour, dropping you directly on the beach, so air down before arrival. The Oaks Campground is a seven-minute drive from the drop-off point. Ferry cost: $346 for a vehicle and 4m trailer.

Getting Back: Same process for the return trip – reversing onto the barge from the beach. The crew will assist to get you onboard safely.

Camping Permits: The Oaks Camping Ground

More Information: No vehicle access permit required. No shops on the island – you must be self-sufficient. Stock up in Gladstone before departure.

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