Cumberland Lagoon View – Georgetown

Cumberland Lagoon View is a fantastic free bush camp that offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty in the heart of the Etheridge Shire. Located approximately 20 kilometres west of Georgetown, this campsite is situated near the historic Cumberland Chimney, a striking relic of the region’s 19th-century gold rush era. The campground itself is an informal, open area overlooking the Cumberland Dam, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for self-sufficient travellers. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape and immerse themselves in a quiet outback environment. The large, level ground offers plenty of space for caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers to find a spot with a view. As a primitive bush camp, there are no facilities, so campers must have their own toilet, water, and power, and adhere strictly to ‘leave no trace’ principles. The area is a haven for birdlife attracted to the lagoon, making it perfect for birdwatching and photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the dam or take a short walk to explore the impressive brick chimney and imagine the bustling gold-mining town that once stood here. This site offers a genuine, no-frills outback camping experience with a rich historical backdrop.

Site Information

• Location: At the Cumberland Dam, approx. 20 km west of Georgetown off the Gulf Developmental Road.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles (caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers).
• Road Access: Unsealed road from the highway turn-off. Generally 2WD accessible in the dry, but can be rough. 4WD recommended after rain.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally intended for short stays (e.g., 48-72 hours).
• Facilities: None. You must be completely self-sufficient with your own toilet, shower, water, and power.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all of your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. A signal may be found back on the highway or in Georgetown (Telstra recommended).
• TV Reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all rubbish with you. Leave no trace.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, but check for local fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use regarding noise and distance from other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, open, unpowered area without defined sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Everything. Water, food, fuel, rubbish bags, toilet, shower, and insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are generally welcome but must be kept under control.
• Fishing: Yes, fishing is possible in the Cumberland Dam.
• Short Walks: Walk to the historic Cumberland Chimney and around the lagoon.

Local Amenities

All amenities are located in the nearby town of Georgetown (approx. 20 km away).

• Local Pubs:
  • Wenaru Hotel (approx. 20 km)
  • Latara Motel (has a public bar) (approx. 20 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Local pubs, a roadhouse, and cafes in Georgetown.
• Local Attractions:
  • Cumberland Chimney (onsite)
  • TerrEstrial Centre (Ted Elliott Mineral Collection) in Georgetown
  • Historic Georgetown town walk
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Georgetown Caravan Park (approx. 20 km)
  • Goldfields Caravan Park (approx. 20 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Flat Creek Station (paid camp, approx. 65 km east)
  • Gilbert River Rest Area (approx. 90 km west)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Georgetown.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Available in Georgetown.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Georgetown.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available in Georgetown.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Georgetown has a distinct wet and dry season. The best time to visit is during the cooler, drier winter months.