Lloyd Jones Weir – Barcaldine QLD Free Camp

Lloyd Jones Weir, located on the Alice River just a short drive from the historic outback town of Barcaldine, is a fantastic free camping spot that offers a perfect blend of convenience and natural tranquility. This large, open area is spread out along the banks of the weir, providing plenty of room for caravans, motorhomes, and campers of all sizes to find a comfortable spot with a waterfront view. It’s a place renowned for its peace and quiet, where the primary soundtrack is the incredible chorus of birdlife that flocks to the permanent water source. The weir is a haven for birds, making it a paradise for avid birdwatchers, with pelicans, black swans, and a huge variety of other species commonly sighted. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal location to relax, unwind, and watch a spectacular outback sunset paint the sky over the water.

This is a primitive, self-contained campground, so it’s essential for visitors to bring everything they need, including their own toilet facilities and drinking water, and to take all their rubbish with them to preserve the beautiful environment. The weir itself is the main recreational focus, popular for fishing, with Yellowbelly (Golden Perch) being a common catch. It’s also a great spot for kayaking or simply enjoying a picnic by the water’s edge. The camp’s close proximity to Barcaldine is a major drawcard. This allows travellers to easily access the town’s famous attractions, such as the Tree of Knowledge monument and the Australian Workers Heritage Centre, as well as its pubs, shops, and services. For those seeking a peaceful, spacious, and well-located free camp in the heart of Central West Queensland, Lloyd Jones Weir is an exceptional and highly recommended choice.

Campsite Information

• Location: On the Alice River, approximately 12 km southwest of Barcaldine.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle sizes, including big rigs, caravans, and tents.
• Road Access: Mainly sealed road with a short, well-maintained unsealed section to the camping area. 2WD accessible.
• Site Surface: Level dirt and natural grasses.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but short-term stays of a few days are standard.
• Facilities: None. This is a 100% self-sufficient bush camp.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good Telstra and Optus coverage is generally available.
• TV Reception: Good reception is usually reported.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A personal toilet is required.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local fire bans. Use existing fire pits where possible.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: A very large, open area with numerous potential campsites.
• Essentials to Bring: Own toilet, all water, food, power, and firewood.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing for Yellowbelly and other freshwater species in the weir.
• Short Walks: Plenty of opportunity for walking along the banks of the weir.

Local Amenities (in Barcaldine, ~12 km away)

• Local Pubs: The Shakespeare Hotel, The Globe Hotel, Union Hotel.
• Places to Eat: Multiple pubs, cafes, bakeries, and an RSL club in Barcaldine.
• Local Attractions: The Tree of Knowledge, Australian Workers Heritage Centre, The Radio Picture Theatre, Between the Bougainvilleas heritage walk.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Homestead Caravan Park, Barcaldine Tourist Park.
• Next Free Camps: Lara Wetlands (~80 km south), Longreach free camps (~110 km north).
• Nearest Dump Points: A free public dump point is available in Barcaldine.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations are available in Barcaldine.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Potable water is available at the public dump point in Barcaldine.
• Public Toilets: Located at various points throughout the town of Barcaldine.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Barcaldine, QLD

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot, with average maximums in the mid-to-high 30s (°C). Can be humid with a chance of thunderstorms.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and milder nights. A very popular and pleasant time to travel.
• Winter (June – August): Clear, mild days and cold nights, with frequent frosts. This is the peak tourist season for the region.
• Spring (September – November): Days are warming up, typically dry and sunny with comfortable evenings.