Murray Falls Camping Area – Girramay National Park

Nestled within the spectacular landscape of Girramay National Park, the Murray Falls camping area offers one of Tropical North Queensland’s most scenic camping experiences. Located between Tully and Cardwell, this Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service campground is set in open woodland beside the crystal-clear, rock-strewn Murray River. The main attraction is the breathtaking Murray Falls, where the river cascades over water-sculpted granite boulders. The campground provides a tranquil base for exploring the park’s natural beauty. It features a large, grassy area with non-demarcated sites suitable for a variety of setups, from tents to caravans and camper trailers. Bookings are essential and must be made online in advance. The facilities are well-maintained, including flushing toilets, cold showers, and tap water (treat before drinking). The area is a haven for nature lovers, offering fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Several walking tracks cater to different fitness levels, including the easy River boardwalk and the more challenging Yalgay ginjara track, which leads to a stunning lookout with panoramic views of the falls and the Murray Valley. While swimming in the main falls area is prohibited due to strong currents and submerged rocks, there are calmer swimming holes further downstream perfect for a refreshing dip, particularly during the dry season. As a national park, strict rules apply: pets are not allowed, and generators have restricted hours. The remote location means campers must be completely self-sufficient with all food, fuel, and medical supplies. Murray Falls provides an authentic Australian bush camping experience, combining dramatic scenery with peaceful riverside relaxation.

Site Information

• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed road to the park entrance, then a short stretch of good-quality gravel to the campground.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings are essential and must be made online via the QLD Parks website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Varies, check booking website.
• Facilities: Flushing toilets, cold showers, tap water (treat before drinking), picnic tables, BBQs.
• Potable Water: Tap water is available; it is recommended to treat it before drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to none. A satellite phone is recommended for emergencies.
• TV Reception: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Prohibited. Fuel stoves must be used.
• Generator Use: Permitted between 9am and 8pm; must have a sound rating of less than 65dB(A).
• Number of Sites Available: Open area with space for approximately 20 sites.
• Essentials to Bring: All food, drinking water, insect repellent, rubbish bags, fuel stove.
• Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in Girramay National Park.
• Fishing: Not a primary activity at this location.
• Short Walks: Yes, River boardwalk (300m return) and Yalgay ginjara track (1.8km return).

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Top of the Town Hotel Motel, Tully (approx. 45 km)
  • Hotel Tully, Tully (approx. 45 km)
  • Marine Hotel, Cardwell (approx. 40 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes and takeaways in Tully (approx. 45 km)
  • Various cafes and takeaways in Cardwell (approx. 40 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Cardwell Spa Pool (approx. 50 km)
  • Attie Creek Falls (approx. 60 km)
  • Mission Beach (approx. 70 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Tully Gorge Camping and Caravan Park, Tully (approx. 45 km)
  • Cardwell Beachcomber Motel and Tourist Park (approx. 40 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Bilyana Rest Area (approx. 25 km)
  • Tully RV Park (approx. 45 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Cardwell (approx. 40 km)
  • Tully (approx. 45 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Tully (approx. 45 km)
  • Cardwell (approx. 40 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Tully (approx. 45 km)
  • Cardwell (approx. 40 km)
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at Murray Falls

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The region has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a warm, dry winter and a hot, humid, and very wet summer.