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We have stayed here for a few days and could stay for many more. Beautiful scene, river beside us and safe swimming holes.

HRD photo of the Mulgrave River at dawn. Click the image above for a large version.

29km south of Cairns is the Gordonvale rest area, where there are toilets and tables. Around that is some larger spaces for caravans and campers to park. Looking off to the edges you will notice dirt vehicle tracks that lead down to the river, down here you can setup camp also. Beyond that we drove under both bridges and found a few nice spots. Although I don’t think technically this is part of the rest area, this is one of the best inland camp spots this convoy has discovered. There are plenty of shaded and private sites, rarely do you hear other people.

Great landmark for our camp spot, the view of Walsh's Pyramid Mountain when driving back from Cairns. Click the image above for a large version.

The river meets the base of Walsh’s Pyramid Mountain which is the largest in the area, definitely the most unique. Have had a good time relaxing here, sleeping a glutinous amount and thoroughly enjoying it.

Related article: ‘Free accommodation near Cairns‘

If you need a panel beater in Cairns then go see Jim at Jim’s Panel’s – 102 Kenny St. Cash only but he is a top bloke and does a top job, not really listed anywhere I could find.

Phone: 07 4035 4390

The part of the tree I reversed into

Good day trip from Cairns if you are looking for a more active time.

Ocean trampoline, snorkeling, glass bottom boat ride, sea kayak and surf ski all available. There are a few walks, the main one is from the jetty through a camp ground to the now unused lighthouse and then you can walk up to the summit which is about 300m above sea level.

This part of the road was constructed circa 1950, mostly by hand

We went on a very cloudy and windy day but it was still lots of fun, learnt a whole lot of new things about Australian flora and fauna. If you do head to Fitzroy Island and feel like relaxing a bit, bring a camping mat. All the beaches are about 50% coral and 50% sand so it can be a little bit uncomfortable to lie on.