The complete guide to Carnarvon Gorge and Carnarvon National Park

Queensland Country’s crown jewel doesn't just attract visitors – it mesmerises them. Sandstone cliffs rocket skyward, gorges plunge dramatically, and emerald creeks weave through landscapes that seem plucked from another planet.

But the real magic? Those 2000-year-old cycads (ancient plants) are practically teenagers compared to the Indigenous history here. The rock art, engravings and free-hand paintings aren't just pretty pictures – they're living connections to the world's oldest continuous culture.

Throw in 173 bird species, 60 mammals, 22 frogs and 90 reptiles, and suddenly it's crystal clear why 70,000 people make the pilgrimage to this outback oasis each year.

Iconic trails of Carnarvon National Park

Lace up those hiking boots! From Great Walks to quick strolls, Carnarvon's got your trail fix covered.

The Big Day Out (19.4km return from the visitor area, 8 hours)

Got a full day? Set out on the ultimate highlight reel. This return trek along the Main Gorge track runs to Big Bend, exploring the Moss Gardens, soaring Amphitheatre and the ancient Art Gallery along the way.

Boolimba Bluff (6.4km return from the visitor area, 3 hours)

Want gorge views from above? Tackle Carnarvon’s own stair master on Boolimba Bluff's round trip. Those burning thighs? Totally worth it when you're gazing across panoramas that’ll remind you that we’re just a tiny speck in nature’s story. 

Short on time? No drama. Start the Main Gorge track and set your own turnaround points at one of these must-sees:

• Moss Garden (7km return or 1.3km from Main Gorge): nature's green magic trick with elk horns, tree ferns and moss carpets
• The Amphitheatre (8.6km return or 1.2km from Main Gorge): climb up, stand amazed in this open-topped sandstone cavern
• The Art Gallery (10.8km return or 600m from Main Gorge): marvel at 2,000+ Indigenous engravings, stencils and paintings sprawling 62 metres along sandstone walls

Explore Carnarvon Gorge on a tour

Let the locals show you their backyard:

Heli Central Tours: Squeeze the highlights into 10 minutes from a chopper's bird's-eye view. Soar above Twin Sisters, Three Sisters and Wool Pack with pilot commentary that doubles as your geography crash course.

Night Safari Tour: Join Carnarvon Gorge Eco Tours after dark to spot the 80% of park residents who prefer nightlife – gliders, owls and microbats included. Day hikes with expert guides are also available, and their best go off the beaten track.

Central Queensland Nature Tours: These local experts know every hidden corner of Carnarvon and neighbouring Nyanda Gorge. Their 4WD tag-along adventures and guided hikes come with Savannah Guide certification (Australia's gold standard for tour guides) and stories that bring the landscape to life. From wildlife spotting to flora finds, they'll customise the adventure to match your pace and interests.

Flora and fauna of Carnarvon National Park

Bird nerds, bring your binoculars – 173 species await. Night owls, pack a high-lumen torch (with red cellophane) for spotlighting nocturnal locals like gliders, possums and curlews without disturbing them.

Where to stay in Carnarvon National Park

Sleep wild or pampered? Your call.

Camping and Caravanning 

Within the park: During Easter, winter and spring school holidays, the Carnarvon Gorge camping area welcomes tents and camper trailers. Hardcore hikers can access Big Bend camping year-round after a 19.4km trek. Book permits online before arriving.

Just outside: Sandstone Park (5km from entrance) offers 41 unpowered sites across 50 cattle station acres with gorge views. Bonus: it's pet-friendly with kennels for hire when you explore the national park.

BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks - Carnarvon Gorge packs options into 100 acres: powered/unpowered sites, permanent tents (with/without en-suites), cabins, cottages and studios. Even roughing it comes with hot showers, a bush bar, and a store selling fuel, basics, and snacks.

Glamping

Wallaroo Outback Retreat delivers canvas-wrapped luxury on a 72,000-acre cattle station an hour from the park. Fall asleep to bush symphonies without sacrificing creature comforts – the crew here even offer their own station tours.

How to get to Carnarvon National Park

Find Carnarvon National Park between Roma and Emerald on Queensland's map – accessible from either direction.

From Brisbane? Make it a road trip via Roma. Coming from Mackay? Route through Blackwater. Good news: the roads are mostly sealed and 2WD-friendly.

Time-poor travellers can fly from Brisbane to Emerald or Roma, then hire wheels for the final stretch.

When to go

The park never closes, but accommodation options operate seasonally for good reason. Summer scorches with 30°C+ temps, while winter nights drop to freezing. Book camping permits and accommodation well ahead.

Pack essentials: insect repellent, sturdy walking shoes, extra fuel for remote driving, and bags to carry out all rubbish.

This pristine wilderness has survived 200 million years – help keep it that way by leaving only footprints.

Want to bring the kids? Here's how to do Carnarvon Gorge with the family.