Theodore Showgrounds Camping – The Dawson Valley’s Fishing Hotspot

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Dawson River in the heart of the Sandstone Wonders region, the Theodore Showgrounds is a legendary destination for caravan and RV travellers, especially those with a passion for freshwater fishing. This fantastic, low-cost campground offers a vast, scenic, and friendly base for exploring one of Queensland’s most productive agricultural and fishing areas. The showgrounds provide an abundance of flat, grassy, and shady sites, many with beautiful views of the adjacent river, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the tranquil outback atmosphere. It’s a classic country showground with a vibrant community feel, where anglers and travellers gather to share stories and enjoy the region’s natural bounty.

The facilities at the Theodore Showgrounds are excellent, offering incredible value for a very modest nightly fee. Visitors have access to a large number of powered and unpowered sites, clean amenities blocks with toilets and hot showers, laundry facilities, and a dump point. The main attraction is undoubtedly the Dawson River, a renowned hotspot for Barramundi, Saratoga, and Yellowbelly. The nearby town boat ramp provides easy access to the water, and the showgrounds’ riverside location is perfect for land-based fishing. The charming town of Theodore, one of Queensland’s original irrigation towns, is just a short walk away, offering a supermarket, classic country pubs, and cafes. The showgrounds are also an ideal launchpad for exploring the spectacular Isla Gorge National Park and the wider Sandstone Wonders touring route. For a spacious, well-equipped, and perfectly positioned base in a true angler’s paradise, the Theodore Showgrounds is an unmissable destination.

Site Information

• Name: Theodore Showgrounds
• Address: 127 The Blvd, Theodore QLD 4719, Australia
• Phone Number: 0448 570 415

• GPS Coordinates: -24.936324, 150.075928

• Website:

Campground Details

• Location: At the Theodore Showgrounds, right on the Dawson River.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, from tents to the largest motorhomes and fifth-wheelers.
• Road Access: Sealed road access.
• Site Surface: Mostly flat grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, low-cost camping with fees payable to the on-site caretaker.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with management for stays longer than one week.
• Facilities: Powered and unpowered sites, toilets, hot showers, dump point, laundry facilities.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra; service for other carriers may be limited.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Permitted in contained, off-the-ground fire pits only, subject to local fire restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted with consideration for others, but powered sites are plentiful.
• Number of Sites Available: Huge, unmarked area with capacity for hundreds of vans.
• Essentials to Bring: Cash for fees, a comprehensive fishing kit, and strong insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are very welcome but must be on a leash at all times.
• Fishing: World-class freshwater fishing in the Dawson River for Barramundi and Saratoga.
• Short Walks: Beautiful walks along the riverbank and into the town of Theodore.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Hotel Theodore: Approx. 2 km
  • Cracow Hotel, Cracow: Approx. 65 km
  • Moura Tavern, Moura: Approx. 60 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Hotel Theodore (bistro): Approx. 2 km
  • Theodore Bakery: Approx. 2 km
  • Local cafes and takeaway shops in Theodore.
• Local Attractions:
  • Dawson River (boating, fishing, birdwatching)
  • Isla Gorge National Park: Approx. 70 km
  • Theodore’s planned town layout and rose gardens.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Theodore BIG4 Caravan Park: Approx. 2 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Junction Park, Theodore (24-hour stop).
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Located on-site at the showgrounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple stations located in Theodore township.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available on-site.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located in Junction Park in the centre of Theodore.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and often very humid, with a high chance of heavy rain and thunderstorms, which can cause the river to flood. Temperatures frequently in the mid-to-high 30s (°C).
• Autumn (Mar-May): Generally the best time to visit for fishing. Days are warm and sunny, with mild nights. Temperatures average 16°C to 31°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Dry, mild, and sunny days with cold nights and frequent heavy frosts. Average temperatures range from 6°C to 23°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Warm and pleasant, with an increasing chance of rain. The countryside is at its greenest. Temperatures average 13°C to 32°C.