Boodjamulla National Park

Deep in northwest Queensland, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is an oasis of emerald gorges, red sandstone cliffs and crystal-clear waterways. This remote park feels like a lost world, where you can paddle through ancient gorges, swim in cool springs and spot freshwater crocodiles basking on the banks. It’s a dream for nature lovers and adventurers willing to make the journey.

Highlights & What to See

• Lawn Hill Gorge: The park’s centrepiece – paddle a canoe or kayak through towering sandstone walls draped with ferns, stopping at sandy beaches for a swim in the jade-green water.
• Indarri Falls: A series of cascades and rock pools where you can swim and picnic; the waterhole below the falls is perfect for cooling off.
• Upper Gorge Lookout: A short walk leads to panoramic views over the gorge and the surrounding spinifex plains – spectacular at sunrise or sunset.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for freshwater crocodiles (harmless), rock wallabies, and over 140 bird species including the rare purple-crowned fairy-wren.
• Riverside Walk: An easy 2.5 km trail along the creek, offering great birdwatching and views of ancient cycads and pandanus palms.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least two full days to experience the park properly. Arrive early to secure a canoe (book ahead in peak season) and spend the first day paddling the gorge and swimming at Indarri Falls. Use the second day for walks like the Upper Gorge Lookout and the longer Island Stack Walk. If you’re self-driving, the unsealed road to the park from Gregory Downs takes about 1.5 hours, so factor that into your itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Lawn Hill Homestead: Stay at this historic outback station for comfortable cabins and a chance to learn about local pastoral history.
• Riversleigh Fossil Fields: A World Heritage site 50 km south, where you can see ancient mammalian fossils at the D Site – essential for palaeontology buffs.
• Gregory Downs: The nearest town (about 100 km east) with basic supplies and the famous Gregory Downs Hotel for a cold beer and pub meal.
• Burke & Wills Roadhouse: A handy stop for fuel and supplies on the way to or from the park, about 200 km south.
• Barkly Tableland: If you’re continuing north, the vast grassy plains offer a classic outback driving experience with cattle stations and wide horizons.

Please check official sources for current details.