Located around the back of a dam in Danbulla State Forest, Lake Tinaroo is one of those spots the locals talk about. Popular for swimmers, skiers, fishing Barra (permit requried), red clawing, bird watching, and picnickers alike.
Fishing at Lake Tinaroo is on a Tinaroo Dam. Constructed in 1958 on Barrow river, it hold 436,500 lega litres of water, and has an average depth of 13 metres. Fishing here can be quite the experience either on a boat or just straight from the banks.
Most know for the Barramundi and Red Claw, Lake Tinaroo also has a healthy stock of Sooty Grunter, Fork-tailed catfish, archerfish, bony bream, silver parch, Sleepy cod and others. Unfortunately, Tilpia were illegally introduced here, and have established themselves. You should destroy this pest species if caught. (and in fact it is illegal to release them back into the lake if caught. )
A permit is required to fish within Lake Tinaroo. They can be purchased from a QLD post office, Government fisheries website or at the Kairi store. Under 18’s are free!
Boating Access: There are no restrictions – and several concrete boat ramps available.
There is a range of accommodations around Lake Tinaroo and in the various towns across this vast tablelands. There are 5 main camping areas along the 28km Danbulla road.
Nested under towering hoop pines, this waterfront camping area overlooks the dam wall and has beautiful lake views. You’ll find plenty of shade to set up camp in. The hoop pines here are more than 40 years old and supply high quality plantation timber for plywood, furniture and flooring.
Platypus camping area is in Danbulla State Forest, on the central part of the Atherton Tableland, 70km (1.5hrs) from Cairns.
Nestled on the banks of Lake Tinaroo, you’ll have endless water views from your camp site.
After you’ve set up camp, spend the day on the water, fishing, waterskiing and swimming, or check out the 2.4km Regeneration walk that leads to the Kauri Creek camping area.
Downfall Creek camping area is in Danbulla State Forest, on the central part of the Atherton Tableland, 70km (1.5hrs) from Cairns.
Set up camp in this peaceful camping area that has stunning lake and forest views and rich birdlife. Swim, canoe and fish from this camping area, or jump in your 4WD and explore the feature-packed Danbulla Drive. Enjoy a cool rainforest walk, or take in the stunning views from the Gillies lookout. Remember to take your lunch because there are quaint picnic areas scattered along the drive.
School Point camping area is in Danbulla State Forest, on the central part of the Atherton Tableland, 70km (1.5hrs) from Cairns.
Explore the park from you camp in this large, open area against a backdrop of rolling hills, forests and pine plantations. If you’re travelling with a large family or group of friends you’ll find plenty of space to set up on this water-flanked peninsula. Most sites have water access and all have stunning views of the lake and beyond.
Fong-On Bay camping area is in Danbulla State Forest, on the central part of the Atherton Tableland, 70km (1.5hrs) from Cairns.
