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If you are looking for a unique camping destination, we’ve got the spot for you. Carnarvon Gorge is a scenic and picturesque destination unlike anywhere else in the world and should be among the top places to visit on your next adventure.
This national park offers many unique views and activities for visitors. If you’re ready to start planning your next trip, we are here to help with an ultimate guide to Carnarvon Gorge camping.
Let’s get started.
Where Is Carnarvon Gorge?
Carnarvon Gorge is located right in the heart of the Carnarvon National Park in Queensland, Australia. The unique national park is home to tons of sandstone cliffs and gorges, making it unlike anywhere you’ve ever seen before.
Located approximately halfway between the cities of Rockhampton and Roma, Carnarvon Gorge is an excellent destination for campers and adventurers alike. You can choose to camp in the forests on site and have the chance to view the beautiful and lush scenery surrounding the campground.
On-site, you can camp, hike, picnic, and so much more. You will never run out of things to do at this site, and we assure you that it’s worth the visit.
How Do You Get to Carnarvon Gorge?
To get to Carnarvon Gorge, you will need to drive as no public transportation regularly travels to this destination. The good news is that campervans and caravans are allowed on the campground, making this an excellent road trip destination and camping spot.
If you’re living the van life, we highly recommend travelling to this remote national park. While you will have to travel several hours through some rural areas, you will be well rewarded with the sights and experiences that are offered at your destination.
Consider bringing along the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max + 160W Solar Panel to ensure you and your van are prepped for the trip. This reliable setup will keep you powered up throughout your entire stay and is best suited for trips to places off the beaten path, just like Carnarvon Gorge.
How Many Days Do You Need at Carnarvon Gorge?
The beauty of this unique destination is that it is really a “build your own adventure” type of spot. There are many on-site activities, and you and your travel party are guaranteed to find something you will love.
In most cases, experienced travellers recommend spending anywhere from three to five days at the Carnarvon Gorge. This allotment of time will allow you to explore the grounds and take on some of the more scenic hikes.
When you take a trip to somewhere like the Carnarvon Gorge, the goal is to reconnect with nature and relax a bit. This timeline will allow you to see everything you wish to see while also avoiding the rush of a tightly packed schedule.
Is Carnarvon Gorge Open All Year?
The good news is that Carnarvon Gorge is indeed open year-round. This makes it an easily accessible travel destination for people of all ages and backgrounds. That being said, some seasons are considered to be the best time of year to see this beautiful destination.
When Is the Best Time to Camp at Carnarvon Gorge?
The absolute best time of year to visit Carnarvon Gorge is during the winter months. From June to August, guests can experience cooler weather conditions, making it the perfect time to spend long days on the many hiking trails.
Spring, summer, and fall are also great times to travel to the national park as it is quite a bit less crowded than it would be during the peak season. That being said, you may have to deal with more drastic weather conditions and complications, so take that into account as you plan your trip.
There is no bad time to see the Carnarvon Gorge, though camping is best enjoyed during the winter season. The cooler and dryer climate is perfect for setting up camp and enjoying the great outdoors without having to combat the harsh weather conditions of the off-peak months.
You should be aware that while temperatures are much more enjoyable during the winter season, they can also drop and become quite chilly during the evenings. With an EcoFlow Solar Generator set up at your campsite, you can easily power up a portable heater for comfortable and cozy nights in your tent.
Camping & Accommodation in Carnarvon Gorge
If you are ready to see the national park for yourself, we are here to help you plan the perfect camping trip. The good news is that the camping accommodations at Carnarvon Gorge are excellent for travellers of all experience levels.
Below, we will break down some of the main accommodations at the national park so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Camping
Whether you choose to camp in your van or out of a tent, you’ll have quite a selection of camping spots within the national park.
Where Is the Best Place to Camp at Carnarvon Gorge?
While there is no bad location to camp, a select few spots have been made more popular by visitors to the national park. Here are three of the top spots you should look into when planning your trip.
- Sandstone Park Campground
For a bit more of a primitive camping experience, you may want to choose the Sandstone Park Campground for your travels. This site is open year-round and only a few short kilometres from the Carnarvon Welcome Center.
You should know that the sites on these grounds are unpowered, meaning you must bring a portable power station if you require access to power. The EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator makes storing your food items easy and is the perfect addition to any camping trip.
- Takarakka Bush Resort
This unique spot is open year-round and is an excellent option for families and individual travellers alike. The Takarakka Bush Resort offers quite a few more amenities than traditional camping sites and is one of the more popular options.
Here, you can access many amenities, including a camp kitchen, hot showers, and even cabins and lodges for rent. This may be the spot for you if you are leaning toward the glamping experience.
- Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area Camping
A simpler campsite can be found at the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area. However, this specific campsite is only open to visitors during the peak season, so please take this into account if you plan to travel at a different time. This campsite offers basic amenities, including toilets and running water, though there is no designated spot for showers.
There are limited spots at this site, so plan ahead and call ahead to secure your spot.
Caravanning
Those who wish to travel in their caravan are in luck. There are tons of places that allow caravans, all within the general vicinity of the Carnarvon Gorge site. Some of the spots listed above will also allow them, so make sure to call ahead and be prepared for when you may make your way there.
Glamping
Glamping is best described as “glamorous camping” and has grown into quite a popular experience. If you love the idea of camping but are willing to part ways with the convenience of modern life, this may be the perfect way for you to enjoy the Carnarvon Gorge experience.
Camper vans are often associated with the term glamping as they provide an escape from the outdoor conditions while still giving you a front-row seat to nature. Adding elements like an EcoFlow RIVER 2 Series Portable Power Stations such as the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max allows you to supply power to anything you wish to make your stay all the more comfortable.
You can spruce up your van space by adding a TV or another form of entertainment and will have a reliable source of power to keep the fun going. Glamping is a great way to get your foot going in the world of camping and is completely customizable.
Things To See at Carnarvon Gorge
While camping may be the star of the show, there are tons of things to see and do in the surrounding area. Here are some of the more popular places you should consider visiting during your trip.
The Amphitheatre
Surrounded by stunning rock formations, this natural wonder actually resembles that of a man-made amphitheatre. It’s an excellent spot to take photos and take in the views. You can even experience the acoustics and echoes throughout the open-mouthed cave at select standing points.
This destination is located just off the main trail and is easily accessible to those who wish to see it with their own eyes.
The Art Gallery
For history and anthropology buffs, this is the spot for you. In the Art Gallery, you will have the chance to view Aboriginal rock art. On this section of sandstone walls, you can see over 2,000 engravings and stencil-like paintings that have stood the test of time.
This gallery is easily accessible by foot, though an important note is that there is no access for those in wheelchairs.
Moss Garden
For nature lovers, this lush garden is something you cannot afford to miss. With serene, moving water features and greenery as far as the eye can see, you are in for such a treat by visiting the Moss Garden.
This destination is approximately 620 meters away from the main Gorge hiking trail. You can spend some time soaking in the views at this destination and even set up for a picnic before you head back to the campsite.
Ward’s Canyon
At Ward’s Canyon, you will have the chance to view the world’s largest fern. This secluded spot is cooler than most as trees and foliage completely cover it. It’s a great spot to cool off on a warm day and is located just off the main trail, as well.
Gorge Lookout
Now that you have had a chance to see the surrounding area, it is time to view the main attraction. The Gorge Lookout is a must-see. Take in the Carnarvon Gorge in all its beauty and see what makes this travel destination so special.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, campfires are prohibited at the Carnarvon Gorge campgrounds. The national park’s natural surroundings are lush forests that could be endangered by fires that could potentially spread. Authorities take this seriously, and it is not recommended to have any open flames in or around this protected area.
Though there are some beautiful water views at the national park, visitors are asked not to swim in the waters of the Carnarvon Gorge. The waters on the protected land are not only freezing but also quite dangerous and move quickly with strong currents. Swimming is also prohibited in an effort to protect the environment from outside pollutants that swimmers may carry in.
Final Thoughts
Camping in the Carnarvon Gorge is something you have to see to believe. This unique destination is an excellent spot for camping and caravanning and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
If you are ready to plan your trip, include an EcoFlow RIVER 2 Series Portable Power Station on your packing list so you will have access to a reliable power source throughout your stay. Keep all your essential devices powered for an enjoyable and comfortable trip.