Carnarvon National Park, Mid West Travel Guide

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Explore ancient wonders and dramatic landscapes in Queensland's Carnarvon National Park, a sanctuary of natural beauty and Indigenous culture.

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Carnarvon National Park

Carnarvon National Park, nestled in Queensland's central highlands, is a stunning landscape sculpted over millions of years. The park features towering sandstone cliffs, hidden gorges, diverse plant and animal life, and significant Aboriginal rock art sites, offering visitors a unique journey through nature and history.

A brief summary to Carnarvon National Park

Nandowrie, Queensland, 4722, AU
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Carnarvon National Park.

Visit the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Information Centre for maps, safety information, and insights into the park's history and ecology.
Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially during the warmer months.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip for navigating rocky creek crossings and uneven trails.
Be aware that the Carnarvon Gorge camping area is only open during Queensland school holidays; book well in advance.
Check road conditions before you travel, as Carnarvon Creek can flood and make access impassable.

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Explore Carnarvon National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Carnarvon National Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Carnarvon National Park is located in central Queensland, approximately halfway between Roma and Emerald. From Roma, drive 90km north to Injune, then continue 111km along the Carnarvon Highway to the Carnarvon Gorge turn-off. From Emerald, drive 65km south to Springsure, then 70km east to Rolleston, and a further 61km to the Carnarvon turn-off. The 45km road into the park from the Carnarvon Highway is sealed and suitable for conventional vehicles. No fuel is available after leaving Rolleston or Injune. Be aware that Carnarvon Creek can rise rapidly after heavy rain, making access impassable. Check road conditions before setting out. Parking is available at the Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Area.

Discover more about Carnarvon National Park

Carnarvon National Park, a jewel in Queensland's Southern Brigalow Belt bioregion, protects a dramatic landscape shaped by time and geological forces. Established in 1932 to safeguard Carnarvon Gorge's scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and geological significance, the park has expanded to encompass 298,000 hectares of the central highlands.The park's centerpiece, Carnarvon Gorge, is a verdant oasis characterized by towering sandstone cliffs, lush vegetation, and the perennial Carnarvon Creek. This cool, moist environment sustains a remarkable array of plant and animal life, including species that are relics of cooler, wetter epochs. Visitors can explore numerous side gorges, each with its unique charm, such as the Moss Garden, Amphitheatre, and Ward's Canyon.Carnarvon National Park holds deep cultural significance for the Bidjara, Karingbal, and Kara Kara people. The park contains many reminders of Aboriginal cultural connection in rock art sites, burial places and occupation sites. The Art Gallery and Cathedral Cave are prime examples, showcasing ancient ochre stencils, paintings, and engravings that reflect a rich cultural heritage. These sites offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the First Australians, with some rock art estimated to be thousands of years old.Beyond its natural and cultural attractions, Carnarvon National Park offers a range of outdoor activities. Hiking is a highlight, with trails catering to all fitness levels. The Main Gorge track leads to iconic sites like the Art Gallery and Big Bend, while shorter walks explore Mickey Creek Gorge and the Rock Pool. For adventurous hikers, the Carnarvon Great Walk is an 87-kilometer trek that links Carnarvon Gorge with the Mount Moffatt section of the park.The park is accessible via a sealed road, making it suitable for conventional vehicles. The Carnarvon Gorge Visitor Information Centre provides valuable information about the park's natural and cultural history.