Whenever we are planning a trip somewhere it is fairly rare for us to choose where we are going to stay before we go. But when we first started making plans for our trip to Carnarvon Gorge I discovered a new place to stay. Called Sandstone Park, I knew as soon as I saw it that it was where we were going to stay. And I can assure you we were not disappointed.
LOCATION
Sandstone Park is located on Carnarvon Gorge Road approximately 240 kilometres north of Roma and about the same distance south of Emerald. There is no fuel available at Carnarvon Gorge so make sure you fill up prior to arrival. There are also no shops so you will need to bring enough food to last your stay.
360` VIEWS
This campground sits high atop the ridge line and offers the most stunning 360` views of Carnarvon Gorge. Any direction that you looked the views were amazing. As were the colours in the sky at sunrise and sunset. Not to mention the stars. With no light pollution to dull their sparkle, they were simply breathtaking!
THE LAYOUT
Sandstone Park is known for its large sites. There are 41 sites in total and many of these sites can easily accommodate more than one van. All sites are now located on the upper section, with the reception office, caretaker and kennels on the lower section. Sites are indicated by timber posts with the site number on them.
Every site has a fire pit which was perfect for warming up on the chilly evenings. Firewood is available for purchase from the office or you can bring your own.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Sandstone Park is what you would class as a primitive campsite. Therefore, there are no amenities other than a few porta-loos. But don’t let that put you off. These loos are so clean, they put most public toilets to shame! There is also no power and limited phone reception, even if you are with Telstra. However there is a dump point and there is now drinking water available. (cost applies)
The above video is from our first stay at Sandstone Park in 2017 but it does give you an idea of what you can expect when you stay there. However, as I mentioned the Lower Section is no longer available for camping.
PET FRIENDLY
Perhaps the biggest bonus of Sandstone Park though is the fact that it is pet friendly. As other places to stay near Carnarvon Gorge are within the National Park, pets are not permitted, which I know makes life difficult for those who travel with their pets. Kennels are available for day hire at reception so you can leave your pet whilst you go exploring. $10 for a half day or $20 for a full day.
COST
Sandstone Park is $30 for two adults per night. Kids aged 5 and under stay free. Kids aged 6 to 17 are $7.00 and extra adults are $12.00 per night.
SUMMARY
We absolutely loved our stay at Sandstone Park. It was so peaceful and the views were just outstanding. If you are looking for somewhere to stay away from the crowds then maybe Sandstone Park will suit you too. For more information or to book your stay visit the Sandstone Park website HERE.
Listen in to their podcast episode https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/travelling-and-working-around-australia/
Looks like a great place to camp at Carnarvon Gorge. It looks like we will need to leave our doggie at home!
Not at all Kathy…Sandstone park is pet friendly and there are kennels available for hire for the day when you head into the National Park section.