Big Crystal Creek

Home . Paluma National Park, QLD

All About

Big Crystal Creek

Highlights

DANGER: Sheer cliffs and waterfalls. One slip could be fatal—serious injury or death may result from walking near the edge. Keep to the track. Supervise children closely.

Big Crystal Creek is a must-visit Aussie Bucket List-worthy swimming hole located in the Paluma National Park an hour north of Townsville, Queensland. Enjoy a picnic or barbecue at Big Crystal Creek day-use area and a swim in Paradise waterhole and admire the scenery and wildlife.

Paluma Range National Park, the southern gateway for the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Mount Spec straddles the summit and escarpment of the Paluma Range, rising 1000 metres above the Big Crystal Creek floodplain. The upland rainforests are crisscrossed by a maze of streams and cascades. Open eucalypt forests dominate the lower slopes and casuarinas fringe the clear creeks. Set up camp at Big Crystal Creek and explore the surrounding tracks and waterways.

Take in the views from McClellands lookout, and admire the 1930s stone bridge over Little Crystal Creek. Escape the summer heat by picnicking near the creek before slipping into the one of the many cool waterholes.

Activities

Hiking
Camping
Swimming
Photography

Facilities

Toilets
Picnic area
Barbeque
Car park
Lookouts
Walking trails
Family friendly

Important Information

Guidelines

Always do some research before heading out for your journey. Visit the parks website for up to date information on the current conditions. Ensure to check for any updates relating to any warnings that may be issued for the area, and check for the opening and closing times.
Tropical North Queensland is crocodile country. Be croc-wise, particularly around water.
Wear suitable footwear and ensure to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements.
Plan ahead and ensure to take enough food and water for your journey.
Always stay on the marked tracks where possible. Never climb fences, they are there for your own safety.
Please consider the environment, take your rubbish with you or place in the bins provided. We want to ensure these beautiful places are still here for our future generations to enjoy.
Ensure to let a responsible adult know of your plans and report back into them once you have finished exploring for the day.
Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but memories.

Photo & content credits: Tourism and Events Queensland | The State of Queensland (Department of Environment, Science and Innovation) | Queensland Government

Location

Getting to Big Crystal Creek

Address: Big Crystal Creek, Paluma, Queensland 4816

Common Questions

Big Crystal Creek FAQ

Where is Big Crystal Creek and how do I get there?
Big Crystal Creek sits in Paluma National Park, Queensland. Most travellers arrive by driving one hour north of Townsville via Bruce Highway and Mt Spec Road. Rainforest streams tumble off Mount Spec, and there’s a shady day-use area with barbecues and toilets.
Why is Big Crystal Creek worth adding to my bucket list?
Paradise Waterhole’s clear pools make Big Crystal Creek a favourite swimming and picnic stop an hour north of Townsville. Rainforest streams tumble off Mount Spec, and there’s a shady day-use area with barbecues and toilets.
Are there any fees to visit Big Crystal Creek?
Access is free, but national-park camping fees apply if you stay overnight. If you’re planning extras like tours or camping, double-check current prices online before you go.
What safety tips should I know before visiting Big Crystal Creek?
Remember it’s croc country – always follow the safety signage. Always follow any local signage and check the Aussie Bucket List information page link for seasonal advice.