Rising abruptly above the surrounding plains, Blackdown Tableland National Park is a cool oasis. Covering approximately 47,950 hectares, this sandstone plateau boasts colourful wildlife, spectacular views and a range of nature-based activities.
Blackdown is the traditional home of the Ghungalu people, who have visited this place for thousands of years and have left behind rock art; vivid reminders of their special culture.
NOTE: The 6km sealed road up the tableland is steep and winding so is unsuitable for towing heavy trailers or caravans
Things to Experience
Walking Tracks will take you to the park’s heritage sites, creeks and waterfalls. Lookouts are provided to take in stunning views and capture that spectacular photograph.
- Yaddamen Dhina lookout track: A 200m, five-minute walk from the carpark. The gently sloping sealed track is even wheelchair accessible. Take in sweeping views of distant ranges and plains 500m below.
- Gudda Gumoo lookout track: On this 3.6km return walk, wander through stringybarks and spiky grasstrees. Gaze across the gorge to distant plains and hills and learn about the significance of Moonda Gudda to the Ghungalu people. Retrace your steps, alternatively continue onto the gorge walk. Moderate fitness is required for this walk, which involves short, steep slopes, some stairs and loose surfaces. Allow 1.5 hours.
- Gudda Gumoo gorge track: Follow the lookout track and continue on another 400 metres to Gudda Gumoo gorge, where damp fern fronds glisten and colourful birds come to cool off. See water spill over sandstone ledges as it flows down and through the gorge. A higher level fitness is required to complete this walk, with 240 stairs leading to the base of the waterfall and loose surfaces. Allow 2 hours.
- Goodela – Yaddamen Dhina track. This follows the escarpment from the Yaddamen Dhina lookout, winding through eucalypt forest then delicate ferns and mosses, with beautiful views of the bluffs and valley below. Reasonable fitness is required. Allow 1 hour.
- Mook Mook track. This 2.4km return walk begins opposite the turn-off into the Munall camping area. Follow the track across Mimosa Creek and over gentle ridges to a lookout on the edge of the tableland, which provides views of the sandstone cliffs and distant ranges.
- Find more walks here.
Four-Wheel-Driving Follow the Loop Road, pass magnificent sandstone outcrops, alive with basket ferns and king orchids, then stop at Mitha Boongulla lookout for great views of the surrounding plains. Suitable for high clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles only.
Viewing Wildlife The best way to see Blackdown’s birdlife is to wake with them at Munall camping area.
By day, look carefully on sandstone ledges for basking skinks, geckos and goannas. By night, take a torchlight stroll to glimpse gliders, owls and insectivorous bats taking to the air.
Picnic Areas Picnic tables, gas barbecues and toilets are provided for day visitors at Yaddamen Dhina lookout.
Camping Relax in Munall campground’s cool and quiet bush surrounding. Close to popular walking tracks, it is a great place to make your base. Camping permits are essential and bookings must be made in advance (sites are limited) at the Visitor Information Centre in Emerald or online with Queensland National Parks. Campground map.