Iron Range National Park

• Introduction
• Fact file


Introduction

Situated on the far north-east coast of Cape York Peninsula, Iron Range protects the largest area of lowland rainforest in Australia, much of it in a pristine state. This dense, tall rainforest lies between rugged, heath-covered ranges inland and long sweeping beaches with rocky headlands at the coast. The park boasts over 320 plant species, and is home to some unusual wildlife species, many of which are found only here and in New Guinea. These include the brilliantly coloured eclectus parrot, the palm cockatoo, the nocturnal green python and the common spotted cuscus, a small possum-like animal. This remote area was once home to the Kuuku Ya’u people; their descendants now live at Lockhart River. European contact began in 1792 when William Bligh’s boat landed near here after the Bounty mutiny. Goldmining during the 1930s and 1940s has left relics near Gordon Creek, and there are abandoned military sites near the coast – Iron Range was a staging post for thousands of American troops during World War II.There is only one marked walking trail in the park, which is Old Coen Track (10 km,easy), leading from Rainforest camping area through rainforest and open woodland. There is a lookout with interpretive signs at Mount Tozer that provides scenic views over the surrounding heathland. Fishing is allowed at Chili Beach, although great care must be taken as crocodiles live in the waters. Visitors must be self-sufficient, bringing all supplies and water with them. Portland House is a beachfront holiday house for rent on Portland Roads Road.

Fact file

Camping

Rainforest, Gordons Creek, Cooks Hut, Chili Beach (most popular); all sites bush camping only; permit and fees apply

Location and access

2640 km north of Brisbane; 752 km north of Cairns via Peninsula Developmental Rd and Portland Roads Rd; 4WD access only

Park Information

• NQIS (07) 3227 8185
• Park ranger (07) 4060 7170
• QPWS Cairns (07) 4046 6600

Size

36 600 ha

Where to Stay

Portland House (07) 4060 7193


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• Campsites

Campsites

Chili Beach camping area

Chili Beach is near the north-east boundary of the park, reached by 4WD off Portland Roads Rd. From this campsite for self-sufficient campers only you can go for a walk along the beach or take the 5 km walk to the mouth... Find out more

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Cooks Hut camping area

Cooks Hut is near the Rainforest camping area on the banks of the Claudie River, near the junction of Portland Roads and Lockhart River roads. The campsite surface is a combination of dirt and grass and there are 4... Find out more

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Gordon Creek Crossing camping area

This campground is on the banks of Gordon Creek at the Portland Roads Rd, about 8 km north of the ranger HQ and under a kilometre west of the Cooks Hut camping area. There are no facilities so you need to bring... Find out more

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Rainforest camping area

Accessed by 4WD only, the Rainforest campsite is set in riverine rainforest on the banks of the Claudie River. The campsite surface is a combination of dirt and grass and there are 4 defined campsites available within... Find out more

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