Granite Gorge Nature Park - QLD

Telephone Number: (07) 4093 2174

Travel south-west from Mareeba, on Chewko Road, which winds its way around farms, hills and obstacles, until a turnoff to the right, which is well signposted.

Powered sites are situated close to the amenities, toilets/showers and a seperate laundry, and the unpowered sites stretch from near the toilets, up along Granite Creek, for perhaps 200 metres. If you want green grass, shade and being close to the creek, then head up the creek. There's quite a bit of room along the creek, even if you miss the best spots.

Didn't check the laundry, but the toilets/showers were very clean, with plenty of solar hot water. There was a rainwater tank situated near the amenities with drinking water available. The Reception Centre sold a few light snacks(crisps etc) ice-creams and drinks. Open fires, depending on current fire bans, are okay, but you might need to bring your own wood.

Activities are swimming, relaxing, bird watching, feeding wallabies and walking. The kids can interact with bantams, peacocks, parrots, some that talk, as well as the wallabies. Wallaby food is available at Reception, otherwise they are partial to rolled oats? There are a couple of walks, some easy, and some very difficult. Anyone can do the easy walks, kids included, but the more difficult walk should only be attempted by those who are quite fit!!! The daughter and I spent much of the time sliding along on our bums, while the SIL and his bro, bounced along like mountain goats.

Granite Gorge is also an excellent base for trips around the Tablelands too. Can recommend visits to the cheese 'n chocolate factory(with farm pets for the kids to pet), Tolga Pub for lunch, Tolga Woodworks(some beautiful craftsmanship here), Mt Uncle Distillery(for liqueur, rum 'n vodka tastings......don't drink too much) and for afternoon smoko a visit to the coffee works in Mareeba is a worthwhile stop too. They have LOTS of stuff to purchase, as well as good coffee, very nice cheesecakes and a variety of chocolates. A tasting of 2 liqueurs with smoko went down well. Nearly need a "Sober Bob" by this stage. If you like different types of fruit wines then don't miss out on a trip to the Golden Drop Farm, to taste their mango wines, and other goodies. Was impressed by just how clean & tidy the very large packing shed was, at this place. A few clicks north of Mareeba....

Well worth a visit, and we are sure to visit again.