Pitch a tent at these must-visit Outback camping spots

Craving a night spent outdoors? We know a place where the star count is strong, skyscrapers are scarce, and wide open spaces the norm. Naturally, we’re talking about the Queensland Outback. But a getaway to the desert doesn’t have to see you roughing it - stick to a station or a campsite with an army of amenities on hand. Like these must-visit Outback camping spots - time to grab your tent and ready your caravan.

Julia Creek Caravan Park

On Overlander’s Way between Townsville and Mount Isa you’ll find Julia Creek, the ‘gateway to the gulf’. On a lengthy road trip north, stop in for a break at Julia Creek Caravan Park where powered and unpowered sites reside alongside self-contained units for those who aren’t yet a fan of a sleeping bag. While there’s a duo of amenity blocks to enjoy, don’t miss out on a chance to soak in one of the six baths directly connected to the warm waters of the Great Artesian Basin on which the campground sits.

Lake Callide Retreat

Family in tow? Make way for Lake Callide Retreat on the cusp of the expansive Callide Dam in Biloela, Gladstone-way. What this place lacks in size it makes up for in activities, particularly of the water-based variety - make the most of the hearty population of barramundi and red-claw and the accessible boat ramp. Picnic shelters, barbecues, and a playground will entertain those who remain on land. As for your accommodation, pull up in a powered or unpowered site, or take to the self-contained cabins, a wheelchair-friendly option included.

Carnarvon Gorge campground

Spend the night at one of Queensland’s best known Outback landmarks Carnarvon Gorge, an ancient destination of 20 million-year-old sandstone cliffs, adorned in 2000-year-old Indigenous carvings, ochre stencils and free hand paintings. It’s campground sits nestled just 6 kilometres of (unsealed) road from the park entrance, but take note it’s only available during the school holidays (Easter, June/July and September/October). Should you arrive outside of those dates you can still stay, but be prepared for the 19.4 kilometre return walk to your other option, the Big Bend Camping Area (pictured above).

Fisherman’s Rest, Mitchell

Fishing enthusiasts take note of this outback camping spot on the westerly-most reaches of Southern Queensland Country. Found just 5 kilometres from the town of Mitchell, this free bush camp sits nestled into the banks of the Maranoa River and is an ideal destination for those enticed by the opportunity to go off-grid for a night or two. As its name suggests, fishing is popular here, as is kayaking. But those who prefer to take things easy may prefer to take a trip into town to visit the Great Artesian Spa, where you can enjoy the mineralised thermal waters of the neighbouring basin.

Munga-Thirri Conservation Park, Simpson Desert

Explore the state’s largest national park with a getaway to Munga-Thirri National Park, (once known known as the Simpson Desert National Park). Spanning 1,012,000 hectares across arid outback, this is Queensland’s largest protected area as the home to impressive sand dune deserts which extend 200 kilometres and reach up to 90 metres high. But be warned this is one of the most remote outback camping spots, so you’ll need to be prepared for your trip.

Fountain Springs Rest Area, Mount Isa

Indulge in some off-roading on your way to Fountain Springs Rest Area, a web of dirt tracks that weave along the quartzite Fountain Range, halfway between the country outposts of Mount Isa and Cloncurry. A popular stopover along the Barkley Highway, the space offers toilets, picnic grounds, and easy access to a permanently deep waterhole - the ideal place to rest and recuperate with a dip after a day spent adventuring the district by 4WD.

Kilcowera Station

Hit the road west of Brisbane and 1200 kilometres down the track on the Dowling Track you’ll come to find Kilcowera Station. Make the most of the opportunity to spend the night on this working cattle property which is one of the more memorable outback camping spots. There are a handful of accommodation options to choose from, including powered and unpowered sites, as well as back-to-basics bush camping at Cardenyabba Lagoon and the revamped Shearers Quarters for something slightly more luxurious.