12 of the best Camping Spots in Outback Queensland
12 of the best Camping Spots in Outback Queensland
Camping in Outback Queensland is one of the best ways to experience the region’s raw beauty, big skies, and peaceful remoteness. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with friends, pitching a tent or parking up the van connects you directly to the land. From glamping to national parks, riverside spots to free bush camps off the beaten track, here are twelve of the top camping spots in Outback Queensland.
1. JULIA CREEK CARAVAN PARK, JULIA CREEK
Named Queensland’s Best Park in 2021, Julia Creek Caravan Park is a standout for camping in Outback Queensland. The park offers powered, grassed sites and a range of amenities including a laundry, communal camp kitchen with BBQ, TV and fridge, and private Artesian bathhouses – ideal for unwinding after a day on the road.
Travellers can also enjoy a 2-course Bush Dinner around the campfire (available from June to September), a local favourite that brings people together over great food and stories. From Julia Creek, it’s easy to explore McKinlay Shire, rich in outback heritage, including links to Banjo Paterson.
2. CHARLOTTE PLAINS, CUNNAMULLA
Charlotte Plains offers an authentic Outback Queensland experience on a working sheep station just 40 minutes from Cunnamulla. This family-run property invites travellers to explore its pastoral history on a guided station tour, including visits to historic shearing sheds and key landmarks.
One of the highlights is the outdoor Artesian bore baths – naturally heated and ideal for a sunset soak under expansive skies. Set up camp near the baths on an unpowered site, or choose a powered site 2km from the homestead for a quieter experience. Charlotte Plains is also a great base for Cunnamulla’s annual River Lights Festival, a celebration of local culture with live music, storytelling, and a stunning riverside light show.
3. MITCHELL GRASS RETREAT, LONGREACH
Experience luxury glamping at Mitchell Grass Retreat, winner of the 2024 Queensland Tourism Award for Unique Accommodation. Located just outside Longreach, this retreat blends comfort with the vast Outback landscape. Each ensuite tent features a kitchenette, plush beds, deep bathtubs, and private decks for a 5-star camping experience.
The larger Mulga tents offer extra space, and swags are available for additional guests. An onsite saltwater pool and Wi-Fi add to the comfort, while Longreach’s iconic attractions, such as the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and the Qantas Founders Museum, are just a short drive away.
4. COBBOLD GORGE, VIA FORSAYTH
Cobbold Gorge and Village offers a true Outback camping experience with sites for caravans, motorhomes, campervans, tents, and swags. Located in a peaceful bush setting, wake up to birds and the breeze rustling through eucalyptus trees, providing plenty of natural shade.
With powered and unpowered sites, modern amenities including a camp kitchen, BBQs, laundry, and clean facilities, you’ll have everything you need. Enjoy a drink at the MacDonalds Bar & Bistro or relax by the infinity pool with a swim-up bar.
The region is drought-prone, but the stunning Gulf Savannah bush setting offers a unique, tranquil experience. Sites accommodate one RV or vehicle with one caravan, camper trailer, or tent per booking.
5. LARA WETLANDS, BARCALDINE
Set on a 15,000-acre cattle station near Barcaldine, Lara Wetlands offers a peaceful bush camping experience perfect for nature lovers. This serene wetland is a haven for birdwatching and wildlife photography, providing a quiet retreat by the water.
Each site features a private campfire spot for nights under the stars, with hot showers, flush toilets, and a naturally heated Artesian mineral pool to unwind after a day of exploring. Lara Wetlands offers a unique outback escape with comfort.
6. PORCUPINE GORGE NATIONAL PARK, VIA HUGHENDEN
Porcupine Gorge offers a breathtaking Outback Queensland camping experience, surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and lush forests along Porcupine Creek. Ideal for hikers and nature lovers, the 2.4km roundtrip walk to the ‘Pyramid’ lookout provides stunning views and opportunities to spot wildlife like wallaroos, red kangaroos, and various bird species.
The campground features 22 sites with basic facilities, including steel fire rings (bring your own untreated firewood) and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables at some sites. Book your campsite online via the Queensland National Parks Booking Service for a hassle-free experience.
7. SUNSET TOURIST PARK, MOUNT ISA
Sunset Tourist Park in Mount Isa offers a genuine Aussie experience with warm, welcoming hospitality. Whether you’re staying for a short stop or an extended holiday, the park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Mount Isa.
Proudly the only locally owned and operated park in Mount Isa, Sunset Tourist Park offers powered and unpowered camping sites, as well as cabins, villas, and budget-friendly options. It’s also pet-friendly, so your furry companions can join the adventure.
8. BIRDSVILLE TOURIST PARK, BIRDSVILLE
Relax by the billabong at Birdsville Tourist Park or use it as a base for your Outback adventures. The park is perfect for exploring Simpson Desert National Park and tackling the famous Big Red Sand Dune – ideal for some sandboarding or dune surfing.
Birdsville is also known for its world-renowned events, including the Birdsville Races, Big Red Bash and Camel Carnival. The park offers powered and unpowered sites, with a communal kitchen, BBQ, lounge area, and laundry facilities to make your stay comfortable.
9. MUDDY DUCK TOURIST PARK, LONGREACH
Muddy Duck, locally owned and operated by the Seccombe family, offers a peaceful outback retreat along the Thomson River. This 15-acre property just 5km from Longreach provides a perfect setting for watching sunsets, hiring a kayak, or enjoying a swim in the Thomson River.
The family invites you to experience their tranquil spot, perfect for unwinding with a drink by the river, exploring the land, or simply relaxing in the beautiful surroundings of Outback Queensland.
10. FRANCVILLERS STATION BUSH CAMPING, CUNNAMULLA
Francvillers Station is a family-owned, working sheep, goat, and cattle property offering a secluded, authentic Outback camping experience. Located just 25 minutes south of Cunnamulla, this property offers vast open spaces with no neighbours for miles.
With a focus on privacy, only three to four self-sufficient groups are hosted at a time, ensuring an authentic, remote experience. Access is weather-dependent, offering a truly peaceful and unspoiled Outback getaway.
11. LONGREACH TOURIST PARK, LONGREACH
Longreach Tourist Park is conveniently located less than 2km from Longreach’s centre and its iconic attractions like the Qantas Founders Museum, the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, and the stunning natural landscapes of the Thomson River.
With a mix of self-contained cabins and ensuite facilities, the park caters to all travellers – self-drive, fly, or train. The park’s warm, local atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the Queensland Outback.
12. LAKE CALLIDE RETREAT, BILOELA
Lake Callide Retreat is a fishing paradise in Outback Queensland, known for its massive barra, red claw, yellow belly, saratoga, and sleepy cod. The lake also offers swimming, kayaking, and water skiing, making it perfect for all water lovers.
Located just 15 minutes from Biloela, the retreat offers powered and unpowered campsites with views over the dam and national parks. Onsite facilities include a communal BBQ area and snack kiosk, making your stay comfortable and convenient.
Keen to head west? Start planning your next caravan or camping trip in Outback Queensland. Download a free copy of our Outback Traveller’s Guide here.
