Camping Ideas for the Easter Long Weekend

Welcome to the latest episode wrap-up for the "Take A Hike" podcast! With Anzac Day, May Day, and Easter just around the corner, it is the perfect time to plan a getaway. Blair Woodcock, Luen Warneke, and Cherry Judge got together to share their favourite North Queensland spots. Whether you are after a relaxing car camping trip or a remote adventure, here are some camping ideas for the Easter long weekend.

Heading North: Waterfalls and Islands

If you are looking to escape the heat, heading north offers some spectacular options:

• Paluma Range National Park: You have got the best of both worlds here. Hike into Johnston's Clearing or Shay's Clearing, or enjoy the car camping at Paluma Dam. It is right by the lake, perfect for kayaking and mountain biking. You can even ride out to the village for a coffee! Don't forget to stop at Birthday Creek Falls or Paradise Waterhole on the way.
• Broadwater: A family favourite. You can take your inflatable lilos and float down to the pontoon. It flows beautifully and is incredibly relaxing.
• Blencoe Falls & Surrounds: A bit of a drive off the Kennedy Range Road from Cardwell. You will definitely need a high-clearance 4WD, especially after the rain, as the tracks can get slippery. Alternatively, you can seek permission to camp at the private Goshen Station, which gives you amazing access to the stunning Herbert River Falls.
• Dunk Island: If you want an island escape, Dunk Island has seven beautiful waterfront campsites with toilets and barbecues. You can catch a 20-minute water taxi or paddle over if you have a touring kayak. Just remember to pack all your own water!

The team joked that Wallaman Falls will be packed, so maybe save that one for a quieter weekend!

Heading West: Outback Gorges and Tubes

If you want to escape the coastal crowds, the golden rule is: the further you drive, the fewer people you will see.

• Porcupine Gorge: About a six-hour drive from Townsville, this spectacular outback canyon is well worth the long weekend road trip.
• Undara Volcanic National Park: Go a bit further and explore the fascinating Undara Lava Tubes. It is a wild and unique landscape in which to set up camp.

Heading South: Beach Driving and Whitsunday Wonders

• Salmon Creek: If you love a beach drive, head to Cungulla, follow the signs to the beach, and drive north up the sand. You need an official national park camping permit, but the view of Cape Cleveland from there is totally worth it.
• The Whitsundays: Check out Conway National Park near Airlie Beach for a great overnight hike. Or, if you prefer the islands, book a site on Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven, or even paddle over to the national park camping area on the northern side of South Molle Island.

The Essential Camping Packing List...

We could not end the episode without asking what the most unexpected camping essential is. For Cherry Judge and Luen Warneke, the answer is unanimous: Dessert. Whether you are car camping or hiking, always pack a sweet treat. Oh, and maybe skip the heavy bottles of port wine if you are carrying your own gear - you live, and you learn!

Wherever you end up this Easter, stay safe on the roads, book your campsites early, and happy hiking!