Baralaba Showgrounds | Free & Low-Cost Camping in QLD

Nestled in the heart of the Banana Shire in Central Queensland, the Baralaba Showgrounds offer a spacious and welcoming haven for travellers exploring the Australian bush. This well-regarded campsite is a favourite amongst caravan, motorhome, and big rig owners, providing a classic showground camping experience with ample room to spread out and relax. Situated conveniently within the small, friendly town of Baralaba, it serves as an excellent base for discovering the region’s local charm and natural attractions, most notably the nearby Dawson River, a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts trying their luck for Saratoga.

The grounds themselves are predominantly flat and grassy, providing easy access and setup for vehicles of all sizes. While the core offering is free camping, the site provides excellent value with access to essential facilities that make a stay comfortable. For those requiring power, a limited number of powered sites are available for a modest nightly fee, payable to the local council or via an on-site donation box, which helps with the upkeep of these fantastic community-run grounds. The atmosphere is typically quiet and peaceful, reflecting the laid-back nature of the surrounding rural landscape. It’s a place where you can enjoy magnificent sunsets and clear, starry nights away from the light pollution of major cities.

Being pet-friendly is a major drawcard, allowing travellers to bring their four-legged companions along for the adventure. The provision of public toilets, potable water, and rubbish bins ensures campers can adhere to responsible travel principles. While facilities are basic, they are generally well-maintained and cover all the necessities for a self-sufficient traveller. Its central location means you’re just a short walk or drive from the town’s amenities, including the local pub for a hearty meal and a cold drink. Whether you’re passing through or settling in for a few days of fishing and relaxation, the Baralaba Showgrounds represent the best of community hospitality, offering a safe, affordable, and convenient stop on your Queensland journey.

Location Details

• • Name: Baralaba Showgrounds
  • Address: 13 Wooroonah Rd, Baralaba QLD 4702, Australia

• • Phone Number: Information not publicly available. Please contact Banana Shire Council for official enquiries.
  • GPS Coordinates: -24.184626, 149.815708

• Website: Information not available.

Campsite Information & Features

• Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, Big Rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, self-contained and non-self-contained vehicles.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Typically 72 hours, but check local signage for current rules.
• Facilities: Powered sites available for a fee, unpowered sites are free/by donation.
• Potable Water: Yes, available onsite.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes, good coverage for Telstra. Other providers may be limited.
• TV Reception: Generally good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Not permitted. Use contained cooking appliances. Check local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, please be considerate of other campers with usage hours.
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area, numerous sites available.
• Essentials to Bring: Levelling blocks may be needed for some spots.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing in the nearby Dawson River.
• Short Walks: Yes, around the town and along the river.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Baralaba Hotel: ~1.5 km
  • Theodore Hotel: ~55 km
  • Moura Tavern: ~60 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Baralaba Hotel (Pub meals): ~1.5 km
  • Local Cafes in Baralaba town centre: ~1 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Neville Hewitt Weir / Dawson River: ~2 km
  • Baralaba Historical Village: ~1 km
  • Myra Station (Historical Site): ~15 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Myella Farm Stay (Offers camping): ~45 km
  • Theodore Showgrounds: ~55 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Theodore Showgrounds (Low cost): ~55 km
  • Apex Park, Moura (Low cost): ~60 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Baralaba Public Dump Point (near the showgrounds): < 1 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Service station in Baralaba: ~1 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Onsite at the showgrounds.
• Nearest Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the showgrounds.

Seasonal Weather Forecast:

• • Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and humid, with average temperatures from 22°C to 35°C. High chance of rain and thunderstorms.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Warm and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild and dry days with cool nights. Temperatures range from 8°C to 22°C.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Warm and becoming more humid, with temperatures from 14°C to 30°C.