Neil Turner Weir – Mitchell

Neil Turner Weir is a fantastic, donation-based campground located just a few kilometres from the outback town of Mitchell. Situated on the peaceful banks of the Maranoa River, this spacious and well-maintained facility is a credit to the local community and a favourite stop for travellers on the Warrego Highway. The weir itself creates a large, serene body of water, making the campground a haven for birdlife, with pelicans, black swans, and various water birds commonly spotted. This also makes it a popular spot for water-based activities like fishing and kayaking. The camping area is a large, open, grassy expanse that offers plenty of room for all types of setups, from big rigs to tents, with many campers able to secure a prime spot with water views. For a donation camp, the facilities are excellent, typically including flushing toilets, cold showers, and barbecue areas. Its close proximity to Mitchell means campers have quick and easy access to town services, including the famous Great Artesian Spa, pubs, and shops. The combination of a beautiful natural setting, great facilities, and convenient location makes Neil Turner Weir an essential and highly recommended stop for anyone travelling through southwestern Queensland.

Site Information

• Location: On the Maranoa River, 2 km west of Mitchell, just off the Warrego Highway.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including big rigs, caravans, motorhomes, and tents.
• Road Access: Sealed road to the turn-off, then a short, good quality dirt road into the camp area.
• Site Surface: Mostly grass and dirt. Can be uneven in places.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, camping is by donation. A donation box is located onsite.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: A 72-hour (3-night) stay limit is in place.
• Facilities: Toilets (flushing), cold showers, covered BBQ areas, picnic tables.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap for drinking water is generally available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra; may be weaker for other carriers.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans. Bring your own wood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use regarding hours and proximity to neighbours.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, open, unpowered area without defined sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Donation for the upkeep of the wonderful facilities.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, very popular for fishing (Yellowbelly, Murray Cod). A QLD fishing permit is required.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walks along the riverbank are a key activity.

Local Amenities

All major amenities are located in the nearby town of Mitchell (approx. 2 km).

• Local Pubs:
  • Hotel Richards (The Richo) (approx. 2.5 km)
  • Mitchell Hotel Motel (approx. 2.5 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Both hotels, plus cafes, a bakery, and a roadhouse in Mitchell.
• Local Attractions:
  • The Great Artesian Spa (a must-do, approx. 3 km)
  • Mitchell’s Historic Courthouse
  • Kenniff Courthouse Tree
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Major Mitchell Caravan Park (approx. 3 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Fisherman’s Park, Roma (approx. 90 km east)
  • Mungallala Hotel (free with pub patronage, approx. 40 km west)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is located in Mitchell, near the showgrounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple stations available in Mitchell.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite or in Mitchell.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite and in the town centre.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Mitchell has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cool, dry winters.