National Parks

Queensland’s sandstone wilderness parks Contents Parks at a glance ...... 2 Salvator Rosa section, ...... 16

Welcome...... 3 Minerva Hills National Park...... 18

Queensland’s Sandstone Wilderness...... 4 Nuga Nuga National Park...... 19

Plan your getaway...... 6 Lonesome section, ...... 20

Choose your adventure...... 7 Beilba section, Expedition National Park...... 21

Blackdown Tableland National Park...... 8 Robinson Gorge section, Expedition National Park...... 22

Carnarvon Gorge section, Carnarvon National Park...... 10 Lake Murphy Conservation Park...... 24

Mount Moffatt section, Carnarvon National Park...... 12 ...... 25

Slow down on a Great Walk...... 14 Stay longer...... 26

Ka Ka Mundi section, Carnarvon National Park...... 15 Further information...... 28

Parks at a glance Wheelchair-assisted access only Toilets Camping Camp fires Day-use area Short walks Hiking lookout Scenic 4WD access

Blackdown Tableland National Park n section, Carnarvon National Park * Mount Moffatt section, Carnarvon National Park Ka Ka Mundi section, Carnarvon National Park Salvator Rosa section, Carnarvon National Park Minerva Hills National Park Nuga Nuga National Park l Lonesome section, Expedition National Park Beilba section, Expedition National Park Robinson Gorge section, Expedition National Park Lake Murphy Conservation Park Isla Gorge National Park

*Camping in Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area is only available in the Easter, June–July and September–October Queensland school holidays. n Some areas within the park can only be accessed by 4WD. • 4WD recommended.

Front cover and this page Isla Gorge National Park 2 © Robert Ashdown Welcome

Follow in the footsteps of famous explorers, where hidden springs, tumbling streams and seasonal lakes sustain an amazing diversity of plants and animals.

Be uplifted as you watch the sunrise Embark on a challenging 6–7 day and enjoy marvellous hike, through winding gorges and views from towering elevated plateaus of spectacular, sandstone cliffs, remote sandstone country. rising above valleys and plains.

Puzzle (clockwise from top): with the morning bird Carlia schmeltzii, over precious Awaken Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt; chorus, fresh eucalypt-scented air view from Boolimba Bluff, stories told Carnarvon Gorge, © Dave Hoolihan; and pure relaxation in the heart king parrot, © Bernice Sigley; on stone in Cathedral Cave, Carnarvon Gorge, of the Sandstone Wilderness. Michael O’Connor © Qld Govt; an ancient Carnarvon Great Walk, Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt; cultural © Robert Ashdown (centre) landscape.

Welcome to Queensland’s Sandstone Wilderness Parks Welcome to Sandstone Country. Take a moment to discover the natural beauty that this land has to offer. As a Park Ranger and a Traditional Owner, I welcome you to discover the hidden treasures within the Sandstone Wilderness, where you can experience diversity and cultural connections. Respect this country and the places you visit as if they were your own. Leave only footprints and take home wonderful memories, so we can have this special area for future generations.

Background image: © Carlin Burns Ranger image: © Raelene Neilsen

Yindi woogoo yunie thiligoo nunee bindbee—you come to see good land. Ranger Scott Toby Ghungalu Descendant, Blackdown Tableland National Park

3 Rubyvale Emerald Parks of To Longreach Blackwater Ca pric Dingo or ay n hw Alpha Hig Queensland’s Sandstone Wilderness Blackdown

Gregory Tableland NP Legend Minerva National park 4WD access Scale Hills NP 0 30 60 120km Woorabinda Conservation park Shared road Camping area Great Walk Waterways Rock art Visitor information centre (VIC) Camping Rolleston Wi-Fi access Banana Camping—car access Dawson Developmental Road QldParks-Wifi Camping—4WD access Bauhinia Moura Park office Caravan Carnarvon

Information 4WD camper trailer NP Road

Salvator Fairfield Information shelter Road ntal Rosa Arcadia Valley 2WD camper trailer Access Road

section Nuga me Parking Mapala Swimming Mt Playfair Road Nuga Tambo Ka Ka Mount Theodore Parking—bus Mundi Moffatt section NP No water section Develop Flagstaff Toilets Hill

Fires prohibited Fitzroy Isla Shower Carnarvon No rubbish bins Gorge section Gorge Robinson Wheelchair access NP Swimming prohibited Gorge section Cellular coverage Diving prohibited Lonesome Expedition Restaurant Warning section NP Accommodation Water—treat before drinking Lake Walking track Murphy Unstable cliff Beilba CP Picnic table section Town Sheltered picnic table Mountain Womblebank Fires permitted Spring Open fireplace Cliff line

Gate Forestvale Road Barbecue—wood Great Inland Grid Leichhardt Barbecue—fuel Fence Highway Viewpoint Way Highway Sealed road Lookout Unsealed road Wildlife spotting 4WD track Morven Walking track Charleville Scenic drive Mitchell

Roma Track classifications To Bourke Wallumbilla Miles Grade Suits Track description To St George Jackson 2 No bushwalking experience required. Tracks may Families Chinchilla have a compacted surface with gentle incline sections with young and some steps. May be suitable for wheelchair users children who have someone to assist them.

3 People Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Tracks may with some have short steep hill sections and many steps. bushwalking Caution is needed on creek crossings, ladders and experience lookouts. Ankle-supporting footwear required.

4 Tracks may be extensively overgrown, rough and very (Left to right): Experienced steep. Caution is needed on creek crossings, loose Sacred kingfisher; Boolimba Bluff walking bushwalkers surfaces, cliff edges and exposed naturally-occurring track, Carnarvon Gorge; outlooks. Ankle-supporting footwear required. Lake Nuga Nuga

High level of physical fitness and map-reading skills Photos: (left to right): 5 Very © Mike Peisley; required. Track has very steep sections, irregular experienced © Michael O’Connor; surface and loose stones. Directional signs limited. bushwalkers Robert Ashdown High-quality, ankle-supporting footwear required. © Qld Govt 4 Rockhampton Rubyvale Emerald To Longreach Blackwater Ca pric Dingo or ay n hw Alpha Hig Duaringa Blackdown

Gregory Highway Tableland NP Minerva Scale Hills NP 0 30 60 120km Springsure Woorabinda

Dawson Highway

Biloela Rolleston Banana Dawson Developmental Road Bauhinia Moura

Carnarvon NP Road

Salvator Fairfield Road ntal Rosa Arcadia Valley Access Road section Nuga me Mt Playfair Road Nuga Mapala Tambo Ka Ka Mount Theodore Mundi Moffatt section NP section Develop Flagstaff Hill

Carnarvon Fitzroy Isla Gorge section Gorge Matilda Way Robinson Gorge section NP

Lonesome Expedition section NP Lake Murphy Beilba CP section Taroom

Womblebank Augathella Injune Landsborough Highway

Forestvale Road Great Inland Leichhardt

Wandoan

Way Highway Mitchell Highway

Charleville Morven Warrego Highway Mitchell

Roma Yuleba To Bourke Wallumbilla Miles To St George Jackson Chinchilla

5 Sandstone outcrops from grassy plains © Qld Govt Ashdown Robert

Plan your getaway

Wander through twisting gorges, gazing in awe at towering sandstone cliffs and outcrops. Discover rock art sites, cooling mountain streams, tumbling waterfalls and abundant wildlife. Let the wild, dramatic scenery and evidence of an ancient yet ongoing culture lift your spirit and capture your imagination. Almost 5000km2 of national parks in Queensland’s Sandstone Wilderness await your discovery!

Best time to visit Add some local flavour The best time to visit is between April and Plan your journey to coincide with September. Temperatures vary widely, local events and festivals. From with summer temperatures regularly Southern Queensland Country to the exceeding 35°C. Heavy frosts sometimes Southern Great Barrier Reef area, occur in winter when temperatures fall you’re bound to fill your calendar Salvator Rosa, Carnarvon National Park Brendan Moodie © below freezing. with memorable experiences to last a lifetime. Choose from Easter festivals, Rain falls mostly between December rodeos and country shows, food and and March; however, storms can occur art festivals, sporting events or just throughout the year. Many roads are stop and discover some of the region’s unsealed and impassable after even a best assets, the people. Find all the small amount of rain. Remember—if it’s details at mymaranoa.org.au and flooded, forget it. centralhighlands.com.au

Best way to visit Visit southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au Head out in your own vehicle to explore. and southernqueenslandcountry.com.au You can reach most parks by conventional vehicle but may require a high-clearance 4WD to travel around some of them. Stop at local towns to refuel and stock up on food when preparing for longer journeys— it’s a long way between stops out here.

Beware of stock on the roads and leave gates as you find them (right); Wards Canyon, Carnarvon Gorge (far right) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt

6 Choose your adventure

In the heart of Queensland’s drive routes, enjoy an easy and scenic journey to Queensland’s Sandstone Wilderness from the east via the Capricorn and Warrego Highways, from the north or south via the , Gregory and Dawson Highways and , or via the Matilda Highway to the west.

Via the Matilda Way between National Park, north towards Nuga Nuga Bourke and Longreach National Park, or the Lonesome and Beilba Turn east at Charleville onto the Warrego sections of Expedition National Park. Highway and travel to Mitchell, a good From Emerald, travel south to place to stock up before heading to the Springsure—a good stepping off point Mount Moffatt section of Carnarvon for Minerva Hills National Park or the Ka National Park. Alternatively, resupply at Ka Mundi and Salvator Rosa sections of Drive to the conditions on dusty Augathella or Tambo before heading to the unsealed roads; a 4WD is required Carnarvon National Park. Continue south to access many of the Sandstone parks Salvator Rosa and Ka Ka Mundi sections and turn off the Dawson Highway to the Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt of Carnarvon National Park. Carnarvon Gorge section of Carnarvon From Longreach you can also travel east National Park, Nuga Nuga National Park through Barcaldine to Emerald, then and the Lonesome and Beilba sections of From Rockhampton along either east towards Blackwater or south Expedition National Park. the or to Springsure to explore the northern Leichhardt Highway and eastern parks of Queensland’s Via along the From Rockhampton, head west on the Sandstone Wilderness. Warrego Highway Capricorn Highway to visit parks at the Travel north-west from Toowoomba along eastern end of the Via the Great Inland Way the Warrego Highway to Miles and turn Sandstone region. Travel south-west on (Dirranbandi to Emerald) right to explore Lake Murphy Conservation the Leichhardt Highway with deviations Head north from the New South Wales Park, Isla Gorge National Park and the to Isla Gorge National Park and Lake border, near Dirranbandi, through St Robinson Gorge section of Expedition Murphy Conservation Park, or stay on the George and Surat to the Warrego Highway. National Park. Alternatively, continue to Capricorn Highway and turn off 11km west Travel to Roma and buy fuel and food Roma and drive north-west to Carnarvon of Dingo towards Blackdown Tableland before heading north-west to Carnarvon National Park. National Park.

7 8 Blackdown Tableland National Park Tableland National Blackdown past the park entrance shelter. entrance park the past is 8km area camping Munall The Boongulla. Mitha to Road Loop the for a4WD need you’ll but care, with driven 2WDs to accessible are park the of sections Some winding. and slippery unsealed, are shelter entrance the past Roads caravans. or trailers heavy towing for unsuitable and steep, and Tableland is winding the of base the from climb 6km The Beware! Tableland. the of top the to road sealed the Follow Blackwater. of 35km or east Dingo of west 11km Highway Capricorn the off Turn 110kmand Emerald. of east Rockhampton of 183km west lies Park Tableland National Blackdown there Getting • • • • • Highlights Blackdown Tableland rises high above thesurrounding plains canvas in spring. canvas or camera your on wildflowers of tapestry colourful the Capture Falls). (Rainbow Gumoo Gudda below pool rock the in off Cool beetle. Christmas aunique or rain, after ‘monster’ cricket-like aBlackdown for out eye an Keep Yaddamen Dhina. from sunset of colours rich the or Mook, Mook from cliffs sandstone on sun morning the Capture else. nowhere found species including plants, unusual and creeks tumbling heritage, park’s the discover to awalk for Go

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Peter Lik © Tourism and Events Queensland Gudda Gumoo (left); Yaddamen Dhina lookout (above); Walking track to Gudda Gumoo (Rainbow Waters) (below) © John Augusteyn

Ranger’s tips Places to camp 4 Mook Mook Sit still and listen to the land 1 Munall camping area 2.4km return (50min walking time). Cross Mimosa Creek and walk over gentle speaking to you. Take an early morning walk to Mook Mook Lookout and watch ridges to the edge of the tableland for Camp in cool, quiet bush surroundings the sandstone cliffs change colour as stunning views of sandstone cliffs and close to popular short walks. There’s the sun rises, or head down to the distant ranges. no water available, so bring plenty for waterhole below Gudda Gumoo Falls. drinking, cooking and washing. 5 Gudda Gumoo lookout Ranger Carlin 3.6km return (1.5hr walking time). Places to go Touch rough stringybarks and spiky 1 Yaddamen Dhina grasstrees on the way to Gudda Gumoo 200m return (5min walking time). Lookout, where you can gaze across the Admire a variety of wattles growing along gorge to distant plains and hills. Learn this short track to a lookout offering about the significance of Moonda Gudda sweeping views of distant ranges and to the Ghungalu People. plains 500m below. 6 Gudda Gumoo Gorge 2 Goodela 4km return (2hr walking time). 3.6km return (1hr walking time). Brave the 240-stair descent deep into the Follow the escarpment through eucalypt gorge, where damp fern fronds glisten forest and watch for birds as you stop and colourful birds come to cool off. and rest at the track’s end. Catch a rainbow reflected in water spilling over red-stained sandstone ledges. 3 Goon Goon Dhina 2.5km circuit (1hr walking time). Stroll from the camping area past an old Safety cattle yard and up along Mimosa Creek Cliff edges may be crumbly. to a Ghungalu art site. Learn about the Keep well back from the edge park’s history and how Ghungalu people and supervise children closely. used plants for food and shelter.

9 Towering sandstone cliffs of Carnarvon Gorge © QldGovt Ashdown Robert

Highlights Carnarvon Gorge section, • Spot platypus in the creek from the Nature Trail early in the morning or Carnarvon National Park at dusk. • Crisscross Carnarvon Creek as you delve Feel excitement build as you drive across plains towards towering white deep into the gorge. Sneak into cool, cliffs rising above the distant tree line. Linger at huge rock overhangs shady side-gorges and crane your neck adorned with ochre stencils and engravings to reflect on an ancient, towards the top of towering cliffs. ongoing culture. People have been drawn to this oasis for millennia— • Contemplate the spiritual relationship you too will be captivated and keep coming back time after time. the area’s First Nations peoples have with this special landscape. Things to do Great Walk circuit trail to • Learn more about Carnarvon Gorge from Gadds walkers’ camp Picnicking displays in the visitor centre. Battleship Spur Enjoy a picnic or cook up a storm 12 2 Big Bend Getting there on a gas barbecue in the visitor Carnarvon Gorge is approximately 600km area. You might see whiptail north-west of , 300km south-west wallabies grazing, apostle birds Boowinda Gorge 11 Cathedral Cave of Rockhampton, 246km north of Roma squabbling, busy fairy-wrens 10 and 241km south-east of Emerald. snapping up insects or a rummaging echidna. Turn off the Carnarvon Developmental Wards Art Gallery 8 Canyon Road, 111km north of Injune or 61km 9 south of Rolleston, and take the 44km Amphitheatre 7 sealed roads to the park. Moss Garden 6 Be careful. Carnarvon Creek rises rapidly after rain, cutting access roads. e rg o G Remember—if it’s flooded, forget it! 1 n o rv a rn Before you set out, check road conditions a C at qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40. 4 Warrumbah 5 Bluff Boolimba Bluff 3 Nature Trail Great Walk circuit Mickey trail from Cabbage Creek 1 Tree walkers’ camp

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Map not to scale Look for echidnas To Rolleston Takarakka Bush Resort in the visitor area (left); and Injune (above) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Sandstone Park (for self-sufficient campers)

10 Venture into the gorge on the main walking track (far left); learn about an ancient and ongoing culture at the Art Gallery (left); Macrozamia fruiting body (above) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt (far left and above); Adam Creed © Qld Govt (left)

Places to camp 3 Nature Trail 8 Wards Canyon 1 Carnarvon Gorge camping area 1.5km return (1hr walking time). 9.2km return (3–4hr walking time). Expect close encounters with local wildlife Be enticed into cool and inviting Wards

from the shady banks of Carnarvon Creek. Canyon, where a small pocket of the The leafy Carnarvon Gorge camping area Wildlife watching is best at dusk or dawn. world’s largest fern, the king fern is only open during the Easter, June–July Angiopteris evecta, flourishes. and September–October Queensland 4 The main gorge walking track 9 Art Gallery school holidays. At any time of the year 19.4km return (7–8hr walking time). 10.8km return (3–4hr walking time). you can stay just outside the park at Crisscross Carnarvon Creek as it winds Gaze at more than 2000 engravings, ochre a range of private accommodation 9.7km to a tranquil pool at Big Bend. Great Walk stencils and freehand paintings adorning circuit trail to facilities. Visit queensland.com to help Explore side tracks leading to narrow, Gadds walkers’ camp the 62m-long sandstone walls of this Battleship Spur plan your stay. hidden gorges and timeless rock art sites. site of deep cultural significance to First 12 2 Big Bend At Big Bend, the graded walking track 2 Big Bend camping area Nations peoples. ends and the remote hiking trail of the Carnarvon Great Walk begins. 10 Cathedral Cave Boowinda Gorge 11 Cathedral Cave Hike with your gear 9.7km to Big Bend for 18.2km return (5–6hr walking time). 10 5 Boolimba Bluff a bush camping experience any time of This massive wind-eroded overhang the year. 6.4km return (2–3hr walking time). sheltered the area’s First Nations peoples 8 Wards Art Gallery 9 Canyon Discover what lies above the cliff line. for thousands of years. Admire the Amphitheatre 7 Places to go Scale the steep slopes 200m above panorama of rock imagery decorating its Carnarvon Creek and be rewarded with 1 walls, reflecting the rich cultural life of Moss Garden 6 Mickey Creek Gorge stunning views towards distant ranges. those who gathered here. 3km return (1.5hr walking time). e rg 6 Moss Garden o Wander along Mickey Creek to narrow 11 Boowinda Gorge G 1 n o side-gorges where walking becomes an 7km return (2–3hr walking time). rv 18.4km return (5–6hr walking time). a rn a off-track adventure. C Beneath tree ferns searching for sunlight, Rock-hop into this sculpted side-gorge 4 5 Warrumbah a small waterfall tumbles over a rock 100m upstream of Cathedral Cave. Bluff Boolimba Bluff 2 Rock Pool 3 Nature Trail ledge into an icy pool, a perfect place to Great Walk circuit 400m return (20min walking time) from 12 Big Bend Mickey trail from Cabbage seek refuge from the heat in summer. Creek 1 Tree walkers’ camp the Rock Pool car park or 3.6km return Big Bend is at the end of the main (2hr) from the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor 7 Amphitheatre gorge walking track. 19.4km return Rock Pool C 2 Area. Linger in the shade of fig and (7–8hr walking time). ar 8.6km return (3–4hr walking time). Carnarvon Gorge na r v Wilderness Lodge o n casuarina trees watching for fish and Visit a natural pool nestled beneath Climb a ladder to discover a secret C k turtles, or take a refreshing dip on a hot oasis. Hidden inside the gorge walls looming sandstone cliffs in Carnarvon Map not to scale To Rolleston Takarakka Bush Resort and Injune day. This is the only place in Carnarvon is a 60m deep chamber, gouged Creek. You can camp here all year round.

Sandstone Park (for self-sufficient campers) Gorge where you can swim. from the rock by running water.

11 Rotary lookout, Mount Moffatt © John Augusteyn

Highlights Mount Moffatt section, • Picnic with a view at Top Shelter Shed or at Rotary Shelter Shed. Carnarvon National Park • Wake to stunning sunrises over Get a natural high exploring the ‘Roof of Queensland’. Be mesmerised by ranges and valleys from your rock art sites of the area’s First Nations peoples and tales of a colourful camp site. pastoral past involving outlaws and cattle duffing, set against a backdrop • Take a scenic 4WD past The of fascinating rock outcrops, spectacular views, woodlands, towering Chimneys, Lots Wife, Marlong forests and wildflowers. Arch and more towering rock formations, or head up through Things to do Scenic driving the Mahogany Forest to the head Experience this section of the park on Drive the 37km Mount Moffatt circuit of Carnarvon Creek. two levels. Visit cultural sites and rock past many of the park’s main features, or • Sense the passage of time in formations on the lower sandstone slopes, drive up the high-clearance 4WD track ancient rock art at The Tombs before climbing to the top of the basalt- to the head of Carnarvon Creek. This drive and a wind-eroded outcrop at crested plateau for magnificent views. is accessible during dry weather only. The Looking Glass.

Getting there Travel 220km north of Mitchell via Womblebank Station. Alternatively head 160km north-west of Injune via Womblebank Station or Westgrove Station.

The road from Womblebank is unsealed and can become impassable after rain. 4WD is recommended. Once on park a high- clearance 4WD is required to reach many features of the park.

No roads directly link Mount Moffatt with Carnarvon Gorge or other sections of Carnarvon National Park.

West Branch camping area (above); Marlong Arch (right); thick-tailed gecko Underwoodisaurus milii (far right); The Chimneys (opposite page) © John Augusteyn (above and opposite page); Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt (right and far right)

12 Places to camp Places to go 5 Marlong Arch 1 Dargonelly camping area 1 Cathedral Rock 200m return (5min walking time). Ponder how long this natural sandstone 380m return (20min) from the visitor arch took to weather, and how long it 10km from the park entrance. orientation site car park. might stay standing, as you meander Holiday in the park’s largest camping Witness the unusual rectangular patterns along this short walk. area, in a semi-shaded woodland setting on the grey weathered surface of this next to Marlong Creek. sandstone bluff. 6 Lots Wife 2 West Branch camping area View a remarkable sandstone pillar, the last 2 The Chimneys isolated remnant of a once-extensive bluff. 1.4km return (40min walking time). 9km north-east of the QPWS Ranger Base. Admire three rock pillars separated from 7 Kookaburra Cave Relax in this pleasant semi-open area near the narrow end of a small sandstone bluff, 1.7km return (1hr walking time). the west branch of the . created when water penetrated vertical See if you can find the hand stencil of the This is the alternative starting point for fractures in the rock. bird, created by the area’s First Nations the 87km Carnarvon Great Walk. peoples, that gives this site its name. 3 The Looking Glass 3 Rotary Shelter Shed camping area 1.9km return (1hr walking time). 8 Marlong Plain Park at the locked gate and walk to the See how wind has eroded right through an edge of the Queensland bluegrass plain Wake to amazing views from your camp isolated sandstone pillar standing guard to enjoy distant sandstone cliffs and site, 30km from the park entrance at beside the Maranoa River. ridges changing colour as the sun slips the base of the steep climb to 4 The Tombs below the horizon. Consuelo Tableland. 4.2km return (2hr walking time) from 9 High Country drive 4 Top Moffatt camping area the visitor orientation site car park. 42km return (allow 3hr driving time). Stay on the boardwalk for the best Climb to the Head of Carnarvon Creek, Pick a top spot in this quiet bush camping view of more than 400 stencilled stopping at the Incineration site, Top area, 28km from the park entrance. images decorating the walls of a Shelter Shed and Mahogany Forest along sandstone shelter that once contained the way. This drive is accessible during dry burial chambers of the area’s First weather only. A high-clearance 4WD Nations peoples. is required.

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3 2 1 Visitor orientation site Mitchell 220km Maranoa River Injune 160km (East Branch)

13 14 National Park via Injune is 316km. Injune via Park National Carnarvon of section Moffatt Mount the to entrance the and Area Visitor Gorge Carnarvon the between drive The section. Moffatt Mount the from start also could you but Gorge, Carnarvon at beginning direction aclockwise in walked is best Walk Great Carnarvon Rockhampton. of south-west 300km and Brisbane of north-west 600km approximately Highlands, Central the within lies Park National Carnarvon there Getting walk. this of sections remote more hike to the essential are skills navigational and fitness physical of level Ahigh trail. 5 walking is aGrade Walk Great Carnarvon The qld.gov.au/Camping at online site camp your Book great-walks/topographic-maps visit purchase map topographic For (PLB). Beacon Location Personal and map topographic GPS, compass, gear, camping reliable protection, insect and sun including kit first-aid complete a water, drinking adequate Carry View from Battleship Spur along theCarnarvon Great Walk

parks.des.qld.gov.au/experiences/ Safety Safety (far right) Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt Consuelo camping zone (far right) (far zone camping Consuelo Photos: (right) ©Rayelene Brown from Boolimba Bluff (right); (right); Bluff Boolimba from gorge the into decent final The

to save retracing your steps. your retracing save to end other the at apick-up arrange to idea agood It’s walk. entire the for food and gear your all carry to able and experienced fit, be to need you but remember, to adventure is atrue This rivers. mighty many of source the Queensland’, of ‘Roof the of plateaus woodland dry lofty, the to gorge the beyond and above ridgelines climb then Creek Carnarvon of side-gorges cool shady, into Wander enterprise. human and beauty natural outstanding of area is an This years. of millions many over rocks volcanic and sedimentary ancient and vast through tablelands, basalt-capped broad, and cliffs sandstone towering gorges, winding of amosaic carved has Water Walk Great a on down Slow National Park. Park. National of Carnarvon sections and Mount Gorge Moffatt linking the Carnarvon takes It 6–7Wilderness. days to Great hike Walk, the 87km Carnarvon Sandstone Queensland’s in landscapes remote and spectacular through Reconnect with nature on ahiking trails adventure, along rugged and complete a bushwalking advice form. form. advice abushwalking complete and sites camping your book map, topographic Walk Great Carnarvon the of a copy purchase website, above the visit to sure be Walk Great the on off heading Before walk your Planning great-walk/ parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/carnarvon- at online Check reasons. safety for or weather adverse fires, during times other at closed be also may track year. The the of time hottest February—the of end the to November of start the from is closed Walk Great Carnarvon the round, year all visitors to open are park the of sections Moffatt Mount and Gorge Carnarvon the While to visit When for current conditions. current for

© Rayelene Brown Ka Ka Mundi section, Carnarvon National Park Barry Spooner © Qld Govt Spooner Barry

Highlights Ka Ka Mundi section, • Gaze in wonder at imposing Mount Mooloolong’s craggy sandstone spire Carnarvon National Park or Mount Ka Ka Mundi—a remnant of the volcanic basalt that covered A dramatic skyline of sandstone cliffs, plateaus and remnant basalt ancient sandstone sediments. outcrops beckons with the promise of cool, lush fern-covered springs, • Explore deep into the park on foot seeping from foothills and hidden creek beds. through dense undergrowth. See bonewood, softwood and brigalow swamp wallabies. Look for stocky, dark- • Watch birdlife at Bunbuncundoo scrubs on clay soils, forests of poplar furred wallaroos around rocky ridges Springs. box and silver-leaved ironbark, and and outcrops. Safety grassy downs on rich black soils, There are no formal walking tracks in protected when this former grazing Places to camp the park so take a topographic map lease became national park in 1974. Bunbuncundoo Springs 1 and GPS if you want to explore. camping area Things to do Getting there Wildlife spotting Sheltered by overhanging sandstone cliffs, From Springsure, take the Dawson Visit the springs and spot a myriad of the sun rises late and sets early at this Development Road for about 50km. wildlife attracted to the water, including pleasant camping area. You must be totally Take Buckland Road to the south and self-sufficient as there are no facilities here. follow signed tracks past Petrona and king parrots, wompoo fruit-doves and Creek ully Tanderra, through Yandaburra to the ad G ro park boundary. B

A 4WD is recommended. Access to Ka Ka Mundi is via unsealed roads that become impassable when wet. Take 0 1 2 3 4 care to avoid stock on unfenced roads and leave gates as you find them.

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Cave Hill Packsaddle Springs Mt Flat Top Bunbuncundoo Fern trees thrive on the moist banks 1 Springs of Bunbuncundoo Springs (above); Major Mitchell’s cockatoo (right) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt (above); © Qld Govt (right) 15 16 Road for another 63km. Turn right onto onto right Turn 63km. another for Road Playfair Mt on stay to left Turn 33km. drive and Way) (Wilderness Road Playfair Mt onto left turn then 8km, for Highway Landsborough the on south only. Head 4WDs high-clearance is for two Route area. camping River Nogoa 16km the to travel and Road Rosa Salvator at right 14km. Turn further a for Road Cungelella on continue to left veer then 24km for Road Cungelella onto right Turn 89km. afurther for Road Developmental Dawson the on stay and east head to right 42km. Turn for Road Developmental on Dawson the north head one, Way. To route take Wilderness road loop the use routes Tambo, two From area. camping River Nogoa 16km the to travelling Road Rosa Salvator onto right 14km. Turn a further for Road Cungelella on continue to again left Veer 24km. drive and Road Cungelella onto Y-intersection the at left veer then 114km, for Road Developmental Dawson the along west head Springsure, From weather. wet in impassable become roads unsealed The 4WD. by is only Rosa Salvator to Access there Getting • • • Highlights hued cliffs at Louisa Creek junction. Creek Louisa at cliffs hued pink ragged, of a skyline beneath Picnic River. Nogoa meandering the of banks the on stars the under Camp it. sustain that waters the and land this of bounty the on thrived peoples Nations area’s First the when a time imagining park, the into deep Venture Salvator Rosa wildlife and livestock on the roads. the on livestock and wildlife conditions. Watch changing for other and sand dust, bull of Beware roads. unsealed to predominantly due slow unexpectedly be Travel can Warning: them. find you as gates all leave and owners property of rights the respect Please intersections. the at signposted not are names road the of majority the note, Please area. camping River Nogoa 16km the to travel and Road Rosa Salvator at right turn then 14km, drive and Road Cungelella threatened. or rare considered are ten least at park, the in recorded species plant 300 than more of Out homoranthus. shrubby the from hanging flowers pink bright with contrast logania narrow-leaf of sprays cream and flowers flannel white large when spring, in Visit section. Mundi Ka Ka the to contrast astark country, open this through sightseeing and walks easy Enjoy River. Nogoa the and Creek Louisa peaceful to aday water of litres million four than more add they Together jets. spurting to Springs, like Belinda soaks, small from varying springs crystal-clear Discover of rocky sandstone crags and spires. and crags sandstone rocky of Rosa’s like seem spring-fed awelcome creeks beneath oasis abackdrop land, Salvator grazing mostly-cleared along across drive often-dry, After Park National Carnarvon Salvator Rosa section, Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt (above) Barry Spooner ©QldGovt (top); Calytrix longiflora Calytrix myrtle fringe pink (top); Hill Homoranthus (above)

© Rayelene Brown Places to go Spyglass circuit and 1 Hadrians Wall loop Spyglass Peak circuit 2km. Hadrians Wall loop 950m. Take a short stroll past the Hadrians Wall rock formation and loop back around the base of Spyglass Peak or continue on (left); Nogoa River camping area (above) the longer circuit walk to marvel at the Did you know Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt (left); © Rayelene Brown (above) impressive 10m diameter hole of Thomas Mitchell and his party camped near Spyglass Peak. here on 5 July 1864, at a place they called ‘Pyramids Camp’. Returning on 5 September Places to camp 2 Homoranthus Hill 1864, they created a base camp above the 1 Nogoa River camping area 300m return (15min walking time). springs, where the bullock teams and party Lake Salvator Pass through open bloodwood forest to would recover after exploring the wild (dry lake) the base of Homoranthus Hill, then climb country to the north and north-east. Take a break on the broad sandbank rock-carved steps to a lookout with of the Nogoa River, 2.4km from the 360-degree views over all the bluffs and How the park got its name park entrance. The sandstone skyline reminded Mitchell spires of the park. of the haunting paintings of Salvator Rosa, an Italian Baroque painter in the 1600s.

Ranger tip

Heavy storms in the upper 0 1 2 3 catchment can cause flash flooding. Camp only in the designated area and keep an eye on the weather.

Things to do The Sentinel Picnicking Nogoa River 1 Louisa Creek junction camping area Enjoy a relaxing picnic in the shelter Nogoa River Three Sisters shed between spring-fed Louisa Creek crossing and crumbling peaks. Pythagaros Rock 1 Spyglass Peak Scenic driving Louisa Creek Follow the rough 4WD track to the park’s day-use area Homoranthus most outstanding features, including 2 Hill flowing springs and towering sandstone Louisa Nogoa River Creek junction formations. Enjoy birdwatching, Belinda Springs photography and bushwalks along the way.

Wildlife spotting Look for frogs, fish, molluscs and other freshwater invertebrates enjoying the haven provided by the permanent water and dense stand of reeds. Catch a glimpse Creek

of Australian reed-warblers, kingfishers and Louisa red-backed fairy-wrens around the creek, Pyramids and birds of prey hunting from on high. Mitchell Springs

17 18 nearby Springsure. nearby in overnight stay can you but park the in permitted is not Camping is recommended. A4WD caravans. for unsuitable and weather dry in only is accessible road unsealed The mountain. the of edge the along lookouts to Drive Dendle follow and north turn Tambo then the Road on Springsure of west 4km Travel there Getting • • Highlights View from Freds Gorge lookout to plain. plateau from aswathe cutting gorge, the down views admire and breeze the Feel lookout. Gorge Freds at apicnic over Relax below. far Springsure over sentinel standing Rock Virgin of views close-up for track lookout Skyline along Wander Robert Ashdown ©Qld Govt track lookout Springsure

the fiery volcanic past. volcanic fiery the from column basalt remnant a Knob, Dillies and lands farming overlooking plateau, the of edge the to Drive Dendle of end the from Walk and Springsure. Rock Virgin over south vistas scenic offering platforms viewing to spinifex in clothed masterpiece amoonscape through Stroll time). walking (40–55min return 1.6km Places to go prey. of birds soaring watch to place perfect the are Lookouts koala. snoozing a maybe and wallabies, and wallaroos kangaroos, grazing spot day the During do to Things rainforest. hidden dry and forests open grassland, in clothed plateaus, and gorges domes, peaks, rocky You’ll spectacular find ago. years 30 million from flows lava devastating and eruptions volcanic blazing of born landscape, adramatic in yourself Immerse Park National Hills Minerva exposed hills and summits. summits. and hills exposed spinifex blanketing of grey-green across the shallow acarpet on soils and macrozamias, and gaze at statuesque grasstrees marvel eucalypts, peak of Mount to Zamia.journey the scent Breathe rocky the of fresh of on colours an captivated byBe amyriad unforgettable and textures 2 1 Wildlife spotting Wildlife Eclipse Gap lookout Gap Eclipse

Skyline lookout walk walk lookout Skyline

D en dl e S ce n i c Drive park. Access is by 4WD only. 4WD is by Access park. car the from stroll ashort just Lookout, Springsure reach to track adirt down Drive Dendle off turn right Take first the only. 4WD is by Access overhead. napping akoala glimpse lucky, if and gums scented lemon- of aroma heady the up soak to Drive Dendle off turn left Take first the plain. to top mountain from gorge the down views with picnic abush Enjoy 5 4 3 4 2.4km Springsure lookout Springsure picnic area Creek Norwood lookout Gorge Freds 0

Tambo Road 1 0.9km

5 2.9km back from the edge. the from back well Stay crumble. may WARNING: 2 3 3 Cliff edges edges Cliff

Rock Virgin

2 Highway

1 Dawson Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt © Qld Govt A 4WD is recommended A 4WD caution. requires park national the into 7km last The travel. weather wet to suited is not Road Access Valley Arcadia turn-off. Nuga Nuga Lake the at right turn and gravel on 58km Travel turn-off. Road Access Valley Arcadia the to Highway Dawson the on 28km afurther then Rolleston to east 71km south- travel Springsure, From turn-off. Road Nuga Nuga Lake the to sealed) sections (some road gravel on 83km Travel Road. Access Valley Arcadia the onto right turn then Injune, from 37km north Continue Injune. to 89km north travel and Road Developmental Carnarvon the onto turn Highway, Warrego the on Roma From there Getting • • Highlights beside the lake or in the bush. the in or lake the beside reflection for pause or Birdwatch Lake Nuga Nuga. over stars twinkling or colours sunset changing birdlife, the of memory) (or alasting image an Capture Aerial view of Lake Nuga Nuga . if you want to explore. explore. to want you if GPS and map atopographic take so park, the in tracks walking formal no are There lake. the from emerging trees dead in nesting woodswallows and cormorants See ducks. and egrets spoonbills, geese, magpie swans, black pelicans, as such waterbirds, of flocks large attracting waters Nuga’s Nuga Lake with here live birds 150 than different More twitch! that Scratch do to Things feed. to dusk and dawn at emerge that animals native for habitat vital providing woodlands, surrounding and thickets vine semi-evergreen Explore trees. ooline vulnerable as well as scrub bonewood endangered of remnants conserves park adjacent The Queensland. Central in lakes seasonal largest the of is one Nuga Nuga Lake dome-shaped mountain in the Arcadia sparsely-vegetated Valley. beside astunning refuge Find lake beneath nestled ascrub-covered, Park National Nuga Nuga Birdwatching island isaccessible Camping –when Warrnilla Mount Lake Nuga 1 provided. are facilities no as self-sufficient be to You need will Nuga. Nuga Lake of banks the on stars the beneath Camp Places to camp 1

Nuga Nuga bush camping area camping bush Nuga Nuga

Gareth Graham ©QldGovt (below left) Melitta Marr ©QldGovt (above);

Nuga Nuga bush camping area camping bush Nuga Nuga ToArcadia Valley Access Road 19 Looking over Arcadia Valley towards © John Augusteyn Lonesome section, Expedition National Park

Be alone with your thoughts, gazing from clifftops across Arcadia Valley Highlights and the Dawson River to Expedition Range in the distance. Imagine • Picnic at Lonesome lookout then soaring like an eagle above brigalow scrubs and ‘The Candlesticks’, descend to the valley floor. silhouetted against the skyline. • Bush camp and explore the seasonally-flowing upper reaches Lancewood, wilga, native bauhinia, Places to camp of the Dawson River. bottlebrush and riverine vegetation are 1 Lonesome camping area Getting there prominent through Lonesome, preserving one of the few brigalow remnants growing From Injune, travel north for 37km in the red clay soils of the Arcadia Valley. Set up camp in a grassy area surrounded on the Carnarvon Developmental by brigalow scrub and forest on the banks Road and turn right onto the Arcadia Things to do of the Dawson River. The camping area is Valley Access Road. Drive 18km Stop at the Lonesome lookout for 500m from Arcadia Valley Access Road, to Lonesome. sweeping views over the Arcadia Valley approximately 4km from the lookout. During wet weather, take care on the and the Expedition Range in the distance. There are no facilities. roads as they become slippery. There are no formal walking tracks in the The road into the park is suitable for park, so take a topographic map and GPS all vehicle types. if you want to explore.

To Rolleston River Dawson

d a o R s s e c c A y le al V ia d a rc A

Lonesome camping area 1

WARNING: Cliff edges Camp beside the may crumble. Stay well seasonal Dawson back from the edge. River under shady eucalyptus (above); To Injune contrasting colours of eucalypt leaves (right) 0 1 2 Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt 20 The rugged gorges of Beilba Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Ashdown Robert Beilba section, Expedition National Park

Not the kind of place to casually drop into, Beilba is rocky and remote with Highlights rugged plateaus and scenic escarpments along the Upper Dawson River. • Explore the rugged sandstone gorges to discover hidden oases. See remnants of a time when herds • Spotlight at night for gliders, of cattle roamed these lonely ranges. Safety owls and nightjars. Enjoy a variety of vegetation types, There are no formal walking tracks in the park, including nearly 4000ha of brigalow, so take a topographic map and GPS if you Getting there lancewood and softwood shrubs. want to explore. Be cautious near cliff edges. From Injune, travel north for 26km on the Carnarvon Developmental Things to do Places to camp Road. Turn right onto Fairview Keep a journal Road, then left and follow the Beilba is a great spot to add to your 1 Beilba camping area unsealed Beilba Road 30km to nature diary. Wildflowers, including the park. grevilleas, flannel flowers, acacias and Settle down to sleep in open woodland pea flowers provide splashes of colour A 4WD is recommended. with views over a rocky gorge. throughout the park in late winter and Travel only during dry weather and There are no facilities at this camping area, spring. Glimpse squatter pigeons in drive carefully due to loose gravel so make sure you pack everything you need. open woodlands and wallaroos on and unfenced roads. basalt hills in the centre of the park.

Lorem ipsum

Proposed extension to Expedition NP River Dawson

Beilba camping area

1 WARNING: Cliff edges may crumble. Stay well back from the edge.

Australian To Carnarvon Road Development Road Beilba bustard (above) Flannel flower (left) Actinotus helianthi Mark Weaver © Qld Govt (above); Karen Smith © Qld Govt (left)

Baffle Creek

0 1 2 3

21 22 and unsuitable for caravans for unsuitable and weather wet in impassable are Roads track. signposted a4WD 16km along afurther driving and left turning before 7km continue and Road Bore Oil at right Turn 93km. for Road Mapala–Fairfield follow and Downs Bauhinia of 1km east Highway Dawson the off turn north, the From area. camping Starkvale to road the follow and right turn aT-intersection, to track the a4WD. Follow need you here From Park. National Expedition to entrance signposted the at left turn then 40km approximately for Road Glenhaughton Follow Road. Glenhaughton onto aT-intersection at left 1.5km turn and afurther Travel Road. Creek Robinson onto right turn and 24km for Continue Road. Broadmere onto left turn 10km and for Highway Leichhardt the on Taroom from north Head only. 4WD for 16km is suitable last The road. agravel along Taroom of north-west is 90km Gorge Robinson there Getting • • • Highlights Explore Robinson Gorge geckos and owls. and geckos gliders, for go spotlighting to fire camp your of glow warm the Leave Creek. Robinson along birdwatch or spring, and winter during plateaus and cliffs along wildflowers Photograph and valleys. peaks surrounding the over views for Peak Shepherds to head or deeply-dissected Robinson Gorge, the into gaze and alookout to Hike .

. The rich social social rich Leucopogon grandiflorus. The prickly small, and rubiginosa Eucalyptus towering including plants rare Spot tops. cliff along wildflowers and side-gorges in rainforest dry of patches with creeks lining wattles and bottlebrush dinosaurs), of age the from (a palms relic cabbage See pool. deep to crevice become aspectacular with anarrow cliffs abroad shallow sheer as winding before basin begins 14km between south or, Robinson Gorge head into deep Overlook if adventurous, the gorge—it white, yellow, ofbeautiful sandstone. and salmon-coloured orange by gorges dissected deeply plateau, heavily-timbered and rugged a in isolation Enjoy Park National Expedition section, Gorge Robinson Gorge lookout Robinson 1

into gorge Access Robinson 2

Waterhole Bottlebrush

Gorge

Starkvale

Creek

Cattle Dip camping area Starkvale 1 4 lookout Cattle Dip 3 Peak Shepherds the more remote parts of the park. the of parts remote more the in overhangs and cliffs on art rock the in is seen landscape this with have peoples Nations First association spiritual and 0 1 (from park entrance) (from park To Taroom90km Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt longistyla Grevillea 2

Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt Things to do Places to go Did you know Wildlife spotting 1 Robinson Gorge lookout Explorer Ludwig Leichhardt passed Listen for the metallic ‘chink’ of king 4km return (1hr walking time). through here in 1844 and named many parrots feeding on eucalypt flowers, fruits Venture to the escarpment edge overlooking landscape features after members or of cabbage palms, figs and insects in the wide, tree-lined Robinson Gorge. There are supporters of his expedition. gorge. See pale-headed rosellas, lorikeets numerous cliffs in the area. Make sure to and many different honeyeaters flit supervise children at all times. around Starkvale camping area. 2 Robinson Gorge Go spotlighting with your torch at night 6km return (2hr walking time). to see gliders, geckos, owls and other Head towards the lookout then turn off at nocturnal critters. the signposted intersection and descend into the gorge along a steep, rough trail. Places to camp There are no marked trails in the gorge. 1 Starkvale camping area Note carefully where you enter the gorge—it’s the only way out.

Camp among the eucalypts beside a 3 Shepherds Peak permanent waterhole. This site is suitable 3.6km return (1.5hr walking time). for tent camping and high-clearance, off- Head to a sandstone plateau with views road camper trailers only. over the surrounding peaks and creeks. Take extreme care on top of Shepherds Peak as there are crevices and unguarded cliffs.

4 Cattle Dip 1.2km return (1hr walking time). Be impressed as you overlook the ‘Cattle Dip’, a spectacular narrow cleft between sheer rock walls surrounding a permanent waterhole.

Shepherds Peak walking track (left); sandstone cliffs and eucalypt woodland (below); lace monitor (top); Cyclorana novaehollandiae (above); blue argus Junonia orithya (right) Photos: Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt

23 24 access is possible in dry weather. dry in is possible access Murphy. Conventional vehicle 10.5km Lake to drive and left Turn turn-off. Road Glenhaughton the to 2km Travel Road. Development Fitzroy signposted road the onto Taroom, of north 18km Highway Leichhardt the off Turn Banana. at Highway Dawson the from or Miles at Highway Warrego the from Highway Leichhardt the onto Turn Gladstone. from Highway Dawson the via or Brisbane from Highway Warrego the via reached be can park The there Getting • • Highlights Lake Murphy surrounding bush. surrounding the in warbling birds woodland to listen and lake the across gliding waterbirds Watch stars. the beneath stroll you as torchlight your of beam the in glider greater agorgeous Glimpse

Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt walking track. walking the along trees the in owls powerful and masked and gliders greater see might you night, at spotlighting go you If is full. lake the when water the near or on storks black-necked and geese pigmy swans, black and woodland the in choughs white-winged and babblers grey-crowned finches, plum-headed for Watch plains. grassy the grazing wallabies necked red- or gums red forest the in koalas for Look do to Things 1844. in Territory Northern the and Downs Darling the between travelled they as Murphy) John 16-year-old (including his party and Leichhardt Ludwig explorer for site camp a was This park 550ha overflows. Creek Robinson nearby when fills only Murphy Lake Range, Murphy’s beneath Nestled evaporated. has the land where water wallabiesperched graze season, lake, while in the dry andwading ducks large see birds revelling in the shallows of this ephemeral Discover the ever-changing Following oasis. rain, landscape of this watery Park Conservation Murphy Lake (left); Black swan (above) swan Black (left); swallowtail Clearwing Wildlife spotting Wildlife 0 30 1 camping area Lake Murphy 60 90 Places to camp before returning through woodland. through returning before Creek Robinson along gums red forest through head then shoreline southern the along circuit the Follow Murphy. Lake of shores the to area camping and picnic the from 300m Wander (1hr time). 4km walking Places to go weather. dry during buses and caravans trailers, to is accessible area camping open semi-shaded pleasant This

1 Lake M Lake

Lake Murphy circuit Murphy Lake Lake Murphy camping area area camping Murphy Lake urphy Entra urphy

National Park 60km

To Expedition nce track nce

Lake Murphy boundary track

day-use area Lake Murphy Glenhaughton Road

Taroom 30km To Frank Carter © Qld Govt Flagstaff Hill © Robert Ashdown back fromtheedge may crumble. Stay well Cliffedges after heavy rain. heavy after impassable become can and wet when slippery are roads Unsealed Warning: highway. the of west is 1.3km lookout The Theodore. of 35km and Taroom of south 55km north Highway Leichhardt the off turn Lookout, Gorge To Isla reach Banana. at Highway Dawson the from or Miles at Highway Warrego the from Highway Leichhardt the onto Turn there Getting • • Highlights at Flagstaff Hill. Flagstaff at road hand-paved the along bumping supplies and wool with laden heavily- wagons bullock Imagine arches. and tunnels peaks, cliffs, orange-hued of maze fascinating the over rise moon and set sun the Watch Isla Gorge To Taroom

H Leichhardt ew it ts

C

k Devils The Nest G

o r

g 0 e C

k Theodore 2 To 4 supervise children closely at all times. all at closely children supervise you Ensure injury. serious to lead or fatal be could slip edge—one the from back well stay you make sure so area camping the surround drops Sheer below. landscape the over rise sun the watch and face acliff atop Camp Highway. Leichhardt the from 1.3km Places to camp summer.to mid-winter from flower in are boronias and grevilleas wattles, eucalypts, the when honeyeaters blue-faced and eared white- brown, spiny-cheeked, for Look do to Things Road. Flagstaff hand-paved historic the walk or views panoramic wildflowers, of displays brilliant Enjoy andorange pink with the angle of the sun. thisformations. See breathtaking panorama change yellow to from over sandstone acomplex outcrops maze of gorges, rock and striking place to break is your aperfect journey.Isla Gorge your gaze Cast picnic its With and camping the area highway, only from akilometre Park National Gorge Isla 1 Isla Gorge camping area camping Gorge Isla spotting Wildlife

range. Follow the road for a further 2km. afurther for road the Follow range. the of top the on grid acattle at park the into right sharp turn 9km, After Road. Flagstaff into right turning before 3.6km afurther for Continue Road. Glenbar into left turn then 14km, Station’.Travel Research Brigalow and Roundstone ‘Glenmoral signposted aroad onto turn and Highway Leichhardt the along 8km for south drive Theodore, From 2km. another drive and again left Turn Station). Flagstaff to turn-off the past (9km 49km for travel and signpost Waterton via Flagstaff the at left Turn Highway. Leichhardt 31km the for along north drive Taroom, From 1860s. early the in teams work by constructed road ahand-paved of remnants see to section Flagstaff the to Drive section Flagstaff Places to go Robert Ashdown ©QldGovt rock-wallaby (left) rock-wallaby Herbert’s above); and Wildflowers (far left

25 26 At • At How to book acamp site southernqueenslandcountry.com.au and southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au visit parks accommodation outside options For holidays. school and demand are in great duringparks peak such long periods as weekends to It’s well book best inyou advance arrive. camp sites as in popular remember to your book camp sites and purchase camping before permits in the stay overnight Sandstone an parks, For extended Wilderness Stay longer • npsr.qld.gov.au/booking-offices recreation. at listed are Locations kiosk. aself-service use or card payment and eftpos cash, accepting office booking permit over-the-counter an Visit centres. information visitor accredited many at available is wi-fi Free Card. Gift online or card Dargonelly camping area, Mount Moffatt qld.gov.au/Camping using a payment apayment using • • • • check: Regularly informed Stay 13 19 40 for road conditions. road 13 for 19 40 qldtraffic.qld.gov.au at information travel and traffic bom.gov.au at conditions weather forecast and current bans fire and danger fire at qfes.qld.gov.au alerts bushfire closures and conditions for qld.gov.au/ParkAlerts at alerts park or phone phone or for for

• • • • • • • • prepared Be qld.gov.au/ParkAlerts at updates for regularly Check duties. management other out carrying are rangers when or wildfires of event the in conditions, wet during closed be might parks some of sections and Roads delays. for allow and wildlife, its and landscape the appreciate to time your take down, Slow Relax! rushing. Avoid tips. bushwalking gov.au/experiences/bushwalking parks.des.qld. to go and closures au/ParkAlerts qld.gov. at alerts park check trip, hiking aremote planning When relative. or afriend with points) and/or routes check-in travel (including itinerary an leave and supplies extra Pack emergencies. for Plan fuel. provide not do and stations service not are bases way—park the along towns at regularly up Fuel wrong. go something should help from You far be could vehicle. your of knowledge mechanical sound and experience travel remote has group your in someone Ensure it? to up equipment and vehicle your you, Are carefully. destination your Choose roads. slippery or boggy or and/ dusty slow, rough, 4WD. Expect by is only parks many within or to Access overnight. freezing) (to below cold very and day the during hot very be can parks Wilderness Sandstone conditions. weather all for Pack for conditions and and conditions for for for

© Rayelene Brown Drive safely Be responsible Packing checklist • Drive according to local conditions. • Rubbish—pack it in, pack it out. Take all q Adequate drinking water, food and Watch for animals and avoid risks rubbish (including food scraps, cigarette emergency supplies. at washouts and flooded crossings. butts and sanitary items) with you. q Complete first-aid kit, including sun Move off the road for trucks. • Use a portable stove, or your own clean, and insect protection. • Keep to designated roads to help weed-free firewood. Collecting firewood q Detailed map showing travel routes prevent erosion and the confusion of in national parks is not permitted. and distances. multiple tracks. Where permitted, light camp fires only q Communication equipment and • Be considerate of other road users within existing fire rings. list of emergency contacts. Mobile and local landholders. Leave gates • Avoid the spread of weeds by checking phone coverage is limited. as you find them and never drive on clothing and equipment regularly for Extra fuel, vehicle spares and repair q private property without permission. seeds. equipment. Frequent low gear Some maps show roads that are • Use vehicle wash-down facilities in and 4WD travel will use fuel more private and not open to the public. local towns to help prevent the spread quickly. Use maps to calculate • Never drive on rain-affected roads. fuel requirements and plan of weeds. Even if you make it through, the refuelling stops. • Leave your pets at home. road surface will be damaged and q Reliable camping gear in good dangerous for other road users. • Don’t use generators, firearms working order. or chainsaws. • Remember—if it’s flooded, forget it. Portable stove and/or clean, weed- q • If you break down, always stay with • Camp only in the sites provided. free firewood. your vehicle until help arrives. Please set up camp away from animal q Sturdy rubbish bags and/or nests and/or burrows. sealable, animal-proof containers. Be safe • Please don’t feed wildlife of leave food No bins are provided. or scraps behind. • Allow plenty of time to reach your q Long distance walkers: take a planned destination before dark. • Keep to tracks and boardwalks to topographic map, compass, GPS • Stay on formed tracks and do not avoid damaging fragile rock art of the and Personal Location Beacon (PLB). take shortcuts. area’s First Nations peoples, trampling sensitive vegetation or causing erosion. • Treat all water from taps, creeks and lakes. Boil water for 10 minutes or • Graffiti is not ‘leaving your mark’— use sterilisation tablets. it’s vandalism. Penalties apply. • Wear sturdy boots, protective • Where toilets are not provided, bury clothing and insect repellent to human waste and toilet paper at least avoid bites, scratches and stings. 15cm deep and 100m away from camp • Stay well back from cliff edges and sites, tracks and watercourses. natural outlooks. • Wash at least 50m away from • Never dive or jump into creeks, watercourses and minimise use of soap waterholes or lakes. and detergent.

Be prepared (opposite page); enjoy a day exploring Carnarvon Gorge (far left); camping in Carnarvon National Park (left); tranquil waters of Carnarvon Creek (above) Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt

27 Further information qld.gov.au/NationalParks

qld.gov.au/Camping qld.gov.au/ParkAlerts (access, closures and conditions) qldnationalparks Scan to check @QldParks; #QldParks park alerts

This brochure is also available online at qld.gov.au/ParkBrochures

Useful contacts Emergencies: Call Triple Zero (000) Road conditions: Visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads at 131940.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40. Maranoa Regional Council maranoa.qld.gov.au Blackall-Tambo Regional Council btrc.qld.gov.au Banana Shire banana.qld.gov.au centralhighlands.qld.gov.au Tourism information: capricornholidays.com.au southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au outbackqueensland.com.au southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Dump points: sanidumps.com

Boowinda Gorge, Carnarvon Gorge Section Carnarvon National Park © Robert Ashdown ©State of Queensland 2019. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment and Science. BP1666 June 2019. Printed on eco-friendly paper to save energy and resources.