There’s still time to make the most of the school holidays in the Central Queensland Highlands.
With a mix of natural attractions, family friendly activities and local events, the region offers plenty of ways to fill a day or a weekend.
Here are 20 ideas to help you plan your next outing.
big adventures
1. Explore Carnarvon Gorge
Do your own exploring along the Carnarvon Gorge track or join a guided tour and pick up the stories along the way. Camp under the stars or book a stay, there’s still accommodation around if you’re quick.
2. Discover the Sapphire Gemfields 💎
Try fossicking (parks or designated areas), jump on a tagalong tour, grab lunch at the pub, climb Policeman’s Knob for the view, and check out the new mini golf.
3. Unwind at Blackdown Tableland National Park 💦
Swim beneath Rainbow Falls, enjoy short walks, and take in the views across the escarpment. Easy to do in a day or stay a night or two.
get outdoors
4. Get on the water at Lake Maraboon 🌅
Perfect for fishing, kayaking or just kicking back by the water. Try your luck with redclaw while you’re there.
5. Spend a day at Bedford Weir
An easy spot for families, pack a picnic, throw in a line, set up camp or just see what wildlife you can spot… peacocks included.
6. Go camping ⛺
From national parks to Lake Maraboon, Bedford Weir and designated fossicking areas, go off grid or keep it easy.
7. Wander the Emerald Regional Botanic Gardens 🌿
An easy wander, plenty of space, a bit of birdlife and a good excuse to slow things down.
8. Go a little off track 🌿
Head to Minerva Hills National Park for quiet walks and big views, or camp out at Lake Nuga Nuga if you’re up for something a bit more off grid.
what’s on
9. Hive Inflatables — Emerald (14 April) 🎈
Big energy, plenty of fun — perfect for kids who need to burn it off.
10. The Gathering Circle — gentle craft morning (16 April) 🎨
A slower-paced morning of creativity and connection.
11. Align Strength & Wellness — kids program (13–18 April) 💪
A mix of movement and activities to keep kids engaged.
12. CHRC Libraries — activities across the region 📚
From crafts to games, there’s something happening in most towns.
13. Outback Exploratorium — hands-on workshops 🧪
STEM-based activities and workshops that are both fun and educational.
14. Sunflower fields are open this weekend 🌻
A must-do while they’re in bloom — perfect for photos.
Easy Wins (low effort, high reward)
15. Catch a movie in Blackwater 🎬
A classic school holiday option (bonus points for a choc top).
16. Playgrounds and skate parks 🛹
Let the kids burn off energy at playgrounds across the region or hit the local skate parks.
17. Ride the Sunrise Rotary BMX Park 🚲
A favourite for kids and teens, bring the bikes and let them go.
18. Cool off at an aquatic centre 🏊
Pools in Emerald, Capella, Springsure, Rolleston, Blackwater and Sapphire are perfect for an easy day out. Get in before they close for winter at the end of April.
19. Hit a few balls at the Emerald driving range ⛳
A relaxed way to spend an hour — no experience needed.
20. Indoor play at Calvary Playcentre (Emerald)
A great indoor option for younger kids, especially if the weather turns — safe, contained and easy.
