Charon Point Conservation Park Capricorn | Mackay

Visiting Charon Point safely

    Getting there and getting around

    The park is 44km north of Marlborough. Access is recommended for high clearance 4WD vehicles only. It is not suitable for conventional vehicles, buses or caravans.

    From the Bruce Highway, take Glen Prairie Road and turn left into Bald Hills Road. Follow this road north. Before reaching an old homestead the track veers north-west, leading to Charon Point. This road passes through private property, please leave gates as you find them.

    Contact the Department of Transport and Main Roads to find out about local road conditions and the Bureau of Meteorology for weather reports and forecasts.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities or tracks in the conservation park.

    Staying safe

    Enjoy your visit, keep yourself safe and help look after Charon Point Conservation Park by following these tips.

    Be and stay informed, regularly check:

    Plan carefully. Ensure your equipment is safe and in good working order. Remember to follow boat and fish with care guidelines. Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

    Always read and heed on-site information and obey signs.

    Use dependable communications.  Mobile phone coverage is unreliable. Satellite phones are best, and a marine VHF radio is very useful. A personal locator beacon (PLB) is highly recommended.

    Cyclones are common along Queensland's tropical coastline. Never recreate if a cyclone is imminent and always be prepared for an emergency.

    Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Follow water safety advice and remain SharkSmart.

    Protect yourself from marine stingers, especially from October to May, although some may be present year-round. Always wear a stinger suit when wading. See marine stingers for more information.

    Be aware that estuarine crocodiles live in the Styx River and Herbert Creek. Swimming is not recommended. Remember—always be croc wise in croc country.

    For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

    In an emergency

    For all emergencies call Triple Zero (000).

    We recommend you visit the Triple Zero website before visiting the park. You can also download the free emergency+ app before you leave home, the GPS functionality can provide critical location details to emergency services. Important: if there is no mobile coverage on any network, you will not be able to reach the Emergency Call Service via a mobile phone.

    Before you visit

    Opening hours

    Charon Point Conservation Park is open 24 hours a day, all year round. Areas of the conservation park may be closed at times due to extreme weather conditions or management operations. Check park alerts for information on park access, conditions and closures.

    Essentials to bring

    It is recommended you bring:

    • sufficient food and drinking water—and pack extras in case of emergencies.
    • navigational and marine zoning maps
    • fuel stove and fuel
    • sun smart clothing, sturdy footwear, insect repellent and sunscreen
    • reliable communication equipment
    • first-aid kit and medical supplies
    • strong rubbish bags—bins are not provided.

    Permits and fees

    Camping permits are required and fees apply. A camping tag with your booking number must be displayed at your campsite.

    Pets

    Domestic animals are not permitted in Charon Point Conservation Park.

    Climate and weather

    This region has a tropical climate, with an average summer temperature of about 32 °C. However summer daytime temperatures can exceed 40 °C. Winters are mild and often dry, with an average temperature of about 20 °C.

    Fuel and supplies

    Fuel and supplies are available at Marlborough on the Bruce Highway. For more information see the tourism information links below.

    • There are currently no park alerts for this park.