Boodjamulla National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in Boodjamulla National Park, from its cultural attractions to its scenic hiking routes and natural wonders.


Boodjamulla National Park, located in Outback Queensland, Australia, is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers. The park is renowned for its emerald pools, gorges, and scenic views that are unique to the Australian outback. In this travel guide, we’ll dive into everything Boodjamulla National Park has to offer. From cultural attractions to scenic hiking routes and natural wonders, we’ve got you covered.

Introduction to Boodjamulla National Park

Boodjamulla National Park, previously known as Lawn Hill National Park, is located in Outback Queensland, approximately 200km northeast of Mount Isa. The park is situated within the traditional lands of the Waanyi people, and the name “Boodjamulla” means “rainbow serpent” in the indigenous language. The park’s diverse landscape is home to an array of flora and fauna, including wallabies, freshwater crocodiles, and over 100 different bird species.

List of Places to Visit in Boodjamulla National Park

Here are the top places to visit in Boodjamulla National Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lawn Hill Gorge: The park’s main attraction is Lawn Hill Gorge, which features crystal-clear, emerald-colored water, surrounded by high red cliffs that date back to the Middle Devonian period.
  • Indarri Falls: Located within Lawn Hill Gorge, Indarri Falls is a picturesque waterfall that’s perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day.
  • Duwadarri Lookout: Located atop the cliff face overlooking Lawn Hill Gorge, Duwadarri Lookout offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Undulating Ant-Country Walking Trail: This 4.5km loop walking trail takes you through the park’s savannah woodlands and offers a unique vantage point to observe termite mounds and ant nests.

Natural Attractions of Boodjamulla National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Constance Range Walking Track: This 8km walking track takes you through the park’s scenic landscape and offers the opportunity to see some of the park’s stunning wildlife, including wallabies and birds.
  • Wild Dog Dreaming Trail: This 22km hike is a multi-day trek that takes you through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Lawn Hill Gorge Canoeing: Visitors can rent canoes to explore the crystal-clear water of Lawn Hill Gorge. It’s a great way to observe the local wildlife and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Lawn Hill Station Hiking Trail: This hiking trail takes you through the privately owned Lawn Hill Station, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boodjamulla National Park

Boodjamulla National Park offers a variety of hiking and biking routes for visitors of all levels of experience.

  • Constance Range Walking Track: This 8km walking track takes approximately two hours to complete and features stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Wild Dog Dreaming Trail: A multi-day trek that takes visitors through some of the park’s most stunning landscapes.
  • Lawn Hill Station Hiking Trail: This private hike offers a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife and natural wonders.

Best Things to Do in Boodjamulla National Park: Activities and Tours

Boodjamulla National Park provides visitors with an array of activities and tours to enjoy.

  • Canoes: Rent a canoe and explore the park’s emerald-colored waterways.
  • Fishing: Fishing is available in Lawn Hill Creek with a permit. Visitors can catch barramundi, sooty grunter, and catfish.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Boodjamulla National Park is home to a wide array of fauna, including wallabies, freshwater crocodiles, and over 100 different bird species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Boodjamulla National Park

Here’s an example itinerary for a week-long visit to Boodjamulla National Park:

  • Day 1: Explore the park’s emerald pools and gorges, including Lawn Hill Gorge, Indarri Falls, and Duwadarri Lookout.
  • Day 2: Take a guided tour through the park’s savannah woodlands and learn about its unique flora and fauna.
  • Day 3: Rent a canoe and explore Lawn Hill Gorge’s crystal-clear water.
  • Day 4: Take a multi-day trek with the “Wild Dog Dreaming Trail,” offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Day 5: Enjoy fishing opportunities in Lawn Hill Creek (with a permit) and try your luck at catching barramundi.
  • Day 6: Hike the Constance Range Walking Track and observe the stunning wildlife along the way.
  • Day 7: Relax and unwind as you take in the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings of Boodjamulla National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Boodjamulla National Park

Boodjamulla National Park is located in a remote area, so visitors should bring their food and supplies. There are, however, a few local treats to try such as:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barramundi: This is a popular seafood dish that visitors can catch in Lawn Hill Creek with a permit.
  • Bush Tucker: Visitors can discover indigenous bush foods on a guided cultural tour.

Local Beverages

  • Portuguese Joe’s Bush Lemonade: A recipe that dates back to the 1800s, made from the fruit of the native Lemon Aspen.

Where to Stay in Boodjamulla National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Boodjamulla National Park offers camping options throughout the park. Private accommodations can be found in the nearby town of Gregory Downs.

What to Buy in Boodjamulla National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Boodjamulla National Park offers unique and authentic Australian souvenirs such as Aboriginal artwork, locally sourced honey, and bush treasures. Make sure to visit the Lawn Hill Station caravan park shop and gift store to get your souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Boodjamulla National Park

The Waanyi people are the traditional owners of the land within Boodjamulla National Park. Visitors should respect the local customs and culture. The park offers guided cultural tours, where visitors can learn about the Waanyi people’s traditional way of life, dreamtime stories, and bush tucker.

Best Time to Visit Boodjamulla National Park

The best time to visit Boodjamulla National Park is during the Australian winter season, from May to September, when the temperatures are mild, and the weather is generally better for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boodjamulla National Park

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture of the Waanyi people.
  • Keep the park clean and litter-free.
  • Stay on designated walking trails to avoid disturbing the local wildlife.

Don’t:

  • Feed the wildlife.
  • Take any plants, animals or rocks home with you from the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Boodjamulla National Park

  • Visitors should be cautious of freshwater crocodiles in the waterways.
  • The park has limited mobile phone coverage, so make sure to bring a satellite phone or radio in case of emergencies.

Health in Boodjamulla National Park

  • Visitors should bring enough drinking water and sunscreen to protect them from the harsh sun.
  • Dehydration and heatstroke are common issues, so stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.

Getting to Boodjamulla National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors should fly into Mount Isa Airport, located approximately 200km from the park. From here, visitors can rent a car or join a guided tour. Visitors can also take a bus from Mount Isa to Camooweal and then take a taxi to the park entrance.

Airports Near Boodjamulla National Park

  • Mount Isa Airport: Located approximately 200km from Boodjamulla National Park.

Bus Stations Near Boodjamulla National Park

  • Camooweal: Located approximately 66km from the park.

Other Options

  • Visitors can join a guided tour of the region, which usually includes a visit to Boodjamulla National Park.

How to Get Around in Boodjamulla National Park

Visitors can explore the park on foot, rented canoes, or by car.

Where to Go Next from Boodjamulla National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Karumba: A small fishing village on the Gulf of Carpentaria, known for its stunning sunsets and excellent fishing opportunities.
  • Cobbold Gorge: Located approximately 350km from Boodjamulla National Park, Cobbold Gorge is a stunning natural wonder that offers unique scenery and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Boodjamulla National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a unique Australian experience. The park’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural significance, and unique wildlife make it a destination that shouldn’t be missed. Remember to respect the local customs and culture, stay safe, and enjoy all that Boodjamulla National Park has to offer.

Landscape at Riversleigh Landscape at Riversleigh Lawn Hill Gorge Lawn Hill Gorge A fossil of a Dromornothid leg bone and crop stones A fossil of a Dromornothid leg bone and crop stones