Alligator Falls camping area, Mount Elliot
Fit, prepared and experienced walkers can explore grassy open woodlands and cool riparian forests on the way to Alligator Falls bush camping area.
Accessible by
- Walk-in
Camping area facilities
- Campfires prohibited
- Tent camping
- Long walk to tent
- Walking
Fit, well-prepared and experienced walkers can explore grassy open woodlands and cool riparian forests on the way to Alligator Falls bush camping area.
Pitch your tent under the rainforest canopy at this walk-in only bush camping area nestled in a clearing before the falls.
Important information. The Alligator Falls trail is rugged and difficult and should only be undertaken by prepared, fit and experienced hikers and should never be attempted during or after heavy rain or if heavy rain is forecast. Rain in the upper catchment can cause rapid rises in water (flash flooding), making creek crossings dangerous. Hikers can also become stranded between crossings.

Alligator Falls camping area.
Photo credit: Linda Thompson © Queensland Government
Before planning to hike in and camp the night check the Bureau of Meteorology for weather reports and forecasts. And park alerts for the latest information on parks and forest access, closures and conditions.
Cockatoo Creek and Alligator Falls walking trails map .
Access: on foot only. Walk 8.5km one way from the Alligator Creek day use area via the Alligator Falls trail.
Number of sites: small area without separately defined sites. Up to six people in total are allowed at any one time.
Camp sites are suitable for: walk-in camping.
Facilities: none.
Open fires: prohibited. Bring a fuel or gas stove.
Generators: not permitted.
Essentials to bring: campers must be completely self-sufficient, carry food and water, and a fuel stove. Read more about before you visit.
Bookings: book online or learn about our camping booking options.
Mobile phone coverage: poor.
Getting there and getting around
Alligator Falls camping area is an 8.5km one way hike from the Alligator Creek day use area.
- From the day use area follow the Alligator Falls trail to Cockatoo Creek, then cross the creek to the Cockatoo Creek camping area.
- From Cockatoo Creek camping area, the Alligator Falls trail crosses the creek 3 times and follows the same path as a management access road which is quite exposed and can be very hot. Follow the trail for 6.4km one way to Alligator Falls camping area.
Wheelchair access
Wheelchair facilities area not provided.
Before you visit
Opening hours
Alligator Falls camping area is open 24 hours a day.
Seasonal closures
Access to Alligator Falls camping area may be closed at times due to localised flooding, extreme weather conditions and park management activities.
Upcoming camping area availability
Visiting safely
For more safety information see Visiting Bowling Green Bay safely and camp with care.
- Temporary fire prohibition in camping areas 21–28 September 2023