I am just about to head off to FNQ and also return via inland roads (Longreach, Winton etc) to Hervey Bay. In the past I have done similar trips and just winged it, stopping when I felt like it or going where someone may have recommended during happy hour, with no set bookings. I am becoming nervous that every caravan and free camp may be full. How has everyone found it so far? Is the place as crowded as reported? Is there a need to book way ahead? How far ahead should I book if there is?
Any suggestions and "crowd reports" are most welcome!
Don't try and stay at a cabin in a CP in Longreach. My sis was quoted $180pn and it was a donga for goodness sake. Cloncurry was equally as expensive.
She said everywhere was very full. I spoke to her yesterday and they know the area well, (almost locals) but I would still wing it. Maybe call before you get there so you have time to go elsewhere. The free camp at Winton couldn't possibly be full its huge. The one at Longreach probably is. Though they recently made an overflow area. Then if you are heading to Mt Isa, I could probably find out if you need to. Corrella Dam is huge. There a a couple of smaller ones that are probably full, depends if you are stopping longer or just want a parking spot for the night.
For me, I am not travelling ATM because of the crowds. Roads dangerous, camping spots scarce and CP prices through the roof. etc. etc. and my van's broke and I can't find anyone to fix it.
-- Edited by msg on Friday 9th of July 2021 12:57:02 PM
I am just about to head off to FNQ and also return via inland roads (Longreach, Winton etc) to Hervey Bay. In the past I have done similar trips and just winged it, stopping when I felt like it or going where someone may have recommended during happy hour, with no set bookings. I am becoming nervous that every caravan and free camp may be full. How has everyone found it so far? Is the place as crowded as reported? Is there a need to book way ahead? How far ahead should I book if there is?
Any suggestions and "crowd reports" are most welcome!
Thanks for your help.
To answer you in two words, Book Ahead.
In almost 5 years mainly north of the Tropic of Capricorn I have not seen it as busy as it is now.
Parks on the coastal strip are mostly booked until Sept. This info comes from a Park Manager who is a good friend of mine. You may find an odd night or two here and there.
A drive on the Bruce highway today was a display of caravans heading both north and south.
If you are self contained you may find some spots in free camps but be prepared to pull up early and take a chance.
According to some reports even the inland towns are getting a fare share of travellers.
Another point is be aware of school holidays as many of these people are now enjoying the camping and caravanning life rather than travelling overseas.
During the winter months travelling at a casual pace as you may have done a few years ago or at least before Covid is now much more difficult.
Remember that as of today it is compulsory to use the Qld QR code for caravan parks as well as most other businesses and shops.
I hope this helps and hasn't frightened you too much.
-- Edited by Rob Driver on Friday 9th of July 2021 04:10:46 PM
-- Edited by Rob Driver on Friday 9th of July 2021 04:12:21 PM
I am just about to head off to FNQ and also return via inland roads (Longreach, Winton etc) to Hervey Bay. In the past I have done similar trips and just winged it, stopping when I felt like it or going where someone may have recommended during happy hour, with no set bookings. I am becoming nervous that every caravan and free camp may be full. How has everyone found it so far? Is the place as crowded as reported? Is there a need to book way ahead? How far ahead should I book if there is?
Any suggestions and "crowd reports" are most welcome!
Thanks for your help.
Tourist attractions are absolutely jam packed up that way,and caravan traffic is heavy on most roads,but I recently travelled slowly from Brisbane to Blackbutt, Dalby,Tara,The Gums,Westmar,Mitchell,Roma,Injune, Rolleston,Springsure,then Dawson Development Rd (250km dirt road) to Tambo, Blackall, Barcaldine,Ilfracombe and then on to Longreach,and never had any problems with free camps.Many had half a dozen vehicles, although those free camps very close to towns did tend to be a bit crowded.Never had to continue driving because of overcrowded camps,but there are countless places to just pull over,back from traffic noise,for an overnight stop if you're not fussy! Just do it! Cheers
I live in Port Douglas and The Caravan Parks are overflowing with some waiting outside, the backpacker places have travellers lined up in the street and sleeping in their cars, so no chance up this way...completely booked out!
-- Edited by Wizardofoz on Saturday 10th of July 2021 10:13:45 AM
Don't try and stay at a cabin in a CP in Longreach. My sis was quoted $180pn and it was a donga for goodness sake. Cloncurry was equally as expensive.
She said everywhere was very full. I spoke to her yesterday and they know the area well, (almost locals) but I would still wing it. Maybe call before you get there so you have time to go elsewhere. The free camp at Winton couldn't possibly be full its huge. The one at Longreach probably is. Though they recently made an overflow area. Then if you are heading to Mt Isa, I could probably find out if you need to. Corrella Dam is huge. There a a couple of smaller ones that are probably full, depends if you are stopping longer or just want a parking spot for the night.
For me, I am not travelling ATM because of the crowds. Roads dangerous, camping spots scarce and CP prices through the roof. etc. etc. and my van's broke and I can't find anyone to fix it.
"and my van's broke and I can't find anyone to fix it" you say,but like so many members on here,you seem to wish to remain anonymous? No name,no location means that no one can offer assistance.IF you were willing to supply such information,you would likely get offers of help from other members who live near you,and would be willing to help.Recently I arranged for a fellow member to have her disabled van picked up and moved over 150km for low-cost repairs.Cheers
