Where heat shimmers on the horizon and every dirt road holds a story worth chasing.
The Outback gets under your skin with it’s red dust, the endless space, the quiet that stretches for miles.
Out here, the map fades and the journey takes over. We’ve spent months on roads that barely count as roads, met characters tougher than the corrugated tracks, and learned that patience and a good sense of humour are as essential as water and diesel.
From Nyngan’s riverside calm to Cobar’s quiet bush camp and the long road to Broken Hill, this stretch of outback NSW is a reminder that sometimes, the in-between days are the best ones.
Everyone has a list of towns to avoid. We’ve got one too, except we went anyway. From Alice Springs to Port Augusta, these “tough” towns prove reputation isn’t always reality.
A weekend stop in Biloela for new windscreens turned into a laid-back escape. Between Heritage Park, Callide Dam, and country charm, this Central Queensland town proved that even repair days can feel like holidays.
Five hours of potholes, rattles, and questionable suspension from Charters Towers to Emerald reminded us that not every road is smooth.
Charters Towers caught us off guard — a planned two-night stop turned into four days of gold-rush history, quirky landmarks, tyre trouble and small surprises!
Blistering heat, long roads, and a sense of humour carried us from Julia Creek to Hughenden. Between dusty stops, cool lakes, and cranky tyre alarms, we found that real travel isn’t always picture perfect.
We spent three days in Cloncurry, exploring its history, murals, aviation heritage, and dam. From the first Qantas hangar to the birthplace of the RFDS, this outback town surprised us with stories and charm.
Croydon, Normanton, and Karumba gave us history, character, and Gulf Coast charm. From welcoming the Gulflander to cold drinks at the Purple Pub and sunsets in Karumba, this stretch of the Savannah Way was unforgettable.
We explored Cobbold Gorge after a rugged drive from Forsayth. Floating along the calm waters and hiking to the glass bridge, we were captivated by the towering cliffs, wildlife, and serene beauty of this Queensland outback gem.
Exploring the Undara Lava Tubes was like stepping into another world…towering underground tunnels carved by ancient lava flows, part history, part geology, and all awe. A side quest well worth the detour.
A roadside rescue, a closed pub, and a peaceful night in St Lawrence. Our trip from Rockhampton to Mackay was a reminder to slow down, lend a hand, and savour the road’s unexpected moments.
Back in Rockhampton after two years, we camped at peaceful Kershaw Gardens, revisited favourite spots by the river, soaked up local art, stocked up on fresh produce, and enjoyed a slice of city life before heading north.
Carnarvon Gorge had been on our bucket list for years, and it didn’t disappoint. Panoramic views, ancient rock art, dramatic cliffs, and lush pockets of green made this one of the most rewarding stops so far.
Our Carnarvon adventure kicked off with black bull “bears,” startled tourists and a stunning warm-up walk into Mickey Creek Gorge. A perfect taster before the main hike into the heart of the gorge.
From railway tragedy in Bogantungan to the supermarket aisles of Emerald, this leg of our trip marked the shift from outback stillness to something closer to civilisation — with Carnarvon Gorge waiting just around the bend.
Barcaldine blends rich history with small-town charm. We stayed at a peaceful local park, visited the famous Tree of Knowledge, admired the mighty Comet windmill, and soaked up the stories that shaped this resilient outback town.
White Station Healing Circle sits quietly near Lake Dunn. We visited without expectations, walked the stone ring, and reflected on similar spaces we’ve seen elsewhere. A grounded look at a place designed simply to pause and feel.
A peaceful few days along the Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail gave us quiet skies, curious art, and a dose of outback magic - including a visit to the healing circle that worked wonders for Zoe.
Planning the Aramac Sculpture Trail? These traveller’s notes outline road conditions, timing and what to expect on the 200-kilometre loop from Aramac, including practical tips for motorhome travellers.
We camped among locusts and legends in Muttaburra, the Home of the Muttaburrasaurus. A tiny town with a big story. Dinosaurs, country hospitality, and that unmistakable Outback sense of humour.
A night of chicken races, rain, and school holiday chaos had us making a quick dash through Tambo, Blackall and Barcaldine — chasing dry ground and peaceful camps before heading into Queensland’s quieter heart.
Charleville gave us two slow weeks of outback charm, filled with friendly faces, hearty meals, and quiet mornings. From historic pubs to bilbies and bombers, there’s more here than first meets the eye.
A quick look at the Charleville Bilby Experience and whether it’s worth your time. Short sessions, close-up viewing and a strong conservation story make it an engaging stop for travellers passing through Outback Queensland.
Between Bollon, Cunnamulla, and Wyandra, we found everything we love about the outback; campfire skies, local stories, and towns that welcome you like old friends. Cunnamulla, in particular, was a surprise worth stopping for.
Artesian bore water feels silky because of natural minerals like silica and magnesium. A mild sulphur smell is normal too, especially in hot water. It’s all part of the Outback hot spring experience.
The Cunnamulla Hot Springs are a relaxing stop beside the Warrego River. Clean facilities, varied pool temperatures and easy motorhome parking make them well worth a visit, especially in the cooler months.
St George keeps pulling us back — and it’s easy to see why. Big skies, flowing rivers, great food and country charm make this town the perfect launchpad for exploring Queensland’s quiet, beautiful southwest.
Every now and then, you meet people on the road who feel like old friends. Mel and Susie’s bush poetry, humour, and warm-heartedness made us instant fans — and lifelong mates.
We rolled into Lightning Ridge for the third time — this visit a little muddier than usual. After dodging puddles and slick backroads, both the moho and Jimny looked rally-ready and well-travelled.
From buffalo chicken pizza to desert sculptures and Silverton’s donkeys, Broken Hill gave us art, weather, and classic outback humour in equal measure. It’s a place that surprises every time — dust storms included.