Frank Forde Park – Allenstown

Frank Forde Park is a council-approved 24-hour rest area that provides a valuable, free stopover for fully self-contained travellers exploring Rockhampton, the Beef Capital of Australia. Conveniently located on the Lower Dawson Road, just off the Bruce Highway, this park offers a large, sealed bitumen area specifically designated for caravans and motorhomes. Its primary appeal is its accessibility and proximity to the city centre, allowing visitors to easily unhitch and explore the wealth of attractions Rockhampton has to offer without the cost of a caravan park for a short stay. While not a traditional campground, the park is well-serviced with essential facilities including clean public toilets and rubbish bins. The site is level and can accommodate a good number of rigs, though it is popular and can fill up quickly, especially during the peak tourist season. As it is situated between two major roads, some traffic noise is to be expected, which is a trade-off for the convenience. The park is an excellent base for visiting nearby attractions such as the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo, the Kershaw Gardens, and the city’s historic riverbank precinct. It represents a commitment by the local council to support the travelling community, providing a safe and practical option for a 24-hour stay.

Site Information

• Location: In the suburb of Allenstown, Rockhampton, near the intersection of the Bruce and Capricorn Highways.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles only (caravans, motorhomes, big rigs). No tents allowed.
• Road Access: Sealed roads directly to the site.
• Site Surface: Sealed bitumen car park.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free for a maximum of 24 hours. Strictly for self-contained vehicles.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
• Facilities: Public toilets, rubbish bins. No showers or power.
• Potable Water: A water tap is generally available, but it’s best to confirm or have your own supply.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Excellent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
• Generator Use: Prohibited due to proximity to residential areas.
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area with undefined sites, but can accommodate 20+ rigs.
• Essentials to Bring: Your vehicle must have its own shower and grey water storage.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: The Fitzroy River is nearby for fishing opportunities.
• Short Walks: A great base for walks and drives around Rockhampton.

Local Amenities

As this site is within a major regional city, all amenities are very close by.

• Local Pubs:
  • Allenstown Hotel (approx. 1.5 km)
  • The Gracemere Hotel (approx. 4 km)
  • Criterion Hotel Rockhampton (approx. 4 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Numerous hotels, restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets within a 5 km radius.
• Local Attractions:
  • Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo (approx. 2 km)
  • Rockhampton CBD and Riverside Precinct (approx. 4 km)
  • Kershaw Gardens (approx. 6 km)
  • Archer Park Rail Museum (approx. 4 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Southside Holiday Village (approx. 1 km)
  • Discovery Parks Rockhampton (approx. 4 km)
  • Many other options available.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Yaamba Rest Area (approx. 40 km north)
  • Calliope River Rest Area (approx. 90 km south)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Located at the Rockhampton Showgrounds (approx. 3 km).
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations within 1 km.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at the Rockhampton Showgrounds dump point.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Rockhampton has a humid subtropical climate. It’s known for hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters.