Byfield National Park: Coastal wilderness, sand dunes and secluded beaches
Located on Queensland's Capricorn Coast near Yeppoon and Rockhampton, Byfield National Park offers a very different Central Queensland experience.
Towering sand dunes, rainforest pockets, rugged coastal scenery and remote beaches combine to create one of the state's most diverse natural playgrounds.
The park forms part of one of the largest relatively unspoiled ecosystems on Australia's east coast and is a favourite destination for bushwalkers, campers, anglers and four-wheel-drive enthusiasts.
Byfield National Park at a glance
- Getting there: Byfield National Park is about 70km north-east of Rockhampton and around 25 minutes north of Yeppoon.
- Driving access: While parts of the adjoining state forest can be reached by conventional vehicles, many of the national park's most popular areas require a high-clearance four-wheel drive.
- Safety in the park: Visitors should familiarise themselves with Byfield National Park safety advice before visiting.
- Best known for: Massive sand dunes, remote beaches, rainforest-lined creeks, 4WD adventures and coastal camping.
- Ideal trip length: One to three days, although a long weekend allows time to explore both the national park and nearby Capricorn Coast attractions.
- Popular activities: Four-wheel driving, beach fishing, camping, bushwalking, swimming, birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
- Accommodation: National park and state forest campgrounds, beach camping areas, holiday parks and accommodation in nearby Byfield and Yeppoon.
- Best time to visit: April to October, when temperatures are milder and conditions are generally more comfortable for camping, walking and four-wheel driving.
How to get to Byfield National Park
Byfield National Park is located on Queensland's Capricorn Coast, around one hour from Rockhampton and 25 minutes from Yeppoon.
Visitors travelling from Brisbane can reach the park via the Bruce Highway and Yeppoon Road, while regional travellers can fly into Rockhampton Airport and hire a vehicle.
Access to some of the park's remote coastal areas requires a suitable four-wheel drive.
Explore a diverse landscape
One of Byfield's greatest attractions is the sheer variety of landscapes packed into a relatively small area.
Visitors can discover rainforest-lined creeks, ancient cycads, rugged mountain ranges, expansive coastal heathlands and some of the largest sand dunes in Queensland.
The park is also home to several plant species found nowhere else, including the rare Byfield fern and Byfield grevillea.
Stoney Creek is recommended as a great spot to cool off.
Cool off at Stony Creek
Located within Byfield State Forest, Stony Creek is one of the region's most popular day-use areas.
Crystal-clear water flows over granite boulders into inviting swimming holes surrounded by bushland.
A short walking circuit provides opportunities to spot native birds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Hit the walking trails
Whether you're after a short stroll or a more challenging adventure, Byfield offers walking tracks to suit a range of abilities.
The easy Banksia Robur Circuit passes through wetlands and heath country, while the Bowenia Rainforest Circuit showcases the area's diverse vegetation communities.
More experienced walkers can tackle the Creek to Coast Track, which traverses a range of landscapes from coastal hinterland to the ocean.
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Stockhard Point offers great views of the coastline and ocean.
Discover Five Rocks and Nine Mile Beach
For many visitors, the highlight of a trip to Byfield is reaching its spectacular coastline.
Five Rocks Beach and Nine Mile Beach are popular 4WD destinations where long stretches of sand meet the Coral Sea. Fishing, beach camping, surfing and wildlife spotting are among the favourite activities in these remote locations.
The journey itself is part of the experience, with tracks passing through coastal woodlands, heathlands and towering dune systems before emerging onto the beach.
Camping under the stars
Camping is one of the best ways to experience Byfield.
Campgrounds are available at Five Rocks, Nine Mile Beach and several locations within Byfield State Forest, including Water Park Creek and Upper Stony.
Options range from family-friendly sites to more remote coastal camps for self-sufficient travellers. Camping permits are required and fees apply.
Wildlife in Byfield National Park
Byfield National Park is home to a diverse range of native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, lace monitors and more than 200 bird species.
Birdwatchers may spot rainbow bee-eaters, brahminy kites and kingfishers, while coastal areas occasionally attract migrating humpback whales during winter.
A section of the Bowenia Rainforest Circuit walking track.
Don't miss
- Swimming at Stony Creek.
- The Banksia Robur Circuit walk.
- Exploring the sand dunes and coastal scenery around Five Rocks.
- Beach driving and fishing along Nine Mile Beach.
- Camping beside Water Park Creek.
- Spotting unique native plants and birdlife.
Road trip tip
Pair a visit to Byfield National Park with nearby Yeppoon, Keppel Bay and Great Keppel Island. Explore the Capricorn Coast's beaches and coastal towns before taking a ferry to Great Keppel Island for snorkelling, swimming and island walks.
The Freshwater Creek Track in Byfield National Park.
Frequently asked questions about Byfield National Park
Can you swim in Byfield National Park?
Yes. Stony Creek is one of the most popular swimming spots near Byfield National Park, with clear freshwater pools and shallow areas suitable for families. Visitors should always check local conditions before swimming.
Do you need a 4WD for Byfield National Park?
Many of Byfield National Park's most popular coastal attractions, including Five Rocks Beach and Nine Mile Beach, require a high-clearance four-wheel drive vehicle. Some areas of Byfield State Forest can be accessed by conventional vehicles.
What is the best time to visit Byfield National Park?
The cooler months from April to October generally provide the most comfortable conditions for camping, bushwalking, fishing and four-wheel driving.
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