Bartle Frere trail, Wooroonooran National Park Tropical North Queensland

Photo credit: Maxime Coquard © Queensland Government

Camping on Bartle Frere

Queensland National Parks Booking System Update

The new Queensland National Parks Booking Service is live for bookings.

Customer account login
If you are making your first booking since 1 July 2024, a new customer account will be created automatically as part of your next booking. Please note your previous login credentials will no longer be valid.

Customers who have made a booking after 1 July 2024, please use your email address to reset your password to access your account.

More information about the new booking system

The Bartle Frere trail is rugged and remote, with isolated camping area. Only experienced and extremely fit bushwalkers should attempt the trail. Prepare thoroughly to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable walking and camping experience. Eastern access to the trail is from Josephine Falls car park, where camping areas are walk-in only. Western access starts from Junction camping area (accessible via vehicle), then camping areas are walk-in only.

There are 4 camping areas along the Bartle Frere trail: from west to east they are, Junction camping area, Western Summit camping area, Eastern Summit camping area and Big Rock camping area. The Bartle Frere trail camping areas each have a maximum of 8 people per night per camping area with a maximum group size of 4 people. No facilities are provided. There is an evacuation hut at the Eastern Summit camping area for emergency use only. It should not be relied upon for shelter. There is a small creek at Western Summit camping area but no guaranteed water along the trail.

Camping permits are required and fees apply. All camping along the Bartle Frere trail must be pre-booked—self-registration at camping areas is not possible.

Other accommodation

There is a range of holiday accommodation in and around the towns between Townsville and Cairns and on the Atherton Tableland. These include hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, farm stays, eco-lodges, caravan parks and commercial camping areas.

For more information see the tourism information links.

Park-specific conditions

Read more about staying safe and looking after the park.

  • Bartle Frere trail camping

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    The Bartle Frere trail camping areas include rainforest, camping beside creeks and fabulous views over Innisfail and the undulating Atherton Tableland.