Visiting Keatings Lagoon safely

The lagoon supports rich aquatic life, including the larvae of biting insects such as mosquitoes.

Photo credit: Tamara Vallance

Getting there and getting around

Turn off the Mulligan Highway, 5km south of Cooktown. Access to the park is via a concrete causeway that may be flooded during the wet season.

Wheelchair accessibility

The walking track and bird hide are wheelchair accessible.

Staying safe

To enjoy a safe visit in this area, please take these precautions:

• Avoid the sun in the middle of the day to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion. Use sunscreen and wear a hat.
• During summer months biting insects may be a problem. Remember to bring insect repellent and to wear protective clothing.
• Ensure you carry plenty of drinking water.

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

Be croc wise

Be aware that crocodiles can occur in creeks, swamps, wetlands and waterholes in Keatings Lagoon Conservation Park. Crocodiles are dangerous and attacks can be fatal. Remember to be crocwise in croc country.

Before you visit

Essentials to bring

Preparation is the key to a safe and enjoyable visit. Make sure you bring:

• adequate food and water
• first-aid equipment
• sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and clothes for protection from the sun
• repellent and clothing for protection against biting insects
• rubbish bags to remove all rubbish.

Opening hours

Keatings Lagoon Conservation Park is open 24 hours a day.

Permits and fees

Permits are required for commercial or organised events. View permits and fees for further information.

Pets

Domestic animals such as dogs are not allowed in Keatings Lagoon Conservation Park.

Climate and weather

Keatings Lagoon Conservation Park has a tropical climate. Summer can be very hot and humid with maximum temperatures reaching over 35°C. During the wet season, from December to April, there are heavy, frequent downpours. During the cooler, drier months, from May to September, when south-easterly winds normally blow, the weather is pleasantly warm, with reduced humidity. For more information see the tourism information links.

Fuel and supplies

Fuel and supplies are available at Cooktown. For more information see the tourism information links.