Swanvale Jumpup – Stonehenge Free Camp

The Swanvale Jumpup camping area is a remote and basic free rest stop located on the Thomson Developmental Road in the heart of Queensland’s Channel Country, near the small outback town of Stonehenge. This is not a formal campground but rather a designated roadside area that offers travellers a place to pull over for an overnight stay in a stunningly isolated landscape. A ‘jump-up’ in Australian geological terms refers to a small mesa or plateau, and this site provides elevated views over the vast, flat plains of the surrounding region, making for spectacular sunrises and sunsets. The site is entirely self-sufficient, meaning there are absolutely no facilities provided. Campers must bring everything they need, including all water, food, fuel, and have their own toilet facilities. The ground is a large, flat, gravel area with plenty of room for big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes to find a private spot. Access is directly off the main road, which can be sealed or unsealed in sections. It is essential to carry out all rubbish and leave no trace. This spot is perfect for seasoned outback travellers who appreciate solitude, incredible stargazing opportunities, and the raw, rugged beauty of the Australian interior. It’s a true bush camp, offering a peaceful and memorable stopover on the long journey between towns like Longreach and Jundah.

Site Information

• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs.
• Road Access: Thomson Developmental Road (sealed and unsealed sections). Access is weather dependent.
• Site Surface: Gravel, dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping/rest area.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally 24-48 hours.
• Facilities: None. You must be 100% self-sufficient.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all required water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. A satellite phone or emergency beacon (PLB) is highly recommended.
• TV Reception: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. Must have your own portable toilet.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Leave no trace; take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated areas when no fire bans are in place.
• Generator Use: Permitted, please be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area with numerous unmarked sites.
• Essentials to Bring: All water, food, fuel, own toilet, emergency communication device.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be kept under control at all times.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: Yes, explore the immediate area around the jump-up.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Stonehenge Hotel, Stonehenge (approx. 25 km)
  • Jundah Hotel, Jundah (approx. 140 km)
  • The Commercial Hotel, Longreach (approx. 150 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Stonehenge Hotel (offers meals, approx. 25 km)
  • Extensive options in Longreach (approx. 150 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Stonehenge Address Book (community rock art, approx. 25 km)
  • John Egan Pioneer Drive (local history trail near Stonehenge)
  • Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Longreach (approx. 150 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Stonehenge Caravan Park (basic facilities, approx. 25 km)
  • Longreach Tourist Park (approx. 150 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Various roadside rest areas along the Thomson Developmental Road.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Longreach Showgrounds (approx. 150 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Stonehenge (basic fuel supplies, approx. 25 km)
  • Longreach (multiple service stations, approx. 150 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Check for availability in Stonehenge (approx. 25 km) or Longreach (approx. 150 km)
• Public Toilets:
  • Stonehenge town centre (approx. 25 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast

This region experiences a semi-arid climate with very hot summers and mild, dry winters.