Here are the inside tips on the must do experiences when visiting the National Parks of the Capricorn Coast region…
To the Batcave!
One of the few places in the world you can see a spectacular emergence of bats from their cave is Bat Cleft at Mount Etna Caves National Park. This is home to eighty per cent of Australia’s breeding population of female bent-wing bats. From December to February, ranger-guided tours are offered to witness the spectacle of over 100,000 bats leaving their cave.
Located: The Caves township, 24km North of Rockhampton.
Guided Tours: Call 07 4936 0570 for bookings
Views worth hiking for…
If coastal volcanic headlands with intriguing rock formations, scenic lookouts and trails through diverse vegetation spark your interest, then the Capricorn Coast National Park is worth a visit. The two most popular sections of this park are Fan Rock/Rosslyn Bay Lookouts, and the Bluff Point Circuit. Both walks are considered a ‘moderate’ grade and boast panoramic views of the coastline and Keppel Bay.
Camp beside the reef!
Picture your campsite on pristine island sand just above the hightide mark with no one else in sight…
The Keppel Bay Islands National Park has seven islands offering a range of camping opportunities where you can snorkel right off the sand. While there is no ferry service to any of the national park islands, you can arrange a charter or use your own vessel. Camping permits are required and campers must be self sufficient.
Get off the beaten track
Your 4WD offroad adventure is only a stone’s throw from Yeppoon. Massive sand dunes, rugged pinnacles and outstanding coastal scenery are what you can expect from a visit to Byfield National Park and Conservation Area. If you consider yourself an experienced 4WD adventurer and are keen to tackle some challenging sand tracks and dunes, then you need to see this place! Once you’ve conquered the tracks you will be rewarded with access to endless beaches ideal for swimming, fishing or walking. Camping is also permitted.
Picnic in the forest
It sounds like something from a fairytale, but here it’s a favourite must do for locals. Byfield State Forest offers picturesque water holes and picnic spots where you can paddle a canoe or take a dip in the freshwater creeks. Upper Stony Creek and Water Park Creek are popular spots with several bush walking tracks and camping available. Picnic spots are accessible by 2WD and offer automatic barbecues and toilet facilities. Camping is also permitted.
