Camping in Rinyirru (Lakefield)

Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) offers numerous camping opportunities, ranging from secluded sites near scenic waterholes to large camping areas at major river crossings. Campers must be self-sufficient in this remote area as fuel, supplies and first aid are not readily available. Total self-sufficiency in food, water, equipment for treating water, fuel and vehicle spare parts is essential.

The maximum length of stay at all camping areas is 21 consecutive nights and bookings can be made up to six months in advance. The roads and camping areas within Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) are not suitable for caravans, campervans or buses.

Campers should book early to avoid disappointment—many camping areas are very popular. Bookings can be made up to six months in advance. The use of online bookings and e-permits will manage this demand sustainably.

Permits and fees

• Book online
• A tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site.
• Visit an over-the-counter camping permit booking office.
• Phone 13 QGOV (13 74 68). Mobile phone charges may apply.

Maps

• Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) map (PDF, 510.3KB)
• Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) northern camping areas map (PDF, 123.8KB)
• Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) central camping areas map (PDF, 273.2KB)
• Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) southern camping areas map (PDF, 139.2KB)

Generators

The use of generators is permitted in all camping areas in the park except Kalpowar Crossing. Generators must only be operated at less than 65dB(A), when measured 7m from the generator, and only between 8am and 7pm.

Camp fires

Camp fires are allowed, except when fire bans apply. Fire rings should be used when provided. Do not collect firewood in the national park. Always put the fire out with water when you leave your camp site and obey fire restrictions and directions from rangers.

Wildlife

All Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) camping areas are close to creeks, rivers, swamps and waterholes. Estuarine crocodiles occur in these areas—always be croc wise in croc country.

Other native animals often patrol the camping areas and waterways for food scraps. Keep food and rubbish secure at all times and do not feed wildlife—it can affect their health and cause unnatural population increases and aggressive behaviour.

Read more about staying safe and looking after the park.

Other accommodation

There is a range of holiday accommodation in and around Laura and along the Peninsula Development Road. For more information see the tourism information links.

Alka Bawar (Kalpowar) Aboriginal Corporation manages camping within the Kalpowar Aboriginal Land. For information regarding camping at Bathurst Head and Marrett River please visit the Alka Bawar (Kalpowar) Aboriginal Corporation website.

Park-specific conditions

Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal Land (CYPAL)) is closed throughout the wet season every year.

All camping areas south of Lakefield ranger base are closed from 1 December to 31 May. These camping areas include Dingo Waterhole, Horseshoe Lagoon, Kalpowar Crossing, Kennedy Bend, Mick Fienn Waterhole, Old Faithful Waterhole, Old Laura Homestead, Six Mile Waterhole, Twelve Mile and Welcome Waterhole.

All camping areas north of Lakefield ranger base are closed from 1 December to 30 June. These camping areas include: Sweetwater Lake, Annie River, Five Mile Creek, Saltwater Crossing, Bizant River, Brown Creek, Basin Hole, Top Whiphandle Waterhole, Bottom Whiphandle Waterhole, Orange Plain Waterhole, Hann Crossing, Hanush's Waterhole, Melaleuca Waterhole and Midway Waterhole.

These dates may vary depending on weather and road conditions and camping areas and roads may also be closed after heavy rain.

Check park alerts and Queensland Traffic or Cook Shire Council for local road conditions. The Bureau of Meteorology provides updated weather reports.