Get off the beaten track and explore Queensland’s best outback towns, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians. We recognise their cultures, histories and diversity and their deep connection to the lands, waters and seas of Queensland and the Torres Strait. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
Queensland is not just about beaches and the Great Barrier Reef. The outback towns offer a completely different experience, with a treasure trove of rugged landscapes, rich history, and unique Australian charm. If you want to experience the heart and soul of the Aussie outback, there’s no better place to start than these incredible towns.
I’ve been lucky enough to travel extensively through the Outback Queensland regions, and I can’t wait to share my top picks with you. Whether you’re interested in dinosaurs, aviation, mining, or just experiencing the wide-open spaces of the outback, there’s something here for everyone.
This guide will take you through 12 of the best outback towns to visit. Each town has its own story and charm, and I’m excited to share each one of them with you.
So, grab your akubra hat and let’s hit the road!
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.
1. Longreach
Longreach is known as the heart of Queensland’s outback and is famous for its aviation and cattle heritage.
Where it is: Central West Queensland, approximately 1,175 kilometres northwest of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame: Learn about the history and heritage of rural Australia through interactive exhibits and live shows.
- Qantas Founders Museum: Discover the history of Qantas Airways with fascinating displays and aircraft tours, including a Boeing 747.
- Outback Pioneer Tours: Experience the vastness of the outback with guided tours, including visits to working cattle stations and sunset river cruises on the Thomson River.
Places to visit nearby:
- Ilfracombe: Just a short drive away, Ilfracombe is home to the Machinery Mile, an open-air museum of old farming equipment.
- Winton: A couple hours’ drive from Longreach, Winton is another iconic outback town worth visiting.
Tips: Longreach is best visited in the cooler months (April to September) to avoid the extreme heat. Book tours and accommodation in advance, as the town can get busy during peak tourist season.
Click here to read more articles about Longreach.
2. Winton
Winton is famous for its dinosaur fossils and rich cultural history. It’s known as the birthplace of the song “Waltzing Matilda.”
Where it is: Central West Queensland, about 180 kilometres northwest of Longreach.
What to do:
- Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum: Explore one of the world’s largest collections of Australian dinosaur fossils and visit the Dinosaur Canyon.
- Waltzing Matilda Centre: Visit the museum dedicated to Australia’s unofficial national anthem and learn about the song’s history.
- Dinosaur Stampede National Monument: See the preserved footprints of a dinosaur stampede at Lark Quarry Conservation Park.
Places to visit nearby:
- Bladensburg National Park: Explore this nearby park, known for its rugged beauty and historic homesteads.
Tips: Visit during the cooler months and plan your trip around one of Winton’s many festivals, such as the Outback Festival or the Winton Way Out West Fest.
Click here to read more articles about Winton.
3. Charleville
Charleville is a gateway to the Outback, known for its rich history, unique attractions, and clear night skies.
Where it is: Southwestern Queensland, about 750 kilometres west of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Charleville Cosmos Centre: Enjoy stargazing at the observatory and learn about the wonders of the night sky.
- Bilby Experience: Visit the Save the Bilby Fund to learn about these endangered marsupials and the efforts to conserve them.
- Historic House Museum: Discover Charleville’s history through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
- Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre: Learn about the history and operations of this vital outback service.
- Hotel Corones: Visit this historic pub for a drink and a meal and hear stories of its colourful past.
Places to visit nearby:
- Ward River: Just a short drive from Charleville, this peaceful spot is perfect for fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking.
- Augathella: About 85 kilometres north of Charleville, this small town is known for its murals and the Meat Ant Park. It’s an interesting place for a day trip.
- Morven: Approximately 90 kilometres east of Charleville, this charming town has the Morven Historical Museum and Miniature Village, which provides insights into the local history and culture.
Tips: Charleville’s night skies are best experienced during winter when the air is clear and crisp. Book a stargazing session at the Cosmos Centre for an unforgettable experience.
Click here to read more articles about Charleville
4. Birdsville
Birdsville is an iconic outback town known for its remote location, the legendary Birdsville Races, and the historic Birdsville Hotel.
Where it is: Far western Queensland, near the South Australian border, about 1,600 kilometres west of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Birdsville Hotel: Have a drink at this famous pub, which has been serving travellers since 1884.
- Big Red Sand Dune: Challenge yourself to climb Big Red, the first of the Simpson Desert’s massive sand dunes.
- Birdsville Races: Attend the annual Birdsville Races, a major event that attracts thousands of visitors from all over Australia.
Places to visit nearby:
- Diamantina National Park: Explore the rugged beauty of this remote national park, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Tips: Birdsville is best visited during the cooler months (May to September). If you plan to attend the Birdsville Races, book your accommodation well in advance, as it fills up quickly.
5. Mount Isa
Mount Isa is a thriving mining town known for its rich resources, vibrant community, and outback experiences.
Where it is: Northwestern Queensland, about 1,800 kilometres northwest of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Hard Times Mine: Take an underground tour of this authentic mine and learn about Mount Isa’s mining history.
- Outback at Isa: Visit this award-winning tourist complex, which includes the Riversleigh Fossil Centre, the Isa Experience, and the Hard Times Mine.
- Lake Moondarra: Enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking at this scenic lake just outside of town.
- Mount Isa Rodeo: Attend the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere, held annually in August.
Places to visit nearby:
- Riversleigh Fossil Fields: 250 kilometres northwest of Mount Isa, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the world’s most significant fossil deposits, providing a glimpse into ancient Australian fauna.
- Lake Moondarra: 19 kilometres north of Mount Isa, this artificial lake is perfect for a day trip.
- Mary Kathleen Ghost Town: Approximately 60 kilometres east of Mount Isa, this is a fascinating ghost town where you can explore the abandoned buildings and learn about the town’s mine history.
Tips: Mount Isa’s mining history is fascinating, so be sure to take a mine tour. The town is also a great base for exploring the surrounding outback.
6. Cloncurry
Cloncurry is a historic town known for its role in the early days of aviation and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Where it is: Northwestern Queensland, about 120 kilometres east of Mount Isa.
What to do:
- John Flynn Place Museum: Learn about the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and its founder, John Flynn.
- Mary Kathleen Memorial Park and Museum: Explore exhibits on the region’s heritage and learn about the history of the local mining industry.
- Chinaman Creek Dam: Enjoy fishing, picnicking, and stunning outback sunsets at this popular local spot.
Places to visit nearby:
- Burke and Wills Monument: Visit this historic site commemorating the famous explorers.
- Mount Isa Mines: Take a day trip to Mount Isa for a mine tour and more outback adventures.
Tips: Cloncurry is a great stopover if you’re travelling through northwestern Queensland. Be sure to visit the museums to learn about the town’s significant contributions to Australian history.
7. Roma
Roma is known for its rich pastoral history, vibrant community, and as the birthplace of Australia’s oil and gas industry.
Where it is: Southwestern Queensland, about 480 kilometres west of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Big Rig: Visit this interactive museum to learn about Roma’s oil and gas history and take a night show tour.
- Roma Saleyards: Take a guided tour of the largest cattle-selling complex in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Explorers Inn: This historic pub has been serving travellers since 1881. Enjoy a meal and a drink at this restaurant.
- Roma’s Bungil Creek: Enjoy a relaxing walk or picnic along the scenic pathways.
Places to visit nearby:
- Carnarvon Gorge: Take a day trip to this stunning natural wonder for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Tips: Roma’s sale yards are a must-visit for anyone interested in Australia’s cattle industry. However, they only happen on Tuesdays, so try to plan your trip around this if you can! The museum, however, is open daily.
Click here to read more articles about Roma (coming soon).
8. Cunnamulla
Cunnamulla is known for its warm hospitality, rich history, and vibrant artesian water springs.
Where it is: Southwestern Queensland, about 800 kilometres west of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Cunnamulla Fella Centre: Learn about the town’s history and the famous Cunnamulla Fella, a symbol of outback life.
- Warrego River: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching along this beautiful river.
- Eulo Mud Springs: Visit these natural artesian springs for a unique and relaxing experience.
- Cunnamulla Bushlands: This scenic area showcases native plants and wildlife.
Places to visit nearby:
- Currawinya National Park: Explore this park’s diverse ecosystems and spot rare bird species.
- Eulo: About 65 kilometres west of Cunnamulla, this quaint town is known for its mud springs and opal mining.
- Charlotte Plains: Approximately 50 kilometres east of Cunnamulla, this working sheep and cattle station offers a unique outback experience. Visitors can soak in natural artesian baths.
Tips: The best time to visit is during the cooler months. Chat with the locals to get tips on the best fishing spots and other hidden gems.
Click here to read more articles about Cunnamulla (coming soon).
9. Eromanga
Eromanga is known for its dinosaur fossils and being one of the most remote towns in Australia.
Where it is: Southwestern Queensland, about 1,000 kilometres west of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Eromanga Natural History Museum: Visit to see the fossils of Australia’s largest dinosaur and learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the area.
- Exploring the Town: Visit the historic sites and learn about the town’s unique oil and gas history.
- Cooper Creek: Explore this beautiful waterway and enjoy some fishing or birdwatching.
Places to visit nearby:
- Hell Hole Gorge National Park: About 150 kilometres north of Eromanga, this remote national park features rugged landscapes, gorges, and waterholes.
- Windorah: Located around 230 kilometres northeast of Eromanga, this small town offers a true outback experience.
- Adavale: Approximately 200 kilometres northeast of Eromanga, this historic town has a rich past in cattle and sheep farming and has several heritage sites. It is a gateway to exploring the Channel Country.
- Thylungra Station: About 150 kilometres northeast of Eromanga, this historic cattle station offers an authentic outback experience.
Tips: Due to its remote location, plan your trip carefully. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry plenty of water and supplies.
Click here to read more articles about Eromanga (coming soon).
10. Yowah
Yowah is famous for its unique opals and welcoming community.
Where it is: Southwestern Queensland, about 950 kilometres west of Brisbane.
What to do:
- Opal Fossicking: Try your luck at finding opals in one of the public fossicking areas.
- Yowah Artesian Spa: Relax in the warm waters of the artesian spa, which is known for its therapeutic properties.
- Yowah Nut Cafe: Visit this charming cafe and gallery to see locally made opal jewellery and art.
Places to visit nearby:
- Thargomindah: Explore this nearby town and its historic hydroelectric power plant.
Tips: Yowah’s opal festival, held annually in July, is a great time to visit and experience the local culture. Bring comfortable shoes and sunscreen for fossicking.
11. Quilpie
Quilpie is known for its opal fields, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals.
Where it is: Southwestern Queensland, about 950 kilometres west of Brisbane.
What to do:
- St. Finbarr’s Church: Visit this unique church with a stunning opal altar.
- Quilpie Opal Fossicking: Try your hand at finding opals in the designated fossicking areas.
- Baldy Top Lookout: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Places to visit nearby:
- Eromanga Natural History Museum: A short drive away, this museum is home to Australia’s largest dinosaur fossils.
- Hell Hole Gorge National Park: Explore this remote park with its dramatic gorges and waterholes.
Tips: Quilpie’s annual opal festival is a fun event that showcases the town’s vibrant community. Be prepared for hot weather, and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Click here to read more articles about Quilpie (coming soon).
12. Charters Towers
Charters Towers is a historic gold mining town known for its beautifully preserved heritage buildings and vibrant history.
Where it is: Northern Queensland, about 1,300 kilometres northwest of Brisbane.
What to do:
- The Miner’s Cottage: Visit this museum to learn about the town’s gold rush history and try your hand at gold panning.
- Venus Gold Battery: Take a guided tour of this historic gold processing site.
- Heritage Walking Trail: Explore the town’s well-preserved buildings and learn about their history.
- Tower Hill Lookout: Enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Places to visit nearby:
- Ravenswood: A nearby historic town worth visiting for its heritage buildings and gold mining history.
Tips: Charters Towers is best visited during the cooler months. The town’s history is fascinating, so take your time to explore the museums and heritage sites.
Click here to read more articles about Charters Towers (coming soon).
I hope this guide to Queensland’s best outback towns helps you plan your outback adventures. From rich history to stunning landscapes and unique attractions, these towns offer an authentic taste of the Australian outback.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need more recommendations.
Safe travels, and enjoy the outback!