Carnarvon Gorge (Jan 2021) first visit

We had planned to head for Tassie but 3 days before we were due to leave the Victorian border was closed. Very hard to catch the boat from Melbourne with our 4WD and Van when you cannot enter the state.

So T and I decided to change our plans. "Head West" we thought. Let's visit Carnarvon Gorge and decide from there.

And that we did!

Our Route

Quick planning of stops.

Miles Stop Over

We enjoyed Miles very much. The Caravan Park was spacious and although on the main road was surprisingly quiet. Large van bays. Across the road is the Historical Village and definitely worth a visit. We spent a half day at the Village.

We got in a gravel bike ride along the creek and through town.

The local pub was a "hoot". Really enjoyed meeting the locals.

The ride was flat but interesting.

Carnarvon Gorge - stayed at Takkarakka Camp Ground

Takkarakka offers tent camping, caravan sites, glamping tents and bungalows. Plus has a shop and cafe. We've put together a compilation video of our time at Carnarvon.

Sadly on day 2 the rain bucketed down.

The Gorge was flooded and the rangers closed the park.

Roads were cut and motorists trapped on high ground between the creeks.

Fortunately with a couple of weeks supplies we had no issues.

Then we had to self-quarantinne as Brisbane was declared a COVID "hot spot".

Had a great time here in CG and very keen to return to complete the treks.

Lake Maraboon Park - outside Emerald

Great park. Had a drive through ensuite site. About 18km out of Emerald and on the lake.

Got in a very nice bike ride. And side trips to the Lake, out into the Emerald mines and then on to Clermont where Theresa has relatives.

Minverva Hills - Springsure

Drove past the Minerva Hills on the way from the Gorge into Emerald and felt we had to return to explore. So pleased we did. Fabulous park. Scenery is out of this world.

Keppel Sands

Picked this camp ground simply because it was "out of the way". Proved to be a perfect spot. One shop. One pub. No tourists. Camp ground was spacious. Got some fabulous road bike rides in. And side trips into Rockhampton, visited the Zoo (awesome!) and the Crocodile farm. Also up to Yeppoon.

Rockhampton Zoo and Croc Farm

The Zoo was really good. Interesting exhibits. Crocodile farm definitely worth a visit. We knew the crocs were in the pen BUT they are so hard to spot. You would have no chance in the wild.