Carnarvon Gorge is located in Central Queensland Australia and offers a glorious camping opportunity far from the madding crowds.
The gorge is in Carnarvon National Park and is also part of the Carnarvon Great Walk - a six to seven day circuit walk around the rugged plateaus of the Great Dividing Range.
However you don't have to be that adventurous and you can spend a pleasant and fulfilling three days or so just exploring the many local walks and attractions the gorge has to offer.
The gorge has been sculpted over time (around 25 million years), by running water eroding the layers of basalt and sandstone down to a watertight shale level and now offers a verdant oasis in the semi-arid central Queensland region.
It now boasts towering sandstone walls and many side gorges for exploration.
Carnarvon creek flows down through the main gorge even if it hasn't rained for months.
This is because the sandstone acts like a giant sponge feeding the creek that cannot escape down through the water resistant shale forming the floor of the gorge.
Access to the gorge is via mainly sealed roads from east and west.
Though the last few kilometres are unsealed, they are accessible by ordinary cars, and the road adds to the excitement and anticipation of entering this other world.
Just before you reach the gorge you will find the Takarakka Bush Resort where you can camp in lush peaceful surroundings but with enough amenities to make life comfortable.
The resort hosts powered and un-powered sites, a well equipped camp kitchen, communal campfire for those chilly evenings, and has a modern amenities block with hot showers.
There is also a small kiosk with limited supplies, and don't forget the Friday night spit roast! I would suggest three nights minimum to be able to experience the wonders of the gorge.
The main gorge walking track is well defined and starts at the visitor centre, criss-crossing the creek via stepping stones as it winds its way along the floor of the gorge.
There are many side gorges to explore where you can spend time amongst moss gardens or view aboriginal rock art.
The aptly named amphitheatre is spectacularly hidden but accessible via well constructed steps and ladders.
Wildlife is abundant so don't be surprised - if like us, you turn a bend in the track and find yourself up close with a grey kangaroo feeding on the lush vegetation, or even spot a prickly echidna foraging in the undergrowth.
Unfortunately, this article cannot give the gorge the coverage it deserves, but you will be able to find out much more, and view some stunning images on my website noted below.
So, pack those walking shoes, pack the tent or caravan and make your way to Carnarvon Gorge, a true oasis in Central Queensland.