Davies Creek camping spot
The Davies Creek Campground in Atherton Tablelands, within Davies Creek National Park, is truly a nature lover’s paradise. Located 53 kilometers northwest of the vibrant city of Cairns, and nestled between Cairns and the charming Mareeba township, this picturesque campground offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Surrounded by an open eucalypt woodland forest, the campground provides eight spacious campsites, each offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Whether you’re an avid hiker, mountain biker, swimmer, or simply enjoy leisurely bush walks, there’s something for everyone here.
As the sun sets over the enchanting forest, campers can gather around their very own fire ring to share stories, roast marshmallows, and truly connect with nature. The facilities, including access to bathrooms and invigorating river dips that substitute for traditional showers, enhance the genuine bush camping experience, allowing visitors to feel at one with the environment.
getting there?
After an extended hiatus from camping spanning over 15 years, I developed a strong desire to venture into the outdoors once more. Davies Creek campgrounds quickly came to mind as the ideal destination, offering a convenient getaway within just 53 kilometres northwest of Cairns. Nestled in Davies Creek and Dinden National Park, this camping trip proved to be the perfect choice for a tranquil 2-night escape from the bustling city life.
It was a truly glorious day, marking the end of the winter months with a stunning sky adorned by a scattering of wispy clouds. The gentle warmth in the air seemed to beckon me to embrace the outdoors and revel in the beauty of the day. Excited by the prospect of adventure, I meticulously packed my car with camping gear and set off towards Davies Creek campgrounds, choosing to take the Kuranda Range route for its convenience and efficiency.
The Kuranda road has been steadily gaining popularity among self-drive tourists, tour buses, and locals who proudly call this picturesque area home, thanks to its convenient 30-minute proximity to Cairns. As I embarked on my journey, the road revealed its winding nature, leading me on a mesmerizing ascent from the base of Smithfield suburb. The landscape transformed as I traversed through the dense jungle of the World Heritage forest, and I found myself immersed in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounded me.
A midway point on my ascent was marked by a captivating stopover at Henry Ross lookout. As I gazed out, I was greeted by a truly awe-inspiring panorama that unfolded before me. The lush sugarcane fields, the glistening coastline, and the expanse of the majestic reef all came together to create a scene of unparalleled beauty. It was as though nature itself had orchestrated this stunning display to remind me of the boundless wonders that awaited me on this adventure.
I continued my drive crossing the Barron River bridge and bypassing Kuranda township before reaching Davis Creek road. The quaint township of Kuranda is a hidden gem nestled in the lush rainforest of Far North Queensland, Australia. Known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, this bohemian village offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As I meandered through the picturesque landscape, the Barron River flowed serenely beneath the bridge, adding to the tranquility of the surroundings. The scent of ripe mangoes filled the air as I drove past the lush mango farms, a testament to the region’s fertile soil and tropical climate. The journey along the bitumen road was a pleasant contrast to the winding paths, providing a smooth and effortless drive, allowing me to soak in the natural beauty that surrounded me.
Davis creek road
It was just before midday when I made the turn at the Davies Creek sign, embarking on a journey along the narrow 16-kilometre, unsealed dirt Davies Creek Road. As I navigated the rugged terrain, the rhythmic sway of the car and the incessant rattling of loose items within became the unconventional soundtrack to my adventure. The surrounding open woodland and imposing granite boulders framed the landscape as I arrived at the serene haven of Lower Davies Creek camping area. Nestled beside the crystalline waters of Davies Creek, this picturesque setting offered a sanctuary from the bustling outside world.
The drive along the corrugated dirt road, while far from smooth, only heightened the sense of anticipation for the secluded paradise that lay ahead. Upon reaching Lower Davies Creek, I was greeted by the welcome sight of picnic tables and campsites, mere steps away from the invigorating water pools. It was evident why this area is revered by day visitors and short-term campers alike, offering a balance of natural tranquility and convenient amenities. The murmuring cascade of water and the whispering of the wind through the open woodland seemed to invite me to pause and immerse myself in the beauty of this idyllic setting.
As I drove further up the steep dirt road, the mesmerizing sounds of nature surrounded me, creating a sense of tranquility and peace. The rush of the waterfall filled the air, blending harmoniously with the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze. It felt as though time stood still, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the stunning natural beauty that lay before me. The crystal-clear waters of the rockpool below glistened in the sunlight, inviting me to pause and revel in the untouched majesty of the landscape.
Davis Creek Lookout
Upong reaching the top, I exit the car and proceeded along the gravel path that led out to the lookout. The view from the top was remarkably rewarding and indeed a spectacle to behold. The expansive rock platform afforded me a direct vista of the falls and the rock pool below. The expansive panorama unveiled a tapestry of lush greenery and rolling hills, stretching as far as the eye could see. The juxtaposition of the rugged terrain and the serene expanse of Mareeba and the Tablelands in the distance was a sight that stirred a profound appreciation for the wonders of the earth. Each moment spent in this idyllic setting seemed to etch itself into my memory, leaving an indelible impression of awe and reverence for the natural world.
Davies Creek known for outstanding landscape of the Lamb mountain range with river-view, maintained campsites that provide a million dollar view made it worthwhile to visit. Easy access to swimming holes, hiking and camping areas was an ideal way to pass the day. Swimming in this water was refreshing as the water tends to be cold.
camping site
Beyond this impressive view of the waterfall, the road is tailored for 4WD vehicles. The gravel road presents corrugations and narrow turning points, rendering it unsuitable for caravans and motorhomes. Venturing on this challenging journey along the stretch of Davies Creek road through the towering open forest, I eventually reached the sign that directed me to the campsite.
Upon reaching the campsite, I eventually erected my tent, just a feet away from the crystal clear creek. Before having my late lunch, I had a dip in the creek which was very cold. I couldn’t resist the temptation but I was glad I only had it do it once. By then, it was late mid-afternoon when I sat down for my late lunch before gathering some firewood for the camp-fire that night. With that cool winter evening, I decided to cook up one of my favorite signature dishes – “lamb stew” for dinner. While enjoying the stew during the cold winter camp as I witnessed the sun disappearing among the tree tops. What a night, what a thrill to experience this peaceful atmosphere in the middle of nowhere. It was an absolute comfort blessing to me.
As darkness fell, the stars emerged one by one, creating a breathtaking celestial display. The crackling of the campfire added to the ambiance, casting dancing shadows around the campsite. The scent of the lamb stew filled the air, blending with the earthy aroma of the surrounding forest. I wrapped myself in a warm blanket, savoring each spoonful of the hearty stew, feeling grateful for the simple pleasures of life. The gentle gurgle of the nearby creek provided a soothing soundtrack to the evening, lulling me into a state of peaceful contentment. Under the vast expanse of the night sky, I reflected on the beauty of nature and the tranquility of the wilderness, finding solace in the embrace of the natural world.
Davis Creek camping area offers a variety of bushwalking trails, suitable for all visitors. Some trails are only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles. The area provides a tranquil natural setting with opportunities to relax under the canopying trees and swim in the sun-warmed water. I enjoyed the peaceful and secluded environment and the pristine cold water-holes.
One of my greatest joys is finding solace in a perfect city escape, a rarity in this modern world – silence. The absence of mechanical sounds, mobile phones, TVs, and cars created a serene environment. Far from the bustling city life and consumerism, my camping trip at Upper Davies Creek provided a much-needed break. As I reluctantly made my journey back home, I realized that Davies Creek Falls camping is a must-do activity in Far North Queensland.
things to know and be aware of !!
- Davies Creek campground offers more privacy with further separation between campsites.
- It provides a fairly remote outback camping experience, but contact incase of serious problems is not possible.
- The campground lacks amenities such as showers, running water, a visitors center, and a camp store.
- Campers are expected to leave no trace and make reservations in advance, especially during peak times.
For those seeking a genuine bush camping experience near Cairns, the Davies Creek Campground is a welcoming haven where the symphony of nature’s sounds and the enchanting scent of eucalyptus create an unforgettable escape.
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