• You need specialist skills to get to this remote bush camp. Photo credit: Briony Masters © Queensland Government
• Camp under a starry sky at this remote area bush camp. Photo credit: © Casey Eveleigh Photography

If you’re an experienced off-track walker with specialist equipment and well-developed navigational skills, then the walk to this remote camp site is for you.

Nestled in a grassy open area and surrounded by eucalypt forest, this camp site is 400m north-east of Paddys Knob, a protruding feature within the southern cliff line of Condamine Gorge.

Also known as Cambanoora Gorge, and beginning south-west of the historical area known as The Head, the gorge is framed by Wilsons Peak to the south and majestic Mount Superbus. The gorge finishes about 7km east of Killarney.

Grab your camera when you head to the cliff because you’ll get some spectacular shots up and down the gorge.

This park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, famed for its ongoing geological processes, evolutionary history, and diversity (especially of rare, threatened and endemic species).

Getting there and getting around

Paddys Knob remote area bush camp is in Main Range National Park, about 120km south-west of Brisbane.

Before preparing to walk to remote camping areas, walkers should consider their experience and preparedness levels. A high level of physical fitness and navigational skills are essential.

• Plan to walk safely and be responsible.
• Familiarise yourself with the area before attempting an extended walk.
• Check park alerts for the latest information on access, closures and conditions.
• Research the route thoroughly and get local advice. Recommended maps for bushwalking are 1:25,000 topographic maps. It is also advisable to carry a recognised guidebook for the area.
• Carry good navigation and communication gear.
• Complete a bushwalking advice form (PDF, 523.7KB) and leave your plan with a responsible person.
• Contact your local walking club or Bushwalking Queensland for further information.

Camping permits are essential.

Before you visit

Opening hours

Paddys Knob remote area bush camp is open 24 hours a day. Check in to your camp after 2pm and check out by 11am on the day of departure.

Camping area features

Located in open forest north-east of Paddys Knob. Prominent grassy areas, which were once grazed, provide the opportunity for expansive views. Views of Condamine Gorge can also be seen at Paddys Knob approximately 400m south-west from the site.

Location: Map sheet: Wilsons Peak 9341-21, Grid reference: 440 708, GPS reference: 56J 0440126 6870751 (WGS 84).

Access: Nearest 2WD/4WD vehicle access is east of Mount Colliery township via Gambubal Road.

Number of sites: Open area without separately-defined sites. Maximum of 8 people.

Camp sites are suitable for: self-sufficient, walk-in camping.

Camp site surface: Grass.

Facilities: None. Must be self-sufficient. Water is usually available under most conditions within 300 m west of the site. Water collected from creeks should be treated before drinking. All rubbish (including food scraps) must be carried out.

Open fires: Prohibited. Use fuel stoves only.

Generator use: Not allowed.

Essentials to bring: Drinking water, extra food, first-aid kit, topographic map, compass, torch, warm clothing, wet weather gear, rubbish bags, insect repellent, fuel or gas stove and a small trowel for burying human waste. To protect water quality, ensure toilet areas are located at least 100m from the creek. Read more about before you visit.

Bookings: book online or learn about our camping booking options.

Mobile phone coverage: Poor.

Upcoming camping area availability

Visiting safely

For more safety information see Visiting Main Range safely and camp with care.