Welcome to the Beef Capital – But There’s More Than Steak to Sizzle
Rockhampton might be famous for cattle, but this Central Queensland hub is so much more than cow statues and R.M. Williams boots. It’s the launchpad to epic coastlines, jaw-dropping caves, national parks, and classic country towns.
Whether you’ve flown into Rocky for work, picked up the family from the airport, or are driving north to Cairns, this guide covers the best places to explore by car within a few hours of Rockhampton.
Grab the keys, fill up the tank, and discover why a car rental is the smartest way to see CQ.
Your Redspot Base: Rockhampton Airport
Flying in? Redspot’s Rockhampton Airport location makes it super easy to land, collect your car, and hit the open road.
Most travellers opt for a compact SUV — versatile enough for coast and country, with boot space for fishing rods, eskies, and hiking boots. For those venturing off the bitumen or towing gear, a 4WD is your best mate.
1. Capricorn Caves – Underground Adventures Just 25 Minutes Away
Distance: ~23km north of Rockhampton
Driving Time: 20–25 minutes
Best For: Families, nature lovers, photographers
Kick things off close to base with a visit to the incredible Capricorn Caves. These limestone caves are privately owned and absolutely packed with natural beauty. Join a guided tour, experience the underground cathedral acoustics, or (if you’re brave) go spelunking in the more adventurous passages.
Why drive? The caves are outside public transport routes — having your own car gives you flexibility for early tours or late arvo photos.
Hot Tip: Book the Cathedral Cave Tour — it’s the most iconic and suits all fitness levels.
2. Mount Archer & Rockhampton Lookouts – Views and Local Vibes
Distance: 10km from Rockhampton CBD
Driving Time: 20 minutes
Best For: Sunsets, bushwalks, and a hit of fresh air
If you’re short on time but still want a wow moment, head up to Mount Archer National Park. The Nurim Circuit Elevated Boardwalk is fully accessible and gives you panoramic views of the city, river, and ranges.
Bring: Your camera, a picnic, or pick up fish and chips in town and dine at the top.
Want to stretch your legs? Try the Zamia Walk (13.5km one-way) down to the base. Park one car at each end if travelling with mates.
3. Yeppoon & Capricorn Coast – Beach Bliss Within Reach
Distance: 40km east of Rockhampton
Driving Time: ~45 minutes
Best For: Beach days, family trips, island views
A local favourite for weekenders, Yeppoon is where the bush meets the beach. And it’s only a short, scenic drive from Rockhampton.
Must-dos in Yeppoon:
- Cool off in the Yeppoon Lagoon (a beachfront infinity pool)
- Grab brunch at Lure Living or The Rocks
- Stroll the Fig Tree Creek Boardwalk
- Visit the Keppel Kraken water play park if you’ve got kids in tow
Feeling adventurous? Book a ferry to Great Keppel Island for snorkelling, hiking, or lazy beers on the sand.
Why rent? Local transport is patchy and infrequent — your own car lets you beach-hop, shop local, and stay late for sunset.
4. Gracemere & Mount Morgan – Classic Country Detour
Distance: ~40km loop
Driving Time: 45 mins to 1 hour total
Best For: Local history, rustic charm, antique shops
Just west of Rockhampton lies Gracemere, home to one of Australia’s largest cattle saleyards. Further afield is Mount Morgan, a quirky historic town perched on a ridge and steeped in gold mining history.
Things to do:
- Visit the Mount Morgan Historical Museum
- Check out the Big Dam Lookout
- Try old-school milkshakes at the vintage Railway Café
- Stop at roadside produce stalls for honey, eggs, and jams
It’s a great half-day trip for those chasing old-school Queensland character.
5. Byfield National Park – Where the Forest Meets the Sea
Distance: ~85km from Rockhampton
Driving Time: ~1 hour 30 mins
Best For: 4WDers, rainforest lovers, day hikers
Ready to go deeper? Head to Byfield National Park, a lush coastal rainforest with sandy 4WD tracks, swimming holes, and remote beaches.
Top Stops:
- Upper Stony Creek – a freshwater swimming spot with picnic areas
- Five Rocks Beach – only accessible with a 4WD and low tyre pressure
- Waterpark Creek – scenic for kayaking and birdwatching
Important: Some areas require a 4WD and permit. Check road conditions and tide times before you go.
6. Emu Park & Koorana Crocodile Farm – Weird, Wonderful and Wild
Distance: 50–70km round trip
Driving Time: ~1 hour
Best For: Families, animal lovers, quirky detours
Emu Park is a coastal gem with relaxed vibes, the famous Singing Ship monument, and a great fish and chip shop. On the way, swing by Koorana Crocodile Farm, home to over 3,000 saltwater and freshwater crocs.
Tour Times: Usually 10:30am and 1pm daily. Booking ahead is recommended.
Why it works by car: These aren’t on a bus route. Having your own wheels means you can fit in a croc tour, lunch at Emu Park, and still be back before dinner.
Rental Tips for Rockhampton Road Trips
✅ Choose the Right Car
- SUVs for beach days and comfort
- 4WDs if you’re heading to Byfield or outback tracks
- Sedans are perfect for quick city/coast loops
✅ Keep an Eye on Fuel
Once you’re outside Rocky, fuel stops can get sparse — especially around Mount Morgan or Byfield.
✅ Download Maps Offline
Coverage dips in parts of Byfield and further west. Google Maps offline or Hema Explorer will save your bacon.
✅ Check for Local Events
Rocky hosts some big ones: Beef Week, River Festival, and rodeos. Book accommodation early and be mindful of traffic delays.
Wrap-Up: Why Rockhampton Is a Road Trip Goldmine
Rocky might be halfway between Brisbane and Cairns, but it’s 100% worth exploring in its own right. With a rental car, you’re free to explore caves, coastlines, mountaintops, rainforests, and rustic pubs all within a few hours’ drive.
Whether you’re in town for business, flying in for a wedding, or planning a Central Queensland adventure, Rockhampton is the perfect hub for laid-back road tripping.
Ready to explore Central Queensland by car?
Book your Redspot rental at Rockhampton Airport now and hit the road with confidence.