Karma Waters Station – Hurricane

Karma Waters Station is an iconic and remote bush camp that offers a true Far North Queensland adventure for the serious 4WD enthusiast and keen angler. Located on the legendary Mitchell River, west of the Great Dividing Range, this is not just a campground but a destination in itself, renowned for its rugged beauty, isolation, and world-class Barramundi fishing. Access is strictly for high-clearance 4WD vehicles, involving a challenging journey over unsealed station tracks and a river crossing, which is all part of the authentic Cape York experience. The station provides a range of unpowered, secluded bush campsites, many with direct frontage to the mighty Mitchell River, allowing campers to find their own private paradise. The focus is on a self-sufficient, back-to-nature stay where the pristine environment is the main attraction. The fishing is the star of the show, with the Mitchell River being one of the premier locations in the country to target big Barra. The facilities are rustic but functional for a remote property, with hot showers and toilets typically available. The hosts are known for their local knowledge and friendly welcome, ensuring visitors have the best possible experience. For travellers seeking an off-road adventure, incredible fishing, and a chance to camp in a truly wild and beautiful part of Australia, Karma Waters Station is an unforgettable outback destination.

Site Information

• Location: On the Mitchell River, in a very remote part of Far North Queensland.
• Site Suitable For: High-clearance 4WD vehicles with off-road camper trailers or tents. Not suitable for conventional vehicles or large caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed station tracks, including a river crossing. 4WD is essential. Only accessible in the dry season.
• Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass sites.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a paid station stay. Bookings are essential.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with management when booking.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous spacious unpowered sites available along the river.
• Facilities: Toilets and hot showers are available at a central amenities block.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: It is highly recommended to bring your own main supply of drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. A satellite phone or emergency communication device is essential.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a leave-no-trace property; you must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use for other guests.
• Essentials to Bring: Everything. All food, fuel, water, power, emergency supplies, and recovery gear.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome by prior arrangement. Must be controlled.
• Fishing: Yes, world-class Barramundi fishing in the Mitchell River is the main attraction.
• Short Walks: Unlimited informal bushwalking on the property.

Local Amenities

This is an extremely remote location. The nearest services are at small roadhouses and towns a significant distance away.

• Local Pubs:
  • National Hotel Mount Molloy (approx. 110 km)
  • Palmer River Roadhouse (has a bar) (approx. 120 km)
  • Lakeland Hotel (approx. 150 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The roadhouses at Mount Carbine and Palmer River.
• Local Attractions:
  • The Mitchell River (onsite)
  • The rugged Cape York landscape
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • This is a station stay campground. The nearest is Mt Molloy Motel & Van Park.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Rifle Creek Rest Area, Mount Molloy (donation camp, approx. 110 km)
  • Other basic, unmarked rest areas along the highway.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • The nearest public dump point is in Mount Molloy or Mareeba.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Mount Carbine or Lakeland. It is critical to have sufficient fuel and carry spares.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Mount Molloy or Mareeba.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Far North Queensland outback has a distinct tropical savanna climate with a monsoonal wet season and a long, dry season.