Visiting Bladensburg safely
Getting there and getting around
Bladensburg National Park is part of the Diamantina catchment. To help you plan your visit to this remote area, download the Central West Queensland National Parks visitor guide .
Conventional vehicles can access Bladensburg only during dry weather, and a high clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended at all times. Driving south from Winton on the Winton-Jundah Road, drive about 8km then take a left turn along the Route of the River Gum.
From Winton head south towards Lark Quarry road, turning left after 8km along the Route of the River Gum. At the junction 7km further along, turn left to Bladensburg homestead (5km) and Scrammy Drive, or right to Bough Shed Waterhole camping area.
Even small amounts of rain can make roads impassable so always be prepared and have at least a week’s worth of extra supplies in case of stranding. Check Queensland Traffic or local council offices for current road conditions before your trip.
Staying safe
This park is remote and rangers may not be on park to help you. You must be self-sufficient and prepared for emergencies.
Watch your step on escarpments—edges can be unstable due to natural weathering. Stay away from the edge and take care where you walk. Take heed of all safety advice and warnings.
It is vitally important that you read staying safe in Parks of Central West Queensland.
In an emergency
In an emergency, phone Triple Zero (000). You could also try to make contact with people on UHF radio (try channel 1 duplex for other local radio traffic).
Mobile phone coverage is available at the Homestead information centre, and poor in other areas of the park. Consider taking a satellite phone, personal locator beacon (PLB) or another form of communication.
You can also download the free Emergency+smartphone app before you leave home, the GPS functionality can provide critical location details to emergency services.
Before you visit
Bladensburg National Park is close to Winton but you must be self-sufficient and prepared for emergencies.
Essentials to bring
- Adequate water, food and emergency supplies. Carry at least seven litres of water per person per day and enough emergency food and water for at least seven days in case of stranding.
- Fuel stoves are recommended.
- Complete first-aid kit. Include sun and insect protection in your kit.
- UHF, satellite phone and/or a personal locator beacon (PLB).
- Extra fuel and vehicle repairs. Frequent low gear and four-wheel-drive travel will use fuel more quickly on park drives. You should also bring a vehicle repair tool kit, additional spare tyres, oil and engine coolant.
Opening hours
Bladensburg National Park is open all year however wet weather may cause temporary closures. Check park alerts for information on park conditions and closures.
Permits and fees
Camping permits are required and fees apply.
- Book your camp site online. If you cannot book online, see camping bookings for other options.
Commercial photography permits may be required if you intend to sell any photographs taken of Queensland’s parks and forests. Organised event permits may be required for organised group activities that may interfere with general public use. Contact us for further information.
Pets
Domestic animals are not permitted in Bladensburg National Park.
Climate and weather
Visiting is recommended from April to September.
Be aware!
- Summer temperatures reach 40°C—often over 45°C—during the day
- Summer rains often cause flooding.
- Rain can fall at any time of year and flooding can occur up to two weeks after rain elsewhere in the catchment, resulting in unexpected creek rises and road closures.
Weather forecasts are available from the Bureau of Meteorology.
Fuel and supplies
The nearest fuel and supplies are in Winton, 17km from the park entrance.
- There are currently no park alerts for this park.