Site to Sights
Jaxut camping area, Cathu State Forest
Bloomsbury QLD
Category:
Camping Ground
Whitsundays Mackay QLD
Area
QLD: GREATER WHITSUNDAYS
GPS:
-21.0693502, 149.0150071
Nearby Sights/Things To Do
⛺ Jaxut Camping Area – Cathu State Forest, Bloomsbury QLD
📍 Description & Location
Tucked alongside Pandanus Creek within Cathu State Forest, Jaxut Camping Area is a shaded, grassy bush escape about 12 km off the Bruce Highway. Surrounded by forest trails and creekline greenery, it’s a secluded option for 4WD-based campers and nature lovers.
🕰️ History
Located on Jangga Country, this forested site once supported logging access and forestry work but now serves outdoor adventurers, with its name and layout rooted in traditional camping and seasonal travel through the hills.
🚻 Facilities and Amenities
Composting toilet
Picnic tables and communal fire rings
Fires permitted in designated areas (restrictions may apply)
Generator use permitted under conditions (65 dB max, 9 am–8 pm)
No dump point on site
No drinking water—bring your own supply
🚐 Vehicle Access
Unsealed forest roads with seasonal creek crossings
4WD recommended; dry-season use by conventional vehicles possible
Suitable for tents and camper trailers
Caravans not advised due to rough access
🛏️ Stay Information (as at July 2025)
Site Type: Informal campground in State Forest
Tariffs: Consistent tariffs unavailable – contact Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service
Booking: Required via QLD Parks online system
Managing Authority: Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service
Maximum Stay: Not specified
Pet Policy: No domestic animals permitted
Self‑Contained: Not required
Access Notes: Seasonal closures and access limitations possible; check alerts before travel
Contact Info: Booking via Parks online | Phone 13 74 68
🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs
Bloomsbury Hotel – Country pub atmosphere, meals, ~15 min
Gargett Store & Café – Snacks and drinks, ~10 min east
🏕️ Nearby Campgrounds
O’Connell River Tourist Park – Formal park with facilities, ~10 min north
Lake Elphinstone Campground – Remote bush camp, ~45 min southwest
🌄 Nearby Attractions
Cathu State Forest 4WD and hiking trails
Lookouts and bushwalks along Clarke Range
Creek swimming (seasonal) and birdlife spotting
🛒 Nearest Supplies
Bloomsbury Store: Groceries, fuel, snacks (~10 min)
Proserpine: Full town services, ~30 min away
💬 Reviews Summary
Positive Aspects:
Remote and peaceful forest setting
Well-spaced campsites and natural shade
Fire rings and generator-friendly setup
Ideal for self-sufficient tent or trailer campers
Cautionary Aspects:
Rough road conditions and creek access points
No on-site water or dump facility
Strict no-pet rule
Limited mobile signal
🚨 Breakdown & Emergency Info
Emergency: Call 000
Nearest Hospital: Proserpine (~30 min)
Fuel: Available at Bloomsbury Store
Mobile Coverage: Very limited at site; check near highway
Auto Services: Proserpine or Mackay
UHF Channels: Road Channel = 40 | Emergency Only = 5
🧭 Final Note
Jaxut suits bush-savvy travellers ready for an off-grid experience in the hills of Cathu. While not for every rig or camper type, it rewards preparation with cool shade, quiet campfires, and access to scenic forest adventures.