Broadwater Waterhole – Longreach Free Camp

Broadwater Waterhole offers a quintessential Australian outback free camping experience in the vast expanse of rural Queensland, near Longreach. This is a primitive, self-sufficient campsite for travellers who are fully equipped to be independent. Nestled by a natural waterhole, it provides a tranquil and remote setting, perfect for birdwatching, photography, and stargazing under immense, clear skies. The site is a large, open, and relatively level dirt area, offering campers plenty of space to find their own spot along the water’s edge. Access is typically via unsealed roads, which can vary in condition depending on recent weather, making a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle advisable. There are no facilities at Broadwater Waterhole – no toilets, no drinking water, and no rubbish bins. Campers must adhere strictly to the ‘leave no trace’ principle, carrying out everything they bring in. This campsite is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with the rugged beauty of the outback. It’s a place where the silence is broken only by the sounds of nature. Given its remote location, it’s crucial to arrive with ample fuel, food, and water supplies, as the nearest town of Longreach is a considerable drive away.

Site Information

• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Caravans, Motorhomes, Campervans. 4WD recommended.
• Road Access: Unsealed/dirt road, condition subject to weather. Check local conditions before travel.
• Site Surface: Dirt, natural ground.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but short stays are encouraged.
• Facilities: None. This is a primitive bush camp.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None to very limited. Expect to have no signal. A satellite phone or PLB is recommended.
• TV Reception: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. Must have your own toilet.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all your rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local fire bans. Use existing fire pits where possible.
• Generator Use: Permitted, considerate use is advised.
• Number of Sites Available: Many unmarked sites in an open area.
• Essentials to Bring: All water, food, fuel, own toilet, recovery gear, and emergency communication device.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are generally permitted under control.
• Fishing: Yes, fishing for species like Yellowbelly and yabbies can be possible.
• Short Walks: Yes, enjoy walks around the waterhole and surrounding bushland.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The Commercial Hotel, Longreach (approx. 110 km)
  • The Welcome Home Hotel, Longreach (approx. 110 km)
  • Wellshot Hotel, Ilfracombe (approx. 135 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Various bakeries, cafes, and restaurants in Longreach (approx. 110 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Longreach (approx. 110 km)
  • Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach (approx. 110 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Longreach Tourist Park (approx. 110 km)
  • Discovery Parks – Longreach (approx. 110 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Apex Park, Longreach (day use with limited overnight spots, approx. 110 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Longreach Showgrounds (approx. 110 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Longreach (approx. 110 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Longreach Showgrounds or Visitor Information Centre (check for availability, approx. 110 km)
• Public Toilets:
  • Various locations in Longreach town centre (approx. 110 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Longreach region has a semi-arid climate with distinct seasons.