48 Hours at Charlotte Plains: The Ultimate Outback Queensland Experience
Just beyond the buzz of everyday life, where the sky opens wide and the horizon stretches forever, lies a tranquil gem in Outback Queensland – Charlotte Plains. This historic sheep station, located near Cunnamulla, offers an authentic outback experience filled with natural beauty, fascinating history, and a generous dose of relaxation. Whether you’re a road tripper, camper, or day visitor, here’s how to spend a magical 48 hours at Charlotte Plains.
Day 1 – Arrive in an Outback Paradise
As you drive through the gates of Charlotte Plains, the landscape unfolds into a lush, green expanse – a stunning transformation after recent floods. The scenery alone invites you to pull over, take a deep breath, and savour the moment. Here, the air is fresh, the space boundless, and the pace wonderfully slow.
Settle into your accommodation – whether it’s your own campervan or tent, or one of the cosy onsite options—before immersing yourself in the heart of what makes Charlotte Plains so special: the Artesian Hot Springs. These naturally heated springs, enriched by minerals from the Great Artesian Basin, offer a bathing experience like no other. Choose from communal outdoor baths or, for something more secluded, book a private bath and soak up the solitude and scenery.
As the sun begins to dip, head to the Bore Baa, the station’s licensed bar with unmistakable outback charm. Grab a cold drink and settle in for the sunset – when the vast sky ignites in fiery oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks before giving way to a glittering canopy of stars. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the soulful tunes of a live musician.
Later, join fellow travellers around the communal campfire – an essential Charlotte Plains tradition. With marshmallows roasting, stories shared, and the Milky Way stretching overhead, it’s a night of simple, unforgettable magic.
Day 2 – History, Wildlife, and Serenity
Rise early for a sunrise dip in the artesian baths – a moment of pure stillness as the world slowly awakens. With steam rising from the water and the sky blushing with the first light of day, it’s a memory that lingers long after you leave.
Afterwards, dive into the rich heritage of the station. Charlotte Plains is a working sheep station with deep historical roots. Pick up a tour book or an audio guide from the Merch Hut and embark on a self-guided historical tour. You’ll discover stories of pioneering grit, life on the land, and the family legacy that has shaped this extraordinary place for over 100 years.
Following a hearty midday feed, spend the afternoon with nature. Charlotte Plains is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. With over 180 bird species recorded, keep your camera handy – you might spot galahs, emus, brolgas, and wedge-tailed eagles. Beyond the birds, meet the friendly farm animals and wander the wide, green paddocks where kangaroos and native creatures roam freely.
As evening draws near, return to the Bore Baa for one last sundowner. The sunsets never lose their magic, and neither does the warm outback hospitality. Spend your final evening under a star-strewn sky, where the crackle of the campfire and the distant call of night birds provide the perfect soundtrack.
Leaving, With a Promise to Return
As your 48 hours at Charlotte Plains comes to a close, don’t be surprised if you find it hard to leave. This is a place that imprints itself on your heart – a place to experience, reconnect, and remember.
Planning your next Outback Queensland adventure?
Be sure to mark your calendar for Stars of Charlotte Plains, held from 26 – 29 June 2025. This three-day, family-friendly camping event will feature live music, food trucks, artesian baths, yabby races, a themed fun run, and more. It’s the perfect excuse to return – or stay a little longer – and experience outback magic at its finest.
