Australia: The Land Where Time Began
Dalrymple National Park
What's special?
Part of the site of the former township of Dalrymple is in historic Dalrymple National Park. Built in 1864 on the western bank of the Burdekin, Queensland’s largest river, Dalrymple was the first inland settlement surveyed in northern Australia. During the gold rush days in 1869, Dalrymple was a thriving town. Following destruction by floods, the settlement was reduced to ruins by 1901.The park has a fascinating geological history with basalt flows and fossilised limestone. Mt Keelbottom rises 130m above the surrounding plain.
Open woodland with Moreton Bay ash and blue gum covers most of the park, providing a refuge for wildlife.
Dalrymple National Park is part of the traditional lands of the Kudjala people.
Exploring Dalrymple
Dalrymple is a quiet retreat for self-sufficient visitors. Bush camp under the river red gums on the banks of the Burdekin River. River flow is seasonal. Take fresh water and a fuel stove for cooking. Remove your rubbish.Explore or go birdwatching around Fletcher Creek. Fishing is not allowed. Look for rock-wallabies at dawn and dusk and greater gliders and sugar gliders at night.
You can also camp in the local authority campground 2·5km away at Fletcher Creek where tent and caravan sites, picnic tables, a shelter shed, toilets, cold showers and wood barbecues are provided. Take fresh water and a fuel stove.
Walking
Rough trails follow the Burdekin River and Fletcher Creek. Experienced walkers can hike to Mt Keelbottom. Contact the ranger at Charters Towers first and complete a remote bushwalking form beforehand. Wear a hat and sunscreen and carry drinking water.Getting there
Dalrymple is half an hour’s drive or 46km north of Charters Towers. From the south, take Gregory Development Road (Lynd Highway) then turn right into an unsealed road at Fletcher Creek Crossing and drive 2·5km to the park entrance.
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