Queensland is massive, and I’ve spent a fair chunk of time exploring it at a pace that actually allows for looking at the trees. My heart might be in the outback, but I’m just as happy on a coastal walk.
My guides are about finding a bit of peace and quiet, whether that’s a slow climb for a fantastic reward or a historic site that actually lives up to the name. No fluff—just the stunning views, the relentless uphill challenges, and the logistics you actually need to plan a trip into the interior or along the coast.
SUNSHINE COAST & BRIBIE ISLAND
Skip the beach for the volcanic Glass House Mountains and the Hinterland Great Walk.
GOLD COAST & SCENIC RIM
Gondwana rainforests and waterfalls. Full guides for Springbrook, Lamington, and Main Range.
GRANITE BELT & SOUTHERN RANGES
Hiking and massive granite monoliths. In-depth guides for Girraween National Park, the Bunya Mountains and beyond.
CENTRAL COAST & INTERIOR
Where the bush meets the beach. Rugged cliffs at Blackdown Tableland and Cania Gorge, and coastal camping at Deepwater.
THE SANDSTONE BELT & CARNARVON
Remote and rugged. Comprehensive guides to Carnarvon Gorge, Mount Moffatt, Expedition and beyond.
OUTBACK & NORTH QUEENSLAND
Big skies and small crowds. Guides for Porcupine Gorge, the Gulf Savannah, the dinosaur trail, and tropical hiking.
QUEENSLAND AT A GLANCE
THE PRACTICALITIES
ON THE BITUMEN (AND OFF)
The Reality: Getting to the best national parks usually involve a bit of dust or muddy tracks.
The Gear: A 4WD is essential for places like the Condamine River Road or K’gari. I’m not a “hardcore” off-roader so you won’t find technical advice here—just practical tips on how to get to the trailhead without getting bogged.
The Warning: “Regional” often means no reception and very long drives. Be prepared to navigate without a signal.
THE CAMPING SITUATION
Booking: If you’re planning on “winging it” in national parks, you’re going to have a bad time.
Permits: Most parks, from Carnarvon Gorge to Diamantina, require pre-booked permits via the QNP booking portal.
Backups: Local sports grounds and caravan parks are great alternatives. Use WikiCamps to find low-cost spots when the national parks are full or lack the amenities you’re after.
Stuck for ideas? If you can’t decide between the bush or the beach, have a look at my guide to 17 national park camping spots in Southeast Queensland and Northern NSW. It’s a list of my favourite places to camp across the region—from the rainforests, to granite country and sandy beaches.
THE SUNSHINE STATE HIGHLIGHTS
A couple of spots that are actually impressive and fun, provided you’ve got the right clearance and don’t mind a bit of walking.
Springbrook NP
The essential hinterland circuit. You’ll definitely be sharing it with the crowds but the views and tracks are a fair trade for leaving the coast behind for a day.
Condamine River Road
A 14-crossing scenic drive for 4WD beginners. Just enough water to feel like an adventure, provided you aren’t trying it in a hatchback.
Carnarvon Gorge
The absolute highlight of the Sandstone Belt. It’s a lot of walking to see the rock art and cliffs but this is one spot that genuinely earns the effort.