Last Updated on 1 August 2026 by Rob
Finch Hatton Showgrounds (home of the Pioneer Valley Show) is a great escape from the coast east of Mackay. It’s the perfect base to explore Eungella National Park.
Located right in the heart of town behind the local shops and hotel, this well-maintained grassy reserve offers a relaxed, country-style atmosphere with views of the surrounding ranges. The site provides large level sites. Whether you are gearing up for the hike to the Wheel of Fire at Finch Hatton Gorge or simply enjoying the hospitality of the nearby Criterion Hotel, the showgrounds deliver a peaceful and practical stay from $25 per night.
Finch Hatton Showgrounds provides a convenient location to explore the park, including the Finch Hatton Gorge.
Also, in the town of Finch Hatton, there is a bike park and bike tracks.
There is no need to be self-contained, as toilets and showers are provided.
Pets are allowed, as are tents.
Fires are permitted if you have an elevated firepit.
Finch Hatton Showgrounds Quick Facts
| Campground Name | Finch Hatton Showgrounds |
|---|---|
| Nearest Town | Finch Hatton |
| GPS | 21° 8'18.90"S 148°37'55.42"E |
| Access Road | Sealed |
| Number of sites | Many |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Water | Yes |
| Dump point | No |
| Power | Yes |
| Pets | Yes |
| Tents | Yes |
| Fires permitted | No |
| Telstra coverage | Yes |
| Optus coverage | Weak |
| Cost | $25/$30 per night |
| Booking | 043 915 8127 |
Campground Layout and Features
Finch Hatton Showgrounds is a large grassed site divided between buildings used by the showground. The ground is very level, and the sites are unmarked.
The powered sites are clustered around power boxes used during show times. Not all areas have access to both power and water. If you need water, select your site carefully. Powered sites are $30 per night
Unpowered sites are located in areas that lack access to power. These sites cost $25 per night.
On arrival at the site, you must report to the caretaker. At the Y-junction, take the branch on the right. Payment can be made in cash or using a card. They will give you options of where you can set up, but may not assign a particular spot. This allows you to select your own site.
An amenities block contains toilets and showers. It is located fairly centrally.
Bins are provided.
Washing machines are available for $3 per load.
WiFi is available for $5 per day, and mobile internet worked well at this site.
To check availability, call 043 915 8127
Finch Hatton Showgrounds Location
Finch Hatton Showgrounds is located 57 km west of Mackay. It is accessed by good-quality roads. The map below shows the location of the campground. You can zoom out for a more general location.
What to Watch Out For at Finch Hatton Showgrounds
This campground can get muddy and slippery during wet weather. Some areas are better than others. If wet weather is expected during your stay, avoid the large area directly in front of the caretaker.
Final Words
We really enjoyed our stay at this campground and recommend it. We also enjoyed the nearby gorge and the national park.
This is an optional stay on the Cairns to Brisbane Road Trip.
Closeby Campgrounds
If you plan to stay closer to Mackay, you may like Rowallan Park Campground.
Those travelling north may consider staying at Ball Bay Campground. If heading south St Lawrence Recreational Reserve may be an option.
Edited on 2/1/26 to update fee from $20 to $25 per night for unpowered and $25 to $30 for powered.
