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Get out and enjoy this great land and support local communities.
There's plenty going on all around Australia, so read on for iconic events and unmissable outback destinations to jot down in your itinerary.
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Explore Australia
Essential station stays and campsites
NSW
Camp on the Murrumbidgee
Murrumbidgee Valley National Park, situated along the Murrumbidgee River near Narrandera, Hay and Balranald, is a fabulous spot for fishing, camping, kayaking, cycling, hiking and birdwatching. There are around 47 campsites along the river in the Murrumbidgee Valley NP, in which you can set up camp among the river red gums. You need to book ahead and you can only set up camp in the designated campground. For more information or to book, call the National Parks Contact Centre on 1300 072757 or visit their website.
Reflections Holiday Parks – Wee Jasper
A famed wilderness camping spot in the stunning Goodradigbee Valley. Known for its rugged landscape, the site comprises Billy Grace Reserve, Micalong Reserve, Swinging Bridge Reserve and Fitzpatrick Trackhead Reserve.
The Wild Block reserve, which includes the Fitzpatrick Campground, is great for large groups, providing access to the Wee Jasper caves system and the Hume and Hovell walking track. The Micalong Creek reserve has amenities and showers and is closer to swimming holes and the Micalong walking track, while the smaller Swinging Bridge reserve has toilet facilities and potable drinking water.
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Binghi Station
Set on 1600ha of granite rock country about 90 minutes west of Tenterfield in northern NSW, Binghi Station was once a sheep-grazing property, and from the late 1800s to the mid 1900s a thriving tin and gem mining area.
There’s pleasant camping here and the 6km-long driveway to access the property can be pretty rough and bumpy, so a 4x4 is recommended. There’s a number of sites suitable for off-road vans and camper trailers, while the ‘Secret Gorge’ is best accessed by those with a swag or tent, or a capable off-road camper. See www.facebook.com/binghistation for more information.
Kallara Station
Nestled in the heart of the NSW outback 10km upstream of Tilpa (on the western side of the Darling River), Kallara Station is the perfect place to experience everything that country accommodation has to offer.
Based on a 100,000ha working, organically certified sheep, goat and irrigation farm, guests can choose the comfort of ensuite accommodation or riverfront camping on the Darling River. From the densely wooded river bends to the open outback paddocks, there are opportunities to experience the native wildlife, try your hand at fishing, or take a 4WD across the beautiful landscape. Go to www.kallarastation.com.au for more details.
Ohare’s Campground
Ohare’s Campground, situated in Kosciuszko National Park, is a peaceful camping spot that offers opportunities for boating, fishing and paddling. There are no camping fees at the campground, but a $6 booking fee applies. Book online at www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au or call the National Parks Contact Centre on 1300 072 757.
Black Rocks Campground
Set behind the dunes amongst tuckeroo and banksia trees, Black Rocks Campground is perfectly positioned right by Ten Mile Beach and near Jerusalem Creek.
Located near Evans Head about 730km north of Sydney, it’s a great place for a family camping holiday, with campsites for caravans, camper trailers and motorhomes.Getting to the beach is easy along the short walking track that leads north along creek banks and through wetlands to the mouth of the ocean.
Pincally Station
Pincally Station is an 893ha working sheep and cattle station located 270km north of Broken Hill in the heart of the Corner Country. The rugged Mount Arrowsmith Hills, named by Sturt during his expedition through the region, form a backdrop to the property.
Pincally offers quality bed-and-breakfast accommodation in self-contained cottages or in the shearers quarters. All accommodation has been renovated, with the contemporary-styled rooms adding a touch of luxury and comfort to the outback. The shearers’ quarters is suitable for groups of up to 16 guests, providing a fabulous authentically Australian-styled lodge facility with a fully equipped kitchen and barbecue for self-catering.
Northern Territory
Athelle Outback Hideaway
Athelle Outback Hideaway is 190km north of Alice Springs, just off the Stuart Highway, and is surrounded by fodder and crop productions, farm animals and wide-open spaces making it the place to be if you want to immerse yourself in the true Northern Territory outback.
The property offers unique sunsets, starry nights, animal feeding with close encounters and the feel of station and farm life. There’s air-conditioned accommodation available for couples and families and powered and non-powered grassy caravan sites with a camp kitchen and open fireplaces. The property is pet friendly and there is full Telstra mobile coverage! Phone 0405 001 825 to make a booking.
Camping at Hermannsburg
The Ntaria Campground, located at what we normally know as Hermannsburg, about 125km west of Alice Springs, offers powered and unpowered campsites with communal kitchen and bathroom facilities. It also provides four self-contained one-bedroom cabins with a full kitchen, bathroom, laundry and balcony.
Ntaria is a community of around 600 people, in the traditional lands of the Western Arrernte people. Established in 1877 as a Lutheran mission, tourists today are welcomed to its historic precinct, with church buildings, tea room and art gallery. Art enthusiasts are drawn to see the birthplace of watercolour artist Albert Namatjira, while outdoor adventurers visit the caravan park on their way to Palm Valley or the Mereenie Loop Road to Kings Canyon.
Ntaria Supermarket administers Ntaria Campground, a locally owned business with all profits going back to the community.
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Queensland
Fairview camping
Fairview Station, about 20km north of Laura on the Peninsula Development Rd, offers camping on the station grounds with access to water, power and amenities for just $15 per person per night. Cabin accommodation is available with the choice of meals included or with no meals.
The property also offers bush camping, laundry facilities and barbecue facilities. Under 16s stay free. Cook on station to cater for meals. Dogs are welcome on the campgrounds but must be tied up. Head to bookings@ryanglobal.com.au to make a booking or visit the Fairview Station’s Facebook page.
Ringer's Rest
Set on 150 hectares of private property, 6km from the town of Mareeba, this fabulous bush caravan park caters for self-contained camper trailers and vans. There’s easy sealed-road access and freedom to choose your perfect campsite in the dedicated six hectares of camping area. Check out ringersrest.weebly.com/rv-park.html for more information and to make a booking.
Stay at Lara Wetlands
Lara Wetlands is a 6000ha station stay accessed 28km south of Barcaldine on the Landsborough Highway, and then via a 13km red-sand access road. There is plenty of room for everyone in the unpowered bush campground; there are no allocated sites and no bookings are required, with cash-only payment.
The station’s tourist season runs from April to the end of September and while there is no camping in the summer months, the station still hosts larger groups and functions. Phone 0457 661 243 or visit www.larawetlands.com.au for more information.
Cooktown Campout
The ‘Cooktown Campout’ campground is on Barrett’s Creek Road near the Cooktown Airport, about 15 minutes north of Cooktown. The campground is pet friendly, and for those who love animals, visitors are welcome to the daily 5pm feeding to get hands-on with the Smiths’ menagerie of pets and farm animals. Check out www.facebook.com/cooktowncampout for more details.
Historic Kow Plains Homestead
Kow Plains Homestead in the north-west mallee region of Victoria was built as a head station for Kow Plains and the adjoining runs around 1879. Since the 1990s, volunteers have worked to restore the property to its former glory.
Kow Plains is situated approximately 1km south of the Mallee Highway at Cowangie. The Homestead is open at all times. Four-wheel drive clubs are very welcome at Kow Plains Homestead, which is managed by local volunteers offering morning tea and a tour for a small fee.
South Australia
Mount Little Station
Mount Little Station – just 15 minutes from Hawker via the Outback Highway – is a working sheep and cattle station and it offers tourist accommodation, camping, tours, 4WD tracks and a station life experience.
There’s plenty to see and do as well as exploring Mayo Gorge or the Harvey’s Rocks or heading to the top of Mount Little for an expansive 360° view. Check out mtlittlestation.com.au for more information.
Mambray Creek campground re-opens
One of South Australia’s most popular campgrounds is reopening after major works with new picnic furniture, hot showers and larger sites among new amenities following the $2.5 million upgrade. Campers and caravaners will have access to 49 campsites – including 11 double sites and four drive-through sites – within the main campground.
The upgrades include two fully accessible shower blocks, larger campsites, improved caravan, motorhome and campervans access, a camp kitchen with food preparation and dishwashing facilities, along with a new day-visitors area. Mambray Creek is the most visited SA campground managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, averaging about 11,000 bookings each year. In addition to Mambray Creek, nine campsites were upgraded at nearby Baroota Ruins campground including three double campsites and one triple campsite.
Camping on Eyre Peninsula
If you are heading over to the wild west coast of South Australia on a camping and 4x4 foray then you couldn’t do any better than starting with a visit to www.eyrepeninsula.com/camping. There’s a whole heap of bush camps run by the local councils, and while facilities vary they all offer a fabulous experience with most of them close to the local beaches.
Camp with the koalas
There are plenty of spots to set up camp at Mikkira Station, southwest of Port Lincoln on SA’s fabulous Eyre Peninsula. Facilities include flush toilets and a hot shower, but no powered sites, sullage or rubbish disposal facilities. Campfire cooking and wood barbecues are allowed in winter (bring your own firewood); gas barbecues only from the 1 November until May. Permits to visit Mikkira Station are available in Port Lincoln. No pets, firearms or recreational motorbikes. Go to https://mikkirakoalas.com for more information.
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3 Mile Bend Campground
Located 3km northwest of Beachport, the 3 Mile Bend Campground in the Beachport Conservation Park can be reached via Lake George Road. Seven campsites fringe the lake with most suitable for medium campers or vans, each nestled under paperbark tea trees.
The lake is salty and not suitable for swimming, but is home to many waterbirds. The ocean beach is approximately 1.5km to the west along a 4WD track and there is a great beach drive to the north, on the way to Robe.
Mount Little Station
Mount Little Station is a working sheep and cattle station situated in the magnificent Flinders Ranges of South Australia and it offers travellers accommodation, camping, tours, 4WD tracks and a station-life experience. Located just a 15-minute drive from Hawker via The Outback Highway, Mt Little Station is a top spot to enjoy the area. Make a booking.
Wirrealpa Station
Bookings are open for those who wish to stay at the cottage on Wirrealpa Station. Located east of Blinman in South Australia’s spectacular Flinders Ranges, Wirrealpa makes a great base to explore the surrounding area and revel in the sheer grandeur of these magnificent mountains. For bookings and enquiries contact send an email to samstandley@bigpond.com or phone (08) 8648 4828.
Perlubie and Tractor Beach
The popular beachside camping spots just out of Streaky Bay have become a bit more official with designated spots, a small fee for overnight stays and bookings required. Sites will be from $15 a night, and numbers will be capped to ensure camping at the sites remains sustainable and doesn’t adversely impact the local environment. For bookings go here.
Onya Eco-Camping Park
Onya Eco-Camping Park is run by owners who want to support self-sufficient campers exploring Blinman and the Flinders Ranges. This lovely part of SA offers many great experiences and ONYA has created a place where you can unwind, relax and truly immerse yourself in the outback habitat.
Cost is just $20 per vehicle per night. They also offer camping goods and necessities at their shop. Visit: onyaecocampingpark.com.au
Wilpena Pound
Wilpena pound has long been the centre point for any camping stay or exploration in the Flinders Ranges. Apart from the enjoyable camping and the great drives through the surrounding ranges there are any number of bushwalks – short day jaunts and long multi-day trips to enjoy.
Now you can also join an experienced Yura guide for an entertaining and informative stroll to Old Wilpena Station, one of South Australia’s oldest and best preserved pastoral settlements. Along the way find out about the Yura culture and the history of the local Adnyamathanha people.
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Murray River camps
From our friends at www.campsaustraliawide.com we have discovered there are more than 55 campsites along the river in the Katarapko section of the Murray River National Park, while there are around 45 available in the nearby Lyrup Flats section of the disjointed park.
We’ve camped at a number of them over the years but didn’t realise there were that many to choose from. Several of these sites can be flooded when the river is high, so it pays to check before you arrive in these tranquil places.
Hummocks Station
Hummocks Station, near Snowtown in SA’s mid-north, includes the original homestead, the restored shearers quarters, along with accommodation options for bush camping, caravans and B&B accommodation.
This working farm and station is built in colourful ironstone and was established in the early 1860’s. It’s a perfect getaway for the family and kids who will love interacting with the friendly farm animals.
Located only an hour and a half north of Adelaide it makes it a central spot for day trips to the Clare Valley wineries and the Yorke Peninsula with its fine beaches. Book ahead and manager, Jemma, will welcome you on arrival.
Tasmania
Lime Bay
Located on the north-west corner of the Tasman Peninsula, Lime Bay is tucked well away from the major road network. Its sheltered beaches, shady nooks, great walks and convict history make it a favourite weekend retreat for locals, a family-friendly location for extended stays and a refuge for weary nomads seeking a change of pace from busy caravan parks.
While the facilities are basic in the laid-back Lime Bay State Reserve, there are plenty of compensations. There are 1300 hectares of sheltered beaches and dry coastal woodlands to explore. Lime Bay itself is adjacent to the camping area and is safe for youngsters.
Bay of Fires
There’s free beachside camping within the Bay of Fires Conservation Area on the spectacular east coast of Tassie, and while camping is only permitted within designated camping areas, it is pretty darn popular. The maximum stay is four weeks while dogs are permitted (on a lead) in most of the campgrounds. Click here for more info.
Victoria
Shipwreck Creek
Shipwreck Creek Campground offers a secluded camping experience among tall eucalypt trees and is a great spot near Mallacoota. This small campground (five sites) is a short walk away from the secluded Shipwreck Beach which was named after the wreck of the Schah (1837), one of Victoria’s oldest shipwrecks. The campground has fireplaces, shared picnic tables and pit toilets. There is no drinking water and campers need to bring their own firewood.
Camp at Walhalla
Set close to the heart of historic Walhalla, this small but pleasant camping area has no camping fees, but with no booking system it’s first in, best dressed.
Western Australia
New parks in the Kimberley
The new Bunuba National Park covers 220,000ha and will extend from the existing Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park along the Fitzroy River, north to Dimond Gorge – protecting it from dams and development forever.
The new national park was co-designed with Bunuba people and will be jointly managed by Bunuba Dawangarri Aboriginal Corporation and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservations and Attractions, safeguarding unique landscapes, wildlife and Aboriginal culture, while creating sustainable local jobs.
This follows the establishment of Warlibirri National Park in 2022, which spans close to 16,000ha, covering areas of the Margaret River east of Fitzroy Crossing and on Gooniyandi country.
Camping within Albany
There are six nature-based campgrounds located within the City of Albany Coastal Reserves that are ideal for summer camping trips. These include Cosy Corner, Torbay Inlet, East Bay, Bettys Beach, Cape Riche and Normans Beach. Some are free camps while the others are very affordable.
Sites cannot be pre-booked and there is a seven-day maximum stay during peak periods from November-April. See www.albany.wa.gov.au for more information.
Wooleen Station
The Pollock family have owned Wooleen Station since 1990 and today, David Pollock and wife Frances Pollock host guests staying at the property which is located 700km north-east of Perth on the Twin Peaks-Wooleen Road, and some 193km from the nearest town.
There’s a heap of history here and much environmental work going on to restore the property and land to its former glory. Accommodation-wise there are a number of choices including some great remote campsites along the Murchison River. Camping options on offer.
Carmel Cider Company camping
From our friends at Camps Australia Wide we picked up on this pleasant camp just 20 minutes from Perth. Set on the grounds of the Carmel Cider Company the camping area has minimal facilities (no showers or power), a dam for kayaking and swimming, while fires are allowed and the place is dog friendly. As well, the cidery is open for tasting and sales. For more go to: https://carmelcider.com.au
Great Central Road
The Yarla Kutjarra Rest Area, with a 48-hour limit for camping, is located north of Warburton on the Great Central Road (west of Giles) in the desert country of central WA. The rest area has toilets, fire pits and is pet friendly.
The info shelter located here has a welcome message from the local traditional owners along with some traditional paintings telling their story of the country and its plants and animals.
Melangata station stay
This historic property is off the Geraldton-Mt Magnet Rd. Turn at Yalgoo on to a gravel road for 68km to get to the station. The property features a heritage listed homestead designed by the priest and architect, John Hawes, who designed, amongst others, the impressive Geraldton cathedral.
The property offers a number of different accommodation options from an unpowered bush campsite situated near the shearing shed with access to hot showers and flush toilets, while there are dinner, bed and breakfast guest rooms in the homestead. In the near future, self-contained shearers quarters and cottage accommodation will also be available.
Recommended tracks and activities
NSW
Fossicking around Bland
Fossicking is a popular recreational activity involving the small-scale search for and collection of minerals, gemstones or mineral bearing material. Fossicking is a lawful activity in NSW, however there are laws in place to protect NSW’s natural environment and the rights of landowners and others with legitimate claims on the land, including native title. Full details on what you can and can’t do when fossicking in NSW | Maps on fossicking in the Bland shire
Charter Fish Narooma
When you are travelling the south coast of NSW and want to get in amongst the fish you should try Charter Fish Narooma. There’s a choice of half-day reef fishing excursions targeting Montague Island or one of the many other close reefs.
You’ll be chasing kingfish, bonito, morwongs, snapper, gummy sharks, flathead, and many other reef species. If you want to chase something bigger there are full-day game fishing trips chasing tuna, marlin and sharks, or fish the deep water continental shelf to catch blue eye, Tasmania trumpeter and hapuku or a variety of other deep sea fish. Go to www.charterfishnarooma.com for more details.
Glow Worm Tunnel
The Glow Worm Tunnel walking track is the fastest and easiest way to experience the wonder of this historic tunnel, lit by thousands of glow worms, located in the Wollemi National Park, near Lithgow.
The 400m-long tunnel was built in the early 1900s as part of the railway for the thriving mining industry at Newnes. It’s now home to thousands of glow worms that cling to the dark, damp walls. Switch off your torch, keep quiet, and wait for the worms to light up the tunnel with pinpricks of blue light.
Sturt's Steps
There’s a lot happening in Corner Country under the banner of Sturt’s Steps which includes a host of facilities and attraction in and around Milparinka and Tibooburra. Milparinka is the centre of Sturts Steps Touring Journey and is undergoing a few changes which includes refurbishment of the local waterhole, Post Office renovation, a new museum, a new Night Sky Park, along with additions to the existing caravan park, including a camp kitchen and shelter.
Tibooburra also has many additions being added to the visitor experience and these include a new museum, a town Walking Tour, additions to the existing camp kitchen at the local Aboriginal Land Council camping ground and a series of Tibooburra sculptures.
Nearby in Sturt National Park three wire sculptures have already been erected, and each represents a marsupial species which has become extinct in the region, including the western quoll, western-barred bandicoot, and greater bilby. They are worth checking out!
In the wake of paddle steamers
The Darling River Run is a popular route for 4x4 travellers as it follows a length of Australia’s longest river through Outback NSW. This was once the domain of the paddle steamers that took stock and produce from properties along its length to ports in the south.
And one way to experience the Lower Darling is on a tour with River Lady Cruises out of Menindee. Tours resume in March with morning and sunset cruises. See www.riverladytours.com.au
Northern Territory
Crocs at Cahills Crossing
The gathering of crocs at Cahills Crossing on the East Alligator River and on the edge of Kakadu NP has always been an attraction for visitors.
Now there is a proper viewing area with three platforms and a picnic area linked by a rainforest walk. The platforms overlook Cahills and provide a safe vantage point to view the crocs that gather in large numbers to feed on mullet and barramundi in the later part of the dry season. It’s worth checking out.
Outback Way Outdoor Gallery
An innovative deconstructed gallery experience comprising 14 double-sided billboards can now be found along the Plenty Highway. It’s an easy day trip from Alice Springs on the sealed section of the Plenty Highway, and they’re located in the picturesque desert landscape of the East MacDonnell Ranges along the Outback Way in Central Australia. The billboards showcase art from regional and remote artists in an outdoor gallery setting. More info.
Fishing at Melville
You’ll find some great fishing here and a very different part of Australia. A scenic 30-minute flight from the capital of the NT, Clearwater Island Lodge is situated in a wilderness destination on Melville Island, about 100km north of Darwin.
The Lodge itself is a spacious and relaxing retreat, set amongst acres of tropical gardens and exotic wildlife. There’s bluewater and estuary fishing chasing giant barra and Spanish mackerel, plus a host more species. More info
Mt Zeil Wilderness Park
About 200km from Alice Springs along the Gary Junction Road, you’ll now find the entrance to the Mt Zeil Wilderness Park. This year is their first year of operation and it is aiming to attract would-be Mt Zeil climbers as well as anyone else who wants to camp in the West MacDonnell Ranges at the foot of the amazing Mt Zeil – the highest peak in NT.
The campground is a beauty and the store is very well stocked. For more info check out: www.mtzeilwildernesspark.com.au
Warm up in Kakadu
A great way to escape the winter blues is a getaway to the Top End where it’s warm all year around. On any visit there, a trip to Kakadu National Park is a must, even if you can only get out for a day trip from Darwin.
Kakadu Tourism is an Indigenous-owned company showing visitors the best of the region with a focus on positive Indigenous outcomes. This season, Kakadu Tourism’s Spirit of Kakadu 4WD adventure tours will add Koolpin Gorge (Jarrangbarnmi) to its touring schedules.
Usually only accessible by permit, Kakadu Tourism has negotiated special entry to the region for its premium Spirit of Kakadu adventure tours, introducing one of Kakadu’s most scenic landscapes. Up to two tours per week will be offered, for a maximum of 12 guests. See www.kakadutourism.com for the full range of tours and adventures available.
Ancient Arnhem art
A team of researchers has uncovered 572 previously unknown rock art images, ranging in age from 6000 to 9400 years old from 87 sites in Arnhem Land, NT. Named Maliwawa Figures, they have been found at sites from Awunbarna (Mount Borradaile area) to the Namunidjbuk clan estate of the Wellington Range.
The artworks show people and animals which the researchers say depict life for the inhabitants of that area during that time. The animals pictured include bilbies and dugongs, which seem out of place considering the locations of the sites.
“Today it (the dugong image) is located about 15km south of the Arafura Sea but 6000 to 9400 years ago the coast would have been further north,” says Dr Sally K. May from Griffith University. “It indicates a Maliwawa artist visited the coast, but the lack of other saltwater fauna may suggest this was not a frequent occurrence.”
Many of these art sites are on sacred and protected ground, but visitors can access them with Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris which has permission from the traditional owners to take guests to these sites. See arnhemland-safaris.com for details.
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Buggies at King Creek Station
King Creek Station (KCS) near Petermann in the NT’s Red Centre has decades of history welcoming tourists to what remains of a working cattle property and nothing has changed in that regard with new owners coming on board in recent years.
Adjacent to Kings Canyon and only a relative short drive from Uluru, KCS is right on the tourist trail. A new way to see the property is by joining one of its buggy tours. The side-by-side buggies offer a unique off-road experience as you explore the property in a small group with an experienced tour guide.
Along the way you’ll stop to learn about the history and culture of the station, reaching parts of the property not accessible in regular 4x4s. Booking are essential so head to www.kingscreekstation.com.au to lock it on to your Red Centre itinerary.
Queensland
Cape York track updates
If you are heading to Cape York and want to use the Bloomfield Track or the CREB Track, both north of Daintree, it’s best you check first to see if they are open after the devastating rain and floods that wrecked so much infrastructure south of Cooktown late last year.
The Facebook page ‘Local CREB Track conditions’ is a good place to start, while the Douglas Shire road report is another. Click here for information on tracks further to the north.
Snorkel a wreck or two
Snorkelling is a great experience to do during your holiday on Moreton Island and if you want something a little different head to the Tangalooma Wrecks and have a snorkel around – you’ll be amazed at the sealife here. If you are not a confident swimmer, you may like to book a snorkel tour through Tangalooma Island Resort and be taken to the wrecks by boat. And if you are camping you can pitch a tent just up the beach from the wrecks at the Wrecks camping area.
Big dinosaurs out west
Eromanga, a small community west of Charleville on the way to Birdsville, is now home to the biggest dinosaur ever discovered in Australia.
The dinosaur has been scientifically named Australotitan cooperensis, but is known to his friends and his discoverers as ‘Cooper’, because he was found buried on the Cooper Creek floodplain. You can check him and many others out at the Eromanga Natural History Museum or get down and dirty at one of their many dig sites.
Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail
The Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail is a 200km art trail along the triangle of roads between Aramac, Lake Dunn and Jericho in the central west of Qld. Beginning north-east of Aramac, it’s well-worth seeking out and will give you a very enjoyable full-day drive, or a few days exploring if you wish to experience the trail and local region in more detail. More info.
Daintree Rainforest
If you’re heading for Cape York this season, you should factor in time for the many other places to see in the Tropical North of Qld.
One is the Daintree Rainforest which covers more than 17,000ha of the southern Cape. The Daintree is the most famous of the six precincts that make up the Wet Tropics eco-system and is the oldest continuously surviving tropical rainforest in the world, thought to be 165 million years old.
The Daintree sits between Cairns and Cooktown and highlights include the CREB Track, Bloomfield Track and historic Cooktown. More info at www.destinationdaintree.com
South Australia
Dunes, Mallee and a Border Track
Now is a great time to enjoy the camping and four-wheel driving available in the Ngarkat Conservation Park in the south-east of SA, north of Bordertown. There are heaps of tracks to drive with the most famous being the Border Track that runs along the Vic-SA border, but is wholly within SA.
The Border Track is open from 1 April to 31 October each year. Please note that this track is a one-way route from north to south, and make sure you’re prepared for some challenging sandy hill climbs.
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Get up close to sea lions
South Australia’s Kangaroo Island is a fabulous four-wheel drive and camping destination and one place you must visit when you are there is Seal Bay. The long sweep of beach here has been home to an Australian sea lion colony for thousands of years, and it offers one of the most exceptional nature-based experiences in the world. You can do a self-guided tour that takes you along the boardwalk or opt for a ranger guided experience that takes you into the heart of the colony. Either way it is a top experience.
World Heritage Naracoorte Caves
The World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves in South Australia are one of the world’s most important fossil sites, acting as pitfall traps and predator dens for half a million years. The fossil record covers several ice ages and the arrival of humans in the area. Four of the known 28 caves in the park are open to the public with self-guided, guided and adventure caving tours year-round.
Palaeontologists have reconstructed the skeletons of many of the megafauna that lived here. There is camping and limited accommodation available. Go to www.naracoortecaves.sa.gov.au for full details.
Ngarkat Conservation Park
While the Border Track is physically in Victoria, within Ngarkat Conservation Park it is deemed to be wholly within South Australia. Therefore travellers from interstate need to ensure they abide by the relevant travel restrictions and border closures.
Please note the one-way section of the Border Track within Ngarkat Conservation Park is closed from November 1 until March 31 each year.
Tasmania
Mount McCall Track
While a number of walking and 4x4 tracks in the area have been closed over the summer months for maintenance, including the Darwin Plateau walking track, the closures do not affect the Bird River Track, Kelly Basin Walk or the Mount McCall Track.
Access to the 22km-long Mount McCall Track, which takes you through a spectacular section of the Tasmanian World Heritage Area, can be obtained by contacting the West Coast Field Centre on (03) 6409 1020. The track ends abruptly at the top of an old haulage way with a drop of over 300m to the famous Franklin River. The vehicle track is gated and requires a key from the local Parks and Wildlife Service Office. All travel should be done in daylight.
Beach drive the north-west
The Bridport to Bellingham 22km beach drive is an exciting and scenic 4WD-only alternative route between these two towns. There’s some challenging terrain and some steep dunes, and occasionally a difficult river crossing to contend with, but the track is well marked and is generally easy to follow. Take extra care to stay within markers that exclude two sensitive bird-breeding areas. There’s unserviced beach camping sites on the eastern side of West Sandy Point with Bass Strait views if you want to stay for longer. Go to for more information.
Dove Lake View
A new Dove Lake viewing shelter has been recently opened in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair NP In Tasmania. It only took 10 years of planning to deliver what the government reckons is a shelter that reflects the glacial landscape, providing spectacular views of one of Tassie’s most beautiful places.
Jewel on the east coast
Freycinet National Park on the east coast of Tassie has a magic all of its own and is probably best known for the stunning beauty of Wineglass Bay – its crystal-clear waters and curvaceous white beach is one of Tasmania’s most celebrated views.
Beyond Wineglass Bay, there’s plenty more to uncover at Freycinet. The diversity in the coastal landscape is dramatic, with rocky coves and surging surf around one corner, and sheltered bays and sandy beaches around the next.
As you explore the park, the Hazards – a spectacular granite mountain range that rises dramatically from the sheltered turquoise bays – provides a breathtaking backdrop that is never far from view.
Camping is extremely popular, especially at the Friendly Beaches campsites, so you need to book. For more details: parks.tas.gov.au
Paddle the Huon and Picton Rivers
If you’re in Tassie for the cooler months of the year, then that is the ideal time to take a white-water rafting trip down the Huon and Picton Rivers.
The trip begins at the Tahune Adventures site and the 9km river run takes around 4.5 hours, while the river, depending on the waterflow, can have rapids up to Grade 3.
All gear and entry to the Tahune Adventures site is included – children must be at least 25kg to fit in to a Personal Flotation Device. Bookings are essential and you must meet your guides at the Tahune Adventures site at 10am. More info
Self-drive Flinders Island
That beautifully rugged, indented and smally populated island in Bass Strait, can easily be reached by a roll-on roll-off ferry which departs from Bridport on Tassie’s northern coast.
The sea journey may be a bit longer and a little more expensive than you first think, but if planning to spend a week or more exploring the island’s 450km of roads and tracks, it’ll be worth it.
There’s a surprising amount of things to do and places to visit; you may even discover a Killiecrankie Diamond, which come in a range of colours and on Flinders are either clear, ice blue or pink gold. More info.
Get wet in the west
King for the Day is an exhilarating full day rafting journey through the lush wilderness of the West Coast’s temperate rainforest. This 20km journey down the King River is Tasmania’s only regular one-day wilderness rafting trip and a highlight of any visit to the West Coast.
If you are hankering for more, have a look at their King River Gorge & Steam Experience and catch the West Coast Wilderness Railway back to Queenstown from the Dubbil Barril Train Station at the end of rafting the King River Gorge. Whichever you do, you’ll have a great time. More info.
Strahan: a river and a convict colony
When you are in Tassie don’t miss out on visiting Strahan on the west coast and going for a cruise on a family owned and operated boat.
Your cruise includes a delicious lunch of local Tasmanian produce, a one-hour guided tour of the one-time convict colony on Sarah Island, a 30-minute walk at the Heritage Landing on the Gordon River and a tour of Huon Pine Sawmill on return to Strahan. More info
West Coast tracks
Some of the most challenging 4WD tracks in the country can be found on the west coast of Tasmania. However, most of this region and certainly some of the best tracks and places to camp are located in the Arthur Pieman Conservation Area (APCA) and 4WD drivers are required to purchase a Recreational Driver Pass.
This pass – issued for a month (cost $33) or a year ($55) - allows you to drive on designated recreational vehicle tracks and routes within the APCA but are subject to a number of conditions. For more information and to apply for a pass, click here.
Tahune Adventures Airwalk
Tahune Adventures, which includes the famous Airwalk above the tree tops and out over the Huon River, were badly affected by the 2019 bushfires and has remained closed for much of the time since.
Now, we’re glad to say the Airwalk and all the surrounding walks are again open. Caravan and RV overnight camping is available in the overflow carpark at $10 per night with Airwalk tickets. More info.
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Victoria
Paddle the Murray River
There are four canoe trails in the Murray Valley National Park and in Victoria’s Barmah NP, and between them they offer something for every paddler. You can choose between paddling the flowing Murray River, some slow backwater creeks or the Barmah lake.
Thowgla Falls Access
Forest Fire Management Victoria has recently uncovered a hidden waterfall nestled in the heart of the Upper Murray which has emerged from the ashes following the 2019/20 Black Summer cushfires.
Thowgla Falls, which is located on Marginal Road in the Thowgla Valley, near Corryong, is now more accessible to visitors following the construction of a new walking trail and viewing platform.
The works, which were completed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) crews and local contractors, also includes a day visitor area and toilets.
Bush camp in the Little Desert
There’s a range of 4WD tracks and a variety of camps to enjoy in the Little Desert NP, in western Victoria. While you can camp on the banks of the Wimmera River at Ackle Bend and Horseshoe Bend (camping fees apply at both spots), other campsites are available at the Kiata campground and at Broughtons Waterhole, Mallee Walkers Camp and Yellow Gum Walkers Camp.
For those who want to get away from the crowds, bush camping away from the park campgrounds is permitted in the central and western blocks of the desert.
Visit Murray-Sunset NP in summer
Heading to the north-west of Victoria and the Murray-Sunset NP is probably not the first place people think of visiting during summer, but it is well-worth the effort. Find a spot on the river to camp and go canoeing, boating or fishing in the floodplains around Wallpolla, Lindsay and Mulcra islands.
These are awesome places for wildlife where you can spot goannas, kangaroos, emus, spotted bowerbird and colourful nectar-feeding birds, as well as a host of waterbirds.
Days Mill historic area
Days Flour Mill Complex is the best preserved 19th century flour mill in Victoria and contains one of the finest examples of traditional milling technology in working form in its original setting in Australia. The property consists of the mill, a residence, and farm buildings on four hectares of land south of Murchison in the Goulburn Valley, 150km north of Melbourne.
From 1996, the property has been managed by Parks Victoria and is open by appointment and for special events throughout the year.
Western Australia
Goldfields adventure
The Goldfields Woodlands NP is located 60km west of Coolgardie, to the Great Eastern Hwy. This park lies within the Great Western Woodlands which is the largest remaining area of intact Mediterranean climate woodland left on earth. A highlight is the spring wildflowers, but autumn is also a great time to visit.
There’s a natural landscape of eucalypt woodlands, sand plains, granite outcrops, salt lakes and freshwater swamps, and the area is great for bushwalking, bird watching and nature appreciation. The 4WD Holland Track crosses the park from Diamond Rock to Coolgardie, and is a great way to explore the park.
Boondi Rock Campground and Woolgangie Rock are close to the Great Eastern Hwy, while a 4x4 vehicle is required to access the park’s other recreation and camping sites. Visit here for details.
Tree climb to great views
Around Pemberton in the state’s south west are some tall trees that were once used as fire lookout towers. Today they can be climbed by keen travellers. The Gloucester Tree in the Gloucester National Park is only 2km from the centre of Pemberton. Sadly, at the moment, it is closed to climbers, but hopefully it will reopen soon.
The Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree in Warren NP is a 15-minute drive from the Pemberton township. At 65m above the ground, it is the tallest with a 360-degree view of the old growth Karri forest.
The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk is a fantastic 600m long experience that takes you through and over the canopy of the tall tingle trees that surround you. Check out www.treetopwalk.com.au for details.
Dryandra Woodland NP
Located near Narrogin, 180km south-east of Perth, Dryandra is the first national park in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region, and is a key stronghold for some of Australia’s rarest and most vulnerable wildlife, including numbats, woylies, brushtail wallabies, chuditch, quenda and the mound-building malleefowl.
The creation of two class A nature reserves will help ensure the future protection of native animals living in one of the last remnants of original woodland in the Wheatbelt. The park is also home to a predator-proof animal sanctuary where the public can see rare and protected wildlife, including numbats, in their nocturnal environment.
Congelin and Gnaala Mia Campground have campsites suitable for tents, camper trailers and caravans or you can stay at the Lions Dryandra Woodland Village. Go to exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park/dryandra-woodland-national-park
Lake Kepwari
Located 15km southeast of Collie in the state’s southwest, Lake Kepwari was once an open-cut mine but has since been transformed into a pleasant lake, with new picnic and toilet facilities added.
The existing Lake Kepwari campground has been upgraded while a new camping area with new facilities has also been recently opened. You need to book ahead so check out exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park/lake-kepwari to book a campsite.
Granite SkyWalk
The Granite Skywalk in Porongurup NP takes you to the top of Castle Rock and two spectacular lookouts. The views across the park and scattered farmland stretch to Albany on the south coast, Mount Gardner and Mount Manypeaks to the south-east, and the Stirling Range to the north.
The 2km walk up from the Castle Rock picnic area passes through jarrah, marri and karri forest, and also past the Balancing Rock, to reach the base of Castle Rock and the lower lookout. Reaching the upper lookout requires climbing over rocks and up a 6m ladder.
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Dryandra Woodland
The Dryandra Woodland National Park near Narrogin, 180km south-east of Perth, is the first national park in WA’s wheatbelt region and covers a total of 17,870 hectares.
The woodland is a key stronghold for some of Australia’s rarest and most vulnerable wildlife, including numbats, woylies, brushtail wallabies, chuditch, quenda and the mound-building malleefowl. There are two campsites in the woodlands and a small village with accommodation for visitors wanting to see wildlife at night in the predator-proof inner sanctuary.
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Spy an orca
Each year from January to April, the largest known pod of orca (killer whales) in the Southern Hemisphere congregate in the Bremer Canyon off the coast of Bremer Bay ─ and it’s the only place in Australia where you can reliably see a wild orca on a tour.
Join a charter boat this season to see them for yourself! For more info, click here.
Listen to the stars
If you are ever wandering the lesser used trails and roads in the outback of Western Australia, you may come across the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory, known as the ‘MRO’.
The CSIRO purchased Boolardy Station in 2009 and is now home to the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder radio telescope which comprises 36 identical antennas, each 12m in diameter, working together as a single instrument. It is one of the best locations and facilities in the world to operate telescopes that listen for radio signals from outer space.
The Australian and WA Governments have established a ‘radio quiet’ zone to protect this unique site from the noise of modern life. Due to the radio quiet requirements, it’s not possible to visit the site in person, however a virtual tour has been developed, see: https://virtualtours-external.csiro.au/MRO
Fitzroy Crossing
Western Australia’s Fitzroy Crossing is more than a town you pass through on your way to and from the Kimberley and is worth stopping at for a night or two. Stop in at the legendary Crossing Inn, built in 1897 as a shanty inn and trade store for long-distance travellers about to ford the mighty Fitzroy River.
Take the short drive to Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park, a part of the 375 million-year-old Denovian Reef System. Explore the park on one of the walking trails or see the impressive limestone cliffs from the water on a boat tour with a National Park ranger.
The boat tours take place from May to October at various times throughout the day and give an insight in to the wildlife and geology of the gorge. These tours can be booked in advance.
Upcoming events
Mundi Mundi Bash
As with previous events, this year’s Mundi Mundi Bash will be located just out of Broken Hill, and will run from 15-17 August, but it’s best to buy tickets soon before they sell out. The line-up of artists this year will include James Reyne, the Living End, Daryl Braithwaite, Diesel and a whole lot more.
Mundiville is located on private property, which is a working sheep station, and camping is not usually permitted, so organisers are privileged to have the land-owner’s permission to hold the Mundi Mundi Bash on the area’s beautiful red dirt outback plains. Check out mundimundibash.com.au for information.
PJ O’Brien Memorial race meeting
The PJ O’Brien Memorial Race Meeting in Walgett is a six-race gathering which this year will be held on 15 June. Apart from the races, there will be fashions on the field for men and women and children, along with an open bar and luncheon, as well as smaller food stalls, novelty races, entertainment and activities for the kids. There is ample parking and shaded areas. Betting facilities will be available on the day. Head here for the latest details.
Merrijig Rodeo
The Merrijig Rodeo is a family-oriented, APRA (Australian Professional Rodeo Association) event, held annually on Saturday of the March Labour Day long weekend. The Merrijig event is the second in the Kyabram, Merrijig and Chiltern Tri-Series. Nestled in the heart of the High Country below Mt Buller, the action-packed event couldn’t be set in a more picturesque location. As you soak up the sun, the vista and the action, you could be forgiven for feeling like you’re on the movie set of The Man From Snowy River, which was filmed around Merrijig. Get your tickets here
Snowy Trout Challenge
The Snowy Trout Challenge offers you a chance to make the most of your next visit to the Snowy Mountains. Escape the city and be in with the chance to win some cash prizes while fishing the lakes and streams of the Snowy Stockade Country, in and around Jindabyne located in the heart of Australia’s Alpine country. The event continues until the end of April this year. Head to linktr.ee/snowytroutchallenge where you will find the Cash Prize Registration and the Cash Prize Catch Entry Form. Good luck!
Southern 80
The Southern 80 is one of the great water ski races held each year in Australia and you can camp on the banks of the Murray River to watch the action. Although the Southern 80 has grown bigger and faster since its inception in 1964 it is still a family affair with classes for everyone from the Under 10 Tadpoles to the Over 40 Veterans. There are many places to camp on the Victorian side of the river between Echuca and Torrumbarry, while on the NSW side there are limited sites and bookings must also be made.For more details head to the website at southern80.com.au/camping/
Catch a Million Dollar Fish (NT)
It’s no secret the NT is home to some of the best fishing in Australia and this season 100 prize-tagged barra have been released into five incredible fishing regions: Darwin, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Katherine and the Tiwi Islands. A total of 20 red-tagged fish were recaptured in Season 8 and over 90 prized fish have been claimed since the comp began in 2015, but the elusive Million Dollar Fish is yet to be reeled in. There are now 11 red-tagged fish worth $1 million in Top End waterways! To be eligible to claim this prize, you must be registered for Season 9 of Million Dollar Fish.
The Henley-On-Todd Regatta (NT)
Held for the last 58 years, the Rotary Henley-on-Todd Regatta is claimed to be the world’s only land-based boat race, set on the dry Todd River in Alice Springs in the very red heart of our country.
Competitors race along the riverbed ‘Flintstones-style’, using pedal power to make it over the finish line with their homemade boats, dinghies, yachts and canoes. It is a fun day and one not to be missed! More information.
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