FREEDOM CAMP OF THE MONTH
We loved our night at the Camooweal Billabong, Qld, free camp – we think you will, too. First, the area is huge! You can camp closer to town, near the bridge on Lake Francis, or further along in the second area, Lake Canellan, which is about 2km from the entry. It is popular, but when we visited, every site was waterfront! You can’ t beat that!
We really were wowed by the birdlife here – it was the first time I saw galahs feeding. They sounded like jackhammers. We watched the brolgas and a friend captured on camera brolgas dancing right at this location!
“ The birdlife is awesome,” one traveller said.“ They behave as if we aren’ t here. Love it!”
This site is not far from town. Our daughter rates the roadhouse BLT and egg and bacon burger breakfast. Plus, the hotel in town has glowing reviews in the Camps app! We opted for a camp oven roast lamb dinner. Add in the campfire and sunset, and no wonder I have such fond memories here.
Another winner: it was our first camp in our home state of Queensland after a couple of months west. Camooweal is right on the Northern Territory border, and the next town on is Mount Isa.
Please note: the camp is not accessible in wet conditions, and you can camp here for up to 48 hours only. It is suitable for all types of camping, and pets are welcome. There are no facilities, so BYO toilet.
Things to see and do nearby include fishing, visiting Camooweal Caves National Park or attending the The Drovers Camp Festival in August.
From town, travel west over the Georgina River Bridge and then turn south on an unsealed road to find it. You will see it clearly marked in the Camps app. As always, leave no trace.
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