Frequently asked questions

Facilities

Are there any powered camp sites?

No.

Are there any washing facilities?

No laundry or washing facilities are available. Campers must bring their own washing up bowl or bucket.

Are there any showers?

Showers are not provided at the camping area and there are no public showers available on Springbrook plateau, Natural Bridge, Mount Cougal or Numinbah sections.

Are fires allowed?

No. Fuel stoves such as gas, methylated spirits and manufactured fuels or other camping stoves can be used at picnic and camping areas. Please read more about fuel stoves before heading to the park.

Camping

Can I bring a camper trailer?

The Settlement camping area, located on the Springbrook plateau, is the only camping area within the park. All camp sites are well defined and suitable for tents, camper trailers and campervans.

Can I bring a caravan?

There is no caravan camping available in the park. The steep, narrow roads prevent caravans from accessing Springbrook plateau.

Will I get mobile phone service?

This depends to some extent on your carrier. Generally, coverage is moderate. Coverage is better from the parts of the plateau where you can see the Gold Coast.

What do campers do upon arrival at The Settlement camping area?

Stop at the information stand at the camping area entrance to find out more about the camping area and current park news for Springbrook.

Display your camping tag with your permit number, camping area arrival/departure dates, number of persons authorised, surname and vehicle registration by placing in a clear plastic bag and affixing it in a conspicuous place on your camping structure. If you can’t print your camping tag or obtain a hard copy tag, write these details on a piece of paper and display this as outlined above. Park rangers will check your camping tag to confirm you are lawfully camping in the area.

Should I be worried about theft?

There have been reported thefts from cars. We recommend that you carry any valuables such as car keys, garage remotes, wallets, cameras and phones with you. Thieves favour vehicles with valuable items on show.

Bushwalking

Can I drink the water?

Please supply all your drinking water as water quality cannot be guaranteed. If using water from the park, please boil or treat with water treatment tablets before drinking.

What will the weather be like?

The weather on Springbrook is changeable and often cooler and with more rainfall than the Gold Coast. For more information, see 'Climate and weather' or visit the Bureau of Meteorology.

Nature

Should I be concerned about snakes?

The two most common reptiles you will most likely see in Springbrook National Park are glossy black skinks known as land mullets, and sleepy carpet pythons. Snakes tend to be observed more in the warmer spring and summer months. Although there are twelve potentially dangerous species of snake in Queensland, it is unlikely that you will be at risk of being bitten.

For your safety, never attempt to pick up any type of reptile. The rule to remember is that snakes have right of way! If you see a snake, the best way to avoid being bitten is simply to leave the snake alone.

In the rare case of being bitten by a snake, seek medical attention immediately. It is recommended to carry a first-aid kit and be trained in first-aid procedures and always walk with another person.

What can I do to prevent leeches?

Leeches are common in rainforest, particularly after rain. Insect repellent on your socks helps keep them away. Seek medical advice if you have a reaction to a leech bite or bleeding persists after removal. It is recommended to carry a first-aid kit and be trained in first-aid procedures.

What should I do if I get a tick?

Ticks tend to live in forested areas with a dry, grassy understorey. However, during very dry weather periods, people have reported the occasional tick while walking on some of the rainforest walking tracks. Avoid ticks by wearing long sleeves and long trousers, hats and shoes. Apply insect repellent on clothing and exposed skin.

If you have a tick embedded under your skin, seek medical advice before removing. It is recommended to carry a first-aid kit and be trained in first-aid procedures.

References:

St John's Ambulance First Aid