Danbulla National Park and State Forest Tropical North Queensland

At Platypus day-use area enjoy a picnic in the shade of hoop pines beside Lake Tinaroo. Photo credit: © Queensland Government

Lake Tinaroo is the heart of Danbulla National Park and State Forest. Photo credit: Karl Seelig © Tourism and Events Queensland

Platypus day-use area

Pack the esky and bring a shady marquee for a fun-filled day at this sheltered lakeside picnic area.

Accessible by

  • Conventional vehicle
  • Bicycle
  • Boat

Attraction facilities

  • Wood-fired barbecue (BYO wood)
  • Picnic tables
  • Toilets (flush)
  • Wheelchair access (may require assistance)

Head out on the water for a ski, or to see if you can hook one of the lake’s famous monster barras. Remember to chuck in a few redclaw pots to catch your lunch. If something a little more sedate is your style, slip a canoe or kayak onto the water and explore the nearby creeks, coves and bays.

Cook lunch on the wood-fired BBQ (BYO firewood) and enjoy a lakeside feast.

After a refreshing swim at the end of the day, settle back in your chair and watch the sunset colours splash across the sky.

Getting there and getting around

Platypus day-use area is in Danbulla State Forest, on the central part of the Atherton Tableland, 70km (1.5hr) from Cairns.

  • The day-use area is 4km from the western entrance and 24km from the eastern entrance on Danbulla Road.
  • Most of Danbulla Road is unsealed but it is accessible to all vehicles.
  • You can also get to the day-use area by boat.

Refer to number 2 reference on Danbulla National Park and State Forest locality and road maps (PDF, 207.2KB) .

For more information see visiting safely—getting there and getting around.

Wheelchair access

The day-use area picnic tables and car park are wheelchair accessible.

Before you visit

Opening hours

Platypus day-use area is open 24 hours a day.

Check park alerts for the latest information on access, closures and conditions.

Visiting safely

For more safety information see Visiting Danbulla safely.