[4][5][6] The locality is entirely within the Wooroonooran National Park, part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area .

[6][7] The South Johnstone River rises in the west of the locality, flows south-west, where it forms part of the southern boundary of the locality and then exits to the south-east (Gulngai).

[6] The locality is believed to be named after explorer Christie Palmerston.

[1] The Palmerston section of the national park is known for its dense rainforest with over 500 species of trees with opportunities to see many animals including brightly-coloured butterflies.

The park offers a number of facilities for visitors including camping grounds, tracks for walking and cycling, swimming holes, and picnic areas.