Dryander National Park

⛺ Grimston Point Camping Area (Dryander National Park, QLD)

📍 Description & Location

Grimston Point lies on the remote coast of Dryander National Park, north of Cape Gloucester and east of Gregory River. Accessible only by private boat, this hidden beachside nook offers back-to-nature camping framed by coral shores, low woodlands, and wildlife-filled scrub. It’s a pristine escape with only the sound of waves and birds for company.

📜 History

Dryander National Park protects one of the largest tracts of coastal bushland in the Whitsunday region. Traditionally used by the Ngaro and Gia peoples, the park shelters cultural sites and rare flora. Grimston Point takes its name from early coastal mapping and served as a lookout for passing maritime activity in the colonial era. Today, it's recognised for its biodiversity and remote tranquillity.

🚿 Facilities and Amenities

• Pit toilet

• Picnic table

• No drinking water or bins

• No fires or generators permitted (fuel stoves only)

• No lighting, no shelter, and no shore-based facilities

🚗 Vehicle Access

• No road access

• Boat-only access (approx. 7 nautical miles north of Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach)

• Anchorage allowed in calm conditions near beach landing

📝 Stay Information (as at July 2025)

• Fees apply

• Booking: Essential via Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service

• Authority: QPWS

• Site Type: Remote beachside camping area

• Maximum stay: Not stated

• Pet Policy: Pets prohibited

• Self-containment: Required

• Access Notes: No signage or jetty; informal beach landing only

• Contact: QPWS via online booking system

• Public-facing note: This is a remote backcountry site with minimal facilities—prepare thoroughly

🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• None accessible from site

• Closest options at Cape Gloucester (~25 km by road/boat), including Cape Gloucester Resort and Hydeaway Bay Tavern

🏕️ Nearby Campgrounds

• Cape Gloucester Resort (cabins only)

• Gloucester Islands National Park boat-access sites

• Dingo Beach informal coastal camping (~30 km away by road and boat)

🌿 Nearby Attractions

• Coral coastline with rock platforms and reef fringes

• Wildlife watching: Proserpine rock-wallabies, marine turtles, seabirds

• Excellent snorkelling opportunities in nearby shallow waters

• Hiking inland not recommended—dense vegetation and no trails

🛒 Nearest Supplies

• Fuel and basic groceries: Dingo Beach or Hydeaway Bay

• Full resupply: Proserpine (~50 km by road from nearby launch points)

• No access to supplies from campsite directly—must be fully stocked before departure

⭐ Reviews Summary

Positives:

• Stunning isolated beach setting

• Excellent wildlife viewing

• Peaceful and undisturbed atmosphere

Cautions:

• No access other than boat

• No water, no bins, no signal

• Weather-dependent anchoring

• Insect activity can be high in warmer months

🆘 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• Emergency: 000

• Mobile Signal: Not available

• UHF Channels:

  • Road Channel = 40

  • Emergency Only = 5

• Backup: Consider EPIRB, PLB, or satellite phone

• Safety Tip: Check tide charts, marine weather alerts, and crocodile risk signage

📝 Final Note

Grimston Point is ideal for the seasoned camper or boatie looking for absolute solitude in a marine-fringed corner of Queensland’s wilderness. It’s remote, raw, and rewarding—but demands full preparation and respect for natural risks. Treat it as a true off-grid adventure and you’ll be well rewarded.