4 Incredible Capricorn Region Experiences To Have On Your Big Lap

1. Beach Driving Adventures

Five Rocks. On the coast of Byfield National Park is this 4WD adventure lover’s dream. If the sand driving, large rock steps, and creek crossings weren’t enough for you, then the notorious sand dune, ‘Big Sandy’ will surely get your heart pumping. Follow the map to Three Rivers Beach for that insta-worthy shot of the five rocks, park up the top of stockyard point and walk down to beach, or keep driving towards Nine Mile Beach.

Farnborough Beach. If rocking and rolling through sand dunes isn’t quite on the agenda but you’re still looking for some smooth sailing beach driving, then Farnborough has got you covered. About 10 minutes north of the centre of Yeppoon, heading up towards the old Capricorn Resort, you’ll turn right at Bangalee and you’ll find access onto the beach. Make a day of it and bring the gazebo and BBQ. At the end of Farnborough Beach, you’ll reach Kelly’s Landing, a great spot for fishing. Just watch for crocs and stingers during the stinger season if you’re planning to swim.

2. Explore Great Keppel Island

This incredible island in the southern Great Barrier Reef is home to 17 white sand beaches all connecting by bushwalks or boat. This island offers magnificent flora and fauna to be discovered including pockets of coral reefs and sea life under the surface. The bar and bistro are in walking distance from the beach and campgrounds, and there are plenty of water activities and equipment for hire including snorkeling gear, SUP and canoes.

3. Get Lost In The Area’s National Parks

*not literally, of course!

Carnarvon Gorge. This 200-million-year-old natural landscape is lush with giant towering rockscapes, an abundance of native plants and wildlife, and incredibly sacred pieces of Aboriginal rock art that will leave you speechless. If you’re planning a visit, stay for at least a week if you want to get a glimpse of everything. Great for walkers, there are some long overnight walks and other short ones on offer.

Blackdown Tablelands. The Blackdown Tableland National Park offers beautiful walking tracks, swimming holes and stunning waterfalls. It is the traditional homeland of the Ghungalu people and walking amongst the towering rock walls and caves with fascinating aboriginal rock art will give you an incredible cultural experience.

Byfield National Park. Take a stop at Nob Creek Pottery and discover all the artistic handmade work on offer. Then head towards Stoney Creek where picnic tables, BBQs and a crystal-clear creek perfect for swimming will meet you. Then finish it off with one last dip in Waterpark Creek with more picnic facilities available. On the way home, drop into the Byfield General Store to pick up an ice-cream and other snacks.

4. Animal Adventures

Head to Rockhampton Botanical Gardens and Zoo for a walk in nature, watching the animals and feeding the ducks and turtles down at the lagoon. Entry is free and duck/turtle food is available at the kiosk.
Take a tour and hold a baby crocodile at the Koorana Crocodile Farm which holds over 5000 crocs and runs tours daily.

Cooberie Park Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect place for the family to meet the wildlife, help feed and interact with the animals. Some animals include koalas, kangaroos, monkeys, reptiles, parrots, and many more.

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