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The best beach camping near Yeppoon guide
Where to go
Capricorn Caves
A 40-minute drive from Yeppoon is the oldest tourist attraction in Queensland, where bats have been living in the limestone caves for millions of years. The creatures were discovered in 1882 when a Norwegian immigrant in the area stumbled upon the caves on his way home. From there, he purchased the lease on the land and turned the caves into the attraction today known as the Capricorn Caves. Guided tours run through the caves, which are worth a visit just to hear the remarkable acoustics inside the Cathedral Cave. Stop in before settling into your Yeppoon area campsite for the night.
Great Keppel Island
Some 27 islands are set near the Capricorn coastline, including Great Keppel Island, a popular island destination just 20 kilometres from Yeppoon. Take the 30-minute ferry ride for a fun day trip from Yeppoon or opt to stay the night at a Keppel Island campsite to experience the nature lover’s paradise. On the island campers can find a choice of 17 pristine beaches—some only accessible by boat—plus a few hiking trails and plenty of wildlife both on land and in the water. Divers won’t want to miss it.
Byfield National Park
Head north from Yeppoon through farming country to reach the diverse landscapes within the 15,000-hectare Byfield National Park, which range from massive sand dunes in the south to rugged northern mountains. Camping is permitted in several areas, including Upper Stoney on the banks of Stoney Creek. Paddle upstream in Water Park Creek (another great camping spot) and stay on the lookout for wildlife like freshwater turtles and kingfishers. Trails through the park accommodate both hikers and mountain bikers.
Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water
Named after Captain Cook’s landing, the quiet beachside village of Seventeen Seventy (1770) is a haven for caravans and campers, while nearby Agnes Water is Queensland’s northernmost surf beach. The main sandy stretch runs for five straight kilometres and is especially popular during the Christmas and Easter holidays. Be sure to make time for a stroll through the Paperbark Forest just a few kilometres outside of Agnes Water.
When to go
In the hotter months of January and February, coastal sea breezes bring temperatures to an average of 29°C around Yeppoon. Although offshore breezes can prevail, there is a greater chance of rain from November through to April. Cooler temperatures can be found from June until August, when daytime temperatures remain quite comfortable around 23°C before dropping to an average nightly low of 14°C. The best months to visit Yeppoon for outdoor activities are from late March to early May and from late August to late November.
Know before you go
- If you’re thinking of visiting the Paperbark Forest near Agnes Water, pack some bug spray for the midges and mosquitoes.
- Every year between March and June, thousands of blue tiger butterflies hatch in the area around Seventeen Seventy’s two-kilometre coastline path to the Round Hill Headland.
- Nearby Rockhampton is classed as crocodile country, so authorities only recommend swimming at patrolled beaches in Yeppoon. You can, however, safely swim year-round at Yeppoon Lagoon on the foreshore at the southern end of Main Beach. Entry to the patrolled lagoon is free.
- Byfield National Park is prime for 4WD enthusiasts—just remember to lower your tire pressure on the soft sandy trails.