Bulloo Riverside Free Camp – Thargomindah

Nestled on the banks of the iconic Bulloo River, the Bulloo Riverside Free Camp is a popular and highly-regarded rest stop for travellers exploring Queensland’s outback. Located on the outskirts of Thargomindah, this expansive camping area offers a quintessential bush camping experience with the convenience of town facilities just a short distance away. The site is a large, open, and relatively level dirt and gravel area that stretches along the river, providing ample space for caravans, big rigs, motorhomes, and tents. Campers can pick a spot with a river view and enjoy the serene landscape, abundant birdlife, and stunning outback sunsets. While the camp itself is free, the local community provides access to clean public toilets and non-potable water, making it comfortable for a multi-day stay. It’s an ideal base for exploring Thargomindah’s unique history, including the pioneering hydro-power station and local museums. The river is also a popular spot for fishing for Yellowbelly and yabbies, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. This campground perfectly balances the feeling of being out in the bush with the practicality of nearby amenities, making it a must-stop location for anyone travelling through the Channel Country.

Site Information

• Location: Along the Bulloo River, just outside the town of Thargomindah.
• Site Suitable For: All types of vehicles, including big rigs, caravans, motorhomes, and tents.
• Road Access: Dirt and gravel track, accessible from a sealed road. Can be affected by wet weather.
• Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but short stays are encouraged.
• Facilities: Toilets are available. No showers or power.
• Potable Water: No. Water at the site is non-potable. Drinking water is available in town.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra in town, may be weaker at the campground.
• TV Reception: Satellite dish required.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, provided. Please use them to keep the area clean.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with many sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, insect repellent, firewood if required.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are allowed on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, popular for yabbies and Yellowbelly. A QLD fishing permit may be required.
• Short Walks: Along the riverbank and into town.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Hotel Thargomindah (The “Thargo Pub”) (approx. 1.5 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Hotel Thargomindah (approx. 1.5 km)
  • Roadhouse/General Store (approx. 1.5 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Thargomindah Hydro Power Plant (approx. 1 km)
  • Leahy House Museum (approx. 1.5 km)
  • Burke & Wills ‘Dig’ Tree (approx. 130 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Explorers Caravan Park (in town, offers full facilities, approx. 2 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Various rest areas on surrounding highways, often with no facilities.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Thargomindah.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Available in Thargomindah (approx. 1.5 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at a public tap in Thargomindah.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Thargomindah has a hot, semi-arid climate with very hot summers and mild, dry winters.