Three Islands National Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Three Islands National Park Queensland
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Three Islands National Park Location in Queensland
Nearest town or city	Cooktown
Established	1939
Area	40 hectares (99 acres)
Managing authorities	Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
Website	Three Islands National Park
See also	Protected areas of Queensland

The Three Islands Group National Park is a special protected area in Far North Queensland, Australia. It is located in the Coral Sea, which is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. This park is about 1,581 kilometers (982 miles) northwest of Brisbane. It is also about 44 kilometers (27 miles) north-northeast of Cooktown.

The park gets its name from the islands it protects. It includes a group of eight islands: Three Islands, Two Islands, and Rocky Islets. These islands are very important for many reasons, especially for seabirds.

What is Three Islands National Park?

The Three Islands Group National Park was created in 1939. Its main job is to protect the unique nature found on these islands. The park covers about 40 hectares (99 acres) of land. It is managed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

Where are the Islands Located?

The park is made up of three main island groups, each with smaller islands:

• Three Islands: This group has three islands, often called (a), (b), and (c). They are about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) northeast of Cape Bedford. They are also about 44 kilometers (27 miles) north-northeast of Cooktown.
• Two Islands: This group has two islands, (a) and (b). They are about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) east-southeast of Cape Flattery. Cape Flattery is the closest town. Two Islands are about 54 kilometers (34 miles) northeast of Cooktown.
• Rocky Islets: This is the most northern group. It has three islands, (a), (b), and (c). They are about 17 kilometers (11 miles) northeast of Cape Flattery. They are also about 72 kilometers (45 miles) northeast of Cooktown.

All these islands are found within the larger Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. This means they are part of one of the world's most amazing natural wonders.

Why are These Islands Important?

The islands in Three Islands Group National Park are very important for seabirds. Many different types of seabirds come here to nest and raise their young. These islands provide safe places for birds to lay eggs and for chicks to grow. Protecting these sites helps to keep seabird populations healthy.

Visiting the Park

Not all parts of the park are open to visitors. This helps to protect the sensitive wildlife.

• Rocky Islets: Access to the Rocky Islets is not allowed. This is because they are very important nesting sites for birds.
• Two Islands: You can camp on Two Islands (specifically island 'a'). However, there are rules for camping:
  • Camping is only allowed between April 1st and August 31st.
  • A maximum of 10 people can camp at one time.
  • You can stay for up to 14 days.

These rules help to make sure that visitors do not disturb the birds and other wildlife. They also help to keep the islands clean and natural for everyone.

See also

In Spanish: Parque nacional Tres Islas para niños