Flat Rock Camping – Broughton Free Camp

Flat Rock camping area offers a primitive and peaceful free camping experience on the shores of the Burdekin River, located near Broughton, Queensland. This spot serves as a quieter, more basic alternative to the nearby and often busier Macrossan Park. It’s an ideal location for fully self-sufficient travellers who are seeking solitude and a direct connection with the natural environment. The campsite consists of a large, open, and relatively flat area of dirt and rock, true to its name, with some sandy patches closer to the water. There is ample room for various vehicle sizes, including caravans and motorhomes, to spread out and find a private space with river views. Access is typically via unsealed tracks off the main highway, which can become challenging for 2WD vehicles after rain, so checking conditions is always wise. There are no facilities at Flat Rock whatsoever – no toilets, no water, and no rubbish bins. Campers must embody the ‘leave no trace’ philosophy, bringing in everything they need and taking out all their waste. This ensures the site remains pristine for future visitors. The location is perfect for activities like fishing, birdwatching, and simply relaxing by the water’s edge. Being away from major light sources, it provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Given its proximity to the Flinders Highway, it’s a convenient stopover, but its undeveloped nature means you must arrive fully prepared. The nearest major town for supplies is Charters Towers, a short drive away.

Site Information

• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Caravans, Motorhomes, Campervans.
• Road Access: Unsealed track from highway. May be unsuitable for 2WD after rain.
• Site Surface: Dirt, rock, sand.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, short stays recommended.
• Facilities: None. You must be 100% self-sufficient.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited to none. Telstra may have a weak signal.
• TV Reception: Poor to none.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own toilet.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local fire bans. Be cautious and use existing pits.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but considerate use is essential in this quiet area.
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area with many unmarked sites.
• Essentials to Bring: All water, own toilet, food, fuel, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be under control at all times.
• Fishing: Yes, fishing in the Burdekin River is possible.
• Short Walks: Yes, along the river and surrounding bushland.

Local Amenities

The nearest services are in Charters Towers.

• Local Pubs:
  • The Rix Hotel, Charters Towers (approx. 35 km)
  • Waverley Hotel, Charters Towers (approx. 35 km)
  • The Sovereign Tavern, Charters Towers (approx. 36 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Multiple options available in Charters Towers (approx. 35 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Towers Hill Lookout & Secrecy and Strategy WWII Experience, Charters Towers (approx. 37 km)
  • Venus Gold Battery, Charters Towers (approx. 35 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Dalrymple Tourist Van Park, Charters Towers (approx. 34 km)
  • BIG4 Aussie Outback Oasis Holiday Park, Charters Towers (approx. 37 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Macrossan Park Camping Area (approx. 10 km south)
  • Fletcher Creek Camping Reserve (approx. 55 km west)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre (approx. 36 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Charters Towers (approx. 35 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre (check for fees/availability, approx. 36 km)
• Public Toilets:
  • Macrossan Park Camping Area (approx. 10 km)
  • Lisner Park, Charters Towers (approx. 36 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast

This area experiences a dry tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season.