{"id":185220,"date":"2025-04-15T01:27:45","date_gmt":"2025-04-15T01:27:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/adventure\/qlds-cobbold-gorge-where-you-can-paddleboard-among-crocodiles\/"},"modified":"2025-04-15T01:27:45","modified_gmt":"2025-04-15T01:27:45","slug":"qlds-cobbold-gorge-where-you-can-paddleboard-among-crocodiles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=185220","title":{"rendered":"QLD\u2019s Cobbold Gorge \u2013 Where You Can Paddleboard Among Crocodiles"},"content":{"rendered":"


\n
\"\"<\/p>\n

\n

Ready to step up your paddleboard game? Escape to one of Outback Queensland\u2019s hidden gems, Cobbold Gorge, for a chance to paddleboard between breathtaking sandstone formations, while keeping your eyes out for crocs.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

 <\/p>\n

We Are Explorers acknowledges that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Ewamian people who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Quick Overview<\/h2>\n

Located almost six hours from Cairns in Queensland’s Gulf Savannah region, Cobbold Gorge is the state’s youngest gorge and the perfect addition to an Outback Queensland road trip.<\/p>\n

About Cobbold Gorge<\/h2>\n

Surrounded by red dirt, Cobbold Gorge feels like an exclusive, secluded destination. Guests can visit for the day with a guided tour or stay in the village, which offers various accommodation options and a restaurant.<\/p>\n

Visitors can admire the incredible narrow sandstone formations from multiple perspectives \u2013 by air, walking over their tops, or from the water. Guided tours that showcase the history and sights of Cobbold Gorge are available, but the most thrilling experience is paddleboarding through the gorge alongside local wildlife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

History of Cobbold Gorge<\/h2>\n

Cobbold Gorge is on the Robin Hood Station, purchased by the Terry family<\/a> from the Clark family in 1964. In 1994, the Terry family began running tours from nearby Georgetown, and later developed Cobbold village, providing accommodation options. In 2009, in agreement with the Queensland Government, the family established Cobbold Gorge as a nature refuge, committing to the preservation of the land and its cultural heritage.<\/p>\n

The gorge was formed<\/a> by movements within the Earth\u2019s crust and shaped over thousands of years by rain and flowing water carving fractures in the sandstone. Guided tours reveal how geological changes over the past 10,000 years led to the formation of Cobbold Gorge, with its narrow width indicating that it’s the youngest of Queensland\u2019s gorges.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Traditional Owners of the land where Cobbold Gorge resides are the Ewamian People<\/a>. They hold native title over more than 2.9 million hectares of this region and have a deep cultural history of defending their land and negotiating agreements to protect its heritage.<\/p>\n

How to Get to Cobbold Gorge<\/h2>\n

The best way to reach Cobbold Gorge is by car. Located approximately halfway between Cairns and Karumba, it makes for a perfect stop on a road trip along Queensland\u2019s stretch of the iconic Savannah Way.<\/p>\n

Read more:<\/strong> The Savannah Way \u2013 A 5-Day Road Trip Across the Top of Queensland<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

If travelling from Cairns, take the Kennedy Highway to the Atherton Tablelands, then follow the Savannah Way for about 300km to Georgetown. This is the place to buy any last minute or emergency supplies. Up to this point, at least the middle of the road is sealed, though at times, one side of the car may need to travel on an unsealed surface.<\/p>\n

From Georgetown, drive 40km to the rural town of Forsayth, then continue another 45km to Cobbold Gorge. This section of the journey is on unsealed road, accessible by 2WD, but make sure to secure everything and be prepared for a bumpy ride.<\/p>\n

Where to Stay in Cobbold Gorge<\/h2>\n

Cobbold Gorge Village offers a variety of accommodation options. Visitors can choose from several room types, including various cabins and motel-style accommodation. Each room has an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning (well needed on an outback road trip!), a television, and a fridge. Room rates start from $165.<\/p>\n

For those traveling by caravan or trailer, or for those who prefer to sleep under the stars, the village\u2019s campsites provide the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, surrounded by Eucalyptus trees and Australian wildlife.<\/p>\n

Campsite facilities include a laundry, kitchen, and BBQs. Powered sites start from $48, and unpowered sites start from $19.<\/p>\n

Guests can also make use of the infinity pool for a little bit of luxury.<\/p>\n

Read more:\u00a0<\/strong>Cheap Camping Gear: What To Splurge on and Where You Can Save<\/a><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking to get back to the Savannah Way sooner, consider Cumberland Lagoon View and Chimney Campsite. Located about 20km from Georgetown, this historic site offers a great stay for a donation. The campsite is equipped with long-drop toilets and rubbish bins, and visitors can also see the historic chimney, a landmark of a former mining crushing plant.<\/p>\n

Where to Eat in Cobbold Gorge<\/h2>\n

You can choose to use the self-catering facilities in the village, or if you\u2019re looking for a night off from cooking, the MacDonald\u2019s Deck Licensed Bar and Bistro is a great option. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant offers outdoor dining with views of the bush and a billabong.<\/p>\n

For breakfast, guests can choose between light options or a cooked meal. Lunch features a range of choices, including sandwiches and burgers. Dinner serves classic Australian pub food, such as steak, schnitzels, and pizzas.<\/p>\n

Things to Do at Cobbold Gorge<\/h2>\n

Paddleboarding<\/h3>\n

Visitors are invited to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings on a SUP tour, gliding through the gorge as its walls tower above them. The daily 8am tours offer a serene 1.5 hour experience before the crowds arrive, with only one other group \u2013 the local freshwater crocodiles \u2013 for company. It\u2019s a fantastic way to get up close to the incredible rock formations and feel truly small as you drift through the water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tranquility is unmatched, with nothing but the gentle sound of your board slicing through the water and the occasional splash of local wildlife. Keep an eye out for the \u2018freshies\u2019 sunbathing on the rocks or taking a morning dip. But don’t worry, they barely bat an eye as you paddle past.<\/p>\n

Tours are open to guests aged 12 and over, with tickets priced at $34 for children and $68 for adults.<\/p>\n

Read more:\u00a0<\/strong>How To Stay Safe in Croc Country<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Day Tours<\/h3>\n

If you want to experience Cobbold Gorge from more than one angle, the three-hour day tour is a fantastic option. With transport available from both Cobbold Village and Forsayth, visitors can enjoy this experience whether they are on-site or not.<\/p>\n

During the 4WD bus journey to the gorge, you\u2019ll learn about this incredible natural landmark, its history, and the family who owns it. As you walk around the top of the gorge, you\u2019ll not only marvel at its stunning formations but also gain knowledge about its surrounding nature.<\/p>\n

One of the best moments of the tour is crossing the glass bridge, offering breathtaking views below. After the walk, you\u2019ll board a small boat for an hour-long cruise through the gorge, another great opportunity to spot crocodiles and other wildlife lurking in the water.<\/p>\n

Tours for on-site visitors start from $72 and $106 for Forsyth tours.<\/p>\n

Village Delights<\/h3>\n

Don\u2019t miss the chance to take a dip in the village\u2019s infinity pool, which overlooks Queensland\u2019s outback, or go kayaking around the billabong which you can see from this pool.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Essential Gear for Cobbold Gorge<\/h2>\n