Dryander National Park

Dryander National Park offers a unique blend of rugged mountain landscapes, lush forests, and vital marine habitats, making it a haven for wildlife and a peaceful escape for nature lovers. Located just north of Airlie Beach, this national park plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species and preserving the natural beauty of the Whitsunday region.

Location and Access

Dryander National Park is situated on the mainland approximately seven nautical miles (13 kilometres) north of Airlie Beach and is accessible primarily by boat. Its proximity to the Whitsundays makes it a popular yet secluded destination for those exploring the region’s natural wonders.

Natural Features and Terrain

With large mountainous terrain, Dryander National Park stretches across 55 kilometers of pristine coastline. Its landscape includes six headlands and Mount Dryander, rising to 790 meters above sea level, offering spectacular views of the surrounding seascape.

Formed by volcanic activity dating back 300 million years, Dryander’s bulky hills and steep ridges showcase granite formations and the volcanic legacy of the Airlie Volcanics. These rugged features create critical watersheds for seasonal rivers, streams, and creeks that feed into the nearby reefs.

The park’s diverse ecosystems support vine thickets and old-growth forests, including the rare and endemic Ristantia waterhousei, a rainforest tree that can reach heights of 45 meters. Dryander is recognized as a Gondwana refuge, harbouring 52 species of plants that are national, state, or locally significant, making it a vital stronghold for biodiversity.

Flora and Fauna

Dryander National Park is a critical habitat for various endangered and vulnerable species. Among its most notable residents is the Proserpine rock-wallaby, an endangered species that relies on the park’s undisturbed environment for survival. Additionally, the park is home to ghost bats, coastal sheath-tail bats, and the rare water mouse. These species thrive in Dryander’s protected environment, which offers refuge from increasing habitat fragmentation caused by urban development.

The park’s deeply incised coastline shelters seagrass beds, which are vital feeding grounds for dugongs and other marine life. Humpback whales and marine turtles are frequently spotted in the waters around Dryander, further highlighting the park’s ecological importance.

Cultural Significance

The Gia and Ngaro Peoples have a profound connection to Dryander National Park. For thousands of years, they have lived in harmony with this land and continue to care for its natural and cultural values. Visitors are encouraged to respect their traditional knowledge and custodianship by helping to preserve this remarkable land and sea Country.

Camping at Dryander National Park

For those seeking an immersive experience in nature, the Grimston Point camping area offers a peaceful and secluded retreat.

Grimston Point Camping Area

• Access: By boat only, located seven nautical miles north of Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach.
• Camping Options: Only tent camping is allowed.
• Facilities: Basic facilities are provided, including toilets, but no showers or barbecue areas exist.
• Campfires: Not permitted.
• Permits: Camping permits are required and must be secured in advance. Ensure your camping tag displays a valid booking number.

When camping, please practice minimal-impact principles. Remove all rubbish and follow guidelines to help protect this fragile environment.

Park-Specific Conditions

• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in this coastal region.
• Marine Stingers: Take care when swimming around the Whitsunday Islands and Mainland, particularly between October and May, as marine stingers are present in these waters.

Resources –

Other National Parks in the Whitsundays

Conway National Park 
Whitsundays National Park
Molle Islands National Park