Peninsula Caravan Park – Your Tranquil Bushland Base in Historic Cooktown
Escape to a peaceful, natural sanctuary at the Peninsula Caravan Park, a true bushland oasis on the edge of historic Cooktown. This park is a favourite for travellers who appreciate a tranquil atmosphere and a genuine connection to nature. Renowned for its abundant shady trees, spacious grassy sites, and prolific birdlife, it offers a serene and authentic Cape York camping experience. It’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the tropical heat, providing a cool and comfortable retreat after a day of exploring the region’s incredible history and rugged landscapes. The park’s friendly, relaxed vibe embodies the spirit of this remote northern town, making it a beloved base for adventurers and holidaymakers alike.While it feels like a secluded bush camp, the park is conveniently located just a short drive from the heart of Cooktown’s historic waterfront. This makes it an ideal launchpad for all your local adventures. You can easily spend your days discovering the world-class James Cook Museum, taking in the breathtaking 360-degree views from Grassy Hill Lookout, or exploring the lush Cooktown Botanic Gardens. After a day of sightseeing, the park’s inviting saltwater pool is the perfect spot to cool down and relax. The facilities are clean and well-maintained, with a fantastic camp kitchen and BBQ area that provides a great social hub to meet fellow travellers and share stories of your Cape York journeys. For a comfortable, peaceful, and nature-filled stay, the Peninsula Caravan Park is an outstanding choice.
Peninsula Caravan Park – QLD Location Map
Peninsula Caravan Park
Address: 64 Howard St, Cooktown QLD 4895
Website: peninsulacaravanpark.com.au
GPS Coordinates: -15.47749, 145.25773
Site Details and Facilities
- Location: In a quiet, natural bushland setting on the edge of Cooktown.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, off-road caravans, and 4WD motorhomes.
- Road Access: Sealed roads to the park.
- Site Surface: Primarily spacious, shady grass and dirt sites.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, powered and unpowered sites are available.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Caters to tourists and adventurers.
- Facilities: Saltwater swimming pool, camp kitchen, BBQs, clean amenities block, laundry, dump point.
- Picnic Tables: Yes, in communal areas.
- Potable Water: Yes.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good Telstra coverage.
- TV Reception: Good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans. Check with management.
- Generator Use: Limited use may be permitted; check with management.
- Drive Through Sites: Yes, available.
Activities & Essentials
- Essentials to Bring: Swimmers, good walking shoes, a camera, binoculars for birdwatching, and strong insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, the park is pet-friendly. It is essential to confirm their policy upon booking.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing in the Endeavour River and from the town wharf. Be crocodile aware.
- Short Walks: Enjoy walks around the park’s lush grounds and the nearby Botanic Gardens.
Local Amenities
Pubs & Restaurants
- The Sovereign Resort Hotel: Approx. 1.5 km
- Cooktown Hotel (The Top Pub): Approx. 2 km
- Jackey Jackey “Bottom” Pub: Approx. 2.2 km
Local Attractions
- Cooktown Botanic Gardens: Approx. 1.5 km
- James Cook Museum: Approx. 2 km
- Grassy Hill Lookout: Approx. 3 km
- Cooktown Wharf & Waterfront: Approx. 2 km
- Endeavour Falls: Approx. 30 km
Camping & Travel Resources
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Several other parks are located in Cooktown.
- Next Free Camps: Remote bush camps are available further north along the Peninsula Developmental Road.
- Nearest Dump Points: Onsite for guests. A public dump point is also available in Cooktown.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Several options available in Cooktown (approx. 2 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
- Public Toilets: Onsite for guests.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Cooktown (Cape York)
- Wet Season (Dec-Apr): Hot and very humid with a high likelihood of heavy rainfall, monsoonal troughs, and potential cyclones. Averages range from 24°C to 32°C.
- Dry Season (May-Nov): The peak tourist season. Beautiful, warm, and sunny days with lower humidity and pleasant sea breezes. Ideal conditions for travel. Average temperatures from 18°C to 30°C.