The popularity of Queensland national parks is at record levels, and anyone considering camping during the upcoming Christmas school holidays is advised to book early to be assured of a spot to pitch their tent.
In the three months since June, 513,000 camping nights were booked in our national parks, an increase of 128,000 over the same time last year.
Principal Ranger Steve Hoseck said many camping areas on Bribie Island, Cooloola, Inskip and K'Gari (Fraser Island - fenced camping areas), as well as many other areas in south east Queensland, are nearing capacity over the Christmas/New Year holidays,
"Some of our most popular camping areas are filling up quickly so the best advice we can give is to book now to avoid disappointment," Mr Hoseck said.
"You could go beach camping on K'gari, or head out to the Jimna, Tuan or Benarkin State forests, or Main Range or Bunya Mountains national parks.
"In other good news for campers and four wheel drivers, the restricted access areas declared for Cooloola and Bribie Island recreation areas as part of COVID-19 restrictions are now more accessible to annual permit holders.
"The restrictions were put in place for safety reasons to regulate the number of people entering the area to limit large gatherings in these popular destinations.
"But from the end of this week, we are opening further day use capacity commencing with the lifting of restrictions for annual vehicle access permit holders.
"This will mean more people can enjoy these beautiful areas."
Mr Hoseck said Queensland is one of the most naturally diverse places in the world, with 1050 national parks, marine parks, state forests and other protected areas.
"From lush rainforests, to sparse deserts, and everything in between, Queensland's protected areas are internationally renowned," he said.
"Family holidays are the chance to Think outside and do something different. Camping in our parks and forests is a bargain at $6.65 per person per night.
"If you enjoy sea views, listening to the sounds of the rainforest, or gazing at the stars, camping is the way to go.
"The best way to experience our beautiful landscapes and see native wildlife is to pitch a tent, roll out a swag or pop up a trailer."
More top ideas for summer are on the Think outside website – it has everything you need to know, need to take, and helpful tips to have the best possible time in our parks and forests.
Bookings
- Camping areas and vehicle access permits (all locations except Minjerribah and Mulgumpin) – book via Queensland National Parks Booking Service
- Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) — book via Minjerribah Camping
- Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) — book via Mulgumpin Camping.
- Cooloola and Bribie Island – details are available via the Queensland National Parks Booking Service for how to book as all visitors require a COVID-19 Restricted Area Access Authority to enter the Restricted Access Area unless exempt.
The department encourages all Queenslanders to check the park alerts before leaving home to ensure they are equipped with up-to-date information.
Audio and video grabs of DES rangers are available at the following on Dropbox.
