Barkly Highway
The remote outback highway connecting Queensland to the Northern Territory
About this region
Barkly Highway
The Barkly Highway stretches across the remote Gulf Country from Mount Isa in Queensland to Tennant Creek in the NT — one of the most isolated drives in Australia. Enormous cattle stations, the storied mining city of Mount Isa, vast Mitchell grass plains and spectacular dry-season sunsets define this legendary outback route. True roadside free camping territory.
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Places to Stay in Barkly Highway
41 campgrounds, caravan parks and accommodation across the region
Threeways Roadhouse and Tourist Park
Experience an all-encompassing travel stop at Threeways Roadhouse & Tourist Park - the perfect destination for all road-trippers and adventurers. This family-run business offers a comprehensive suite of amenities including Shell fuel services, food, accommodation, and camping options, all marked by friendly and personable service. Conveniently located at the junction of two major highways, the park acts as an ideal stopover or a delightful tourist destination to explore the rich local attractions.
Old Police Station Waterhole Campground
The Old Police Station Waterhole Campground is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering lush, grassy camping sites along a beautiful and tranquil waterhole. Make it your go-to spot for swimming and wildlife watching, with several kinds of birds and other animals frequently sighted. Rediscover history as you explore the remnants of the old police station situated on the opposing bank. Don't forget to bring your camera for capturing unforgettable moments!
Renner Springs Desert Inn
Renner Springs Desert Inn is a historic outback roadhouse on the Stuart Highway, 150km north of Tennant Creek and roughly halfway between Darwin and Alice Springs. Built around a relocated WWII army hut, the inn offers fuel, meals, bar service, motel rooms and shaded campsites. The natural lagoon and spring still attract diverse outback bird life.
Soudan Bore Rest Area
With its proximity to the main road, Soudan Bore Rest Area is an accessible, convenient retreat for the self-sufficient traveler. While there are no immediate facilities, it offers itself as an undisturbed sanctuary where enjoying personal space, solitude, and serene surroundings is the main draw, making it perfect for caravans, RVs, and camping experts. Peaceful, simple, and rich in natural beauty, Soudan Bore offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature in its raw form.
Whistle Duck Creek Campground
Whistle Duck Creek Campground offers a selection of camping areas to choose from, allowing you to pick the perfect spot for your outdoor retreat. It provides a tranquil space for nature lovers, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities alongside a variety of wildlife. This location embraces an adventurous spirit, with necessary high clearance 4WD accessibility urging you to immerse yourself in the serene wilderness. At Whistle Duck Creek Campground, be prepared for a one-of-a-kind camping experience.
Tennant Creek Caravan Park
Located in the heart of Australia's outback is Tennant Creek Caravan Park, the perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. It includes comfortably shaded, grassy powered sites for caravans and dedicated areas for tent camping. Facilities offer the perfect blend of comfort and nature, providing a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the outback. The park's welcoming atmosphere makes it a home away from home for travelers.
Outback Caravan Park
Outback Caravan Park provides an authentic Australian outback experience with a choice of cabins or spacious caravan and camping sites. Conveniently located near Tennant Creek, it's a perfect gateway to explore the rich history and spectacular landscapes around. Comfortable facilities and the warm Outback hospitality ensure an enjoyable stay for families, groups, or solo adventurers. The park is pet-friendly, making it an ideal choice for travelers with furry companions.
Lake Mary Ann
Lake Mary Ann is a picturesque man-made reservoir located in Northern Territory, Australia, a short distance from Tennant Creek. It is a popular location for water-based activities including swimming and canoeing, presenting a perfect escape from the heat of the Outback. Surrounded by landscaped grassy areas, it is an ideal picnic spot for families. With its beautiful natural setting, Lake Mary Ann serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Birdsville Wirrarri Visitor Centre
The Birdsville Wirrarri Visitor Centre, situated in Billabong Boulevard, is a comprehensive resource for travelers looking to explore Birdsville, Simpson Desert, Diamantina National Park, and Diamantina Shire. It offers internet access, souvenir shopping, as well as a self-serve photo printing kiosk. Adjacent to the Centre lies a rest area with covered picnic tables, perfect for a day’s relaxation.
Birdsville Bakery
Birdsville Bakery is an iconic Australian spot known for its unique and delicious offering of a curried camel pie, a testament to their innovative culinary skills. Besides their renowned pies, Birdsville Bakery provides a range of other sumptuous treats and fresh bakes. The friendly atmosphere, caring staff, and traditional country style bakery set amongst the rugged outback make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Clyde and Charmaine add a dash of quirkiness to the place. Enjoy the culinary adventure while soaking up some local character and charm.
Dajarra Camping Area
Immerse yourself in Australia's rich history with a visit to Dajarra Camping Area. This unique site was once the world's largest cattle trucking center, with cattle transported from Queensland and Northern Territory to markets in the east. Campgrounds are conveniently located at the old railway station, adding to the historic appeal. Behold the standing testament to its vibrant past, the solitary old water tower—once used to refuel steam locomotives. Discovering Dajarra is truly an authentic outback experience.
Birdsville Roadhouse
Birdsville Roadhouse is an iconic outback hub and a must-visit in the Australian town of Birdsville. The Roadhouse provides essential services including mechanical repairs, fuel, and a shop stocked with a wide variety of products. It's famed for its welcoming atmosphere, where locals and travelers interact, sharing stories over a meal. Overall, the Roadhouse provides a complete outback experience enhancing the appeal of Birdsville to visitors and locals alike.
Cloncurry Rest Area
The Cloncurry Rest Area offers an immersive experience of Australia's history, featuring an outdoor museum with machinery exhibits from the past and an informative display about the retired Mary Kathleen uranium mine. The town of Cloncurry itself provides an authentic outback community experience, known for its friendly, down-to-earth locals. Visitors can enjoy events like the Cloncurry Show. Ideal for travelers, the location is conveniently located near the highly recommended Cloncurry Caravan Park Oasis.
Camooweal Caves National Park
Camooweal Caves National Park is a captivating destination located in the semi-arid Barkly Tablelands. Spanning 13,800 hectares, the park is highlighted by impressive sinkholes which have been carved into layers of soluble dolomite dating back 500 million years. Open eucalypt woodland, spinifex, turpentine wattle shrubland, and vast Mitchell grass plains enhance its scenic allure. The area is a haven for a variety of birds including waterbirds and woodland species visible throughout the year. For a seamless experience, visitors are encouraged to bring their own fresh water and fuel stoves, as these are not provided.
Discovery Holiday Park Cloncurry
Discovery Holiday Parks - Cloncurry offers a distinct blend of history and natural beauty, located in the scenic area first discovered by Burke and Wills in 1861. The park is an ideal base for exploration of the region's rich heritage. With top-notch facilities, it ensures a comfortable stay while guests immerse themselves in local attractions. Perfect for history buffs, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.
Discovery Holiday Park Mount Isa
Discover the charm of Australia's outback at Discovery Holiday Parks - Mount Isa. Found near the serene Leichhardt River, the park is perfectly positioned for those wishing to embark on exploratory adventures. With ample facilities and a captivating environment, it provides an invaluable experience of the indigenous Australian landscape. Visitors can immerse in rich culture, explore historical mining sites, and enjoy stunningly scenic nature walks.
Lake Moondarra Picnic Area
Lake Moondarra Picnic Area is an idyllic spot located downstream from Mount Isa, perfect for peaceful outings. As an artificial lake, it not only adds beauty to Mount Isa but also serves as a crucial water source. Apart from being a tranquil picnic location, it's widely recognized for its water-skiing opportunities, thanks to its excellent boat ramp. The venue also lures fishing enthusiasts, providing an inviting natural backdrop for relaxed activities.
QLD NT Border Parking Bay Barkly Highway
The QLD NT Border Parking Bay on Barkly Highway offers a unique pit stop during long journeys. Apart from facilitating easy border crossings between Queensland and Northern Territory, this place is a hub of interesting conversations and colourful travellers. The rustic authenticity of the site draws people who wish to experience the charm of simplicity and spontaneity. Whether you're a local crossing the border frequently or a traveller exploring the area, the parking bay offers a chance to meet diverse people and gather memorable experiences.
Camooweal Roadhouse Caravan Park
The Camooweal Roadhouse Caravan Park offers guests a convenient stopover in the gateway from Northern Territory to Queensland, Australia. This park provides various amenities including food, fuel and a range of accommodation options, making it a perfect place for rest and replenish. It's not just a place to stay, it's an important part of your journey offering comfort and conveniences to make your travel more enjoyable.
Fountain Springs Rest Area
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.
Avon Downs Rest Area
Avon Downs Rest Area offers an adventurous yet tranquil retreat for travelers, accommodating vehicles of all sizes. With its bitumen surface and ample space, visitors can enjoy a comfortable, free overnight stay. Though shade may be limited, the site often attracts unique, homemade rigs and diverse groups of people, creating an engaging environment for any adventurous sojourner. Meeting eccentric characters and spotting inventive vehicles are part of the charm when you stop at Avon Downs.
Seymour River Camping Area
Experience a peaceful, natural retreat at Seymour River Camping Area. Perfectly situated beside a serene waterhole on the Seymour River, this spot offers ample shade and dual access to the river's southern bank. Despite having no facilities on-site, it provides an unspoiled setting for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy camping, fishing, bird watching, and more. Disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature in this picturesque location.
Wal's Camp
Wal's Camp, situated in the outskirts of Cloncurry, is an emerging destination in nature's lap, offering genuine bush camping experience. It is a work-in-progress that in time promises to evolve into an established caravan park. The space occasionally offers power facilities to campers. Immerse yourself in the tranquil bush environment, and anticipate the evolution of this burgeoning site.
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.
Mount Isa Caravan Park
Mount Isa Caravan Park provides a welcoming environment with a variety of accommodations options, including powered sites, cabins, villas, and family units. For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, tent sites are also available. Guests can enjoy facilities such as BBQs, laundry room and a camp kitchen. An ideal location for an adventurous holiday or a tranquil getaway. Experience the rugged countryside and rich mining history of the region while enjoying the comforts provided by the park.
Cloncurry Caravan Park Oasis
Situated in the vibrant heart of 'Curry', Cloncurry Caravan Park Oasis offers level and grassy sites, allowing guests the unique option to select their own location. Ideal for adventurous travellers, the park is also pet friendly and near to various attractions. Expect quality amenities, a friendly atmosphere, and the perfect spot to unwind amidst nature's tranquillity.
Wunara Store Rest Area
The Wunara Store Rest Area on the Barkley Highway offers ample space for camping overnight, accommodating even large vehicles or rigs. While offering limited shade from sparse mulga bushes, its primary attraction is as a spacious and comfortable spot for travelers to rest and recuperate on their journey. This site's simple remote charm can provide a peaceful and refreshing pause during a long drive.
Sunset Top Tourist Park
Sunset Top Tourist Park offers a unique accommodation experience in Mount Isa with its location on the bank of Breakaway Creek. As the only "waterfront" park in the area, it provides visitors a serene interaction with nature amidst an outback mining town. To ensure an unforgettable stay, advance booking is recommended due to its high demand.
Mary Kathleen Mine Site
The Mary Kathleen Mine Site, located in Northwest Queensland, is a former mining operation rich in history. Known for its uranium production from 1954 to 1984, the site now features an amazingly vibrant blue lake deep within the open pit mine, a visual spectacle attracting many visitors. However, caution is advised due to its toxicity and radioactivity. Beautiful and haunting, the site is a stark reminder of human impact on natural resources. Enjoy the breathtaking view, and learn about its important place in industrial history.
Mary Kathleen Old Township
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.
Corella Dam Boat Ramp
Corella Dam Boat Ramp provides easy access to the water for boating enthusiasts. Located near the Corella Dam Camping Area, it's an excellent spot for camping and outdoor adventures, although it might be a bit snug for larger caravans. It's an ideal location for those seeking aquatic activities and nature-based relaxation.
Barkly Highway Parking Space at Breakaway
Located along Barkly Highway, Breakaway offers a considerable parking area perfect for truck drivers and travelers alike. It features a large gravel area for easy parking, along with several garbage bins to help keep the area clean. Notably, the spot has good 3G connectivity, making it an ideal rest stop to check up on emails and updates before heading east out of Mount Isa.
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.
AAOK Moondarra Accommodation Village
For an enjoyable stay in Mount Isa, consider the AAOK Moondarra Accommodation Village. It's a versatile place offering a wide range of facilities from camp and caravan sites (both powered and unpowered) to cabins and ensuited workforce-style rooms. You won't miss home comforts with amenities including a pool, restaurant, and well-equipped camp kitchens onsite.
Rotary Park Mount Isa West
Located in the heart of Mount Isa West, Rotary Park offers a picturesque riverside setting for relaxation and picnics. It's situated conveniently on the bank of the Leichhardt River, providing spacious areas for visitors to unwind. Despite its slightly worn look, it's a peaceful spot, perfect for a day out. Additionally, Lake Moondarra Picnic Area is situated just a short drive away for those wanting to explore further.
Barkly Homestead
Barkly Homestead offers a memorable stopover experience. It's not just a place for refuelling your vehicle but also a hub for refreshment and relaxation. The on-site caravan park facilitates comfortable overnight stays, while local souvenirs and captivating history enrich your journey. Regardless if you're a roadside explorer or history aficionado, Barkly Homestead attracts for its unique blend of convenience, culture and charm.
Wonarah Bore Rest Area
The Last time, Wonarah Bore Rest Area was crowded, especially around dusk. Despite this, it's a worth visiting spot due to its vast space suitable for any size rig, and a drive-through configuration. It's an ideal spot for night rests along the Barkley Highway. Don't miss experiencing the calm and beauty of this diversion off the northern side if you fancy massive rest areas.
Corella Dam Camping Area
Corella Dam Camping Area offers an idyllic experience with incredible water views and peaceful surroundings. It's nestled within a delightful wooded area, just a short five-minute walk from the dam. Here, you can set up camp, relax, and enjoy fishing activities. Get ready to soak in the tranquility of nature and create unforgettable memories!
Clem Walton Park
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.
Camooweal Billabong Lake Francis and Lake Canellan Camping Areas
Camooweal Billabong, comprising of Lake Francis and Lake Canellan, is a tranquil camping area offering stunning views over the lakes and abundant bird-life. This picturesque site is an excellent spot for photography, fishing, and observing the local wildlife, which occasionally includes wild brumbies. It is an ideal location to unwind and immerse yourself in nature, with several campsites situated along the west side of the billabong. Perfect for short or longer stays, especially during the cooler months.
Discovery Holiday Park Argylla
Discovery Parks - Argylla, located near the town centre, provides a serene bushland setting for travellers and holidaymakers. It's conveniently situated within walking distance of local supermarkets, and just a short drive away from a Tourist Information Centre. The park offers an authentic outback stay experience featuring various accommodation options and amenities for a comfortable stay.