Mary Kathleen Old Township in Mary Kathleen, QLD — photo 1

Mary Kathleen Old Township

Mary Kathleen, QLD
At a glanceFree campsite
Free CampingTent SitePets WelcomeCaravans

About this campsite

Mary Kathleen is a fascinating ghost town nestled on a private cattle property, once a bustling uranium mine from 1954 to 1984. Visitors can meander through evocative streets and concrete slabs, vestiges of its past. It's a history lover's paradise. Respect for the property is key to ensure its preservation, with strict rules against firearms and cutting trees. It has also been featured in news stories, adding to its captivating allure.

Mary Kathleen, a vanished township, stands as an enchanting ghost town, nestled within a privately-owned cattle property. The former uranium mine, active between 1954 and 1984, no longer houses any structures, but still harbors traces of its past life with visible streets and remaining concrete foundations. Visit the site with a deep respect for the land, honoring all guidelines to ensure that it remains accessible for future explorers. The preservation of this land prohibits destructive activities, such as the use of firearms or the cutting down of trees. Instead, visitors are encouraged to absorb its unique history and stunning natural surroundings. A 2016 news story highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the mine, contributing to the intrigue and allure of Mary Kathleen. This intriguing destination offers a rare glimpse into Australia's mining history—delving deep into its past, one can almost hear the echoes of the town's vibrant life, now standing silent, but far from forgotten.

How to Get There

Proceed to waypoint 57km E of Mount Isa, 64km W of Cloncurry on N side of Barkly Highway. Drive through gateway and continue to township in RHS. GPS point is at town roundabout. Just a few kilometres from the highway. Roads can be variable condition, so expect potholes and washouts at times.

What this place offers

Accommodation Types

Free Camping
Camping Area
Tent Site
Caravans

Facilities

Shade

Rules & Accessibility

Pets Welcome

Other Features

Lookout
Generators Allowed
Beware of potholes in road.
Day Use Area
Place of Interest
Concrete slabs
Historic mining town
Plenty of room
No facilities whatsoever
Walking
Day Rest Area
Photo Opportunity
Overnight Rest Area
Unknown feature
Free Overnight Camp
Long Rig

Location

Mary Kathleen Old Township•Barkly Highway, Mary Kathleen, QLD, 4824

Common questions about Mary Kathleen Old Township

Is Mary Kathleen Old Township free to camp at?

We have Mary Kathleen Old Township in Mary Kathleen, QLD recorded as a free camp, but we have not confirmed that with the operator, so treat it as unconfirmed. Sites change hands and councils bring in fees, so check the current rate before you commit to the drive.

What facilities does Mary Kathleen Old Township have?

Mary Kathleen Old Township has lookout, generators allowed, beware of potholes in road., day use area, place of interest and concrete slabs. That is the short list; 21 facilities are recorded for this site in total. Facilities at camps change, particularly after a wet season, so check the operator or the managing authority if one of them decides your trip.

Are dogs allowed at Mary Kathleen Old Township?

The record for Mary Kathleen Old Township lists "Pets Welcome", so dogs are welcome here. National parks and conservation areas nearby often take a different view, so check the rules for any day trips you have planned. Keep them on a lead around other campers and clean up after them, and nobody has a problem with it.

Can you book Mary Kathleen Old Township online?

We hold no online booking link for Mary Kathleen Old Township, so it is not bookable through this page. Many parks and showgrounds still require a booking, so contact the operator before you go. Their website or phone number is the fastest way to confirm a site.

Where is Mary Kathleen Old Township?

Mary Kathleen Old Township sits in Mary Kathleen, QLD. The map on this page shows the exact spot, and the coordinates travel straight into your navigation app. Check road conditions before you set out if you are towing, since access tracks can change with the weather.

Facilities at Mary Kathleen Old Township

Facilities recorded for Mary Kathleen Old Township
FacilityOn site
LookoutYes
Generators AllowedYes
Beware of potholes in road.Yes
Day Use AreaYes
Place of InterestYes
Concrete slabsYes
Historic mining townYes
Plenty of roomYes
Free CampingYes
No facilities whatsoeverYes
WalkingYes
Day Rest AreaYes
ShadeYes
Photo OpportunityYes
Camping AreaYes
Overnight Rest AreaYes
Tent SiteYes
Yes
Pets WelcomeYes
CaravansYes
Free Overnight CampYes
Long RigYes

Nearby Campsites

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Burke and Wills Memorial Rest Area at Corella River — Cloncurry, QLD10.9 km away

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Burke and Wills Memorial Rest Area at Corella River

The Burke & Wills Memorial Rest Area at Corella River is a captivating monument that commemorates the fabled expedition of explorers Burke and Wills. Its rich historical significance turns every visit into a learning experience. The small nature of the area makes it preferable for more intimate groups. While it may not be ideal for larger vehicles like caravans, it's a scenic locale perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Clem Walton Park — Cloncurry, QLD10.9 km away

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Clem Walton Park provides a tranquil outdoor experience by offering serene camping sites, beautifully surrounded by nature and water views of the neighboring Corella Dam. It's an ideal spot to unwind, engage in some fishing, or enjoy the idyllic scenery. Connect with the Aussie bush, devoid of city clamor, and indulge in the freedom that Clem Walton Park offers. This is a haven for those looking for recreation or peaceful retreat.

Fountain Springs Rest Area — Cloncurry, QLD10.9 km away

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Fountain Springs Rest Area, a local favorite situated 60 kilometers east of Mount Isa, makes for a perfect day trip or an overnight camping spot. The location offers an engaging off-road adventure through the picturesque Fountain Range. It takes you to a beautiful permanent deep waterhole where you get the opportunity to observe various wildlife species. While you're there, you could also explore the old uranium mining township of Mary Kathleen, which is located nearby.

Lake Mary Kathleen — Kuridala, QLD20.5 km away

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Lake Mary Kathleen

Lake Mary Kathleen is nestled on Rosebud Station, far removed from any old uranium mines to offer a safe and scenic location. This large, serene body of water, created by a dam on the Leichhardt River, is ideal for tranquil strolls, lakeside picnics, nature photography, and bird watching. Visitors can enjoy the untouched beauty of the area and its rich biodiversity.

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Free camp — fee unconfirmed

We hold this as a free camp but have not confirmed the fee — check before you go

Free campsite — no booking needed, sites are first come, first served.

Listed as a free camp — we have not confirmed the fee with the operator
Councils and new owners do bring in fees, so ring ahead or check signage
Check the weather & fire outlook below before you go
A 4WD with a rooftop tent set up at a eucalyptus bush camp
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Barkly Highway

Mary Kathleen, QLD 4824

Mary Kathleen Old Township

Free · no booking needed