Archer Point Camping – Cooktown

Archer Point is a breathtakingly rugged and beautiful free camping area located on the coast just south of historic Cooktown. Famous for its dramatic headland, historic lighthouse, and powerful winds, it offers a raw, off-grid coastal camping experience. The site is not one single spot but a series of informal clearings and tracks spread across the point, allowing campers to find their own secluded nook with spectacular views over the Coral Sea. The main drawcards are the incredible scenery and fantastic fishing opportunities, with anglers trying their luck from the rocks and beaches. The constant wind, especially during the dry season, also makes it a popular spot for kite and windsurfers. This is a primitive campsite with absolutely no facilities, meaning it is strictly for fully self-contained vehicles. Campers must bring in everything they need, including all water, power, and toilet facilities, and adhere to a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy by taking all rubbish out with them. The access road can be rough and is best suited to 4WDs or high-clearance 2WD vehicles, particularly after rain. Despite its basic nature, or perhaps because of it, Archer Point is a beloved destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in a powerful natural environment, all within a short drive of the amenities and attractions of Cooktown.

Site Information

• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles only. 4WD or high clearance recommended.
• Road Access: Unsealed gravel road (approx. 10km), can be corrugated and rough.
• Site Surface: Dirt, grass, sand. Can be uneven.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, short stays recommended.
• Facilities: None. Completely self-sufficient camping.
• Potable Water: No. Must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very patchy to non-existent. Some reception may be found on high points (Telstra).
• TV Reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in most cases, subject to local fire bans. Use existing fire pits.
• Generator Use: Permitted, considerate use is expected.
• Number of Sites Available: Many informal sites scattered around the area.
• Essentials to Bring: Water, toilet, power, food, robust shelter (due to wind), rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent rock, beach and estuary fishing.
• Short Walks: Along the coastline and up to the lighthouse.

Local Amenities (in Cooktown, approx. 23 km)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Cooktown Hotel (Top Pub)
  • Westcoast Saloon
  • Sovereign Resort Hotel
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes, hotel restaurants, bakery, and takeaway shops in Cooktown.
• Local Attractions:
  • Grassy Hill Lookout
  • James Cook Museum
  • Cooktown Botanic Gardens & Nature’s Powerhouse
  • The “Milbi Wall” (story wall)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Cooktown Holiday Park
  • BIG4 Cooktown
• Next Free Camps:
  • Annan River Bridge Rest Area (south of Cooktown)
  • Various sites along the Bloomfield Track (4WD only)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Cooktown Waste Transfer Station (check opening hours).
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple stations in Cooktown.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Cooktown (e.g., at service stations or info centre – check for availability and fees).
• Public Toilets:
  • Various locations in the town of Cooktown.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Cooktown has a tropical climate. The area is known for being windy, especially during the dry season.