Carnarvon Gorge Camping Area – Carnarvon National Park

The Carnarvon Gorge camping area is one of Queensland’s most iconic and sought-after outdoor destinations, providing direct access to the breathtaking wonders of Carnarvon National Park. Nestled in a valley floor shaded by towering eucalypts and cabbage palms, this campground serves as the primary base for exploring a world of towering sandstone cliffs, lush side-gorges, and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. The main walking track into the gorge begins right at the edge of the camping area, making it incredibly convenient for day hikes to famous sites like the Moss Garden, Ward’s Canyon, and the Art Gallery. The campground itself is a well-maintained, grassy expanse with clearly defined sites suitable for tents, camper trailers, and small-to-medium-sized caravans and motorhomes. It operates only during the cooler months, typically aligning with the Queensland school holidays from Easter through to September, and booking well in advance is absolutely essential due to its immense popularity. Facilities include flushing toilets, coin-operated hot showers, and picnic tables, offering a comfortable stay in a remote setting. Wildlife is abundant, with kangaroos and wallabies frequently grazing amongst the tents, and colourful birdlife filling the air with sound. It’s a place where adventure meets accessibility, offering an unforgettable nature-based holiday for families, hikers, and anyone with a passion for the Australian bush.

Site Information

• Location: Inside Carnarvon National Park, at the start of the main gorge walking trail.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, small caravans and motorhomes (check site details for size limits when booking).
• Road Access: Sealed road access to the park entrance. Suitable for conventional 2WD vehicles.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, but a permit must be booked online well in advance. Only operates during peak season (Easter to late September).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the QLD Parks booking website for current limits.
• Facilities: Flushing toilets, coin-operated hot showers, picnic tables, information centre.
• Potable Water: Yes, drinking water is available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Almost non-existent. A public payphone is available. WiFi may be available for purchase at nearby commercial lodges.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, but visitors are encouraged to take rubbish with them.
• Open Fires: Prohibited. Only gas or liquid fuel stoves are permitted.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.
• Number of Sites Available: Limited number of defined sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Booking confirmation, sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, coins for showers, torch, and all food supplies.
• Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are strictly prohibited in the National Park.
• Fishing: Not permitted.
• Short Walks: This is the primary activity, with numerous world-class walks starting from the campground.

Local Amenities

There are no towns nearby. Limited services are available at commercial accommodation providers just outside the park entrance.

• Local Pubs:
  • The nearest hotels are in Injune (approx. 160 km) or Rolleston (approx. 110 km).
• Places to Eat:
  • Takarakka Bush Resort and Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge (both just outside the park) have restaurants/cafes (bookings may be required).
• Local Attractions:
  • The entire Carnarvon Gorge walking track system, including the Art Gallery, Moss Garden, Ward’s Canyon, and the Amphitheatre.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Takarakka Bush Resort (approx. 4 km)
  • Sandstone Park (approx. 5 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Limited options. Wyseby rest area is a considerable distance away.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Available at Takarakka Bush Resort (fee may apply for non-guests) or in Rolleston/Injune.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Limited fuel (and hours) may be available at Takarakka Bush Resort. The nearest reliable fuel is in Rolleston or Injune.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite at the campground.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite at the campground and visitor area.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Carnarvon Gorge has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. The park campground is closed during the hot, wet summer.