Fountain Springs Rest Area in Cloncurry, QLD — photo 1

Fountain Springs Rest Area

Cloncurry, QLD
Free CampingFire PlaceCaravansTent SitePets WelcomeToiletsAccessibleBBQ

About this campsite

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.

Fountain Springs is a renowned spot among off-road adventurers, nestled amidst the stunning Fountain Range. A hidden jewel of the area, Fountain Springs provides visitors with an enchanting, permanent deep waterhole and a vibrant array of local wildlife. It's an appealing mid-point between Mount Isa and The Curry, ideal for camping and synonymous with tranquility and natural beauty. Only 60 kilometers east off the Overlander's Way from Mount Isa, it's easily accessible for day trips from either Mount Isa or Cloncurry. The area also offers insightful guides like '48 hours in Mount Isa', '48 hours in Cloncurry', and '15 things you didn't know about Cloncurry' to enrich your visit. While visiting, do not miss out on the historical uranium mining township of Mary Kathleen nearby. Combining nature, history, and adventure, Fountain Springs is undoubtedly a place of interest for explorers and nature lovers alike.

How to Get There

From waypoint on Barkly Highway, 7km east of Fountain Springs Rest Area, 67km east of Mount Isa and 54km west of Cloncurry, turn south off highway. Gate not locked. Proceed along dirt road & take left turn at 1st junction and right turn at 2nd junction. Dirt road, 600m to camp ground.

Features & Facilities

Amenities

Toilets

Accommodation Types

Caravans
Tent Site
Free Camping

Facilities

Shade
Picnic Tables
BBQ

Rules & Accessibility

Accessible

Other Features

Maximum 20 hrs
Fire Place
Overnight Rest Area
Day Rest Area
Pets Welcome
Popular stopover. Can be crowded
Non Drinking Water
Mobile Phone Coverage
Bin
Day Use Area
Long Rig
Unknown feature
Free Overnight Camp
Generators Allowed

Location

Fountain Springs Rest AreaBarkly Highway, Cloncurry, QLD, 4824

Weather Forecast

via Open-Meteo
TODAY☀️
23° / 11°
FRI☀️
22° / 10°
SAT☀️
23° / 11°
SUN☀️
24° / 13°
MON☀️
26° / 12°

Nearby Campsites

within 50km
Mary Kathleen Old Township — Mary Kathleen, QLD10.9 km away

Mary Kathleen, QLD

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.

Lake Mary Kathleen — Kuridala, QLD28.8 km away

Kuridala, QLD

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.

Mary Kathleen Mine Site — Mary Kathleen, QLD10.9 km away

Mary Kathleen, QLD

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.

Wal's Camp — Cloncurry, QLD49.1 km away

Cloncurry, QLD

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.

Similar Campsites

based on features
Bang Bang Rest Area — Stokes, QLDSimilar265.9 km away

Stokes, QLD

Bang Bang Rest Area

The Bang Bang Rest Area is a spacious and convenient stopover located just off the Burke Developmental Road for travelers. Though limited in natural shade, it provides essential amenities including sanitation facilities and a dedicated dump point, offering a comfortable and practical stay for road trip enthusiasts or anyone seeking a brief respite on their journey.

Terry Smith Lookout Rest Area — Three Rivers, QLDSimilar87.1 km away

Three Rivers, QLD

Terry Smith Lookout Rest Area

The Terry Smith Lookout Rest Area offers an ideal location for travelers looking to pause and refresh during their journey. This extensive, open site can accommodate any size rig, making it perfect for road trips of all scales. Being right off the highway, it provides convenience and accessibility. Although there's no TV or NextG coverage here, guests can enjoy the serene outdoors, indulge in stargazing, or engage in personal entertainments they've brought along. A visit here is a chance to step back, unwind and appreciate the simple tranquility after a long day on the road.

Emerald Botanic Gardens — Emerald, QLDSomewhat Similar887.9 km away

Emerald, QLD

Emerald Botanic Gardens

Emerald Botanic Gardens, established in 1987, is a serene destination where visitors can enjoy various activities. The gardens are located by the Nogoa River, making it perfect for activities like kayaking, fishing, cycling, and bird watching. Overnight stopovers are permitted, with campsites available at different locations. Visitors will also be pleased to find a supermarket within walking distance, by using a walkway under the road. The picturesque setting also invites for a leisurely stroll and quiet contemplation on the available seating.

A 4WD with a rooftop tent set up at a eucalyptus bush camp
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Fire Danger
Low–Moderate
Today
23°·18%·21km/h
Low–Moderate
Tomorrow
22°·25%·22km/h
Low–Moderate
Sat
23°·30%·22km/h
Low–Moderate
Estimated from forecast conditionsQFES

Nearby Fuel

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Barkly Highway

Cloncurry, QLD 4824