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Quilpie Rest Area – Free Outback Camping Stopover

Discover the convenience and rugged beauty of the Quilpie Rest Area, a popular free stopover for travellers journeying through the heart of Queensland’s Channel Country. Located just a short distance from the charming outback town of Quilpie, this site offers a practical and welcome respite for those exploring the vast landscapes between Charleville and Windorah. As a designated rest area, it provides a safe and accessible spot for caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs to pull over for a short break or an overnight stay, allowing you to recharge before your next adventure. The site embodies the true spirit of outback travel, offering essential amenities in a classic, no-frills Australian bush setting.

The spacious, open area is characterised by its natural surface of red dirt and gravel, typical of the region, providing ample room for vehicles of all sizes to find a spot without feeling crowded. While the facilities are basic, they are well-maintained and cover the necessities for self-sufficient campers. You’ll find picnic tables perfect for an alfresco meal under the expansive outback sky and rubbish bins to help keep this beautiful environment pristine for the next visitor. It’s an ideal base for absorbing the tranquillity of the outback, listening to the unique sounds of the local birdlife, and witnessing the spectacular sunrises and sunsets that this part of Australia is famous for. Mobile phone coverage can be intermittent, encouraging a genuine disconnect from the everyday hustle. Being pet-friendly, it’s a perfect spot for your four-legged companions to stretch their legs after a long drive. Before settling in, ensure you are well-stocked with water and supplies, as this is a self-contained style of camping that immerses you in the raw and authentic Queensland outback experience.

★★★★☆ (4.7 Stars)

Rest Area, Quilpie QLD 4480

GPS Coordinates: -26.61001, 143.92104$

Site Details

Location: Situated on the Diamantina Developmental Road, conveniently close to the town of Quilpie, QLD 4480.
Site Suitable For: Big rigs, caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents.
Road Access: Sealed road (Diamantina Developmental Road).
Site Surface: Gravel and dirt.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Typically 24-48 hours, please obey local signage.
Facilities: Basic amenities for self-contained travellers.
Picnic Tables: Yes.
Potable Water: Not available onsite. Please bring your own supply.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited; may be available with Telstra, but can be unreliable.
TV Reception: Limited to non-existent; satellite setup recommended.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Not permitted. Check for local fire bans, especially during warmer months.
Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of fellow campers regarding noise and hours of operation.
Number of Sites Available: Large open area, no designated sites.
Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, food supplies, levelling blocks, and insect repellent.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept under control.
Fishing: Possible in the nearby Bulloo River, subject to conditions and local regulations.
Short Walks: Informal walks around the surrounding bushland are possible.

Local Amenities

Pubs

The Quilpie Hotel Motel: Approximately 4-5 km.
Imperial Hotel Motel Quilpie: Approximately 4-5 km.

Places to Eat

Hotel and Motel Restaurants: Both local pubs offer meals. Approximately 4-5 km.
Local Cafes in Quilpie: Various options in the town centre. Approximately 4-5 km.

Local Attractions

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery: Approximately 4 km.
St Finbarr’s Opal Altar: Located within St Finbarr’s Catholic Church in town. Approximately 4 km.
Baldy Top Lookout: A short drive from town, offering panoramic views. Approximately 10-12 km.

Nearest Caravan Parks

Channel Country Tourist Park & Caravan Park: Approximately 5 km.

Next Free Camps

Various rest areas along the Diamantina Developmental Road and Warrego Highway. Check travel apps for specific locations.

Nearest Dump Points

Quilpie Showgrounds: Located in town. Approximately 5-6 km.

Nearest Petrol Station

Service stations in Quilpie town centre: Approximately 4-5 km.

Drinking Water Resupply

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre: Often a reliable source for potable water. Approximately 4 km.

Public Toilets

Lions Park, Quilpie: Public facilities available in town. Approximately 4-5 km.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Quilpie, QLD

Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot. Daytime temperatures frequently exceed $40°C$. Expect high sun intensity and potential for summer storms. Nights are warm.
Autumn (March – May): Warm to mild conditions. Temperatures become more pleasant, with warm days and cooler evenings, making it an ideal time for travel.
Winter (June – August): Mild and dry. Days are typically sunny and pleasant, with average maximums around $20°C – $24°C$. Nights are cold and can drop close to freezing, so warm clothing is essential for overnight stays.
Spring (September – November): Warming up quickly. Temperatures rise steadily towards summer heat, with warm, dry, and sunny days.

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