Stockyard Creek Rest Area, Basalt QLD
For the truly self-reliant traveller looking to experience the vast, untouched wilderness of inland North Queensland, the Stockyard Creek Rest Area offers an authentic and rewarding bush camp. Located on the Gregory Developmental Road (also known as the Great Inland Way) north of Charters Towers, this is a primitive, no-frills free camp that epitomises the spirit of remote Australian travel. There are no signs indicating its presence; it is simply a large, cleared dirt and gravel area next to the road by the Stockyard Creek causeway, offering a safe place to pull over far from the nearest town. This is a destination for those who are completely self-sufficient and value solitude and nature over amenities.
The appeal of Stockyard Creek lies in its absolute simplicity and isolation. It is a large, open space, allowing campers to find their own private spot well away from other travellers. The setting is raw and beautiful, characterised by sparse outback vegetation and the rocky creek bed. It’s common to see local wildlife, including a variety of bird species and kangaroos, and you’re more than likely to be visited by the free-ranging cattle that call this area home. The lack of any facilities means campers must adhere to a strict leave-no-trace policy: take all your rubbish with you, and have your own toilet and water supplies. The reward is a profoundly peaceful experience, with the silence of the bush broken only by the sounds of nature and the occasional passing vehicle.
Evenings at Stockyard Creek are a major highlight. With zero light pollution, the night sky puts on a breathtaking celestial show, with the Milky Way visible in stunning clarity. Campfires are generally permitted, providing the perfect centrepiece for a quiet night under the stars. This rest area is not a destination for everyone, but for seasoned travellers equipped for off-grid living, it’s a perfect example of the freedom and beauty that remote Australian camping can offer.
Site Information
- Location: Remote roadside location on the Gregory Developmental Road, north of Charters Towers.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Caravans, Motorhomes, and Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: Sealed highway, the camp area itself is a dirt/gravel surface.
- Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, informal overnight camping is accepted.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally accepted for a 24-48 hour stop.
Facilities
- Facilities: None.
- Picnic Tables: None.
- Potable Water: None. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None to extremely limited. Do not rely on it.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: None. You must have your own toilet.
- Ullage: No dump point.
- Rubbish Bins: None. You must take all rubbish with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted, subject to fire bans. Be responsible and use existing fire pits where possible.
- Generator Use: Permitted, be considerate of any other campers.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Everything. All water, food, power, toilet facilities, and rubbish bags.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome in this open area but must be kept under control due to cattle.
- Fishing: The creek is often dry, so fishing is not a reliable activity.
- Short Walks: Excellent opportunities for bushwalking and exploring the surrounding landscape and creek bed.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Lynd Oasis Roadhouse (approx. 75 km north)
- Pubs in Charters Towers (approx. 115 km south)
- Greenvale Hotel (approx. 110 km north-east)
- Places to Eat: The nearest food is at The Lynd Oasis Roadhouse or in Charters Towers.
- Local Attractions:
- Dalrymple National Park (approx. 50 km south)
- The natural basalt rock formations in the area
- Charters Towers Venus Gold Battery (approx. 115 km south)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Multiple caravan parks in Charters Towers (approx. 115 km)
- Next Free Camps: Fletcher Creek Camping Reserve (approx. 165 km south), Campaspe River Rest Stop (approx. 120 km south-west).
- Nearest Dump Points: Charters Towers Showgrounds.
- Nearest Petrol Station: The Lynd Oasis Roadhouse (check availability) or Charters Towers.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre.
- Public Toilets: None onsite. Nearest are in Charters Towers.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- The Dry Season (Apr – Oct): The best time for travel. Days are typically warm and sunny with very low humidity. Nights are cool to cold. Temperatures average 12°C to 29°C.
- The Wet Season (Nov – Mar): Can be extremely hot and humid, with a high chance of heavy rain and severe thunderstorms. This can cause the creek to flood and may lead to road closures. Temperatures average 22°C to 36°C.