Bowling Green Bay National Park

Bowling Green Bay National Park sprawls across over 554 km² from the coastal wetlands of Bowling Green Bay to the summit of Mount Elliot (1,342 m) just south of Townsville:contentReference[oaicite:145]{index=145}:contentReference[oaicite:146]{index=146}. This range of elevation and habitats makes it one of the most ecologically diverse parks in Queensland. The lowlands feature one of the largest coastal wetland systems on the east coast – a Ramsar-listed expanse of saltpans, mangroves, and mudflats that are vital for migratory waterbirds:contentReference[oaicite:147]{index=147}. Meanwhile, the park’s uplands (the Mount Elliot section) are covered in thick rainforest and open forest, containing many endemic species. Mount Elliot’s eastern foothills form the popular Alligator Creek area, easily accessible from the Bruce Highway about 28 km south of Townsville:contentReference[oaicite:148]{index=148}.

Alligator Creek is the focus for visitors. Here, a clear creek tumbles through a series of cascades and deep swimming holes among granite boulders:contentReference[oaicite:149]{index=149}. A day-use area provides picnic tables, barbecue facilities, toilets, and parking, set under shady trees near the creek. A short walking track leads to Alligator Creek Lookout (a viewpoint over the cascades), and a longer Alligator Falls Track (5 km one-way) follows the creek upstream to a picturesque waterfall plunging off Mount Elliot’s slopes:contentReference[oaicite:150]{index=150}:contentReference[oaicite:151]{index=151}. The hike is challenging, involving rock-hopping and multiple creek crossings, but rewards with a refreshing pool at the base of the Alligator Falls. There is also a campground at Alligator Creek with sites suitable for tents and caravans; camping permits are required:contentReference[oaicite:152]{index=152}. Campers often see wildlife like wallabies, possums, and lace monitors scavenging around the fringes of the campground. Birdlife is abundant – lorikeets, currawongs, and even the occasional southern cassowary inhabit the Mount Elliot forests:contentReference[oaicite:153]{index=153}.

Another part of the park accessible by awd or boat is Cape Bowling Green and the surrounding bay. This long sandy cape and adjacent mangrove creeks are a haven for marine and bird life. Bush camping is allowed at Cape Bowling Green (reachable via Alva Beach near Ayr) for self-sufficient visitors:contentReference[oaicite:154]{index=154}. Anglers prize the area for fishing (permit required in marine park waters), and birdwatchers come to see flocks of magpie geese, brolgas, and seasonal migratory shorebirds feeding on the extensive tidal flats. Because of its ecological importance, Bowling Green Bay’s wetlands were designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 1993:contentReference[oaicite:155]{index=155}:contentReference[oaicite:156]{index=156}.

Tips: Swimming is popular at Alligator Creek (the water is cool and crocodile-free in the upper creek). However, downstream in the estuarine reaches of Bowling Green Bay, estuarine crocodiles are present – so heed signage and do not swim near the coast. Also, note that domestic animals are not allowed in the park. Whether you come for a family picnic and swim at Alligator Creek or to explore the remote wetlands by boat, Bowling Green Bay National Park offers a unique blend of mountains and mangroves, showcasing the natural richness of North Queensland.