Paluma Range National Park Townsville

Photo credit: © Tourism and Events Queensland

Big Crystal Creek camping area, Mount Spec section

Big Crystal Creek camping area is located beside Big Crystal Creek, in the Mount Spec section of Paluma Range National Park. This is a popular camping area and a good place for viewing native wildlife. It is close to the Big Crystal Creek day-use area, where swimming is available at a close walking distance.

Accessible by

  • Conventional vehicle

Camping area facilities

  • Electric/fuel barbecue (free of charge)
  • Campfires allowed (conditions apply)
  • Generators allowed (conditions apply)
  • Picnic tables
  • Toilets (flush)
  • Wheelchair access (may require assistance)
  • Tent camping
  • Camper trailer camping
  • Campervan camping
  • Cold showers
  • Tent camping beside car
  • Walking
  • Swimming
Erected tent

Pitch your tent in Big Crystal Creek camping area, Mount Spec section, Paluma Range National Park

Photo credit: Phil Copp © Queensland Government

Getting there and getting around

The Mount Spec section of Paluma Range National Park is easily accessible from both Townsville and Ingham. There are 2 turn-offs (northern and southern) onto Barrett Road from the Bruce Highway. From Barrett Road, turn onto Spiegelhauer Road and drive a further 5km to the Big Crystal Creek day-use area and camping area.

Wheelchair access

The toilets, shelter shed and one picnic table at Big Crystal Creek day-use area are wheelchair-accessible with assistance.

Before you visit

Opening hours

Big Crystal Creek camping area, Mount Spec section is open 24 hours a day.

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

Camping area features

Located beside Big Crystal Creek, in the Mount Spec section of Paluma Range National Park. This is a popular camping area, a good place for viewing native wildlife and close to the Big Crystal day-use area, where swimming is available at a close walking distance.

Location: 5km along Spiegelhauer Road, which turns off from Barrett Road.

Map: Big Crystal Creek camping area map (PDF, 362.3KB)

Access: the camping area can be reached by conventional vehicles. It is accessible to camper trailers. Large caravans and buses larger than 22 seaters are not recommended because it is a relatively small area with a narrow access road through the camping area.

Number of sites: open area without separately defined sites.

Camp sites are suitable for: tent camping beside your car, walk-in camping, camper trailers, campervans and motorhomes.

Camp site surface: sand, dirt or grass.

Facilities: flushing toilets, cold showers, picnic tables and gas barbecues.

Open fires: allowed in fire rings only (except when fire bans apply).

Generators: permitted, but must only be operated at less than 65dB(A), when measured 7m from the generator and only between 9am and 12pm (midday).

Essentials to bring: drinking water, rubbish bags and insect repellent. Read more about before you visit.

Bookings: book online or learn about our camping booking options. Advance bookings are advisable, especially during school holidays, when the camping area is extremely popular.

Mobile phone coverage: good coverage close to the toilet block.

Visiting safely

For more safety information see Visiting Paluma Range safely and camp with care.