Stay and play in the great north-west

Outback Queensland’s north-west region begins four hours’ drive west of Townsville. With towering ancient gorges, world-renowned fossil deposits, untouched national parks and warm country hospitality, it is a region best seen by road.

And when travelling by road, a caravan park is hard to beat.

Here are seven quirky stays during a trip to north-west Queensland:

Prairie Hotel-Motel, Hughenden

An “American Pickers” dream, the Prairie Hotel in Hughenden is a must-see for its eccentric, grandmother-approved collection of stockmen’s hats and other historic memorabilia.

Make the most of this free, pet-friendly campsite and outback experience in the charming town of Prairie, about 43km from Hughenden in the Flinders Shire. Patrons can also tuck into a pub meal to remember in the hotel’s country style dining room, surrounded by Praire’s old treasures and relics.

Porcupine Gorge National Park, Porcupine

Be greeted by towering cliffs of coloured sandstone, pockets of vine forest and deep blue waterholes as you make your way through the gates at Porcupine Gorge National Park. Known as Australia’s Little Grand Canyon, the scenic Pyramid Campground at Porcupine Gorge has a limited number of sites (22 to be exact!), basic facilities, picnic tables and fire rings. Planning ahead is crucial to secure your spot at this hidden wonder of the north-west.

Karumba Point Sunset Caravan Park, Karumba

Shout “Ay, Karumba!” at this five-star, family and pet friendly caravan park in the heart of Karumba in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Travellers can experience where the outback meets the sea staying at one of the park’s 163 well-equipped powered sites or 22 unpowered sites and 6 ensuite villas or four cabins.

There’s nowhere better to make the most of the abundance of natural beauty in Karumba – with a swimming pool open all year to cool off after a day’s exploration.

Bedrock Village Caravan Park & Tours, Mount Surprise

Hidden among the picturesque scenes of the historic township of Mount Surprise in Einasleigh Shire, Bedrock Village Caravan Park and Tours is on nine acres of true-blue north-west Queensland bushland.

It offers adventurers a perfect base to make the most of local attractions, such as the Savannahlander train and Undara Lava Tubes in the tropical north-west’s Gulf savannah. Make yourself home at one of the 35 air-conditioned ensuite cabins, 75 powered sites or 30 lawned tent sites before sitting around the campfire for an impromptu concert.

Gulfland Motel and Caravan Park, Normanton

Expect “big things” from the moment you spot the Big Barramundi at the Gulfland Motel and Caravan Park in Normanton.

From wetlands and grasslands to arid savannah territory, you can see it all from above with the popular helicopter rides or a heli-fishing tour across the Norman River. The Gulfland Motel and Caravan Park covers all styles, from air-conditioned motel rooms to caravanning and camping sites. There’s also a restaurant and pool on-site.

Talaroo Outback Camping and Caravan Park, Mount Surprise

The Savannah Way’s newest tourist attraction, Talaroo Hot Springs combines the culture and hospitality of Ewamian people with one of north-west Queensland’s most amazing geological wonders.

Guests in one of the 16 powered and 15 unpowered sites are encouraged to make the most of “Talaroo time” and join the exclusive guided tours, experience the healing waters of the hot springs or private soaking pools, enjoy a walk to the Einasleigh River or experience a yarning circle.

Julia Creek Caravan Park. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

Julia Creek Caravan Park, Julia Creek

You’ll feel right at home at one of Julia Creek Caravan Park’s drive-through, unpowered and powered sites, grassed camping areas or fully self-contained cabins. Julia Creek is a friendly park where the motto is “no strangers here, just friends you haven’t met.” Whether or not you’re in the mood to socialise, you can unwind after a day on the road at one of the six artesian bathhouses overlooking the downs country (with cheese platter and wine in hand!) and soak up the therapeutic properties of the water from the Great Artesian Basin.

Pyramid Camping Area 1. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland