Apex Riverside Park – Longreach QLD

Apex Riverside Park in Longreach is one of Outback Queensland’s most well-known and beloved low-cost campgrounds. Situated right on the banks of the mighty Thomson River, this spacious park offers travellers an affordable and scenic place to stay while exploring the heart of the outback. Managed by the local Apex Club, the park operates on a donation basis, with funds going back into the maintenance of the grounds and supporting the local community. Its prime location, just a few kilometres from the town centre, makes it incredibly popular, especially during the peak winter tourist season. The atmosphere is social and friendly, with campers often gathering by the river’s edge to watch the spectacular sunsets and the historic paddle wheelers glide by on their evening cruises. The park is essentially a large, open area with a mix of dirt and gravel surfaces, offering plenty of room for rigs of all sizes, from large motorhomes to camper trailers.

While the sites are unpowered, the park provides essential amenities that make for a comfortable stay for self-contained travellers. There is a basic amenities block with flushing toilets, and a crucial dump point and potable water supply are available onsite. This makes it an incredibly practical base for restocking and preparing for the next leg of a journey. Due to its popularity, it’s a first-in, best-dressed arrangement, and finding a prime spot with shade near the river can be competitive. The park is a fantastic spot for fishing, with many trying their luck for Yellowbelly in the Thomson River. It’s also an ideal launch point for kayaks and small boats. For those wanting a budget-friendly base camp that doesn’t sacrifice location or that quintessential outback community feel, Apex Riverside Park is a top choice.

Campsite Information

• Location: On the banks of the Thomson River, 4km from Longreach town centre.
• Site Suitable For: All self-contained vehicles.
• Road Access: Sealed road access. Internal roads are dirt/gravel.
• Site Surface: Dirt and gravel. Can be dusty.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, low-cost via donation box.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: A 7-night maximum stay is in place during peak season.
• Facilities: Flushing toilets, dump point, potable water. No showers or power.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available for filling tanks.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent Telstra coverage. Other carriers are generally good.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
• Open Fires: Generally not permitted. Check for local restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for others (standard hours 8 am – 8 pm).
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area, 100+ sites available.
• Essentials to Bring: Your own power and shower facilities.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, fishing in the Thomson River is very popular.
• Short Walks: Plenty of walking opportunities along the riverbank.

Local Amenities (in Longreach, ~4 km away)

• Local Pubs: The Birdcage Hotel, The Welcome Home Hotel, Longreach RSL Memorial Services Club.
• Places to Eat: Numerous options including pubs, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.
• Local Attractions: Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Qantas Founders Museum, Thomson River cruises, Powerhouse Museum.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Longreach Tourist Park, Longreach Outback Adventures.
• Next Free Camps: Darr River Bush Camp (~29 km east), Ilfracombe Reserve (~31 km east).
• Nearest Dump Points: Onsite at the park.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple major service stations in Longreach.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Onsite at the park.
• Public Toilets: Onsite, and also in the town of Longreach.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Longreach, QLD

• Summer (December – February): Very hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C. This is the wet season, with a high chance of thunderstorms and heavy downpours.
• Autumn (March – May): The heat and humidity begin to subside, leading to warm, pleasant days and milder nights. The landscape is often at its greenest.
• Winter (June – August): Peak tourist season. Days are typically mild, clear, and sunny. Nights are cool to cold, and frosts are possible.
• Spring (September – November): Temperatures steadily increase. It is usually very dry with plenty of sunshine as the region builds up to the summer heat.