Congratulations on taking the exciting step of buying an off-road camper for your 4×4 overnight adventures! Now you can explore the natural beauty of Australia in ways that most people can only dream of.
If you’ve bought your new 4×4 camper in Townsville, the surrounding landscapes offer the perfect playground to test its capabilities. But before you set out on your adventures, developing your off-roading skills is important. You want to focus on mastering crucial techniques like hitching and reversing, as well as understanding your camper’s capabilities. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy your off-road journeys with greater confidence and safety.
Fortunately, some fantastic places near Townsville allow you to hone your skills and get to know your camper a little better. Then, once you feel confident, you can head further on the open road. Here are our recommendations for where to get started.
Easy Day Trip: Hervey Range Road
Located around 40 minutes north of Townsville, the Hervey Range Road spans 125 km, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty and adventure. This route provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is great if you’re looking for excitement without major challenges.
Hervey Range is home to the oldest building in North Queensland, now known as the Hervey Range Heritage Tea Rooms. Explore the area’s history, including remnants of the closed rail line, abandoned stations, and the infamous Hervey Range tunnels. Don’t miss Piper’s Lookout for breathtaking views across the escarpment.
This track is a great day trip to practise driving your 4×4 with the camper attached. Camping used to be available at Keelbottom Creek. However, this has now been closed off by the Defense Force.
Challenging Overnighter: Paluma Range Bluewater Track
If you want to take your test to the next level, the Paluma Range Bluewater Track spans 55km and is located around 70km north of Townsville. This track takes you through lush rainforests and towering mountains, so you can expect rough terrains, water crossings and rocky steps – high clearance and low range for your vehicle are essential. The trail becomes increasingly difficult the further you venture into the Paluma Range National Park, earning its reputation as one of the toughest tracks in North Queensland.
Along the way, explore points of interest like Pine Creek Forestry Hut and historic artefacts such as old logging signs. The road up the range offers views across the valleys and out to the ocean. Halfway up, you’ll see the Bluewater Forestry Hut, an excellent spot to stop, admire the views, and enjoy a rest.
There’s plenty of camping along the track including Pine Creek Forestry Hut and Bluewater Forestry Hut. Be sure to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits for camping in the Paluma Range National Park.
Exciting Weekender: Dalrymple National Park
Located two hours from Townsville, Dalrymple National Park is a convenient yet exciting escape for a weekend adventure to test your new camper.
For the best of both worlds, the Dalrymple National Park provides a range of 4WD tracks catering to all experience levels. From the easy-going Black Mountain Track to the thrilling Valley of Lagoons Track, this park offers versatility for novices and seasoned adventurers alike.
While the Black Mountain Track may be considered easygoing, it still offers a taste of off-road excitement. Newbies can build their skills and confidence on this track, surrounded by the natural beauty of the national park. Meanwhile, experienced adventurers can take on the Valley of Lagoons Track, which presents more demanding conditions, making four-wheel drive essential for navigating unsealed and potentially boggy sections, especially after rainfall.
Camping is permitted on the southwestern bank of the Burdekin River, offering a serene setting under the gum trees. Facilities are minimal, so be prepared with camping permits and follow park-specific conditions. Before setting up camp, learn the park regulations, including open fire guidelines and generator usage.
Discover The Best Off Road Campers Townsville Has To Offer!
Ready to start exploring? If you’re after off road campers for sale, Townsville buyers won’t find better than the quality 4×4 camper options at JAWA. Get in touch with our team today, or head down to our Townsville showroom and see what’s available. It’s time to hit the road!
