Queensland National Parks
Queensland’s sandstone wilderness parks Contents Parks at a glance ...... 2 Salvator Rosa section, Carnarvon National Park...... 16
Welcome...... 3 Minerva Hills National Park...... 18
Queensland’s Sandstone Wilderness...... 4 Nuga Nuga National Park...... 19
Plan your getaway...... 6 Lonesome section, Expedition National Park...... 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 Isla Gorge National Park...... 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 Carnarvon Gorge 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 Rockhampton Rubyvale Emerald Parks of To Longreach Blackwater Ca pric Dingo or ay n hw Alpha Hig Queensland’s Duaringa Sandstone Wilderness Blackdown
Gregory Highway Tableland NP Legend Minerva National park 4WD access Scale Hills NP 0 30 60 120km Springsure Woorabinda Conservation park Shared road Camping area Great Walk Dawson Highway Waterways Rock art Visitor information centre (VIC) Camping Biloela 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 Matilda Way 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 Taroom Town Sheltered picnic table Mountain Womblebank Augathella Fires permitted Spring Injune Landsborough Highway Open fireplace Cliff line
Gate Forestvale Road Barbecue—wood Great Inland Grid Leichhardt Barbecue—fuel Fence Wandoan Highway Viewpoint Way Highway Sealed road Mitchell Highway Lookout Unsealed road Wildlife spotting 4WD track Morven Walking track Charleville Scenic drive Warrego Highway Mitchell
Roma Track classifications Yuleba 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 © Queensland Government 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 Leichhardt Highway, Gregory and Dawson Highways and Great Inland Way, 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 Capricorn Highway or to Springsure to explore the northern Leichhardt Highway and eastern parks of Queensland’s Via Toowoomba 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 Central Queensland 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
closed during wet weather. wet during closed be may Road Loop note, Please below. plains surrounding the of views panoramic for Boongulla Mitha at Stop orchids. king and ferns basket with alive outcrops sandstone amazing past drive Four-wheel Road—19km loop Loop vehicles. other passing and corners approaching when especially is safe, Slow slippery. quite roads the makes gravel pea that aware Be you. takes whim the whenever attractions the admire to stopping landscape, unique this Explore do to Things cliffs. sandstone imposing of sunlight splashing on colour and rock faces the glory across artwork at traditional Ghungalu Marvel spectacular and lookouts scenic waterfalls. Head high above the surrounding plains to acool of oasis deep gorges,
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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 Brisbane, 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
Rock Pool C 2 ar Carnarvon Gorge na r v Wilderness Lodge o n
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Map not to scale Look for echidnas To Rolleston Takarakka Bush Resort in the visitor area (left); and Injune Whiptail wallaby (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 Maranoa River. 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.
Incineration site Lethbridges Pocket No Rotary through road 3 Shelter Shed 7 Consuelo 9 Tableland 4 Mahogany Forest Not to scale 8 5 2 1232m Head of 2 2
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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 Nogoa River (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 Gregory Highway 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 Expedition Range © 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.
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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