A stop at the spectacular Cobbold Gorge is an absolute must for those travelling around North Queensland! In terms of Cobbold Gorge camping, the only option is the Cobbold Gorge Village – and while it doesn’t come cheap, it does come with lots of great amenities to make your stay very comfortable.
If you are planning on pulling up stumps in this gorgeous part of North Queensland, this guide to camping at the Cobbold Village will provide you with everything you need to know. As well as covering all the camping options, it also briefly covers the cabins and rooms, and all the details on all the village’s facilities.
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Where is Cobbold Gorge?
The Cobbold Gorge is an outback wonder, and it makes you work hard to see just how amazing it is… while it’s not the easiest place to get to, it is definitely worth it!
If driving, it will be around 6 hours from Cairns to Cobbold Gorge heading South-West, or 6 hours from Townsville heading North-West. From either location, most highways and roads are sealed however there are some large sections of fairly rough unsealed roads. It wasn’t too bad when we went through, and any vehicle (and caravan) could easily do it – however, it does depend on how much traffic has recently been through and the time of year. So it may well be worth touching base with Etheridge Shire Council for up to date conditions before heading out if you’re concerned. And note, Cobbold Gorge is closed during the wet season between November and March, due to access.
If you are concerned about driving this unsealed road, you can stay in Forsayth and book a tour bus – there is more on this option in the tour section below.
Cobbold Gorge Camping and Accommodation Options
Whether you want to pitch a tent, roll out your swag, stay in your home on wheels, or tuck yourself in at one of the cabins or suites, all options are covered at the Cobbold Gorge Village.
Cabins and Rooms
There is a range of accommodation categories at Cobbold Gorge; cabins, suites and rooms – each is covered briefly below.
Boundary Standalone Huts
Enjoy your private outdoor sitting area as you take in the views over the surrounding bushland. When you need to cool down, head inside your cabin to the split system air conditioning and have a lie down on your king bed. Huts include a small bar fridge and tea/coffee making facilities.
Station Suites
The ‘Station Suites’ are semi self-contained and great for larger groups or families with adjoining rooms available. Kitchen facilities include a small bar fridge, microwave, toaster and sink. There are shady timber verandahs to enjoy meals al fresco and air-con for those extra hot days.
Ringers Rest
Accessible accommodation suitable for wheelchairs, mobility impaired and disability friendly. These inclusive cabins feature an outdoor sitting area on a ramped verandah, air-con for comfort, and a small bar fridge and tea/coffee making facilities. With king bedding configuration.
Rouseabout Rooms
If you are after economical accommodation and travelling with only three guests, the ‘Rouseabout’ motel-style rooms could suit what you’re after. Kitchen facilities are limited to a small bar fridge and tea/coffee making facilities. However, what the rooms lack in facilities, they make up for in budget price.
Camping and Caravan Sites
There is a range of powered and unpowered Cobbold Gorge camping sites for those pitching a tent or driving a caravan. The sites are spacious and accommodate one vehicle (in addition to your caravan or camper trailer) per site.
The campsites are spread out across the property and are organised into three sections, outlined below.
Powered sites start at $44 per night for two adults, and unpowered sites start at $17 per night per adult. Children are $9 per night regardless of which site you stay on.
Powered Sites
Powered sites are available in 3 styles; powered, terraced drive thru and ensuite. All powered sites are close to the camp facilities, including kitchen, bathrooms, laundry and BBQs. If campsite surfaces are a factor for you, the powered sites are a mixture of pebble and dirt, whilst the terraced drive thru and ensuite have a pebble base.
Powered Sites with Ensuite
With the convenience of your own private ensuite on site, these spacious sites are behind the cabins and rooms, in a different area than all other campsites. This makes it a fairly secluded area. However, you’re still close to a laundry, BBQ and a short walk to all the village amenities.
Unpowered Sites
The unpowered campsites would be the best pick for those wanting to be as close as possible to the village amenities. Loads of trees provide plenty of shade and there are communal fire pits. It’s only a short walk from the swimming pool, Bistro and bar. The campsite surface is a mixture of grass dirt and from here, you’re a short walk to the bathrooms, camp kitchen and BBQ.
Located further away from the campground amenities block are the ‘self contained camp sites’. These sites are for travellers who have their own power and water. Mind you, it really isn’t that much more of a walk if you need to use the amenities.
Amenities at Cobbold Gorge Village
Even though Cobbold Gorge is far removed from the hustle and bustle of a modern town… this doesn’t mean they don’t cater to travellers with modern facilities. All the facilities you require are provided for, as briefly covered below.
Camp Kitchen
There are a couple of ways you can cook at Cobbold Gorge. There are two free gas BBQ areas to cook a snag; numerous campfire rings throughout the campground and a small camp kitchen (pictured above) in the amenities block for fancier meals. As you can see, the camp kitchen is fairly small, so I wouldn’t be relying on it to cook all your meals – but it does come with a microwave, toaster, kettle, oven and small fridge.
The camp kitchen is in the main bathroom block, located between the unpowered and powered campsites.
Fire Pits
While your own personal fires are not allowed at the Cobbold Gorge, multiple communal fire pits are located throughout the campgrounds.
Toilets and Showers
There is just the one main bathroom block at the Village, so you’ll want to be planning those showers for non peak times. Better yet, bring your own loo if you can – or maybe consider booking an ensuite site. Additional toilets are available at the reception area, a short walk from the unpowered campsites.
The toilet and shower amenity blocks are modern, clean and well maintained.
Laundry Facilities
There are two laundries within the village, one behind the reception close to the cabins and another in the bathroom block between the unpowered and powered campsites. The one pictured above is in the bathroom block. Washing powder is available to purchase from Corbett’s Store at reception.
Dump Point
You’ll be pleased to know there is a dump point on site for those self-contained campers.
McDonalds Bar and Bistro
If you want to take a break from cooking, check out the Mcdonald’s Deck Bar and Bistro. Overlooking the Infinity Pool with stunning views of the eucalyptus trees lining the freshwater billabong, you will enjoy hearty outback meals tailored to different tastes and budgets – delivered in a relaxed and friendly setting.
The Cobbold Gorge ‘Meal Deal’ is cost effective and includes a 3-course dinner for adults (2-courses for kids), continental cooked breakfast and a barista coffee. The price is $78 per adult and $42 per child.
Kiosk
Corbett’s Store is here to help you out with all the necessities. It stocks basic grocery items, some gifts, and souvenirs. If you intend to do some laundry at the on-site washing machines, Corbett’s Store stocks some laundry powder as well.
Activities and Facilities at Cobbold Gorge Village
The Cobbold Gorge Village is jam packed full of activities to explore this stunning setting – check out some of them below.
Cobbold Gorge Tours
Be awed by the breathtaking Cobbold Gorge. This natural wonder is on private property, so access is via guided tour only, led by a professional Savannah Guide; you will learn about the history and evolution of the gorge and the surrounding landscape.
Gorge Tour from Cobbold Gorge
Traverse Australia’s first fully glass bridge, spanning a 13-metre gap and 19-metre drop… make sure to leave your fear of heights at home. This 3-hour tour also encompasses a circular escarpment walk (approx 1.5 hours) led by your Savannah Guide and a boat cruise (approx 45mins) where you glide on custom-made, electric powered boats – keep an eye out for the freshwater crocodiles!
Departing Times: Apr – Sept Daily 10am and 1.30pm | October 8am | Closed Nov – Mar
Price: $104 Adults | $52 Kids | $265 Family Pass (2A+4C)
This tour is for guests staying at Cobbold Gorge only
Gorge Tour from Forsayth
If you stay in Forsayth yet want to experience all that Cobbold Gorge offers, you can book a tour, either self-drive or including transfers from Forsayth. However, the 3-hour tour will be the same as above with updated pricing and transfer times.
Self-Drive Travellers
Departing Times: Apr – Sept Daily 10am and 1.30pm | October 8am | Closed Nov – Mar
Price: $116 Adults | $58 Kids | $296 Family Pass (2A+4C)
Travellers with transfers provided ex Forsayth
Departing Times: April – October: Departs from Goldfields Hotel Tuesdays 9.40 am, and Thursday 9.20 am – includes the 1.30 pm Cobbold Gorge Tour – returns to Forsayth 5.30 pm.
Price: $177 Adults | $91 Kids | $464 Family Pass (2A+4C)
This tour is for guests NOT staying at Cobbold Gorge only
SUP Tour
For a truly serene stand up paddleboarding experience, give it a go at Cobbold Gorge. With no waves or wind, beginners will take to the SUP friendly conditions. Tours include transfers to and from Cobbold Village to the gorge, all equipment, tuition and a 1-hour tour of the gorge.
Location: Cobbold Gorge
Opening Hours: Varies
Price: $58 Adults | $29 Kids
Scenic Helicopter Flights
If you want a real bird’s eye view of Cobbold Gorge, why not do so in a helicopter! You will be able to experience the true scale of the gorge in all its glory in this thrilling experience.
There is a range of helicopter flights to choose from. From set 15 to 30 minutes flights to sunset or heli-fishing. However, the sky really is the limit when deciding on a flight – you can choose where you want to go and what you want to do, from gem fossicking at Agate Creek to an extended charter exploring hidden gorges – and the team at Cobbold Gorge will price it up and make it happen. We highly recommend the sunset picnic tour – where else in the world do you get the chance to fly to a secluded spot and watch the sunset over the sandstone cliffs while enjoying wine and cheese!
Location: Cobbold Gorge
Opening Hours: Daily
Price: 15 minute flights start from $330 for 1 person | $175pp for 2 – 3 people in the chopper
Swimming Pool
The award-winning infinity swimming pool takes pride of place at Cobbold Gorge. Enjoy the sweeping views over the freshwater billabong and golden savannah grasslands whilst you sip on your beverage of choice from the swim-up Boomerang Bar. The pool also has a shallow kids pool and a spa.
Billabong
The freshwater Billabong is stunning to look at… it is also a wonderful water playground! Cobbold Gorge provides both aqua golf and kayaking on the billabong. Get your swing into gear as you try to hit the floating target; once you’ve hit all your balls, paddle out on a kayak to retrieve the floating balls… you will want to collect all of them to get your $5 deposit per ball returned.
Bushwalking and Bike Tracks
There are four bushwalking tracks, three of which are suitable for mountain biking.
The two shortest and easiest tracks are both graded level 1. They are Dell’s Lookout (2km return – bushwalking only, no biking) and Diggers Track (2.5km return – both bushwalking and biking). On these tracks, you will pass through some typical Savannah bushland and have the opportunity for some bird watching.
The Loop (5km return – both bushwalking and biking) is a Grade 1 difficulty and relatively easy to traverse. There’s loads of wildlife and birds to distract from ‘tired legs’.
The other longer track is Russell’s Lookout which is the most challenging; graded 3, its 4.5km return is suitable for bushwalking and biking. The track has a steep incline to reach the summit, but you will have stunning views over Cobbold Village and the sandstone outcrops and escarpments that mark the territory.
Please note that Cobbold Gorge does not provide mountain bikes or helmets.
Cobbold Gorge – Our Verdict
Cobbold Gorge is one of those places you need to see to believe; the photos look amazing; however when you’re there in person and experience the eerie silence in the gorge, the whistle of the birds, the swaying of the savannah grasslands… it is all so mesmerising. It is well worth the trip.
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Hopefully, you found this guide to camping at the Cobbold Gorge Village helpful. Check out our guide on visiting Cobbold Gorge here or read our guide on camping at Undara Lava Tubes, which is just a 3 hour’s drive east of Cobbold Gorge.
