The best camping near Lakefield National Park

You’re never far from the water in the Lakefield (Rinyirru) National Park. Admire picturesque lagoons swimming with white lilies and red lotuses, cruise around coastal estuaries and mangrove wetlands, or go fishing at tree-lined waterholes. Escape the crowds to explore the rugged trails and termite mounds of the Nifold Plain by 4WD or quad bike, visit the Old Laura Homestead heritage site, then camp at one of the park’s many riverside camping grounds. Bring your binoculars as there are countless opportunities for wildlife watching—spot turtles and crocodiles along the North Kennedy River, and enjoy birdwatching around Rarda-Ndolphin and Sweetwater lakes.

• Best for boating: Hann Crossing Camping Area has spacious pitches along the banks of North Kennedy River, where you can fish or anchor your boat right by your tent.
• Best for birdwatching: Horseshoe Lagoon camping area has dirt and sand pitching, with access for camper trailers and a strategic location right by the lagoon.
• Best for escaping the crowds: Sweetwater Lake camping area is a remote spot with easy access to Low Lake and Nifold Plain. With space for just one tent and no facilities, this is the place to escape from it all.

1. Camping permits are required for all the park’s campsites, and campsites must be reserved in advance. A tag with your booking number must be displayed on your tent at all times.
2. Space is limited at some campsites (many have just one tent pitch), and they can book up to six months in advance, especially during busy periods such as the September school holidays.
3. Check seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary depending on weather conditions.

Lakefield National Park and all of its camping areas are closed throughout the wet season, which typically runs from December through May, or through June for the northern section of the park. June through September is the most popular time to visit—average temperatures are still between 30–33ºC, but the dryer weather means wildlife congregates around the park’s rivers and waterholes. Birdwatchers should plan an early morning or late evening excursion for the best viewing opportunities.

• Lakefield National Park is located along the Cape York Peninsula a 2.5-hour drive north of Cooktown. Access to the park is via the Peninsula Developmental Road from Cairns or Battle Camp Road from Cooktown, and you will need a 4WD. Free parking is available at various points throughout the park, but there is no access for caravans or campervans.
• There is no cell phone service at the park or its campgrounds. The most reliable reception is at the New Laura Ranger Base.
• Lakefield is remote with limited facilities and self-sufficient camping, so you must bring everything you need. The closest place to purchase fuel and supplies is Laura, 84 kilometres southwest of Lakefield ranger base.
• Crocodiles are present in the rivers and waterholes, so avoid swimming or kayaking and follow the park guidelines for safety when fishing and boating. Mosquitos are also common around the wetlands.
• Open fires and generators are prohibited at some of the campsites—check in advance and adhere to any regional fire bans.
• Wheelchair-accessible sites in the park include Kalpowar Crossing camping area and the Red Lily Lagoon viewing platform.