Staaten River National Park

Staaten River National Park is a protected area in Queensland on the Cape York Peninsula that conserves the Staaten River and its associated wetlands and savanna country. The park protects a large, largely intact tropical river system and associated habitats.

The area is prized for extensive freshwater wetlands, riverine forests and open savanna that support abundant waterbirds and other wildlife. Birdwatching, wilderness canoeing and remote bushwalking are key activities where access and safety allow, with long seasonal variations in water levels and road conditions.

The land has been managed for conservation as a national park to protect its river system and wildlife values. Traditional owners and successive park management arrangements have guided access and protection of cultural sites within the park.

The park is on the western side of Cape York Peninsula in far north Queensland, on the Gulf of Carpentaria side of the peninsula. It is a remote area several hundred kilometres northwest of Cairns and distant from major population centres.

• Access: Access is seasonal and the park is remote; the dry season is the most practical time for road access and wildlife viewing.
• Wildlife: The park protects extensive riverine wetlands and supports large populations of waterbirds and crocodiles typical of Cape York ecosystems.