Ken’s Camp – Taroom

Ken’s Camp is a classic free bush campsite that offers travellers a quiet and convenient stopover just off the Leichhardt Highway, south of Taroom. This unpowered site is set in a peaceful clearing amongst the trees, providing a genuine back-to-basics camping experience. It’s an ideal spot for fully self-contained rigs, including caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers, with ample space to find a level spot and spread out. There are no facilities here, which is key to its appeal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more formal campgrounds. Campers must bring everything they need—water, power, and toilet facilities—and strictly adhere to a ‘leave no trace’ principle by taking all rubbish with them. The campground is known for its tranquillity, making it a great place to relax, enjoy the sounds of the bush, and observe local birdlife. While it serves primarily as an overnight rest area, its proximity to Taroom and the surrounding region, including Isla Gorge National Park, makes it a viable, no-cost base for a couple of days of exploration for the well-prepared visitor. It’s a simple, honest, and valuable resource for the Australian road-tripping community.

Site Information

• Location: Just off the Leichhardt Highway, about 5km south of Taroom.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles (caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers).
• Road Access: Short dirt track off the main highway, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Intended for short stays, typically 24-48 hours.
• Facilities: None. You must be 100% self-sufficient.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy to non-existent. Telstra may have some service.
• TV Reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Generally permitted, but check for local fire bans. Use existing fire pits and ensure fires are fully extinguished.
• Generator Use: Permitted, be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Open area without marked sites.
• Essentials to Bring: All food, water, toilet, shower, power, and rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are generally welcome but must be kept under control.
• Fishing: No, not located on a significant waterway.
• Short Walks: Informal bushwalking in the surrounding area.

Local Amenities

All amenities are located in the nearby town of Taroom (approx. 5 km away).

• Local Pubs:
  • Leichhardt Hotel-Motel Taroom (approx. 5 km)
  • Taroom Hotel (approx. 5 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Local hotels, cafes and roadhouse in Taroom.
• Local Attractions:
  • Taroom Museum and Information Centre (approx. 5 km)
  • Steel Wings Windmill (approx. 5 km)
  • Isla Gorge National Park (approx. 35 km north)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Taroom Caravan Park (approx. 6 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Chain Lagoons Rest Area (approx. 40 km south)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Located in Taroom, check with the Information Centre for the exact location.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Available in Taroom (approx. 5 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Taroom, check with the Information Centre.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available in the main street of Taroom (approx. 5 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Taroom has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild, dry winters.