Elliot River Park

⛺ Elliot River Park – Guthalungra QLD

📍 Description & Location

A well-established roadside rest area beside the Mobil at Guthalungra, tucked along the Bruce Highway. Surrounded by grassy open spaces and creek frontage, it’s a quiet, convenient stopover with a friendly, rural vibe. Perfect for a short break or overnight rest en route between coastal destinations.

🕰️ History

Guthalungra lies on the traditional lands of the Jangga people, and the Elliot River has long been central to local fishing and small-scale agriculture. Modern rest area development complements the town's heritage as a pastoral and transport waypoint along the Bruce Highway.

🚻 Facilities and Amenities

• Flushing toilets and hand basins

• Sheltered picnic tables

• Non-potable water tap (bring your own drinking water)

• Rubbish bins

• Nearby service station with basic supplies

No dump point onsite.

🚐 Vehicle Access

• Sealed highway access via a well-maintained turnoff

• Suitable for caravans, campervans, and big rigs

• Easy in-and-out parking off the highway

• Accessible year-round, weather permitting

🛏️ Stay Information (as at July 2025)

Site Type: Informal roadside rest area (non-commercial)Self-Contained: Must be fully self‑containedMaximum Stay: 20 hoursPet Policy: No pet policy foundBooking: NoneManaging Authority: Local council (rest area, not a commercial campsite)

🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• Guthalungra Roadhouse – Casual eatery and fuel stop, adjacent (serves basic meals)

• Bowen Tavern – Larger pub with meals and cold drinks, ~20 min drive

🏕️ Nearby Campgrounds

• Cape Upstart National Park Bush Camps – Basic coastal camping; accessible only via 4WD

• Bowen Coastal Campgrounds – Formal parks with powered sites, ~25 min south

🌄 Nearby Attractions

• Elliot River estuary – Fishing, boating, crab spotting

• Cape Upstart National Park – Beach drives and wilderness walks

• Guthalungra Prawn Farm – Local aquaculture interest with limited tours

🛒 Nearest Supplies

• Guthalungra Roadhouse – Fuel, snacks, ice, water

• Bowen – Largest local hub with grocery, pharmacy, clinic (~20 min away)

💬 Reviews Summary

Positive Aspects:

• Clean toilets and neat picnic areas

• Quiet overnight spot off the highway

• Service station next door fills most needs

Cautionary Aspects:

• Non-potable water only—bring drinking water

• No dump point onsite

• Bugs at dusk and dawn reported

🚨 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• Emergency number: 000

• Nearest hospital: Bowen Hospital – ~25 min drive

• Fuel: Available at adjacent roadhouse

• Mobile Coverage: Moderate; best on Telstra

• Auto Services: Bowen has full-service garages

• UHF Channels: Road Channel = 40 | Emergency Only Channel = 5

🧭 Final Note

Elliot River Park is ideal for travellers needing a clean, convenient, and informal stopover. With flushing toilets and sheltered facilities, it’s perfect for up to 20 hours of rest. Just remember to bring drinking water and ensure your rig is fully self-contained since there’s no dump point. A reliable and practical break on a long North Queensland journey.