📷 Photo by Athithan Vignakaran on UnsplashCarnarvon National Park
A deep sandstone gorge in the central highlands, with green creek flats, side canyons and some of Queensland’s finest Aboriginal rock art, reached by a long outback drive.
- Region
- Central Queensland
- State
- Queensland
- Suggested time
- 2–4 days
- Best season
- Apr–Sep
Before you go
- The sights are on foot. The main gorge track has many creek crossings, and the Art Gallery is about 5 km each way.
- It is remote: carry fuel, water and food, and check road and park conditions before travelling, as rain can close access.
- Do not touch the rock art, and stay on tracks and boardwalks. The gorge holds deep cultural meaning for Aboriginal peoples.
The gorge walks
From the visitor area, one track runs up the gorge. Side walks lead to the Moss Garden, where water drips from the cliff, and to the Amphitheatre, a chamber about 60 metres deep entered by a ladder. The Art Gallery, with over 2,000 stencils and engravings, is the longest walk.
Planning a visit
Autumn to spring (April to September) has mild days and cool nights; summer is hot, with storms that can raise the creek. Services near the gorge are limited and camping needs advance booking, so arrange accommodation before you arrive. Allow two to three days for the main walks.
FAQs
How long should I stay at Carnarvon Gorge?
Two to three days let you walk the Art Gallery, Amphitheatre and Moss Garden without rushing. The drive in is long, so a single night is rarely worth it.
Can the park be closed by rain?
Yes. Heavy rain can flood the creek and cut roads. Check Queensland Parks and local road reports before you set out, and carry spare food and water.
Places to see
Art Gallery, Carnarvon Gorge
A sandstone wall bearing more than 2,000 Aboriginal stencils, engravings and paintings, among the best rock…
The Amphitheatre, Carnarvon Gorge
A chamber about 60 metres deep cut into the sandstone by running water, entered by a ladder and a narrow…
Moss Garden, Carnarvon Gorge
A cool, shaded alcove where water seeps down a sandstone cliff, feeding ferns, mosses and a small waterfall…
The Big Rig, Roma
An oil and gas museum with a tall drilling rig and oil patch displays, celebrating Roma’s role in…