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Fraser Island, Great Sandy National Park

  • Nature, culture and history
  • Frequently asked questions

    • Park alerts and park summary

    Getting there and getting around

    Fraser Island World Heritage Area. Photo: EPA.
    Fraser Island World Heritage Area. Photo: EPA.

    Fraser Island is about 300km north of Brisbane and 15km off the coast of Hervey Bay and Maryborough.

    Vehicle access (4WD only) is via barge from:

    Vehicle barges also take walk-on passengers. Passenger launch services run daily from Urangan boat harbour.

    A vehicle access permit must be purchased and displayed on your vehicle windscreen before driving on Fraser Island. Buy all permits before you go.

    Passenger flights operate daily from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island. Flights are also available from Maroochydore.

    Commercial tours of the island operate from Rainbow Beach, the Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay and Brisbane.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    Wheelchair toilet facilities are available at Central Station, Wanggoolba Creek barge landing, Waddy Point, Lake Garawongera, Ungowa and Dundubara campgrounds and day-use areas.

    Park features

    The world's largest sand island, Fraser Island is an area of remarkable natural beauty. It was listed as a World Heritage Area in 1992. The listing recognizes the island's internationally significant natural features:

    Growing on seemingly infertile sands is a great variety of plant communities ranging from coastal heath, mangrove forests and swamps to subtropical rainforest.

    The many archaeological remains on Fraser Island record thousands of years of culture and tradition, providing important links for the Butchulla people of today to their past.

    The island is 123km long and covers an area of 166,038ha, so you will need to allow plenty of time to explore and appreciate it.

    Camping and accommodation

    Camping

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) manages a number of formal campgrounds, informal beach camping zones and walkers' camps. Camping permits are required and fees apply.

    Formal campgrounds

    Formal campgrounds include Central Station, Dundubara, Waddy Point top and Waddy Point beachfront. Smaller campgrounds are at Lake Boomanjin, Ungowa and Wathumba.

    Campgrounds have formalised campsites, water taps or tap stations, and toilets. Most have gas barbecues, deep sinks for washing dishes and information displays. All campgrounds have a 9pm noise curfew and generators are not permitted.

    Beach camping zones

    These are informal camping areas with no facilities, behind the foredunes on the eastern beach. Camp only where permitted (within signposted zones) and always at least 50m from watercourses. Vehicle access is by formed entrance tracks only.

    Western beach camping areas are marked on the map and offer quiet, wilderness experiences. Many are accessible by boat, but permits are still required. Generators are permitted in these areas, but please consider others and only use them between 9am and 9pm.

    Generators are not permitted in the Garulim, Dulara and Midyim camping areas and people camping in these areas must also provide their own portable toilet.

    Walkers' camps

    These are small, walk-in camping areas along the Fraser Island Great Walk. Book your Great Walk campsite online.

    Camping with children

    Visitors camping with children up to the age of 14 should camp in fenced campgrounds. These are available at Lake Boomanjin, Central Station, Dundubara, Waddy Point (top campground) and Dilli Village (privately operated).

    Open campfires

    Open campfires are prohibited on Fraser Island except in the communal fire rings provided by EPA at Dundubara and Waddy Point campgrounds. Bring your own firewood. Only bring milled timber off-cuts, not bush timber. It helps to reduce risk of introducing pests and plant diseases to the island. Collecting bush wood (even twigs) from the national park is illegal. Never leave a fire unattended, stay with your children and extinguish the fire before leaving the area, using water not sand.

    Bookings

    Plan your trip in advance as bookings are required for most campgrounds and some beach camping zones. These are:



    Read Things to know before you go for information about essentials to bring with you to when camping on Fraser Island.

    Other accommodation

    There is a range of holiday accommodation in and around townships of Kingfisher Bay, Eurong, Orchid Beach, Happy Valley, Cathedral Beach, Dilli Village and Eastern Beach. For more information see the tourism information links below.

    Things to do

    Sightseeing

    Take some time to visit some of the major sights on Fraser Island. Stay clear of areas without formal walking tracks or designated roads. Here are some of the more popular sights to see, but there are many more for you to discover.

    Lake Boomanjin

    This is the largest perched lake in the world, covering almost 200ha. Its waters are stained brown by tannins leached from the vegetation. Please read the water safety guidelines below.

    Central Station

    Many walks leave from Central Station. Stroll through the rainforest along Wanggoolba Creek boardwalk, visit the peaceful Basin Lake, or stand among some impressive satinay trees in Pile Valley.

    Lake McKenzie

    This inland, perched lake is a popular site. White sand and sparkling blue waters attract many visitors. Parking is limited — best to visit before 10.30am or after 2.30pm. Please read the water safety guidelines below.

    Lake Wabby

    This is the deepest lake on Fraser Island. Its shore lies at the advancing edge of the Hammerstone Sandblow. Drive around (Cornwell's Break Road) and up to the ridge above the lake, where a short walk takes you to a splendid lookout offering a view of this barrage lake and the sandblow that is slowly engulfing it. Please read the water safety guidelines below.

    Eli Creek

    Cool off next to this crystal clear freshwater creek, that flows through vegetated banks and right out to the beach. Watch for eels and frogs from the boardwalk, and see small fish (empire gudgeon and jungle perch) swimming against the current. Please read the water safety guidelines below.

    Kingfisher Bay

    Sheltered coastline, impressive views across the Great Sandy Strait and historical sites are all within easy walking distance of Kingfisher Bay.

    Lake Allom

    Tucked into a rainforest hollow, this lake offers a cool respite from the beach environment. A circuit track around the lake meanders through a variety of plant communities. Wait on the viewing platform and watch for freshwater turtles, but please do not feed them. Please read the water safety guidelines below.

    Wungul Sandblow

    Enjoy expansive coastline views from the first dune crest of this sandblow.

    Waddy Point headland

    Take in a vista of beach and ocean. Watch for sea turtles, sharks and stingrays coasting along.

    Binngih Sandblow (Waddy Point)

    Catch sweeping views across Waddy Point headland and north over Marloo Bay to Sandy Cape, the site of the only lighthouse on Fraser Island.

    Ocean Lake

    Ocean Lake is home to a variety of water birds taking advantage of the reeds and undisturbed sections of the lake. Nearby, an easy walk through cypress, banksia and melaleuca woodland offers a good lookout with panoramic views. Please read the water safety guidelines below.

    Walking

    The best way to explore and enjoy Fraser Island is at close quarters on its walking tracks. Choose from short boardwalks through rainforests, to strolls around a lake or longer walks across a sandblow. Long distance walkers will enjoy the 90km Fraser Island Great Walk with walkers' camps along the way for that special wilderness camping experience.

    Please read Walking safely before you walk on Fraser Island.

    Driving

    Fraser Island's beaches and sandy inland roads are suitable only for four-wheel-drive vehicles. Engage 4WD (and lock hubs if necessary on your vehicle) as soon as you start driving on sand. Read and heed all signage. All road rules apply.

    Many of Fraser Island's features and walking tracks are accessed by a few scenic drives. Inland roads are only suitable for 4WD vehicles with high clearance. Trailers and caravans are not recommended. Be aware that road conditions can vary. During times of extended dry or wet weather, drivers can expect difficulties in traversing island roads. After severe natural events such as storms and fires, roads may become impassable. Check road and beach conditions prior to travel.

    Please read Driving safely before you drive on Fraser Island.

    Guided tours and talks

    Commercially operated guided tours are available; see the tourism information links for more information.

    Picnic and day-use areas

    Most day-use areas on Fraser Island offer toilets, water (but not always suitable for drinking), and picnic tables. Some have shelter sheds, gas barbecues, and washing-up sinks.

    Boating and fishing

    Power boats and vehicles are not permitted in lakes or streams. Please read the Fish right guidelines before fishing around Fraser Island.

    Things to know before you go

    Essentials to bring

    First-aid kit and prescription medicines

    There is no pharmacy or resident doctor on the island. Bring adequate supplies of any prescription drugs you need and a well-equipped first-aid kit. It's always wise to have at least one person with a current first-aid certificate in your group.

    Drinking water

    Bring your own drinking water and containers. Drinking water can be collected from taps in Central Station, Dundubara, and Waddy Point campgrounds and day-use areas, and at a tap on the beach in front of Eurong information centre. All other taps, lake or stream water is not suitable for drinking unless treated. However, it is advisable to treat all water before drinking. Pack water treatment tablets or boil water for at least 5-10 minutes.

    Fuel stoves

    Bring fuel stoves for cooking. Campfires are not permitted anywhere on Fraser Island except in communal fire rings provided at Dundubara and Waddy Point campgrounds. Test your fuel stoves before leaving on your trip and never use them in confined spaces such as tents.

    Firewood

    Firewood is not provided. Collecting bush wood (even twigs) from the national park is illegal. Campfires are only permitted in the communal fire rings provided at Dundubara and Waddy Point campgrounds, and you must bring your own firewood. Only bring milled timber off-cuts, not bush timber. It helps to reduce risk of introducing pests and plant diseases to the island.

    Extra hints

    Opening hours

    The park is open 24 hours a day. The opening hours of the EPA offices on the island are variable and dependent upon conditions in the park:

    Eurong Information Centre
    • ph (07) 4127 9128
    EPA Dundubara
    • ph (07) 4127 9138
    EPA Waddy Point
    • ph (07) 4127 9190

    Permits and fees

    Buy all vehicle and camping permits before you go. Some camping sites requiring bookings as well. Plan ahead. Camping fees and vehicle access permit fees apply.

    Vehicle permits

    All vehicles must have a current Fraser Island RAM vehicle access permit, purchased before entering the island and fixed to the lower left side of the windscreen. Unregistered vehicles are not permitted on Fraser Island.

    Camping permits

    EPA camping permits are required for all camping (except in privately run campgrounds) and must be prominently displayed at your camp. School and public holidays are very busy. Purchase permits well in advance and be aware that some campgrounds require bookings.

    Permit refunds

    Refunds are granted only if requested before the permit commences or in extenuating circumstances (not simply bad weather). Notify the EPA Maryborough office in writing and include any unused permits.

    Pets

    Domestic animals are not permitted in Fraser Island section, Great Sandy National Park.

    Climate and weather

    Fraser Island has a subtropical climate with temperatures moderated by proximity to the sea. Average coastal temperatures range from 22 to 28 degrees Celsius in December and 14 to 21 degrees Celsius in July, although it can be more extreme inland.

    Annual rainfall varies across the island, from 1200mm on the coast to 1800mm inland. Wettest months are January to March (about 160mm rainfall per month) with drier months in winter/spring (54mm rainfall in September). Moderate winds predominate from the southeast; storms are not uncommon with occasional severe storms.

    For more information see the tourism information links below. Weather forecasts are available from the Bureau of Meteorology.

    Fuel and supplies

    Mishaps on Fraser Island can be costly. Rescues are difficult and may impact on the island's fragile ecosystems. Good preparation is essential.

    Fraser's sandy tracks or beaches are 4WD only. Vehicles with low clearance may find some inland tracks impassable. Ensure the vehicle is mechanically sound. Pack spares, water, tyre gauge, air pump, tow rope, snatch strap, and a shovel. Load the vehicle evenly.

    Fuel (not autogas), restaurants or takeaway food outlets, shops with gas and ice are generally open 8am–5pm at all the towns. EFTPOS is available in some places.

    Public telephones are located at Eurong, Happy Valley, Cathedral Beach, Kingfisher Bay, Orchid Beach, Dundubara, Waddy Point, Central Station, Yidney Rocks cabins and Indian Head. CDMA mobile phone coverage is available along most of the eastern beach.

    Staying safe

    Read all information

    Many safety and regulatory signs warn visitors of dangers, rules and regulations, and ways to help conserve Fraser's special features. Walking track entrances, campgrounds and day-use areas have information and orientation signage, including site-specific interpretive materials. For your safety, please read and heed signs.

    Driving safely

    Beaches

    Beaches have particular driving hazards.

    Driving on the western beach is not recommended.

    Do not enter areas along the western beach, which are closed to vehicle access. Check your map for details.

    Normal road rules apply

    All inland roads, vehicle tracks and beaches are designated roads and normal road rules apply. Police patrol all areas of Fraser Island. Speed checks and breath testing can happen at any time of day. Maximum allowable blood alcohol level for drivers in Australia is .05.

    Speed limits on the island:

    But always drive to suit conditions.

    Only use indicators when overtaking or turning. Keep to the left of oncoming vehicles at all times.

    Right of way

    All standard give-way rules apply. However, most of the roads are narrow and carry two-way traffic. When safe, give right of way to buses, trucks and to vehicles travelling downhill or towing trailers. Passing bays are frequent. If possible, drive forwards into them.

    Give way and drive slowly around dingoes, birds and other wildlife on the beach.

    Aircraft

    Aircraft landing zones are signposted and marked with orange cone markers along the beach. Planes need to land on the harder sand close to the water's edge. Vehicles should move to the upper beach, but not onto vegetation drivers should heed aircraft traffic controller directions.

    Tyre pressure

    If you choose to reduce tyre pressure to help with traction in soft sand, particularly at Indian Head bypass and further north, select low gears and avoid sharp turns and sudden braking, as tyres can roll off their rims. When deflating, keep within manufacturer’s recommendations. Re-inflate to resume speed on harder sand and for mainland driving.

    Best travelling times

    Avoid driving during the two hours either side of high tide — and often for longer, as some areas are more affected than others by tidal activity and onshore winds. For safety, avoid travelling at night.

    Stay on formed tracks across dunes

    It is illegal to drive on dunes. Look for formed entrance tracks into beach camping areas.

    Don't let your trip turn to tragedy

    Slow down and give way when passing pedestrians, especially around the Maheno wreck. Pedestrians often cannot hear approaching vehicles above the sound of the surf. Never sleep, sit or picnic in vehicle traffic zones such as the beach, roads or campground access tracks. Remember that Fraser Island's eastern beach is considered a highway.

    Stay alert when driving on Fraser Island. Accidents have happened due to reckless driving or silly pranks. Passengers have suffered serious spinal injuries in vehicles travelling too fast for the road or beach conditions. If your driver makes you feel unsafe in a vehicle — say something. Slow is safe!

    Be very careful when crossing Eli, Wyuna and Coongul Creeks. Large volumes of water create steep creek banks.

    Never attempt to cross Wathumba Creek or Moon Point estuaries.

    Before crossing any creek, walk through it, if safe, to check the depth of water and softness of sand. Never stop your vehicle midstream; your vehicle may sink or stall.

    Dingo safety

    Fraser Island's dingoes are wild and unpredictable. They are among the purest strain of dingo in Australia and are protected by law. You cannot feed dingoes or any wildlife on Fraser Island. Rangers do check and you will be fined. Plan carefully to be dingo-safe. Follow the guidelines given in brochures and signs.

    Bring strong lockable containers to lock up food and rubbish from animals. Do not hang rubbish, food, fish, bait or burley from cars, trees or tents.

    Be Dingo-safe at the rubbish bins

    Important:

    Please report any negative or close encounter with dingoes as soon as you can to the nearest ranger or phone (07) 4121 1800 or email: dingo.ranger@epa.qld.gov.au

    Walking safely

    Walking over sandblows or up steep sections of tracks can be very tiring. On hot days, some people have suffered fatigue and heat exhaustion.

    Long distance walking

    Long distance walkers should take a map, compass, personal locator beacon (EPIRB), food, drinking water, appropriate clothing and first-aid kit.

    Plan for your own safety. Advise a reliable friend or family member of the itinerary. Be aware that, this person (not rangers) is responsible for alerting police if things go wrong. Work out a contingency plan. Always check track conditions just before you start and observe any closures or track signage.

    Water safety

    People have suffered serious injuries in water-related accidents. There are no patrolled swimming areas on Fraser Island. Avoid tragedy.


    Bushfire safety

    During high fire danger periods, total fire prohibitions will be declared. This means no campfires at all. Be vigilant with fuel stoves, gas lights and lanterns.

    Bushfires can pose a threat to walkers and campers. They can occur without warning, so be aware of, and be prepared for, the dangers.

    If there is a bushfire, follow the track to the nearest road, beach, lake or creek for refuge. Large logs, a ditch or burnt ground can also provide protection. Avoid areas of heavy fuel, such as deep leaf litter, and stay low to the ground where the air is coolest and contains the least smoke.

    In extreme conditions, walking tracks and camping areas may be closed at short notice for your safety. Rangers also carry out planned fuel reduction burning. If you see a fire, please alert a ranger office or phone 000 as soon as possible. Report arson immediately to police.

    For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

    Looking after the park

    Rubbish

    Waste transfer stations are provided at the following locations:

    Please help to reduce litter and look after this World Heritage Area.

    Leave no hazardous waste. Chemicals, batteries, used oil, paints, tyres and materials containing asbestos are not accepted at the bins. Take these materials off the island and dispose of them properly. Penalties apply for illegal dumping.

    Bush toileting

    Use toilet facilities whenever possible. Pack a shovel, for when bush toileting is necessary. Bury waste and the toilet paper 50cm deep and at least 50m from creeks or as signposted. Dingoes dig up shallow bush toilet sites. Bag and bin used tampons, sanitary pads or disposable nappies.

    Keep it clean

    Beach camping — leave no trace

    Fish right

    Keep wildlife wild

    See the guidelines on caring for parks for more information about protecting our environment and heritage in parks.

    Park management

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) manages Fraser Island as a world heritage listed protected area to conserve its natural and cultural resources. The whole of the island is national park (other than freehold areas such as townships) and is protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and the Recreation Areas Management Act 2006 to the low water mark. The Great Sandy Region Management Plan 1994-2010 guides the management of the area.

    Tourism information links

    Tourism Hervey Bay

    More information about Fraser Island is available on www.frasercoastholidays.info.

    For tourism information for all regions in Queensland see www.queenslandholidays.com.au.

    Further information

    EPA information and permit issuing centres

    EPA Customer Service Centre
    • 160 Ann Street, Brisbane
    • PO Box 15155, City East QLD 4002
    • ph (07) 3227 8185
    • fax (07) 3227 8749
    • email csc@epa.qld.gov.au
    • (8.30am–5pm Monday—Friday)
    Smart Service (for camping and vehicle permits)
    EPA Great Sandy Information Centre
    • 240 Moorindil St, Tewantin
    • PO Box 818, Tewantin QLD 4565
    • ph (07) 5449 7792
    • fax (07) 5449 7357
    • email greatsandy.info@epa.qld.gov.au
    • (8am–4pm daily)
    EPA Rainbow Beach
    • Rainbow Beach Road, Rainbow Beach
    • PO Box 30, Rainbow Beach QLD 4581
    • ph (07) 5486 3160
    • fax (07 5486 3335
    EPA Maryborough
    • Cnr Alice and Lennox Sts, Maryborough
    • PO Box 101, Maryborough QLD 4650
    • ph (07) 4121 1800
    • fax (07) 4121 1650
    • (9am-5pm Monday-Friday)
    EPA Bundaberg
    • 46 Quay St, Bundaberg
    • PO Box 1735, Bundaberg QLD 4670
    • ph (07) 4131 1600
    • fax (07) 4131 1620
    • (9am–5pm Monday–Friday)

    Other permit issuing centres:

    Marina kiosk
    • Buccaneer Avenue, Urangan (Boat Harbour), QLD 4655
    • ph (07) 4128 9800
    • (6am–6pm daily)
    River Heads Information Kiosk
    • Carpark at barge landing, River Heads QLD 4655
    • (6.15–11.15am and 2–3.30pm daily)
    • Arrive early enough to get your permit before the barge leaves.

    Contacts at a glimpse

    Mechanical assistance:

    Tow truck services:

    Taxi service:

    Barges:

    Air services:


    Fraser Island publications

    << Return to park summary

    Last updated: 17 April 2008