Diamantina River Bushcamp – Birdsville QLD

Camping on the banks of the Diamantina River at Birdsville is one of the great quintessential Australian outback experiences. This legendary free camping area, located on the town common just a short distance from the iconic Birdsville Hotel, is a bucket-list destination for travellers from all corners of the country and the world. For most of the year, it’s a vast, peaceful expanse of red earth and hardy vegetation along the often dry or low-flowing river, offering almost limitless space to find a private spot and soak in the immense solitude of the Channel Country. The sense of being on the edge of the Simpson Desert is palpable, with huge, uninterrupted skies that deliver some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets imaginable. The stars at night are simply breathtaking, free from any competing light pollution.

Then, for one week a year, this tranquil spot transforms into ‘Tent City’, the sprawling, vibrant, and chaotic heart of the famous Birdsville Races. Thousands of campers descend, creating a temporary city buzzing with energy and camaraderie. For the rest of the year, however, it reverts to its peaceful state. The camp is a completely primitive, self-sufficient site. There are no facilities whatsoever—no toilets, water, or bins. Visitors must be fully equipped to be self-contained and must practice strict ‘leave no trace’ principles, taking all rubbish with them. The proximity to the town of Birdsville is a major advantage, making it an easy trip to visit the famous pub, the bakery for a curried camel pie, or the visitor centre. It’s the perfect base for exploring the region, including the ‘Big Red’ sand dune at the edge of the desert. Camping here is a true adventure, connecting you directly to the heart and history of the Australian outback.

Campsite Information

• Location: On the Diamantina River town common, just east of the Birdsville township.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, from swags to the largest caravans. Best for self-contained rigs.
• Road Access: Mainly sealed road to Birdsville, with easy dirt track access to the camping area. 4WD is recommended for the wider region.
• Site Surface: Red dirt, sand, and gravel.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping. Fees apply during the Birdsville Races week.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit outside of race week.
• Facilities: None. This is a 100% self-sufficient bush camp.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good Telstra service is available in and around the town.
• TV Reception: Possible with a good antenna, but a satellite dish is more reliable.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A personal toilet is mandatory.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken out. Skips are provided during race week only.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for neighbours.
• Number of Sites Available: A massive, undefined area with limitless space.
• Essentials to Bring: Own toilet, all water, food, fuel, power, and emergency supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be under control at all times.
• Fishing: Possible in the Diamantina billabong when there is water.
• Short Walks: Explore the vast riverbed, the nearby billabong, and walk into the iconic town.

Local Amenities (in Birdsville, ~2-3 km away)

• Local Pubs: The Birdsville Hotel.
• Places to Eat: The Birdsville Hotel, Birdsville Bakery, roadhouse/cafe.
• Local Attractions: The ‘Big Red’ sand dune, Birdsville Billabong, Australian Inland Mission Hospital Museum, Burke and Wills Tree.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Birdsville Caravan Park offers full facilities and powered sites.
• Next Free Camps: Deon’s Lookout (~85 km east), Betoota ghost town (~170 km east).
• Nearest Dump Points: A free public dump point is available in Birdsville.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Birdsville.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Potable water is available at the public dump point in Birdsville.
• Public Toilets: Located in the centre of Birdsville.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Birdsville, QLD

• Summer (December – February): Extremely hot. Temperatures consistently exceed 45°C. High risk of flooding and road closures. Travel is strongly discouraged.
• Autumn (March – May): Hot days with pleasant nights. A good time to travel as the landscape can be green after summer rains.
• Winter (June – August): Mild, sunny days and cold nights. This is the peak tourist season with ideal conditions for desert travel.
• Spring (September – November): Temperatures are rising rapidly. The Birdsville Races are held in early September before the extreme heat sets in.