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ABOUT Camooweal

Located on the Queensland-Northern Territory border, Camooweal is a small town brimming with history and natural wonders. Situated 188 km west of Mount Isa and 440 km from the Stuart Highway, it proudly stands as the “Gateway to the Northern Territory/Queensland.”

The journey to Camooweal from Mount Isa follows “Tojo’s Highway” constructed during World War II as a strategic link between southern Australia and the Northern Territory.

Established in 1884, Camooweal has a fascinating history. Explorer William Landsborough passed through the area in 1862 during his search for Burke and Wills, inspiring early pastoralists to settle here. Though its growth was limited by the rise of Mount Isa, Camooweal remains a vital part of the region, with the 188-kilometre Barkly Highway between the two towns famously referred to as the world’s longest main street.

Beneath the surface, Camooweal hides a treasure trove of ancient caves and sinkholes formed 500 million years ago during the Cambrian Period, offering a unique experience for seasoned cavers.

Every August, the Drover’s Camp Festival celebrates the heritage of Australia’s droving era, drawing visitors from far and wide.

Other must-see attractions include the Barkly Tableland Heritage Centre, Freckleton’s Store, Camooweal Caves National Park, Camooweal Cemetery, and the Drovers Camp Information Centre, all showcasing the town’s rich culture and history.

Camooweal is more than a stopover—it’s a journey into the Outback’s heart.

Places to stay near Camooweal

Things to see and do near Camooweal

The Australian Fossil Mammal Sites at Riversleigh and Naracoorte were inscribed in the World Heritage List in 1994.

Riversleigh World Heritage Site, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park

114 km

Visit three fascinating attractions in one location.

Mount Isa Underground Hospital and Museum

171 km

While at Camooweal why not try these Tours

North West Tours

168 km

North West Tours specialise in small group tours around Mount Isa and beyond.

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Yagurli Tours

280 km

Yagurli Tours is an Indigenous owned business operated by the Gangalidda and Garawa Peoples.

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Balloon Aloft Burketown

281 km

Balloon Aloft is partnering with Yagurli Tours for a hot air balloon experience with a difference this June to September.

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Cobbold Gorge Tours

568 km

Deep in the heart of the Gulf Savannah region of Far North Queensland is a hidden outback oasis – Cobbold Gorge.

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Red Dirt Tours

580 km

Red Dirt Tours is your Winton touring specialist and offers a number of tours to the spectacular natural and man-made attractions of the Winton region.

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Elite Aviation Services Pty Ltd

580 km

Based in Winton, Queensland, Elite Aviation Services offers helicopter and plane scenic flights and charters over the spectacular landscape around Winton and the Diamantina River.

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Talaroo Hot Springs Tours

644 km

In the heart of the Gulf Savannah Way in outback Tropical North Queensland, Talaroo’s magical landscape is alive with the culture of the Ewamian people.

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Fox Helicopter Services

644 km

Fox Helicopters operate a selection of scenic flights to Porcupine Gorge and White Mountains National Park.

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Big Red Tours

681 km

Luxurious outback hospitality – relax in their quality 4WD coach and enjoy their hospitality with a professional local tour guide.

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Dingo Trax – Birdsville and Outback Queensland

681 km

Whether you are a seasoned 4WD enthusiast or completely new to it all, Dingo Trax have your back!

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Outback Aussie Tours – Extended Tours

696 km

Explore Outback Queensland and beyond with Outback Aussie Tours, a multi-award winning touring company and Savannah Guides accredited operator.

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Discovery Experiences – Undara

711 km

Only 3½ hours drive from Cairns and four hours from Townsville in Tropical North Queensland, you’ll discover a land so different in contrasts…. Undara.

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