Outback Queensland - Best of the South-West.

There is so much to do in Outback Queensland and the distances are so vast that you might not cover it all in one visit.  Below we have broken the South Western region for you.  We consider the attractions/sights and National Parks below a good base for your itinerary.  We tried to do a Top 10 but we just couldn't narrow it down.  However, you should be able to cover this list in a week.

Click on the links for more information.

National Parks and Lookouts: 

1. Carnarvon National Park: This national park is known for its stunning landscapes, sandstone cliffs, and Aboriginal rock art. It's an oasis in the semi-arid heart of Outback Queensland offering great camp sites (book early) and bushwalking amidst the natural beauty and it's top of the list for a reason,  it's a 'must visit'.
2. Currawinya National Park in Hungerford: Red dirt and mulga scrub as well as a significant wetland area with diverse wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. The Park in the heart of Budjiti Country offers several camping ground options, they are all unpowered but well worth the inconvenience.
3. Hell Hole Gorge National Park: A rugged and remote park known for its gorges and unique wildlife, like the yellow-footed rock wallabies. Don't let it's name put you off,  it is far from a Hell Hole to visit but read the guidelines carefully before entering the park, you need to carry quite a lot of water and have an e-ticket for your campsite.
4. Baldy Top Lookout near Quilpie: Climb to the top of Baldy Top for panoramic views of the surrounding red rocky landscape. It's not a long walk but there is plenty to explore.

Museums and Attractions: 

1. Eromanga Natural History Museum: Home to Cooper, Australia's largest dinosaur, and other fascinating fossils and exhibits. You don't need to be a junior paleontologist to love a visit to the ENHM.
2. The Big Rig in Roma: offers insights into the history of the oil and gas industry in Australia, with interactive exhibits and displays the kids won't even know they're getting an education. Make sure you stay the night in Roma so you can take in the night show.
3. Roma Saleyards: Visit on a Tuesday for the renowned livestock auctions, particularly for cattle sales.  Experience the excitement of the auctioneer calls and the bustling livestock trade, and you can tell your friends you have been to Australia's largest saleyard.
4. Cobb & Co Changing Station in Surat: This historical site provides information about the famous Cobb & Co coach service that operated in Australia during the 19th and early 20th centuries. There is a replica coach on site.
5. Top Secret WWII Base and Tour in Charleville: Discover the history of Charleville's role as a secret US base during World War II. Did you know about the base?  We can't tell you anymore,  it's a secret.
6. Thargomindah's Historical Sites: Explore the town's history with self-guided tours of the Hydro Power Plant, Old Hospital, Old Jail and Leahy House.
7. Artesian Time Tunnel: At the Cunnamulla Fella Visitor Centre the history of the Great Artesian Basin water system in the area and it's importance to the sustainability of the areas agriculture.
8. Burke & Wills 'Dig Tree' near Innamincka: Pay tribute to the famous explorers Burke and Wills at the site of their historic expedition camp.

Outback Art: 

1. Thallon GrainCorp Silos: Part of the Australian Silo Art Trail.  Add Thallon to your Instagram wish list, These silos are adorned with impressive murals showcasing local wildlife, agriculture and country life.
2. Nullawokka Gallery and Cultural Walk in Bollon: Showcasing First Nations artwork, bush food and culture. Take the walking tour and gain insights into the indigenous heritage of the Kooma Country.

Indulge yourself: 

1. Mitchell's Great Artesian Spa: A relaxing destination where you can rejuvenate in the therapeutic waters of the Great Artesian Basin.
2. Riversands Wines in St George:  It wouldn't be a road-trip with at lease a trip to one winery! Well there aren't a lot to choose from in Outback Queensland, so you better grab the opportunity to visit Riversands, located on the banks of the Balonne River, the winery offers a cellar door and cafe.
3. Charlotte Plains Artesian Baths: This operational sheep station, offers more than just the natural artesian baths of a unique spa experience. Guided tours of the station, wildlife and bird watching as well as campfires and spectacular outback sunsets.   Charlotte Plains has powered sites so book early so you don't miss out.

Nightlife: 

1. The Cosmos Centre in Charleville: Everywhere you stay in the outback will give you fabulous night sky viewing.  The Cosmos Centre is a place to explore the wonders of the night sky, including stargazing and learning about astronomy. If you can only visit during the day there is still plenty for you.

1. Bilby Experience in Charleville: Get a chance to see these endangered marsupials in a special nocturnal house, the Centre is working hard to save the Bilby from extinction and by visiting you will be making your contribute to their survival.

These attractions offer a diverse range of experiences, from history and culture to natural beauty and adventure, making them great destinations for travelers exploring the Outback of Queensland.

As always,  pay your respects to the traditional custodians of the land on which you travel,  their ancestors past, present and emerging. 

Images: Courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland

Shelley Richardson

Shelley has been working in the travel industry for over 30 years, in aviation, for tour operators and since 2016 for DriveNow. Having travelled extensively worldwide, alone, as a couple and with her family, Shelley has experience to share about how to make the most of your holiday, especially road-trips to amazing destinations.

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