Apudthama National Park (Jardine River)

Apudthama National Park – formerly Jardine River National Park – spans the remote northern tip of Cape York Peninsula. Established in 1994, it protects about 1,300 km² of tropical savannah, wetlands, and coastline around the Jardine River, Queensland’s northernmost river system. The park’s name, Apudthama, reflects the language of the local Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owners. This vast landscape of woodlands and swamps is extremely isolated, offering a genuine wilderness experience.

Geography: Apudthama NP encompasses the Jardine River catchment, including its numerous lagoons and swamps, as well as tall open woodlands on sandy soils. The Jardine River itself flows year-round, creating rich gallery rainforest along its banks. The park also features white sand beaches and dune systems on the Torres Strait coastline, and rocky headlands with views to nearby islands. The entire area has no settlements; the nearest community is Bamaga to the northeast, beyond the park boundary.

Wildlife: The Jardine River region hosts a high diversity of birds and other fauna. Wetland areas support waterbirds like magpie geese and brolgas, while the woodlands are habitat for notable Cape York species such as palm cockatoos and eclectus parrots. The endangered golden-shouldered parrot has been historically recorded in this region as well. Rivers and swamps are home to estuarine crocodiles (saltwater crocodiles), so visitors must take caution near any water. Feral pigs and wild cattle roam parts of the park, and park management focuses on controlling these to protect native habitats.

Visiting: Access to Apudthama NP is very challenging – typically via awd track during the dry season. A rough track from Bamaga fords the Jardine River (or uses the ferry) to enter the park. There are a few basic bush camping sites along the river (camping is allowed with a permit), but facilities are essentially non-existent. No toilets, picnic tables, or treated water are provided. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient and experienced in remote travel. The reward for the effort is solitude in a wild landscape few others reach. Fishing and camping along the Jardine River are popular with adventurous anglers, and the park’s beaches and crystal-clear streams showcase Cape York’s pristine beauty.