Mayne River Free Campsite – Opalton QLD

The Mayne River free campsite is the epitome of a remote outback stopover, offering travellers a true sense of isolation and tranquility in the heart of Queensland’s Channel Country. Located at the river crossing on the long and lonely Winton-Jundah Road, this is not a destination with facilities but a genuine bush camp for the fully self-sufficient adventurer. The campsite is a simple, undefined area of red dirt and sparse vegetation along the banks of the often-dry Mayne River. Its beauty lies in its starkness and the immense, uninterrupted landscape that surrounds it. There is ample room for all vehicle types to pull well off the road and find a private spot to settle in for the night. This is a place where the silence is profound, broken only by the sound of the wind and the call of native birdlife.

As a primitive camp, there are absolutely no amenities—no toilets, no water, no bins. Visitors must bring everything they need and adhere to the highest standards of ‘leave no trace’ camping to preserve its pristine condition. The main attraction is the experience of being completely immersed in the outback. The night skies here, far from any town lights, are simply breathtaking, offering an incredible canopy of stars for amateur astronomers and stargazers. The riverbed itself, whether flowing with water or bone dry, provides an interesting landscape to explore on foot. While it may just be a point on a map for some, for those who appreciate the raw beauty of the Australian wilderness and the peace that comes with genuine remoteness, the Mayne River campsite is a perfect and memorable place to break a long journey and reconnect with nature.

Campsite Information

• Location: At the Mayne River crossing on the main Winton to Jundah Road.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, however it is best suited for fully self-contained rigs.
• Road Access: Unsealed road. Accessible by 2WD in dry conditions, but 4WD is highly recommended as road conditions can change rapidly.
• Site Surface: Red dirt and gravel.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free bush camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
• Potable Water: No. You must carry all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: No. Satellite communication devices are essential for safety.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own toilet and remove all waste.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local fire bans. Be extremely cautious and use your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, though the silence is a key feature of the site.
• Number of Sites Available: A very large, undefined area with many spots to choose from.
• Essentials to Bring: Own toilet, all water, food, fuel, power, vehicle recovery gear, and emergency communications.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be under control at all times.
• Fishing: Only possible if the river is flowing after significant rain.
• Short Walks: Excellent opportunities to walk along the vast, dry riverbed and explore the outback landscape.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: The closest pubs are in Winton (~130 km north) or Jundah (~160 km south).
• Places to Eat: The closest are in Winton or Jundah.
• Local Attractions: The remote wilderness itself, Lark Quarry Dinosaur Stampede (~170 km), Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum (~140 km).
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Located in Winton or Jundah.
• Next Free Camps: Other informal roadside stops. The next significant camps are near Winton or Jundah.
• Nearest Dump Points: Located in Winton or Jundah.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Located in Winton or Jundah. Ensure you have enough fuel for the entire journey between towns.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Located in Winton or Jundah.
• Public Toilets: Located in Winton or Jundah.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Opalton Region, QLD

• Summer (December – February): Extremely hot and volatile. Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C. High risk of thunderstorms and flash flooding, which can close unsealed roads for extended periods. Travel is not recommended.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm to hot days with milder nights. A good time to travel as the landscape may still be green from summer rains.
• Winter (June – August): Mild, clear, sunny days with cold nights. This is the peak and safest season for travel in the region.
• Spring (September – November): Temperatures are rising rapidly. Days are typically hot and dry.