Often called ‘Australia’s Little Grand Canyon,’ Porcupine Gorge is a spectacular oasis carved into the outback plains. It’s a place where ancient sandstone cliffs tower over cool, flowing creeks, offering a perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation. To help you make the most of your visit, we’re sharing three of our favourite ways to experience Porcupine Gorge National Park.
1. Camp Under the Stars
What better way to immerse yourself in this beautiful National Park than to spend a night camping, enjoying its pure and unfiltered serenity? An overnight stay allows you to witness spectacular sunsets, star-filled skies, and the peaceful sounds of the outback.
Pyramid Campground: What to Know
The Pyramid Campground is the perfect base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the gorge.
- Location: Access is via the Kennedy Development Road (Hann Highway), approximately 75km north of Hughenden. The road is fully sealed, with only a short, unsealed drive into the campground itself.
- Sites: The campground is intimate, with only 8 caravan sites and 14 tent sites. We highly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Facilities: You’ll find basic toilets, showers, and picnic shelters. Please note: there is no drinking water available, so you must bring your own supply.
- Bookings: Campsites must be booked and paid for before you arrive. You can book through the Queensland National Parks website or by contacting the Flinders Discovery Centre.
Tips for Your Stay
- Digital Detox: With no mobile phone reception on-site, it’s the perfect opportunity to switch off and connect with nature. The outback night sky will not disappoint!
- Meet the Locals: Don’t be alarmed by a little rustling around your campsite at dusk. It’s likely just a Bettong (often called a Rat Kangaroo), a cute, rabbit-sized marsupial native to the area.
- Go for a Hike: Camping overnight gives you a fantastic head start for an early morning hike into the gorge before the day gets too hot. (See our ‘Explore’ section for full trail details!)
- Relax & Unwind: Besides hiking, the campground is a great place for birdwatching, getting lost in a good book, or trying your hand at landscape sketching.
See It All From the Air
For a truly spectacular and unforgettable view of the gorge’s grandeur, treat yourself to a scenic helicopter flight. Fox Helicopters operates from a landing site right near the campground gates, offering a breathtaking perspective you just can’t get from the ground.
Bookings are essential. To make a booking, call 0409 266 162 or book online at the Fox Helicopters website.
2. SwimMING AT Porcupine Gorge
Throughout the stunning sandstone cliffs and formations of the gorge, there are a number of small billabongs, water holes, and even the occasional waterfall (during the rainy season), providing the ideal opportunity to cool off and relax in the water, not to mention the naturally formed and stone sunbeds perfect for soaking up some rays. At the base of the pyramid rock formation, there is a natural spring which provides a waterhole all year round. Swimming trunks or a change of clothes and a towel are a must-have for any vacation to this magnificent national park, especially if you plan on staying a while.
3. Explore the Gorge Floor
The true magic of Porcupine Gorge is found at its base. Hiking down from the rim transports you to a hidden oasis, where a cool creek flows through a landscape millions of years in the making. Exploring the gorge floor is an unforgettable adventure, revealing stunning rock formations, secluded waterholes, and diverse wildlife.
The Journey Down: What to Expect
Your adventure begins with the 1.1km walking track that takes you from the campground lookout to the bottom of the gorge.
Don’t be fooled by the relatively easy descent! The track is steep, and the journey back up requires significantly more time and effort, especially in the heat. But the reward is immense: reaching the cool, clear water of Porcupine Creek is like discovering a true oasis in the heart of the outback.
Hiking Safety: Be Prepared
Your safety is paramount. As there is no mobile phone reception in the gorge, you must be self-sufficient.
- Pack Plenty of Water: This is non-negotiable. Carry more than you think you’ll need.
- Be Sun Smart: Always wear a hat, sunscreen, and light, protective clothing. It can get extremely hot on the gorge floor, even during cooler months.
- Bring Snacks: Energy-rich snacks will help you power through the return climb.
- Never Hike Alone: It’s essential to have a hiking buddy in a remote area with no reception.
- Wear Sturdy Shoes: The terrain can be uneven, with loose stones and boulders.
Once You’re at the Bottom: Which Way to Go?
The creek bed is your main trail. From the bottom of the track, you can choose to explore north or south, with each direction offering its own unique landmarks.
Hike North to The Pyramid A hike north along the creek will lead you to the gorge’s most iconic feature: The Pyramid. This impressive, multi-layered sandstone formation has been sculpted by water over eons and stands as a testament to the area’s geological history. At its base, you’ll find a deep, permanent waterhole fed by a natural artesian spring, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim year-round.
Hike South to the ‘Japanese Gardens’ & Survivor Waterfall Heading south will take you past serene waterholes and unique rock features that locals have nicknamed the ‘Japanese Gardens’. Continue further to find the gorge’s main waterfall. While it flows best during the wet season, the impressive scale of the rock drop is a stunning sight at any time of year.
Fun Fact: This is the very waterfall that was featured in the popular TV series, Australian Survivor: Blood V Water!
