Danbulla National Park and State Forest Tropical North Queensland

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

Be inspired: ‘Slow camping’ at Danbulla where families enjoy the ‘little things in life’

‘Because one day you will look back and realise they were big things’. Writer Kurt Vonnegut was so right. Time is fleeting and we wish we could ‘bonsai’ our kids, but before we know it, they’ve grown and flown. Photo credit: Maxime Coquard © Queensland Government

Be inspired: Chasing volcanoes (and waterfalls) in the tropical north

They say ‘don’t go chasing waterfalls’ but we suggest you do, and volcanoes too! Photo credit: Steven Nowakowski © Queensland Government

Be inspired: Legendary fish, aquatic adrenaline and waterfront vistas—Danbulla offers all this and more!

Does the smell of sunscreen and insect spray evoke childhood memories of dangling a fishing line with Dad, bucket-washing the dishes with Mum and building a camp fire with your siblings? Photo credit: Karl Seelig © Tourism and Events Queensland

Be inspired: Queensland National Parks’ best-loved camping areas

We are truly a nation of coast dwellers, so when it comes to camping holidays, where do we head? To the water, of course! Photo credit: © Tourism and Events Queensland

Camping in Danbulla

The Danbulla area has several camping areas, each offering its own unique beauty and catering for the needs of a wide range of visitors.

All camp sites at Danbulla must be booked. Campers must obtain an e-camping permit and pay their camping fees before arriving at the camping area. As mobile phone service is unreliable, it is best to book your site before starting your trip.

  • Dogs are not permitted in camping areas.
  • It is prohibited to collect firewood in Danbulla State Forest and National Park. If you would like to have a fire, bring your own firewood.
  • The use of generators is only permitted at Downfall Creek and Fong-On Bay camping areas, subject to conditions.
  • The maximum length of stay is 21 nights.
  • Check-in is from 2pm and check-out is by 11am.

The Tablelands Regional Council has erected signs indicating Danbulla Road is unsuitable for caravans. For any road access problems please contact the Tablelands Regional Council.

Other accommodation

There is a range of holiday accommodation around Lake Tinaroo and in the various towns across the Atherton Tablelands. For more information see the tourism information links.

cathedral fig tree

Explore the cathedral fig tree while camping at Danbulla.

Park-specific conditions

The lake contains many submerged trees and other hidden hazards. These hazards vary as the water level in the lake changes. Vessel masters must ensure they navigate with extreme caution.

Read more about staying safe and looking after the park.

  • Platypus camping area

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    Nestled under towering hoop pines, this waterfront camping area overlooks the dam wall and has beautiful lake views.

  • Downfall Creek camping area

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    Base yourself at this beautiful waterside camping area and spend days exploring the nearby walks, drives, lookouts and picnic areas.

  • Kauri Creek camping area

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    From this centrally-located lakeside camping area you can spend the day on the water or explore the featured-packed surrounding landscape.

  • School Point camping area

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    Set up camp in this peaceful camping area that has stunning lake and forest views and rich birdlife.

  • Fong-On Bay camping area

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    Explore the park from your camp in this large, open area against a backdrop of rolling hills, forests and pine plantations.

  • Curri Curri bush camping

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    Load up the boat and escape the crowds at your own secluded camp site on the banks of Lake Tinaroo.