Cape York offers many great camping locations. There are campgrounds in national parks and Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal Land (CYPAL) parks, Council-controlled areas, Aboriginal Land Trusts and there are some privately-owned campsites.
Careful rubbish disposal is crucial in Cape York Peninsula. Mosquitoes, fruit flies, and plant and animal diseases can enter the region from Papua New Guinea and Asia. Rubbish increases the risk of these affecting public health, agriculture and the local economy.
When you’ve got to go, go thoughtfully. Increasing cases of gastroenteritis are being reported in high-use areas of Australia. It's often caused by exposure to human waste, and has unpleasant symptoms like diarrhoea and vomiting. Avoid getting or spreading ‘gastro’ by observing these guidelines.
Personal care products, including soaps, detergents and toothpaste, are harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Even biodegradable products can cause harm.
Most of the Cape's roads are unsealed. Driving on them contributes to soil erosion which causes damage to the environment, farming land, waterways, infrastructure and cultural heritage.
The coasts, rivers and waterways of Cape York Peninsula are great places to go boating. There are many things you can do to ensure your safety, and minimise your impact on the environment.
Any fire left to burn can soon become a dangerous wildfire. These can move quickly through thousands of hectares of country, threatening or damaging homes, livestock and ecosystems.
Invasive weeds are choking the Cape. They love to hitch a ride on your vehicles, clothes and tents. They are an increasing threat to native plants and animals, farm crops and to the region’s cultural heritage.
Cape York has a wonderful diversity of native animals and birdlife not found anywhere else on Earth. All native wildlife is protected, no matter where it is located.
Cape York Peninsula is a region of ancient and continuing cultural landscapes, with countless significant places. Well over 50% of the region is privately owned and managed by Traditional Owners.