One of my favorite detours off my East Coast road trip in Australia was Blackdown Tableland. This is a gorgeous national park, and such an underrated spot to visit! Whether you’re driving between Rockhampton and Emerald in Queensland, or simply up for a trip inland to the Aussie outback, you need to put this place on your bucket list. Here’s my guide to visiting Blackdown Tableland National Park!
How to Get to Blackdown Tableland
The national park is approximately half-way between Rockhampton and Emerald in Central Queensland. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Rockhampton (about 200km), and a 2-hour drive from Emerald (about 150km). The access road into the park from the A4 road is very narrow and winding, with hairpin bends as you go up the mountainside. The road from Yaddamen Dhina lookout (at the entrance to the national park) to Munall campground is unsealed – while it’s corrugated, I’d say it’s fine for 2WD vehicles, as long as you take your time. The road from Munall campground to Gudda Gumoo (Rainbow Falls) is pretty rough – I’d strongly recommend a (high-clearance) 4WD vehicle to get there. There is a steep hill full of potholes about a few hundred meters from the Rainbow Falls car park, which 2WD vehicles may struggle getting up. That said, I have a friend who managed to drive these roads in a campervan.
What to Do in Blackdown Tableland
There’s a lot to do in Blackdown Tableland National Park. While you could see the main sights in a very busy, long day, I recommend staying overnight and giving yourself two days in the park. I actually stayed three days, which was so relaxing! There are some great hikes and awesome swim spots. Here’s what to do in Blackdown Tableland!
Yaddamen Dhina
This lookout can’t be missed, as it’s right at the entrance to the national park. I recommend going in the morning if you can, as the lighting in the afternoon can be quite harsh in photos. The views out over the bush are incredible!
Goodela (Two Mile Creek)
This short hike from the Yaddamen Dhina lookout takes you down to the creek, which opens up to give spectacular views of the cliffside. The walk took me almost exactly 1 hour in total, and is approximately 3.6km.
Goon Goon Dhina
You can’t miss this short walk on a visit to Blackdown Tableland! See ancient Aboriginal art on the rock walls and caves, mainly stencils of hands. There are plenty of panels throughout the hike with information on local Aboriginal culture and history. The walk starts from Munall campground (there is a car park for non-campers on the road) and is approximately 2.5km long. It took me about 45 minutes in total.
Mook Mook
This is another short walk, starting opposite Munall campground. Follow the trail over the rocky creek bed and to a lookout over the bush. The landscape here is so beautiful! If you’re short on time at Blackdown Tableland, this is maybe one hike you could skip. That being said, I’m glad I did it! The hike is approximately 2.4km and took me just under 45 minutes.
Gudda Gumoo (Rainbow Falls)
Rainbow Falls is the main attraction in Blackdown Tableland! The hike down to the base of the waterfall (and back) is 4.5km return, and should take about 1.5 hours. Give yourself plenty of time though, as there’s lots to explore! The pool at the base of the falls makes for a great swim spot – although it might be a bit chilly.
Rock Pools
The best place to visit in Blackdown Tableland? The rock pools, which aren’t signposted as a walk but are simply stunning. It’s one of my favorite places to swim in Australia! The water is mineral water, so your hair and skin will feel amazing afterwards – and the rocks around the pools are perfect for lying out and relaxing in the sun. Park at the Rainbow Falls car park, and follow the signs for that trail. When you reach the turnoff to go down to the base of the falls, take the trail on the right into the bush. Head straight for about 10 minutes and you’ll find them! The return walk is about 4km in total, and will take approximately 1 hour.
4WD Scenic Loop
If you have a 4WD vehicle and are up for an off-roading adventure, hit the road on the 4WD Scenic Loop! This track is 19km in total, taking you around different parts of the national park. I didn’t do this myself (I didn’t really want to deal with any challenging roads), but it’s another thing you can do if you visit Blackdown Tableland.
Where to Stay at Blackdown Tableland
There is only one place to stay in Blackdown Tableland National Park: Munall campground. I stayed here for three nights on my trip and it’s a great campsite! Because it’s so remote, there is no phone signal, and you’ll need to bring your own drinking water. Pack out all your garbage, as there are no bins either. They have long-drop toilets available, and the sites are huge! You’ll need to book your permit in advance through Queensland National Parks – prices are currently $7.25 AUD per person, per night.
Planning Your Trip to Blackdown Tableland
The closest airport to Blackdown Tableland is Emerald airport. However, Brisbane or Cairns airports may be your best bet for larger airports with more international options. I always use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals. Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
Blackdown Tableland is an amazing part of Central Queensland, and one of my favorite places I’ve visited in Australia so far. Whether you’re driving the East Coast, or just wanting to explore more of outback Queensland, put this place on your bucket list! I hope this guide helps planning a trip to Blackdown Tableland National Park.
Have you visited Blackdown Tableland National Park? What were your favorite places?
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