Destinations
Calliope River Rest Area, River Ranch Queensland
The Calliope River Rest Area is located on the Bruce Highway just 7kms north of Calliope and approximately a 40 minute drive to Gladstone in Queensland.
There are 2 Free Campgrounds, one each on either side of the Calliope River.
The South Campground within the Rest Area is via a turnoff 2 kms before the bridge onto the Old Bruce Highway.
It’s easy to miss heading north so use your GPS to ensure you don’t miss the turn, like we did.
Table of Contents
What is the maximum stay for the Calliope River Rest Area?
Either campground on the South and North of the Calliope River Rest Area are great locations for a short stay of 48 hours.
There is heaps of room with space for big rigs and you can find a spot to stay right on the river.
There is a toilet block on the North side of the river and bins are available.
Are Campfires allowed at Calliope River Rest Area?
Camp fires are allowed however please check on local conditions to confirm.
Are Pets allowed at the Calliope River Rest Area?
The campgrounds are pet friendly and therefore dogs are allowed.
I had good 3G Telstra and 4G Vodafone phone coverage.
5 Essentials – Camping Accessories
A good Tent or Swag is the first decision for going camping. We like the Coleman Tent from Tentworld or the Wanderer 7 Man Tent from BCF. For a Swag, we were so close to buying the Kings Double Swag from 4WD Supacentre.
We like our BCF Wanderers Camping Chair which gets a lot of use as we travel Australia.
No more lugging around a huge BBQ and gas bottle now that we have a brilliant Gasmate Dual Burner Butane Cooktop from Tentworld
A good Portable Fridge Freezer we have found to keep the beers cold and steaks frozen are the Kings 70 L Fridge Freezer in the budget range, the Waeco 75L Dual Zone Fridge Freezer or the ever popular and long lasting Engel 75L Fridge Freezer.
A good quality Hand Held UHF is ideal and I like this Uniden UH750 5 watt UHF for long range and quality. The 5 watt range will give you maximum distance, especially if you need help!
Things to see and do in and around Calliope River Rest Area
Calliope River Fishing
Fishing in the river can be very good with Barramundi and Mangrove Jack both available.
Signs do say to be aware of possible crocodiles in the Calliope River however you will often see people swimming, on kayaks and cooling off within the river.
The Calliope River Historical Village
The Calliope River Historical Village is an open-air museum. They sometimes run tours for just $5 and it’s a very interesting look into the local history.
Lake Awoonga
Lake Awoonga is approximately 30 minutes from Gladstone and is just under 30kms from the Calliope River Rest Area.
Fishing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding are all popular activities on the tranquil waters of Lake Awoonga.
The Boynedale Bush Camp right on the edge of Lake Awoonga is a great free camp with a large open area and a maximum 7 day stay.
Tondoon Botanic Gardens
The Tondoon Botanic Gardens are just a short drive from the Gladstone CBD area.
The gardens overlooking Lake Tondoon have been voted by Australian Geographic as one of the Top 10 Australian Regional Gardens.
Shopping in Gladstone
The major city of Gladstone is less than 50kms away and provides all the major shopping and retail facilities you may require.
We stopped in Gladstone to take our dog to the vet and to arrange new tyres.
Cost to stay at the Calliope River Rest Area, both North and South, is Free.
Our stays were 4th and 21st June 2018.
Hope you enjoy our video.
See the full list of: Our Best Free Camps in Australia
Other who liked this also read:
The Workmans Beach Campground in Agnes Water near 1770
Check out Midskinrick Lodge and Camping at Baffle Creek
Read about the 7 Towns in Australia where we could Live
The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Fraser Island
47 Caravan Motorhome RV & Camping Accessories
These are our Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia
Pin – Calliope River Rest Area!
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Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Lenses – Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.to/3eCueUo This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – https://ebay.to/2TWt0vA – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 7 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/34thTP1 – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
________________________________________________________________
Follow us Subscribe, Like, Share, and Comment on our website and social media here:-
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indefiniteleave/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indefinite_leave/
Website: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/indefiniteleave
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/indefiniteleav3
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This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through a link on this page we may receive a small commission. It will not cost you any more, in fact we’ve sourced out some great deals for you. Thank you for supporting us.
Adventurers Diary
Great Low Cost Campgrounds in Tasmania
Tasmania has quite a number of great low cost campgrounds alongside rivers, in National Parks and many in and around golf and sporting clubs at very reasonable prices.
Low Cost Campgrounds in Tasmania range from as little as $5 per night through to $25 per night based on 2 Adults. Generally the nightly fee for low cost campgrounds depends on the range of facilities. Campgrounds charging around $25 per night include power and possibly water.
You will find the campgrounds charging around $10 per night have fairly basic facilities. Naturally there are no powered sites available in the lower price category, and they are for an unpowered campsite only.
We have compiled a list of Great Low Cost Campgrounds in Tasmania breaking them down into the different price categories. These are just the campgrounds that we have discovered on our travels and naturally there are many more around Tassie.
There are also a lot of Free Camps right throughout Tasmania which makes it a very affordable place to visit for an extended period of time. We spent 6 weeks exploring Tassie and could have easily enjoyed another 2 weeks.
Read all about: Great Free Camping in Tasmania
Table of Contents
Here is our list of Great Low Cost Campgrounds in Tasmania
We have broken our great low cost campgrounds in Tasmania into 3 categories:
- $25 and Under per night Low Cost Campgrounds
- $10 and Under per night Low Cost Campgrounds
- $5 and Under per night Low Cost Campgrounds
Campgrounds $25 and Under per night
Ulverstone Blue Wren Tearooms
Location: West Ulverstone, Tasmania
About: A campground area is provided for self contained RV’s and Caravans within the grounds of the beautiful gardens and tearooms with views of the Bass Straight.
Pop along to Burnie to the Burnie Little Penguins Observation Centre and see the gorgeous little creatures come up out of the water after dark.
Full review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/blue-wren-tea-gardens-ulverstone-tasmania/
- Cost: $12 for 2 Adults Unpowered /No Water and $22 for 2 Adults Power & Water
- Max Nights Stay: No limit
- Toilets: No
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: Available by donation
- Bins: Yes
- Power: Yes – at an additional cost outlined above
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Dump Point: No
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes as well as Vodafone
Contact Phone: 0455 533 979
Read all about: The Very Best of Things to See and Do in Tasmania
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Mount Field Campground
Location: Mount Field National Park adjacent to the Visitor Information Centre, Tasmania
About: The Mount Field Campground is the perfect place to explore Russell Falls and Horseshoe Falls which are right at the doorstep. It has excellent facilities. Apart from an amenities block, it also has coin-operated washing machines and driers plus a camp cooking shelter including free electric barbecues as well as a sink with hot water.
Just a reminder, a valid Tasmanian Parks pass is also required.
- Cost: $16 per night Unpowered and $20 powered for 2 Adults
- Max Nights Stay: N/A
- Toilets: Yes
- Showers: Yes, hot free showers
- Potable Water: Yes
- Bins: Yes
- Power: Yes – 14 sites
- Pet Friendly: No as it is National Park
- Dump Point: No
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes
Contact Phone: (03) 6288 1149
Book a Russell Falls & Mount Field National Park Tour from Hobart here>
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Rosedale Homestead previously Taranna Cottages
Location: Taranna, 10 kms from Port Arthur in Tasmania
About: Rosedale Homestead previously Taranna Cottages offers self contained RV parking as well as 3 self-contained cottages in a beautiful farm and bush setting. There’s also a Restaurant, Animal Farm and Heritage Museum.
This location is perfect for exploring Port Arthur Historical Site as it is just 10kms from Taranna. A visit to Port Arthur during the day is a definite must but you can also do a Port Arthur Ghost Tour and explore at night.
We can highly recommend the Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Tasman Island Cruise from Port Arthur as well.
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/taranna-cottages-taranna-tasmania/
- Cost: $25 per night Unpowered (Additional $2.50 if paying by card)
- Max Nights Stay: No limit
- Toilets: Available at the Museum during opening hours only
- Showers: $2 for 3 minutes
- Potable Water: No
- Bins: Yes
- Power: $33 per night
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Dump Point: No
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes however no Vodafone
Contact Phone: 0418 126 151
Book your Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Tasman Island Cruise here>
5 Essentials – Outside RV Accessories
- To plug your RV with standard 15amp in to standard residential 10amp power source you will need a converter. We love our waterproof Ampfibian and after over 4 years it’s still perfect.
- Most people carry a Generator for back up power. 4wd Supacentre has a good low cost and popular generator while the Yamaha 2000w is a robust yet quiet excellent performer.
- A 20m 15amp Power Lead will ensure you reach your power source in Caravan Parks and Campgrounds.
- You will want a good blue Drinking Water Hose. Your typical green garden hose is not suitable for drinking from.
- A 4 way tap handle will help you find water whenever you need it
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Low Cost Campgrounds $10 and Under per night
Neck Game Reserve Camping
Location: Narrowneck South Bruny Island
About: The campground is tucked in behind the dunes at the south of the Isthmus and has easy access to the beach.
Note as the Camping area is just outside the South Bruny National Park boundaries, no National Park Fees apply, just the camping fees.
Bruny Island is a great place to get your taste buds flowing. Be sure to check out the Bruny Island Chocolate, Bruny Island Premium Wines, Bruny Island Cheese Co, Bruny Island Berry Farm.
Also we highly recommend the Bruny Island Wilderness Tour.
- Cost: $10 per night ($15 for family of 2 Adults & 2 Children)
- Max Nights Stay: No limit
- Toilets: Yes, Drop Toilets
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: No, water available but recommended you boil water for drinking
- Bins: No – Must take all rubbish with you
- Power: No
- Pet Friendly: No
- Dump Point: No
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes but not a strong signal
Contact Phone: (03) 6121 7026
Book your Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise from Adventure Bay here>
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Strahan Golf Club
Location: Strahan, Tasmania
About: The Strahan Golf Club offers a camping area for self contained RV’s and Caravans. You must have your own self-contained toilet to camp at the golf club. Tent camping is not permitted.
The Golf Club Bar opens from 4pm for drink.
While in Strahan, don’t miss the famous Gordon River Cruise which takes you into ancient rainforest of the UNESCO Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area which is stunning and cruising the Gordon River is so serene.
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/strahan-golf-club-camping-area-strahan-tasmania/
- Cost: $10 per night
- Max Nights Stay: 7 nights
- Toilets: Yes
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: Yes
- Bins: N/A – Must take all rubbish with you
- Power: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes, however pets must be restrained and kept quiet at all times
- Dump Point: No
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes but no Vodafone
Contact Phone: (03) 6471 7242
Book your Gordon River Cruise here>
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Horsehead Creek Campground
Location: Devonport, Tasmania
About: The Horsehead Creek right alongside the Mersey River is a great low cost campgrounds for when you arrive in Tasmania or are about to re-board the Spirit of Tasmania.
This camping facility for self-contained vehicles and caravans only.
A Camping Permit is required and can be obtained from the Devonport Visitor Information Centre during office hours or via the EasyPark app
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/horsehead-creek-devonport-tasmania/
- Cost: $10 per night
- Max Nights Stay: 72 hour limit
- Toilets: No
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: No
- Bins: Yes
- Power: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Dump Point: Yes
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes but no Vodafone
Contact Phone: (03) 6420 2900
Book a Cradle Mountain Day Tour from Devonport here>
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Franklin Campground
Location: Franklin, 50kms south of Hobart in Tasmania
About: Grassy campground ideally located right beside the Huon River for RV’s. Camping in tents is not permitted. Stay 4 nights and the 4th night is free.
Check out Willy Smith’s Cider House and Apple Shed Museum in Grove which is just under 20 minutes away,
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/franklin-campground-franklin-tasmania/
- Cost: $10 per night per vehicle
- Max Nights Stay: 4 nights
- Toilets: Yes
- Showers: No.
- Potable Water: Yes
- Bins: Yes
- Power: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed but must be on a leash
- Dump Point: Yes
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Telstra and Vodafone
Contact Phone: (03) 6264 8400 or 0428 875 619
Book a Huon Valley Tour from Hobart with Tahune Forest Air Walk here>
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Freycinet Golf Club
Location: Swanwick Tasmania
About: The Freycinet Golf Club provides a great level campground which is only 6kms from Coles Bay so a great base for exploring the Freycinet National Park and fabulous Wineglass Bay.
Be sure to visit the world famous Wineglass Bay. We did the Wineglass Bay Lookout walk and you can also take a Wineglass Bay Cruise which includes lunch.
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/freycinet-golf-club-swanwick-tasmania/
- Cost: $10 per night per site
- Max Nights Stay: 5 nights
- Toilets: Available at the Golf Club 24/7
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: No
- Bins: Yes
- Power: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Dump Point: No
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes
Contact Phone: (03) 6257 0053
Book a Wineglass Bay and Freycinet Day Tour from Hobart here>
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Stanley RV and Caravan Campground
Location: Stanley, North West Tasmania
About: The Camping area kindly allocated by the Circular Head Council, is right alongside Tatlows Beach near the entrance to the Stanley Golf Club.
Fees are collected by the Site Manager evenings and mornings.
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/stanley-rv-and-caravan-campground-stanley-tas/
- Cost: $10 per night
- Max Nights Stay: 7 day stopover
- Toilets: No
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: Yes
- Bins: Yes
- Power: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Dump Point: Just around the corner
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Telstra and Vodafone
Contact Phone: (03) 6452 4800
Book a Stanley Day Tour from Burnie or Devonport here>
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Sorell Sports Complex
Location: Sorell, 25kms from Hobart in Tasmania
About: The Council run RV Park is a great rest area for self-contained Caravans and Motorhomes.
A permit fee is payable and permits may be obtained from the Sorell Council Chambers between 8am and 4.45pm Mon – Fri or onsite from the deposit box near the Dump Point.
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/sorell-sports-complex-sorell-tasmania/
- Cost: $7.50 per night per vehicle (or $26 for 5 nights)
- Max Nights Stay: 10 nights
- Toilets: No
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: Yes
- Bins: No
- Power: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs must be on a lead and there is a dog park next door
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes
Contact Phone: (03) 6269 0000
Book a Hobart City Mt Wellington and Richmond Day Tour here>
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Campgrounds – $5 and Under per night
Gordon Recreation Reserve, Three Hut Point
Location: Three Hut Point, Gordon south of Hobart
About: Although we didn’t stay here, it looked the perfect place to stay for a few nights with lots of level grassy sites right on the water overlooking Bruny Island. It is one of the cheapest low cost campgrounds in Tasmania and even has water views. You couldn’t ask for more!
Plus, it is an ideal spot for fishing and swimming.
Full Review: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/gordon-recreation-reserve-three-hut-point-tasmania/
- Cost: $5 per night
- Max Nights Stay: No limit
- Toilets: Yes
- Showers: No
- Potable Water: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Dump Point: Yes
- Free Wifi: No
- Telstra Coverage: Yes
Contact Phone: (03) 6211 8200
Book a Hobart City Tour with MONA Ferry and Entry here>
Pin – Great Low Cost Campgrounds in Tasmania!
Hope our list of great low cost campgrounds is useful and helps you plan your road trip around Tasmania. Let us know of any other great places you find or have stayed at.
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
________________________________________________________________________________
Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Lenses
Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/2yQwPed This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.to/3eCueUo This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/2XlOZ0I – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – https://ebay.to/2TWt0vA – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 7 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/38wMc7V – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
_______________________________________________________________________
Follow us, Subscribe, Like, Share, and Comment on our website and social media here:-
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indefiniteleave/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indefinite_leave/
Website: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/indefiniteleave
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/indefiniteleave/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/indefiniteleav3
______________________________________________________________________
This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through a link on this page we may receive a small commission. It will not cost you any more, in fact we’ve sourced out some great deals for you. Thank you for supporting us.
Camp Grounds
Little Roper Stockcamp, Mataranka Northern Territory
Are you heading north to Katherine or Darwin? Don’t miss this great place to stay at Mataranka called Little Roper Stockcamp.
Only open 5 weeks when we were there, this is one of the most enjoyable outback stays you will have. It’s one of our Our Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia.
Des and Telka, the owners of Little Roper Stockcamp are fabulous..
Des is a former stockman and school Principal while Telka is still teaching at the local school. They are fabulous.
Every morning is free brekky and there’s friendly python snakes you can hold or pat, Cows, Buffalo, Pigs, Chickens and their pet dogs. All very friendly and good for kids.
Table of Contents
Little Roper Stockcamp Facilities
There’s rustic toilets and showers that are semi-open air which adds to the country atmosphere. Washing facilities are available for a small donation.
The Dump Point is in Mataranka.
I had 1-2 bars with Telstra, enough to use ok. No Vodafone or Optus coverage.
Powered sites at Little Roper Stockcamp are currently $30 per night or unpowered is $15pn.
There’s a fire pit each night to cook dinner on an open fire in the cooking pots provided.
Read more about: Our Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia
Are pets allowed at Little Roper Stockcamp?
Little Roper Stockcamp campground is pet friendly.
The grounds aren’t great for being level so the hosts provide levelling chocks to use if required.
Best to bring as much water with you as possible, it is bore water in the town of Mataranka.
Just 2kms down the road is the Mataranka Thermal Pools or it is a short 5 minute drive to Bitter Springs. This place is special.
Come meet Des and Telka, enjoy a fabulous outback experience with some very special features.
Mataranka is an hours drive south of Katherine in the NT, around 4.5 hours south of Darwin.
Cost to stay is $15 per night unpowered or $30 per night powered.
Update 30/7/2018: Unpowered cost is now $20 per night. Powered remains $30 per night
Update 11/1/2021: Unpowered cost is $30 per night and powered site is $35 per night for 2 adults. Extra adults are $10 a night. Children are free.
Our stay was 25th-27th May 2017
5 Essentials – Outside RV Accessories
- To plug your RV with standard 15amp in to standard residential 10amp power source you will need a converter. We love our waterproof Ampfibian and after over 4 years it’s still perfect.
- Most people carry a Generator for back up power. 4wd Supacentre has a good low cost and popular generator while the Yamaha 2000w is a robust yet quiet excellent performer.
- A 20m 15amp Power Lead will ensure you reach your power source in Caravan Parks and Campgrounds.
- You will want a good blue Drinking Water Hose. Your typical green garden hose is not suitable for drinking from.
- A 4 way tap handle will help you find water whenever you need it
_____________________________________________________________________________
Contact Details for Little Roper Stockcamp:
Phone: 0427 880 819
Website:
Address: 547 Homestead Road Mataranka NT
Open hours are during every dry season starting in April
How to get to Little Roper Stockcamp
Mataranka is approximately 100kms and a 1 hour drive south of Katherine in the Northern Territory.
From the Stuart Highway just south of Mataranka turn East in to Homestead Road.
Follow Homestead Road and go over Roper Creek and Little Roper Stockcamp is on your left soon after.
What is there to do in and around Mataranka?
Bitter Springs
Once you have found your Bitter Springs accommodation at Little Roper Stockcamp it’s time to head to Elsey National Park and find these amazing spring fed thermal pools within Roper Creek.
Take some noodles with you and float down Bitter Springs where the water temperature is 33-34c.
Whilst Crocodiles have been spotted at Bitter Springs they are rare and it’s not often you visit without there being a crowd already enjoying the fun.
Bitter Springs is located by following Martin Rd all the way to Roper Creek. There is a carpark there and signs directing you to the short walk to Bitter Springs Thermal Pools.
Mataranka Thermal Pool
The Mataranka Thermal Pools are a series of crystal clear natural pools which you can float down to Mataranka Falls. This is a small water flow over rocks that has incredible force given it’s small size.
Mataranka Thermal Pools are located just behind the Mataranka Homestead at the end of Homestead Road past Little Roper Stockcamp.
Territory Manor Barramundi Feeding
Territory Manor is located on Martin Road on the left as you head out to Bitter Springs. We stopped in for an ice cream and to watch the Barramundi feeding.
Our son Matt was invited to feed a Barra. If you’ve never seen a Barramundi bite you should try. But you better be watching closely, they are super fast and it all happens very quickly.
Katherine Gorge
Just an hour north of Mataranka is Katherine Gorge located in Nitmiluk National Park which is simply amazing.
It is made up of Sandstone and has formed in to 13 Gorges and features waterfalls and rapids.
Kayaking the Katherine Gorge is very popular way to experience it.
During the wet season the Gorges fill with water and Salt Water Crocodiles are able to make their way in to the waters of Katherine Gorge. There is therefore no swimming in the wet season.
At the start of the dry season the Salt Water Crocodiles are captured and removed back to the lower reaches of the Gorge.
Fresh Water Crocodiles live in Katherine Gorge and there all year round. They do not attack humans and it is safe to swim there during the wet season as we did.
To see the full beauty of Katherine Gorge, you do really need to do a tour which is our experience.
Book your Tour of Katherine Gorge here
We of the Never Never
Jeannie Gunn left Melbourne in January 1902 after her husband bought in to the Elsey Cattle Station at Mataranka.
In those times white woman were not considered appropriate on a cattle station is such remote locations but Jeannie had other ideas.
In 1908 Jeannie wrote an Autobiography called We Of The Never Never of her life moving from Melbourne to Mataranka and her time there which was short lived when her husband Aeneas died of malarial dysentery just over 12 months of arriving.
The park in Mataranka has memorials of people featured in her book.
We of the Never Never Book had sold over 1 million copies over 30 years ago in 1990 and in 1982 a movie by the same name was made and filmed in Mataranka based on Jeannie’s novel.
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Other great places to stay in the region:
Pin – Little Roper Stockcamp
Check out these other interesting stories:
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
________________________________________________________________________________________
Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Lenses
Lens – Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.to/3eCueUo This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – https://ebay.to/2TWt0vA – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 7 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/34thTP1 – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Destinations
Uluru by Sunrise Free Camp, Uluru/ Ayers Rock NT
Free camping at Uluru was the ultimate experience during our stay at Uluru/ Ayers Rock.
The opportunity to go camping at Ayers Rock at the Uluru by Sunrise Free camp where we enjoyed a magical Uluru sunrise each morning and spectacular afternoon sunsets was amazing.
Table of Contents
Uluru by Sunrise Free Camp
Uluru by Sunrise Free camp was located just 10kms from the main township of Yulara.
There’s no signs or markings, use WikiCamps and your Maps to guide you to the turnoff.
There are no facilities here but it’s only 10 mins to town where you can get water from the Fuel station, gas from the Ayers Rock Caravan Park/ Campground.
A Dump Point is also available on your right as you head in to Yulara.
The Uluru by Sunrise campground is outside the National Park and therefore our dog MACKS is with us.
I had both Telstra and Vodafone networks. I found Vodafone had the best coverage during our stay here in Uluru/ Ayers Rock.
We have views of Uluru plus you can set up a Camp fire. Please be very careful and responsible with your fire.
There are no facilities here so please take all your rubbish with you.
The cost for camping here is Free.
Our stay was 5 nights from 5th to 10th of May 2017
#Update 30th July 2018: This camping area is now closed and has been since 2017.
Our trip to Uluru was made all the more special by this fantastic location to stay each night with a fire and Uluru in the background.
But I guess if they’re not making money from it then it has to be closed!!
It’s so sad our kids won’t get to enjoy Uluru/Ayers Rock in the same ways we all have over history.
Read about the 9 photographs we will never take again: Uluru Lost
5 Essentials – Camera Equipment
The Mavic Pro Platinum Drone Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need and it is what I use this for all my aerial footage
The GoPro 7 Hero Black is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use.
We both love our Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone. Most of our photos are simply from our Samsung Phones. The cameras in the Samsung phone are pretty insane.
The distances you can shoot with the Camera – Nikon P1000 are simply amazing. It has an incredible optical and digital zoom!
We use our HP Sphere 360 Laptop with 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processor for our everyday use and for editing our photos
Why do we call it Uluru/ Ayres Rock?
Uluru/ Ayers Rock is it’s official gazetted name.
In 1873 it was sighted and named Ayres Rock after Sir Henry Ayers the Chief Secretary of South Australia.
In 1993 it was given the dual name of Ayers Rock/ Uluru before being renamed in December 2002 as Uluru/ Ayers Rock.
This is now it’s official name and what we call it, feel free to call it whatever name you think works for you.
Can I climb Uluru/ Ayers Rock?
No.
As of October 2019 climbing Uluru/ Ayers Rock is now prohibited.
How long do you need to visit Uluru/ Ayers Rock?
We planned for a couple of nights, then 3 and ended up staying 5 nights. It’s a long way to go and you may never get the opportunity to go again so don’t be in any hurry to leave.
We recommend no less then 3 days and 5 nights would be ideal.
There is a lot to see and enjoy at Uluru/ Ayers Rock and the surrounding area.
What is the best time of year to go to Uluru/ Ayers Rock?
It gets very hot at Uluru/ Ayers Rock during the middle of summer and therefore we would suggest visiting during temperatures more suited to walking and enjoying the outdoors.
From May to October would be the ideal months to visit Uluru/ Ayers Rock.
What is there to do at Uluru?
Sunset Viewing Carpark
Past the entrance to the National Park is a carpark on the left which is a very popular viewing area for Uluru/ Ayers Rock at Sunset.
Watch as the Rock changes over the course of the sun going down. It truly is a special and amazing experience.
Uluru/ Ayers Rock Tours
There are Camel Rides, Helicopter Scenic flight and Segway Tours available for lots of different ways to see Uluru/ Ayers Rock.
The Field of Lights are also an amazing experience.
Book all of these tours and more here through Experience Oz
Take a walk around the base of the Rock
Discover the many caves and rock formations along the way. The walk is 10.6km and takes around 3-3.5 hours to complete.
You don’t have to walk the entire path around the Rock, you can just walk specific sections that you may prefer.
Best Tips:
- Start your walk early in the morning while it is still cool
- Walk in footwear ideally suited to the hike
- Take plenty of water. There is a water station approximately half way around the full track
Book an Uluru Guided Morning Base Walk with Breakfast>
What else is there to do in the region?
The Olgas
Kata Tjuta, also known as The Olgas is 25kms west of Uluru/ Ayers Rock.
These rock formations are made up of 36 domes.
There are 2 walks, one called Valley of the Winds which is 7.4km all up. The other walk is Walpa Gorge walk which is 2.6km long and takes an hour or 2 to complete.
Book a Kata Tjuta Sunrise & Valley of the Winds Tour>
Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon is 306kms and a 3 hours drive from Uluru/ Ayers Rock.
It has a challenging yet truly spectacular walk to the top of the gorge and around it’s rim.
When visiting this region a trip to Kings Canyon is a must.
Book a Full Day Tour of Kings Canyon from Uluru in air conditioned Coach here
Watch our YouTube video of Kings Canyon and see this amazing gorge in all it’s beauty and the challenges.
Uluru/Ayers Rock Camping
The Ayers Rock Campground is part of the Ayers Rock Resort and is now the only option for campers. Base yourself at the Ayers Rock Campground so you can explore the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
The Campground has a swimming pool, playground, BBQ and outdoor camp kitchen as well as coin-operated washing machines and dryers.
Check out the: Ayers Rock Resort Campground
Pin – Uluru
Other interesting blogs you may like:
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
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Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Lenses – Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.to/3eCueUo This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – https://ebay.to/2TWt0vA – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 7 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/34thTP1 – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Great Low Cost Campgrounds in Tasmania
Little Roper Stockcamp, Mataranka Northern Territory
Uluru by Sunrise Free Camp, Uluru/ Ayers Rock NT
