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Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve
Bellenden Ker, Far North Queensland

This swim, on a short detour through Bellenden Ker that runs beside the Bruce Hwy, is in the shadow of two bridges overlooking deep holes in a clear, pebbled stream. At less than 2 km from the lower reaches of the Russell River, which are well known to have crocodiles, this is not a guaranteed croc-free area.

Swimming at Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve

Above: Bridge number one: The road bridge over Harvey Creek (Order this image)

From Harvey Creek Road, heading north just before the creek crossing, there is a gravel parking area beside the creek. The gravel gives way to a few metres of lawn next to the creek, where there is direct entry into shallow water, with either sand or pebbles under foot. The visibility in the water was quite high when I visited, even after a little bit of rain. This meant that I could see the larger stones, which became more prevalent further out into the river.

The deepest section of the creek is between the two bridges, with deeper water towards the middle and the opposite bank from the parking area. Jumping or diving from the bridges into these deeper holes would have been nice, but is not permitted. The bridges do however provide a nice bit of shade for staying out of the sun while in the water.

Swimming at Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve

Above: Bridge number two: The railway bridge over the creek (Order this image)

With regards to the croc risk, the only cue that I had on my visit was that there were two men set up cleaning fish at the edge of the water, which is usually a really bad idea if crocs are around. If you are thinking about swimming here, pay attention to what the locals are doing. According to the local community facebook page We love Harvey Creek, the spot can get busy on warmer weekends.

If you are not sure, remember that you can always stop and enjoy the view, before considering other more well frequented swimming holes in the area, further inland, which are croc-free.

Other Information Before You Go:

Location:Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve, Harvey Creek Road, Bellenden Ker, 2 km off the Bruce Hwy (A1), 26 km (approx. 20 minute drive) south of Gordonvale.
Latitude:-17.257900 Longitude:145.923416
Getting there: From Cairns, head south or from Innisfail head north along the Bruce Hwy (A1) to the Harvey Creek Road turn off at Bellenden Ker. The scenic reserve is 2 km from the highway in either direction. There is a gravel parking area at the reserve.

Facilities: Car park, rubbish bins. There are no toilets here.
Entrance fee: None
Water temperature: Mild
Water clarity: Clear
Under foot: Sand and stone
Maximum water depth: 1-2 metres
Minimum swimming proficiency required: Inexperienced swimmers could swim here in the shallows, under supervision. Experienced swimmers only in the deeper water.
Prohibitions including whether you can bring your dog: Dogs permitted. No fishing, diving, or jumping from the road bridge. No access permitted onto the rail bridge.
Sun shade: This is one of the few spots where there is probably more convenient shade in the water than out of the water. There are a few trees on the bank, but much of the area beside the creek is without shade.
Opening times: Always open
Wheelchair access: There are no formal wheelchair accessible paths, but the area is flat gravel in the parking area beside the creek, with a mostly flat approach to the edge of the creek.
Managing authority: Cairns Regional Council
Nearby attractions: Babinda Boulders swimming hole, 18 km by road to the south-west.

Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information and check with the managing authority for any current change of conditions.

Locality Map:

The marker indicates the approximate location of the parking area. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can sometimes occur when loading, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
View Larger Map

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can my dog swim at Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve? Yes, dogs are permitted to swim here.

Are there crocodiles at Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve? I personally felt a little uneasy here, given the scrub on the banks at the downstream end of this swim and the proximity to a known crocodile area at the Russell River, only 2 km downstream. I have not seen any reports of crocodiles here and there were no warning signs on site.

Can kids swim at Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve? Notwithstanding my comments above about potential crocodile risks, the water is shallow near the bank with good visibility, that would be suitable for kids, under supervision.

Can I have a picnic at Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve? Yes, there is a small grassy area beside the water.

Can I fish at Harvey Creek Scenic Reserve? Yes, you can fish here, but not off the bridge. Given it is a popular swimming spot, it is best to fish away from any swimmers in the water.

If you have any other questions not answered above, leave a comment for me using the comment box below.

Comments:

If you would like to leave a comment about this swimming spot, please fill in the comment box below. I am particularly interested in your experiences after visiting, and any changes in conditions, etc. All fields are required if you would like to see your comments appear on this website.

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