Stubby Bend Free Camping Area – Tambo QLD

Stubby Bend is a quintessential outback free camp that perfectly captures the charm and tranquility of Central West Queensland. Located on the scenic banks of the Barcoo River, just a stone’s throw from the historic town of Tambo, this expansive camping area is a favourite amongst travellers for good reason. It offers a vast, open, and level space where rigs of all sizes can find a prime spot, whether it’s right on the river’s edge or tucked back under the shade of a coolabah tree. The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful, making it an ideal place to stop for a few days to rest, explore, and soak up the serene landscape. The camp is a haven for birdwatchers, with a rich diversity of birdlife attracted to the river, and the sunsets over the water are often nothing short of spectacular.

As a designated free camp for self-contained vehicles, Stubby Bend is a primitive bush site with no on-site facilities like toilets or showers. Visitors must bring all their own supplies, including water, and are expected to follow ‘leave no trace’ principles by taking all rubbish with them. This self-sufficient model helps preserve the natural beauty of the area. One of the camp’s biggest assets is its proximity to Tambo, the oldest town in the region. A pleasant walk or short drive brings you into the heart of a town famous for its ingenuity and heritage, most notably as the home of the iconic Tambo Teddies. Visitors can easily access the town’s pub, cafes, and heritage sites, as well as essential services like a dump point and potable water. For its beautiful riverside setting, spacious sites, and convenient location, Stubby Bend is a top-tier free camp that embodies the best of outback hospitality.

Campsite Information

• Location: On the banks of the Barcoo River, just outside the Tambo township.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle sizes, including big rigs, caravans, and tents.
• Road Access: Good quality dirt road, easily accessible by 2WD in dry conditions.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted, typically for up to 72 hours.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 72 hours.
• Facilities: None. This is a self-contained bush camp only.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good Telstra coverage is available.
• TV Reception: Good reception is generally reported.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A personal toilet is required.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: A very large, undefined area with room for many vehicles.
• Essentials to Bring: Own toilet, all water, food, power, and firewood.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, popular for Yellowbelly (Golden Perch) in the Barcoo River.
• Short Walks: Excellent walking opportunities along the river via the ‘Coolibah Walk’.

Local Amenities (in Tambo, ~1-2 km away)

• Local Pubs: Royal Carrangarra Hotel.
• Places to Eat: The local pub, cafes, and a bakery in the main street.
• Local Attractions: Tambo Teddies workshop, Tambo Heritage Precinct, Grasslands Regional Art Gallery, the Coolibah Walk.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Tambo Mill Motel & Caravan Park offers powered sites and full facilities.
• Next Free Camps: Augathella free camps (~100 km south), Blackall free camps (~100 km north).
• Nearest Dump Points: A free public dump point is available in Tambo.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Service stations are available in Tambo.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Potable water is available for free at the dump point in Tambo.
• Public Toilets: Located in the main street of Tambo.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Tambo, QLD

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot, with average maximums in the mid-to-high 30s (°C). Chance of summer storms and rain.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and milder nights. A very popular and pleasant time to visit.
• Winter (June – August): Clear, mild days and cold nights, with frequent frosts. This is the peak tourist season.
• Spring (September – November): Days are warming up, typically dry and sunny with comfortable evenings.