McGeever Recreation Grounds, Thallon QLD
The McGeever Recreation Grounds in Thallon are a shining example of outback community spirit, offering travellers an incredibly welcoming, comfortable, and budget-friendly place to stay. This is far more than just a showgrounds camp; it’s a destination in its own right, largely thanks to its proximity to one of Queensland’s most spectacular outback attractions: the Thallon Painted Silos. Located just a short stroll from these magnificent works of art, the grounds provide the perfect base for visitors to immerse themselves in the town’s vibrant, artistic culture. The campground itself is spacious and well-cared-for, with expansive, level, grassy areas that can easily accommodate even the biggest rigs.
Run by the passionate local community, the grounds provide excellent facilities that represent outstanding value for the small donation requested. Campers have access to clean toilets and hot showers, as well as a number of powered and unpowered sites. The friendly, relaxed atmosphere is a hallmark of a stay here, with travellers often gathering to socialise and share their stories. It’s a very pet-friendly environment, with plenty of space for dogs to have a good run after a long day on the road. The convenience of being right in town means it’s just a short walk to the iconic Francis Hotel for a classic pub meal and a chance to meet the locals.
The true magic of staying at McGeever Grounds is the opportunity to see the Thallon Silos at different times of the day. You can wander over for stunning photos at sunrise, see them illuminated against the brilliant blue sky during the day, and then witness them come to life with a spectacular light show after dusk. This easy access to a world-class attraction, combined with the comfort, value, and genuine country hospitality of the campground, makes the McGeever Recreation Grounds a must-do stop for anyone travelling through Queensland’s beautiful border rivers region.
Site Information
- Location: In the heart of Thallon, right next to the famous painted silos.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs.
- Road Access: Sealed roads.
- Site Surface: Large, level grassed areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, low-cost/donation-based camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check local signage, but generous stays are common.
- Number of Powered Sites: Yes, a good number of powered sites are available.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Extensive unpowered camping areas.
Facilities
- Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, camp kitchen facilities may be available.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: Yes, drinking water is available.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good, Telstra provides the best service in the region.
- TV Reception: Good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: Yes, a dump point is available on site.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Check with the caretaker or local signage, but generally not permitted in the main camp area.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use regarding timing and neighbours.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Camera for the silos, cash for donation and the pub.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, this is a very pet-friendly campground.
- Fishing: Fishing opportunities in the nearby Moonie River.
- Short Walks: Excellent short walk around town to see the silos, the giant wombat sculpture, and the local pub.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Francis Hotel, Thallon (approx. 400 m)
- Nindigully Pub (approx. 45 km)
- Royal Hotel, Mungindi (approx. 90 km)
- Places to Eat: The Francis Hotel is renowned for great pub meals. A local cafe/store is also in town.
- Local Attractions:
- Thallon Painted Silos & Night Light Show (right next door)
- “William the Wombat” giant sculpture (in town)
- Thallon’s historical points of interest
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Nindigully Pub Camp (approx. 45 km)
- Dirranbandi Caravan Park (approx. 60 km)
- St George has multiple parks (approx. 90 km)
- Next Free Camps: Nindigully Pub (free unpowered camping), various rest areas on the Barwon and Carnarvon Highways.
- Nearest Dump Points: Onsite.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Thallon (check hours).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Can be very hot, with average temperatures often exceeding 35°C. High chance of thunderstorms.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with warm, sunny days and pleasant, cooler nights. Temperatures average 13°C to 29°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Characterised by clear, sunny days and cold nights, with frequent morning frosts. It’s perfect weather for sightseeing. Temperatures range from 3°C to 20°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season with warming days. Ideal for travel before the peak summer heat. Temperatures average 11°C to 29°C.