An hour north of Townsville, in Big Crystal Creek in Munan Gumburu / Paluma Range National Park, you’ll find a waterfall to your left and a rock slide to your right… hello waterpark wonderland!
We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Nywaigi Nation, the traditional Country of the Nywaigi people who have occupied and cared for this land for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.
Quick Overview
Big Crystal Creek is a fresh-water swimming spot, located in Queensland’s Munan Gumburu (Paluma Range) National Park. Driving from Townsville, it should take around an hour to reach. Once you’re in the car park it’s only a 500m walk to the water!
About Big Crystal Creek
Picture a natural slip ’n’ slide down smooth rocks, leading to a lush waterfall tumbling into a crystal-clear swimming hole – that’s Big Crystal Creek! Plus, there are camping spots and plenty of other pristine swimming pools nearby to explore.
Skill Level
Beginner
Essential Gear
- Water
- Snacks
- Camera
- Sun protection
- Insect repellent
- Swimmers
- A towel
Read more: Remember to leave no trace!
How To Get to Big Crystal Creek
The absolute gem, Big Crystal Creek, can be found not too far north of Townsville and is a must-visit freshwater swim spot for anyone visiting Queensland’s tropical north.
If you’re in Townsville and looking to find Big Crystal Creek, jump on the Bruce Highway heading north for around 55 minutes, before taking a left onto Barrett Road and another left onto Spiegelhauer Road.
On the way, you’ll pass the Big Crystal Creek camping spot positioned right on the creek bed which you can stay at for $7.25 per person, per night! You’ll also pass Paradise Waterhole, another freshwater swim spot that has its own campground that you can book online beforehand.
Around 2km past Paradise Waterhole you’ll come to a dirt lot aka the car park, so jump out and continue by foot, following the road beyond the gate about 500m until the signpost directs you to the left.
This’ll bring you out at the spectacular waterhole – Big Crystal Creek! Don’t be surprised if you need a few hours to explore this spot properly!
Photo thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland
What It’s Like to Visit Big Crystal Creek
Don’t be shy! Ride the rock slides and make a splash or frolic further upstream to find more private pools.
The rock slides are insanely fun and you can actually get a fair bit of speed, but if you’re like me and are looking to fly off the edge that’ll give you the most air, watch yourself!
Read more: Staying Safe Around Swimming Holes
For those not tempted by the slip ’n’ slide, you can retreat to the tranquil waterfall and splash around in the crystal clear green pool.
For me, this is the ultimate swimming spot on the coast of Queensland. Get amongst it!
FAQs Big Crystal Creek
How do I get to Big Crystal Creek?
Follow Bruce Highway north from Townsville for 45 minutes then take a left onto Barrett Road. Follow Barrett Road onto Spiegelhauer Road and continue to the swimming spot.
Can you go swimming at Big Crystal Creek?
Yes, this is an excellent swimming spot!
Can you camp near the swimming hole?
Yes you can camp at Big Crystal Creek campground. Explorer Eva reckons it’s one of the best campgrounds in Queensland.
Header photo thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland
Table of contents image by @evadavisboermans
More Adventures From Townsville
