If you’ve never been to Cape York before—welcome to the adventure! This part of Australia is one of the most spectacular and rewarding places to explore. Here are some tips and highlights to help you plan your trip.
There is a Facebook group called "To The Cape York And Back Information" that is defintely worth joining.
Getting to Cooktown
CREB Track: If open, this is an awesome (and adventurous) way to get to Cooktown. Keep in mind, it’s often closed due to weather.
Bloomfield Track: Another scenic option that comes out near the Lion’s Den Hotel.
Note: Neither of these tracks are suitable for caravans.
If you’re coming by the main highway, the road is sealed all the way to Cooktown, most of the way to Laura, and a good distance towards Coen. You’ll also find intermittent bitumen patches for overtaking.
Travelling with Caravans
Every year, many semi off-road caravans make the trip north, but whether you bring yours is entirely up to you. Options for leaving your van include Laura, Coen, Moreton Telegraph Station, or Bramwell. Some places allow free storage if you stay the night.
Coen Free Camp: A great spot is a few kilometres past Coen on the riverbank—get in early as it’s popular!
Weipa
Weipa is well worth a stop. The road in is generally very good, and when leaving, you can take a shortcut (usually in good condition) back to the PDR at Batavia Downs.
Camping: Most travellers stay at the Weipa Camping Ground (07 4069 7871).
A new bridge is currently being built over the Archer River, making access even easier in the future.
Moreton Telegraph Station: A lovely place to stay and a handy spot to top up caravan water.
Bramwell Station: A short drive off the PDR (though the road can be rough). Known for its live evening music—well worth a visit!
Bramwell Roadhouse: The starting point of the famous Old Telegraph Track (OTT). Just 5 km north you’ll find Palm Creek, a great place to watch 4WDs in action.
Old Telegraph Track Highlights
Gunshot Creek: About an hour north, with a van storage area nearby. The crossing is legendary and fun to watch!
Fruit Bat Falls: Just off the Bamaga Road. A must-stop for a refreshing swim. National Park stays must be booked online, though there are plenty of free camps nearby.
Elliot/Twin Falls: Only 5–7 km further along the OTT. Safe for swimming and bookings available through the National Park system.
Nolans Brook: A stunning, clear creek and one of the most famous crossings. It’s around 30 minutes from the Bamaga Road and a great place to swim, camp, and watch the action as 4WDs and bikes attempt the crossing.
Jardine River
The Jardine Ferry is the only way across. Costs are around $160 for a car, or $250 if towing a van or trailer. No bookings are needed, but in early 2025 there were delays due to repairs—so it’s wise to carry extra food and supplies.
On the southern side, you can also visit the old Jardine Crossing site (about 20 minutes away), where people once drove across in the 1970s.
The Tip of Cape York
From the ferry, it’s only a short drive to Bamaga where you’ll find takeaway food and a grocery store.
Camping options:
Seisia: Offers camping but is not as popular.
Loyalty Beach: A large, relaxed campground with no fixed sites.
Punsand Bay: About 20 km closer to the Tip. Bookings are essential here.
From Punsand Bay, it’s around 40 minutes to the iconic Tip. Along the way, stop at the Croc Tent for souvenirs.
Don’t miss the Five Beaches Drive near the Tip—a beautiful coastal track that takes a couple of hours and is well worth it.