
Boodjamulla Lawn Hill National Park
A breathtaking oasis in remote Queensland, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park offers stunning gorges, clear waters for swimming and canoeing, and r...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, less rain

Boodjamulla Lawn Hill National Park
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, less rain

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking oasis in remote Queensland, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park offers stunning gorges, clear waters for swimming and canoeing, and rewarding hikes.
"This is a magical oasis and truly a must do if you are travelling around Australia."

🛶 Canoe Adventure Awaits
Rent a canoe to explore the gorge at your own pace. It's the best way to see the park!
💧 Swim in Paradise
The swimming holes are pristine and perfect for a refreshing dip. Don't miss them!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lawn Hill Gorge
Central to the park
Canoe or swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic sandstone cliffs. A true oasis.

Upper Gorge Walk
Lawn Hill Gorge
Experience breathtaking views of the gorge from above. Rewarding for its scenic vistas.

Lower Gorge Walk
Lawn Hill Gorge
Explore the base of the gorge, leading to a beautiful swimming hole near waterfalls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements: Shade is Scarce
Roads & Remote Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Canoe Adventure Awaits
Rent a canoe to explore the gorge at your own pace. It's the best way to see the park!
💧 Swim in Paradise
The swimming holes are pristine and perfect for a refreshing dip. Don't miss them!
🥾 Walk the Gorge Trails
Well-maintained walks offer stunning views. Do them over two days.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Campsites have no shade. Pack hats, sunscreen, and consider a shade structure.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Canoe Adventure Awaits
Rent a canoe to explore the gorge at your own pace. It's the best way to see the park!
💧 Swim in Paradise
The swimming holes are pristine and perfect for a refreshing dip. Don't miss them!
🥾 Walk the Gorge Trails
Well-maintained walks offer stunning views. Do them over two days.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Campsites have no shade. Pack hats, sunscreen, and consider a shade structure.
🚗 Gravel Road Preparedness
Ensure your vehicle is suitable for gravel roads. Drive cautiously.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is a stunning natural oasis praised for its magical gorge, crystal-clear waters, and excellent walking and canoeing opportunities. Visitors highlight the pristine swimming holes and well-maintained facilities. However, the lack of shade at campsites and the remote location with rough gravel roads are noted drawbacks.
"While most stay at Adele’s Grove, there is camping available here. It is expose with no shade at the camp area, but it has good clean serviced toilet facilities. I like staying here for its convenience and it’s it’s far less crowded. You are right at the start of the gorge for canoeing, awesome swimming hole and all the walks stat from here. There are some excellent walking opportunities that shouldn’t be missed. Stay a couple of days, do the walks one day and sped another day canoeing."
Jason Adams (Jase)
"This is a magical oasis and truly a must do if you are travelling around Australia.
The roads are gravel traveling to Boodjamulla but were well maintained.
The campgrounds were simple and facilities were good, we didn't see anyone here for the four days we stayed.
I had my own inflatable sea kayak and traveled up and down the river every day, it was just so beautiful and peaceful.
We went swimming every day and explored the area.
We didn't realise that Adels Grove was so close and visited there for a day also.
I've ticked this off my bucket list which it had been on for almost 20 years, but I will go back as it was one of the most memorable experiences on our trip around Australia."
Matt M
"Brilliant gorge! Great for a swim or canoe. Showers and toilets are spotless. We tented it but there were plenty of caravans (semi and full off-road) there as well. Walks are well maintained. We did the lower gorge walk and thoroughly enjoyed the views and a dip near the waterfalls."
Chris Martignago
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is accessed via gravel roads. From Mount Isa, take the Barkly Highway east, then the Gregory Downs Road north. From the north, take the Savannah Way. Roads can be rough, so a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially after rain.
The roads are primarily unsealed gravel. While generally well-maintained, conditions can vary, and they may become rough or impassable after heavy rainfall. Check local conditions before you travel.
A 2WD vehicle may be able to access the park, but it's not ideal. The gravel roads can be challenging, and a higher clearance vehicle is strongly advised for a more comfortable and safer journey.
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is quite remote. It's approximately 320 km northwest of Mount Isa and about 100 km south of Burketown. Plan your fuel and supplies accordingly.
Driving times are significant due to the remote location and gravel roads. From Mount Isa, expect around a 4-5 hour drive, and from Burketown, it's about 1.5-2 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, camping at Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park requires advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Bookings can be made online through the Queensland National Parks website.
Entry to Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park itself is free. However, camping fees apply for overnight stays at the designated campgrounds.
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is generally open year-round, but it's always best to check the official Queensland National Parks website for any temporary closures or alerts, especially due to weather conditions.
Absolutely! Many visitors bring their own canoes or kayaks to explore Lawn Hill Gorge. This offers flexibility and can be more cost-effective than renting.
No pets are allowed in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park to protect the native wildlife and their habitats. This includes dogs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park offers several fantastic walks. The Upper Gorge Walk provides panoramic views, while the Lower Gorge Walk leads to a beautiful swimming hole. The Island Lookout and Indri Group Track are also popular.
Swimming is generally safe in the designated areas of Lawn Hill Gorge, particularly in the swimming hole at the end of the Lower Gorge Walk. The water is usually clear and refreshing.
The campground offers basic but clean serviced toilet facilities. Showers are also available and are described as spotless.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles (observe from a safe distance), wallabies, kookaburras, and numerous bird species.
Mobile reception is extremely limited to non-existent within Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park. It's crucial to download offline maps and inform someone of your itinerary before arriving.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes within Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park. Visitors must bring all their own food and drinks. Adele's Grove, a nearby private campground, may offer limited supplies or meals.
Given the remoteness, pack all your non-perishable food items, including snacks, meals, and plenty of water. Consider a cooler for perishables if you have a suitable vehicle.
While the campground has toilet facilities, it's advisable to bring your own supply of drinking water or a reliable water filter, as potable water availability can be inconsistent in remote park locations.
Campfires are generally not permitted in national parks to protect the environment. Check the Queensland National Parks website for current fire restrictions and regulations.
The nearest significant town with grocery stores is Mount Isa, which is a considerable drive away. Adele's Grove may have some basic supplies, but it's best to stock up before you arrive.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic sandstone cliffs of Lawn Hill Gorge, especially during sunrise and sunset, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The reflections in the water and the lush vegetation are also highly photogenic.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh and wash out colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Queensland National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service before flying a drone.
Wait for calm conditions when the water is still. Shooting from a canoe or the edge of the gorge can provide excellent reflection shots. Early morning is often best for glassy water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the walks are generally achievable, consider the heat and sun exposure. The Upper Gorge Walk might be challenging for very young children, but the Lower Gorge Walk is more accessible. Ensure children are supervised at all times, especially near water and wildlife. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. The campground's clean facilities are a plus for families.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Plan for at least two days to fully experience the gorge and its surrounding trails. The remoteness means you'll need to be self-sufficient with fuel, food, and water. Mobile reception is virtually non-existent, so embrace the digital detox and enjoy the tranquility. The well-maintained campgrounds provide a comfortable base for your exploration.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Lovers
The walking trails offer excellent opportunities to observe the unique flora and fauna of the region. The Indigenous cultural significance of the area also adds another layer of appreciation for its natural wonders. Visiting during the cooler months (May-October) can enhance wildlife viewing opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lawn Hill Gorge: Canoeing and Swimming
When planning your water activities, consider the time of day. Early mornings are often the most peaceful, with calmer waters perfect for photography and spotting wildlife. The water temperature is consistently pleasant, making it an inviting experience throughout the day. Ensure you have appropriate footwear for getting in and out of the canoe and for walking around the gorge edges.
Hiking Trails and Scenic Vistas
For a different perspective, the Lower Gorge Walk takes you along the base of the gorge, culminating in a beautiful swimming area. Other trails, like the Island Lookout and Indri Group Track, offer further opportunities to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty. It's recommended to spread the walks over a couple of days to fully appreciate the scenery without rushing. Remember to carry plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and be sun-smart, as shade can be limited on the trails.
Camping at Boodjamulla: Convenience and Serenity
While the facilities are basic, they are well-maintained and sufficient for a comfortable stay. The proximity to the main attractions is a significant advantage. However, due to the lack of shade, visitors should come prepared for direct sun exposure. Booking in advance is essential, especially during peak travel times, to secure a spot.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit