How to see the best of Byfield National Park

Lose yourself among Queensland’s luscious native foliage with a getaway to Byfield National Park. Just an hour from Rockhampton, or 25 minutes north of Yeppoon, this place is jam-packed with rainforests, rugged mountains, rolling sand dunes, and more.

In fact, Byfield forms one of the largest unspoiled eco-systems on the east coast of Australia. Make the most of your time here with the following guide on how to do Byfield National Park - an itinerary that showcases the best of the region’s natural assets, whether you’re here for a day, or a week.

What’s so special about Byfield National Park?

This Capricorn Coast resident connects with Byfield Conservation Park, and Byfield State Forest and stretches more than 15,000 hectares. With all this untouched wilderness it’s not hard to believe that Byfield is one of the largest unspoiled eco-systems on the east coast, containing a diverse array of flora and fauna.

Picture a heaving collection of plant-life, from plantation pine forests to swamplands galore, mingling with massive sand dunes, rugged pinnacles (like The Peaks and Mount Atherton), and endless stretch of coastline, including four beautiful beaches. It’s these beaches which tend to hold most appeal for visitors, and their accompanying 4WD potential. Five Rocks Beach is one of the most popular, a 4WD-only getaway favoured by locals and visitors alike thanks to its reliable surf break and ample fishing. Nine Mile Beach is another much-loved swimming spot, and fellow 4WD favoured break, nestled in the foredunes.

The trails of Byfield National Park

Byfield National Park and its surrounds is a walker’s paradise. There are endless options when it comes to where to wander around these parts, with a trail option for all standards of fitness. Upper Stony Creek and Water Park Creek boast a number of short bushwalking trails, making the destinations popular among day-trippers. Then there’s the Banksia Robur Circuit, a two-kilometre trek through swamplands, the two-kilometre Sandy Creek Circuit trailing through a diverse group of plant communities. Or push yourself with the nine-kilometre Creek to Coast track, a moderate to difficult walk which takes about five hours trawling Byfield National Park’s diverse ecosystem, from coastal hinterland creek to coast (or vice versa).

The flora and fauna of Byfield National Park

Plant-life is diverse in Byfield National Park, ranging from large areas of mangrove and wallum heath, to lowland swampland and on to rainforest and pine plantations. There are also a number of plants found nowhere else that reside here, like the rare Byfield fern and the Byfield grevillea. The range of ecosystems present have made Byfield National Park a haven for bird life, from grass birds to swallows and honeyeaters. But when it comes to fauna, Byfield National Park isn’t without danger - be aware that crocodiles and dingoes are also spotted regularly.

The best photo spots in Byfield National Park

While the entirety of Byfield National Park is photogenic, it’s arguable that it’s bone-white sand tracks are some of its most eye-catching offerings. The stark shade of the sand tracks which mingle with low-lying heathlands and the crystal-clear waters of the coastline.

Big Sandy is perhaps the most famous of the resident sand dunes here, a mini mountain that needs to be conquered to gain access to Nine Mile Beach beyond.

Be mindful, like much of Byfield National Park, this stretch is 4WD only, but will gain you access to the village of Stockyard Point and its accompanying Lookout - another must-visit destination for grabbing a photo of your trip.

Where to stay in Byfield National Park

Accommodation options are plentiful when it comes to Byfield National Park - it all comes down to personal preference. Grab a group for a stay at the five-bedroom Byfield Mountain Retreat perching among 66 acres of rainforest, high on the top of a hill with views of the Pacific Ocean. Or snuggle up with your better half at Byfield Cabins, the couples-only retreat consisting of four timber cabins scattered around Waterpark Creek.

If you fancy a chance to switch off and get back in touch with the natural world, you may want to pack your tent. Self-sufficient campers are welcomed to Byfield Campstay, a former citrus orchard turned natural bush getaway. There are also a handful of National Park campgrounds to choose from - Nine Mile Beach and Scouts Camp at Water Park Point headland are two stand-outs, though take note that both offer bush-camp settings with no facilities. Camping permits are also required and fees apply. Red Rock Campground offers the best caravan access with individual fire pits and tables at each site.

Getting to Byfield National Park

You’ll find Byfield National Park one hour’s drive north of Rockhampton or thirty minutes north of Yeppoon. The main section of the park, and Byfield Conservation Park, is accessible via Water Park Creek in Byfield State Forest, a landmark signed along Yeppoon Byfield Road.

It’s recommended you drop by the Byfield Store on your way through, grabbing last minute supplies as well as local knowledge pre-explore. Also keep in mind that thanks to its remote location and rugged terrain, large swathes of Byfield National Park are 4WD-only, and not particularly camper trailer or caravan friendly. It’s best to be as self-sufficient as possible during any visit.

Local’s tips for Byfield National Park

Don’t forget to drop by Nob Creek Pottery for a unique souvenir on your visit to Byfield National Park. The working studio specialises in fine traditional ceramics and sits on 10 hectares in the heart of Byfield National Park. During your visit you’ll be able to greet the potters themselves, get a good look at their workshops and galleries and grab a piece to take home.

Featured image: @_shellyaus