Camp Grounds
Ringers Rest RV Park, Mareeba
Ringers Rest RV Park in Mareeba is the perfect spot to base yourself when exploring all there is to see around Mareeba, Herberton and the Atherton Tablelands.
We originally booked in for 2 nights and ended up staying for a whole week!
The Caretaker Carl made a comment when we arrived – he said this place is like glue!
Most people he said book in for a night or two and end up staying a week or more which is exactly how it was for us!
It is so relaxing and quiet at Ringers Rest as it is away from town and any traffic noise.
Ringers Rest RV Park is just 8.1kms from the township of Mareeba.
About Mareeba
With a population of around 11,000 people, Mareeba is located on the Mulligan Highway approximately 65kms west from Cairns in North Queensland.
The weather in Mareeba is much cooler than on the coastline given it sits high up on the range inland from the ocean.
The town of Atherton is 33 kms south of Mareeba and just a short 25-30 minute drive away.
From it’s Gold Mining history to today’s ever popular coffee and winery reputation for excellence, it’s incredible scenery and amazing Lakes and Waterfalls, you will thoroughly enjoy your visit.
Mareeba is a fantastic spot to base yourself while exploring the Atherton Tablelands and as a stopover on your way to Cooktown and Cape York.
There’s so much to experience within the region you can easily stay here for an extended period and still not see it all.
Ringers Rest RV Park
Set in quiet bushland on private land, this awesome secluded bush caravan park caters for people with self-contained motorhomes, caravans, campervans and campertrailers.
There’s plenty of open flat land so it is also suitable for those with self-contained big rigs and buses.
You can enjoy the bushwalk to Tinaroo Creek which runs behind the property which is great for swimming as well as ‘catch & release’ fishing.
The wildlife is amazing, Brolgas can regularly be seen inhabiting the adjoining paddock.
We love interacting with animals on our travels so we made sure we parked up along the fence line at Ringers Rest RV Park.
From our site we could enjoy interacting and feeding the friendly cows and horses as they come to greet us right beside our Motorhome.
Wake up at dawn to the sound of the hot air balloons taking off or landing in the adjoining paddock, as people go on an amazing ride over the Atherton Tablelands.
Book a Hot Air Balloon Flight here>
What are the property amenities at the Ringers Rest RV Park?
Ringers Rest has 15 acres of fenced level land set out as a camping area for RV travellers with self-contained vehicles.
Tent camping and camping in your car is not permitted.
Long drop toilets with a ramp access are available but we have our own ensuite on board so did not need to use the amenities.
Non-potable channel water is available.
Important Update – From 1 May 2022, all vehicles must be fully self-contained with your own toilet, shower, washing up facilities and black water tanks on board.
Camper trailers will need to have a privacy tent for showering and toileting. Toilets are NOT to be emptied in the paddock.
A Dump Point is not available on site at Ringers Rest RV Park however there is one opposite the Mareeba Leagues Club which is just 6kms east of the township of Mareeba.
Potable Water is also available opposite the Leagues Club.
All sites are unpowered and you can choose your own site to set up camp.
As the campground is mostly wide open land, it allows for plenty of solar.
Should you need to top up your power, generators are permitted.
There is a communal Campfire at the Ringers Rest RV Park which is the ideal spot for everyone to gather around the fire and catch up over a drink or two at Happy Hour but also for you to cook your own campfire dinner.
On Sunday nights owner Dave cooks up a damper.
Dave is also known to tell a few yarns and sing a song or two which adds to the already awesome Ringers Rest experience.
We had good coverage with both Telstra and Vodafone networks during our stay at Ringers Rest.
Hot Tip – We found Mareeba Sheds & Gas to be the cheapest in all of Oz for refilling our 4kg gas bottles!
Are pets allowed at Ringers Rest RV Park?
Ringers Rest RV Park do allow pets but it is conditional to your pets good behaviour.
There is certainly plenty of space to exercise your dog and take them for a walk around the campground.
Read more: Travelling Australia with our dog MACKS
How much does it cost to camp at Ringers Rest RV Park?
It is just $10 per site per night for 2 people to stay at Ringers Rest and $5 for an additional person. Children 14 and under stay for free.
Note – Payment must be made in cash as there are NO Eftpos facilities.
Bookings are not required. There is a caretaker on site with check in hours from 8am to 6pm.
Camping at Ringers Rest Mareeba is seasonal. The RV Park closes from 1 December and re-opens on 1 May.
Our stay was 26th July to 1 August 2021.
View our YouTube Video on our stay at Ringers Rest and our time exploring the amazing Mareeba & Atherton Tablelands region:
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Contact Details for Ringers Rest RV Park:
Phone: 0402 199 577
Address: 277 Fichera Road, Mareeba, Queensland
Website:
How to get to Ringers Rest Mareeba
Turn off the National Highway 1 onto Henry Hannam Drive. Continue along Henry Hannam Drive then turn left into Lockwood Road.
Follow Lockwood Road which then turns into Fichera Road.
The entrance to the Ringers Rest RV Park will be on your left.
Which popular attractions are close to Ringers Rest RV Park Bush Camp?
There are a number of great and interesting places to visit and things to do in the Mareeba region within close proximity to the Ringers Rest RV Park.
Mareeba Heritage Museum and Visitor Information Centre
The Mareeba Information & Heritage Centre is an interesting place to visit.
Besides it being the local Visitor’s Information Centre in the front where you can pick up , be sure to take a wander through the Heritage Centre.
Make sure to check out the awesome exhibits showcasing Mareeba’s fascinating history including an open air museum.
Browse through the heritage gift shop or stop in for a coffee or snack at the on-site a coffee shop.
Open Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm and 9am – 3pm on weekends. Entry is Free!
Phone: 07 4092 5674
Address: 345 Byrnes Street, Mareeba, Queensland
Website:
Mareeba Drive-In
You’ll find one of the few remaining drive-in theatres in Mareeba.
There are just 17 left in all of Australia. The only other drive-ins still operational in Queensland are at Yatala, Ipswich, Charters Towers, Jericho and Ayr.
The Mareeba Drive-in was built in the 1960s and operated until it closed in 1998. Subsequently, it opened in 2002 and has a 300 car capacity.
Generally open Friday & Saturday Nights. Camping is offered on movie nights for free with the price of the movie entry fee.
Phone: 0429 056 615
Address: 5303 Kennedy Highway, Mareeba, Queensland
Website:
Tinaroo Dam
There is plenty to see and do around Tinaroo that you can really make a day of it.
First of all we drove through the township of Tinaroo then on to Tinaroo Dam and walked across the dam wall.
We then drove down to the lower level to see the huge release of water flowing from the spillway before driving around Lake Tinaroo stopping off to have lunch by the lakeside.
Lake Tinaroo is a man made lake created from the damming of the Barron River in 1958.
Address: 4 Tinaroo Lookout Road, Tinaroo, Queensland
Waterfall Circuit
Follow the 17km sealed Atherton Tablelands Waterfall circuit that begins at Teresa Creek Road just south of Millaa Millaa and check out the amazing waterfalls.
There are 6 waterfalls along the circuit and we enjoyed visiting the 3 most popular waterfalls – Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Elinjaa Falls.
These waterfalls are 3 of the most photographed waterfalls in Australia.
Millaa Millaa is undoubtedly the most famous of them all and is a popular spot for swimming. The Millaa Millaa Falls was heritage listed in December 2005.
Spy & Camera Museum
It’s not every day you have the opportunity to check out some amazing spy cameras so we made sure we visited the very unique Spy & Camera Museum in Herberton while we based ourselves at Ringers Rest Mareeba.
Located inside Herberton’s oldest house is the world’s most unique museum boasting some of the rarest cameras in the world. Even if you are not a camera or photography enthusiast, you are bound to enjoy visiting the Spy & Camera Museum.
We found the tour really interesting to see and learn how the various spy cameras were disguised and used.
Open 6 days Tuesday to Sunday from 10am – 5pm. Closed on Mondays
Phone: 07 4096 2092
Address: 49 Grace Street, Herberton, Queensland
Website:
Places to eat and drink in the Mareeba & Atherton Tablelands region
Shaylee Strawberries
Don’t miss calling into Shaylee Strawberries.
Located between Atherton and Yungaburra and a great time to visit is during the months of July through to November when the strawberries are at best.
You can pick your own strawberries, enjoy a scrumptuous strawberry ice cream and take home a bottle of their yummy strawberry jam.
Delicious home-made sweets and coffee are also available in the Cafe.
Open 9am to 4pm Monday to Sunday.
Phone: 07 4091 2962
Address: Cnr Gillies Highway & Marks Lane, Atherton, Queensland
Website:
Gallo Dairyland
While exploring Mareeba and the Atherton Tablelands there are so many places for a bite to eat but we happily discovered where to stop in for a chocolate treat! Who doesn’t love chocolate?
We couldn’t resist stopping into Gallo Dairyland which is only around 40 minutes from Ringers Rest Mareeba and certainly worth a visit.
Not only is it worth visiting for the delicious hand crafted chocolate, artisan cheese and yummy ice cream, which we personally sampled, but you can drop in for a late breakfast, morning or afternoon snack at the Cafe.
They also have an Animal Nursery which the kids will love!
Phone: 07 4095 2388
Address: Malanda Road, Atherton
Website:
Emerald Creek Ice Creamery
There’s 40 flavours to choose from at the Emerald Creek Ice Creamery so there’s no shortage to choose from.
It just might make it that little bit harder though because there are so many flavours.
Besides their premium ice cream and sorbet they have jams, marmalade, fudge and biltong. Light lunches are also available.
Open Mon, Tue, Thur & Fri from 12pm – 4.30pm and 10am – 4.30pm on Sat & Sun. Closed Wednesdays.
Phone: 07 4093 3373
Address: 3946 Kennedy Highway, Mareeba, Queensland
Facebook
Golden Drop Winery
The Mareeba district is rich in coffee and wineries. As we are not coffee drinkers, naturally we chose to visit one of the wineries!
If you are like Adele and love mango, put the Golden Drop Winery on your list of places to visit in Mareeba.
They have everything mango from Mango Wine, Mango Sparkling Wine, Mango Port, Mango Liqueur Wine to Mango Cello.
Other fruity flavours are available though.
The Cellar Door is open daily from 9.30am – 4.30pm
Phone: 07 4093 2750
Address: 227 Bilwon Road, Biboohra, Queensland
Website:
Read more: Things to See and Do in Cairns
What to take with you when exploring the Mareeba & Atherton Tablelands region:
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Hema Maps
- Water Bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Torch
- Hiking Shoes
- Swimmers and Towel
- First Aid Kit
- Cooling Towel
- Insect Repellent
Ringers Rest Mareeba is just an hour away from Cairns. Here are a number of great places to stay in the Cairns region:
Pin – Ringers Rest RV Park
Have you stayed at Ringers Rest RV Park?
Did you book in for 1 or 2 nights and end up staying a lot longer?
Tell us about your stay at the Ringers Rest RV Park in the comments.
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 – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – 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.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
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.us/br9MeO – 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 – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – 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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Adventurers Diary
Dalmeny Campground, Dalmeny NSW
The Dalmeny Campground is perfectly located overlooking spectacular Dalmeny Beach.
This is a very popular camping spot for Caravans, Motorhomes, Campervans and Tents.
With it’s spectacular ocean views, fantastic surfing opportunities and excellent fishing along the beach it’s a perfect place to relax and unwind.
If you’re looking for the ideal Narooma camping location, the Dalmeny Campground is your escape from chaos.
About Dalmeny
Dalmeny is just 5 mins drive from the beautiful nearby town of Narooma on the south NSW coast and is 340 kms south of Sydney.
It is known for it’s many stunning beaches which provide excellent swimming, fishing and surfing opportunities.
With a population of around 2000 people Dalmeny is a peaceful laid back community which thrives during the summer tourism season when travellers and holiday makers visit Dalmeny, Narooma and nearby winery regions such as Tilba Tilba.
Brou Beach, which is commonly called Dalmeny Beach, is located in the Eurobodalla National Park where there are lots of fantastic walks and you can visit Brou Lake which is the perfect spot to swim, kayak and throw in a line.
This is one of our favourite regions within the NSW south coast.
Dalmeny Campground Location
The Dalmeny Camping area is some amazing real estate given the panoramic outlook from the position of each Caravan and Motorhome.
The campground is located on a hilltop of sloping grounds so most sites are not level but they do provide spectacular views.
Remember to bring your levelling chocks and enjoy some of the most exquisite views you’ll ever have whilst camping here at Dalmeny Campground.
Don’t forget your camera and binoculars to witness the amazing Humpback Whale season as they make their way north and back again, playing and breaching along the Eastern coastline.
Dalmeny Campground Amenities
There is a large amenities block located here which includes toilets, hot showers and a laundry which are all modern and clean.
A dump point is also available onsite just near the amenities block. Bins are also located at the campground.
A children’s playground is located in the park next to the Campground.
An IGA for all your groceries and a fuel station are located directly across the road.
There’s also a great Fish and Chips shop which is popular with other campers.
Fire pits are available for hire along with firewood, just see the caretakers who will look after you.
The beach is excellent for swimming although not all beaches have lifesavers and can be subject to rips and dangerous surf conditions.
Surfing the beaches surrounding Dalmeny is very popular with plenty of great wave action.
There’s lots of good fishing along the beach in the gutters and we saw a few fish being caught during our stay.
You may even spot the resident Emu’s that often wander along the beach.
We had good Telstra coverage and I also had 1 bar of Vodafone network during our stay at Dalmeny Campground.
Are pets allowed at Dalmeny Campground?
The Dalmeny Campground is pet friendly and therefore dogs are allowed.
Read more: Travelling Australia with our dog MACKS
Cost to stay at Dalmeny Campground
Cost to stay is $33 per night for 2 adults for powered site. Children 5-16yo are $6 each per night.
* Updated 27/12/2022 Prices vary throughout the year depending on season. Off peak is $31, Shoulder season is $37 and Peak season is $56 a night for a powered site.
Unpowered sites are available and are $26 a night for off peak, $34 a night during the Shoulder season and $45 a night in peak times.
Check the Dalmeny Campground website for more details.
Also look for Stay 7 nights and pay for only 6 deal or any other offers they may have throughout the year.
Our stay was 22nd February and 28th February to 6th March 2019.
For video reviews on hundreds of other Caravan Parks, Campgrounds and Free Camps around oz, simply click on the Where to Stay Button above or here to search by category. Alternatively you can click on the Destinations Button above or here to search by State.
Check out these other great places to stay near Dalmeny NSW:
Contact Details for Dalmeny Campground and Caravan Park:
Phone: 0428 635 641
Address: 1 Noble Parade, Dalmeny NSW
Website
Facebook
How to get to Dalmeny Campground:
From the Princes Highway turn in to Mort Avenue at Dalmeny to Dalmeny Beach until you come to the Dalmeny Campground on your left.
The entrance is on the ocean side, it is a one way road in and out of the campground.
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
Things to see and do in and around Dalmeny Campground
1. Dalmeny and Narooma Beaches
Dalmeny and Narooma are a stunning beachside location and there is so much to see and do.
You will also be able to see the resident Dalmeny Emus regularly wandering along the beach!
Josh’s Beach is nearby and is another popular place for swimming and fishing.
Yabbara Beach is a bigger beach and more preferred for beach walks and is similar to Duesburys Beach next to it.
Kianga Beach is popular for surfing and fishing and there are BBQ’s and picnic area overlooking the beach making it a favourite Sunday lunch position for locals and visitors.
2. Kianga Point
Take a drive out to Kianga Point off Dalmeny Road and enjoy a picnic lunch with spectacular views.
The circular drive around Kianga Point provides stunning sweeping views along the beaches and across to the islands offshore.
3. Australia Rock
See Australia Rock, a rock formation in the shape of the map of Australia. It is located at Wagonga Head and you can drive there along Bar Rock Rd.
Be sure to check out Australia Rock, it’s one of the most popular attractions close to Dalmeny Campground.
4. See the Seals
While at Australia Rock, take the walk along the Bar rock wall and see the Seals as they laze about and swim in the waters of the entrance to Wagonga Inlet.
Here you can witness the Australian and NZ fur seals in their own habitat, sunbaking and playing in the waters and catching some lunch throughout the day.
5. Feeding Stingrays
Watch the stingrays being fed at the Apex Park Boat Ramp.
When the charter boats come in from their day out fishing the Stingrays school around the boat ramp in hope of a free feed.
Sometimes if you are lucky the fishermen help you to feed the Stingrays.
We were fortunate and one of the guys brought over a fish frame and showed Adele how to attract a Big Stingray to take the fish from her hand.
He also helped key the pelicans at bay who were also keen on an easy feed.
6. Montague Island Tour
We highly recommend the Tour to Montague Island called Montague Island Tours with Wazza.
The tour leaves from Narooma and takes you for some amazing snorkelling with the Seals before a tour around the lighthouse and keepers cottage.
It was a great day out, swimming with seals and enjoying tour of Montague island.
Pin – Dalmeny Campground
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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 of our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – 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.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
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.us/br9MeO – 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 – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – 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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Camp Grounds
Mount Gambier Camping, South Australia
In Mount Gambier we chose to go camping at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.
The Mount Gambier camping area at the Showgrounds is close to town and within easy driving of the local landmarks.
The Umpherston Sinkhole is a short walk away and Blue Lake is only a short driving distance from this Mount Gambier camping ground.
There is no Free camping in Mount Gambier so the Showgrounds are an excellent alternative.
About Mount Gambier
Mount Gambier is in the very south east of the State of South Australia.
It is approximately 435 km drive from Adelaide to Mount Gambier which is just 17 kms to the Victorian border.
The population of Mount Gambier is 29,940 making it the city with the second highest amount of residents in South Australia.
The beaches of Port Macdonnell are an easy 28 km drive south from Mount Gambier which are great for surfing, swimming and snorkelling.
There is lots to see and do in Mount Gambier which is why so many travellers base themselves here to explore the region.
Mount Gambier Camping Facilities
Camping facilities at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds include clean toilets and showers.
Drinking water is available and a basic camp kitchen is provided.
There is a Dump Point on site and laundry facilities include a washing machine but no dryer.
The Camping area at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds can accommodate Motorhomes, Caravans & Big Rigs of 10m+ but camping in tents is not permitted.
I had excellent Telstra and Vodafone coverage.
Cost for Camping at Mount Gambier Showgrounds
It is great value at just $22 per night plus $3 for Matt for a powered site with water. Unpowered sites are $15.
Cost Update November 2022:
Powered Site: $25 per night for 2 people
Mount Gambier Showground Court Case
In 2020 a Caravan Park took action against the Mount Gambier Showgrounds in their efforts to expand its camping facilities.
In recent years only 8 or 9 fully self contained Caravans or Motorhomes were allowed to stay at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.
The Magistrate however over ruled the Caravan Park and the Showgrounds have applied for space to increase the numbers to 22.
The Magistrate though ruled in favour of 30 sites, pending dump point being installed and fire hoses.
This work is currently being completed and it is expected the Mount Gambier Showgrounds will be operating with 30 sites in March 2023.
The website Border Watch says the Mount Gambier Agricultural and Horticultural Society president Brian Kerr commented “I hope having that facility there will enable more people to stay locally in the South East and in Mount Gambier and have a look at our region”
This is fantastic news and great that common sense prevailed.
Are Pets allowed at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds Camping Ground?
The campground is pet friendly which was great as we were travelling with our beautiful Golden Retriever MACKS at the time.
Read more: Travelling Australia with our dog MACKS
While we were in Mount Gambier, we visited the spectacular Umpherston Sinkhole and the amazing Blue Lake. Be sure to check them both out when you visit this fabulous region.
Check out the video for all the details on camping at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.
Our stay was 12-14th March 2017
Mount Gambier Showgrounds is one of our favourites.
View all of our 29 Best Low Cost Campgrounds in Australia here>
Contact Details for Mount Gambier Showgrounds
Phone: 0408 492 182
Address: 1 Pick Avenue, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Website
How to get to the Camping ground at Mount Gambier Showgrounds
Upon entering from South Australia from Victoria, head along the Princes Highway/A1 for 48 kms.
Turn left onto Pick Avenue/C192 and follow Pick Avenue for 500 metres.
Enter the Mount Gambier Showgrounds Camping Ground via Gate 4 off Pick Avenue.
What to do in Mount Gambier
Umpherston Sinkhole
The Umpherston Sinkhole is one of the most spectacular places in the Mount Gambier region.
This amazing sunken garden is a very tranquil setting full of beautiful plants, flowers, ferns and a fountain. At night, the garden comes alive with hundreds of possums as they enter the garden to feed.
Umpherston Sinkhole was once a typical limestone cave and was naturally formed when the roof collapsed.
Named after James Umpherston who transformed the sinkhole into the magnificent garden in 1886.
Phone: 08 8724 9750
Address: Jubilee Highway East, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Opening Hours: Open every day from dawn to dusk and until late in the evening
Blue Lake
Another one of Mount Gambier’s stunning attractions is Blue Lake. The lake sits on one of the extinct volcanic craters in Mount Gambier.
It’s very distinct cobalt blue coloured water is most prominent from December through to March year whereas from April to November the lake is a more steel grey colour.
There is a 3.6 km walking trail which leads to the various viewing platforms around Blue Lake and to the underpass between Leg of Mutton Lake Crater and Blue Lake.
Address: Lot 391 John Watson Drive, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Little Blue Lake
Just 11 kms south of Mount Gambier is the Little Blue Lake. Little Blue Lake is a popular place for swimming and diving.
There is a stepped walkway leading to a floating pontoon on the lake for easy access.
The temperature of the water in Little Blue Lake is a constant 12 degrees.
Address: Lot 747 Mount Salt Road, Mount Shank, South Australia
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Kilsby Sinkhole
The last place you would expect to find an amazing and extremely popular diving spot is in the middle of a sheep farm.
Kilsby Sinkhole is located just 10 kms from Mount Gambier.
This unique geological feature was once just a watering hole for travelling stockman but now is an incredible crystal clear 60 metre chamber of water and a divers delight.
It is one of the first sinkholes to be dived in the Mount Gambier region and this world famous dive site is also used as a training site by the SA Police Divers.
Phone: 0408 825 355
Address: Sisters Road, The District Council of Grant, South Australia
Website
Opening Hours: Not open to the General Public – a tour booking is required to access the sinkhole
Engelbrecht Cave
Engelbrecht Cave is an amazing cave system right in the centre of Mount Gambier. It winds its way under streets and homes in town and is definitely a cave with a difference.
Take the 45 minute guided tour where you will be able to view the sinkhole before entering the two caverns and also see the clear blue water of the underground lake.
The Engelbrecht Cave is the only cave which is actually a tourist site as well as a cave dive site.
Phone: 08 8723 5552
Address: 26 Chute Street, Mount Gambier, South Australia
Website
Opening Hours: Open 6 days a week – closed Wednesdays
Mount Gambier Weather
Mount Gambier experiences mild, generally dry Summers, cool Winters and mild temperatures in Autumn and Spring.
There is usually a moderate amount of rainfall in autumn, spring and winter.
August is generally the wettest month with February normally receiving the least amount of rainfall.
Mount Gambier recorded it’s highest ever temperature of 44.9 °C on 2 February 2014. The lowest temperature on record has been −3.9 °C on 20 June 1950 and 2 July 1960.
Other great places for camping in the Mount Gambier region:
Pin – Mount Gambier Camping
Have you been camping at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds? Tell us about your Mount Gambier camping experience.
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 – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – 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.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
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.us/br9MeO 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 – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – 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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Camp Grounds
Longreach Camping Area Qld
The Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area is the perfect location to stay when exploring the area. It is an easy 3 kms out of town. Plus, it is situated right on the Thompson River which we hear is great for fishing.
For a very low cost Longreach Camping option, you cannot go past the Apex Riverside Park at Longreach.
It provides an awesome affordable base to allow you to explore Longreach and all the wonderful experiences it has to offer.
Longreach Camping Facilities – Apex Riverside Park
This Longreach camping ground provides Toilets, Bins, BBQ’s and Water. Potable Water is available from the Caravan Day Parking Area on Kite Street in Longreach.
A Dump Point facility is available only minutes away in the town of Longreach.
We had good Telstra and Optus coverage.
There is no power at the Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping area however generators are permitted.
Is the Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area Pet Friendly?
The Apex Riverside Park camping ground in Longreach is pet friendly. Dogs are therefore allowed. You will find chickens, roosters and brolgas roaming freely througout the campground.
We parked near to the toilets as the campground is based on dirt. Therefore given where we were, we didn’t have too many people driving past and fortunately didn’t find it overly dusty. It does get busy in the afternoon.
During our second Longreach Camping stay, it was quite full so we joined others in the overflow area on the opposite side of the road.
Enjoy the video for more details.
The cost to stay at the Apex Riverside Park, Longreach is just $3 per day or $15 per week.
Update 2021: $5 per night per vehicle or $27 per week.
Our Longreach Camping stays at the Apex Riverside Park are 29th August to 1st September 2017 and 11th May 2021. Our second visit was during our Brisbane to Darwin trip.
Read more: Brisbane to Darwin Free Camping
Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Contact Details:
Phone: 07 4658 4150
Address: Lot 206 Landsborough Highway, Longreach, Queensland
Website:
How to get to the Longreach Camping Area
Take the Landsborough Highway north from Longreach and take the first right before crossing the river.
Follow the road and turn left at the T Junction. The Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area will very soon be on your left.
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!
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What else is there to do in Longreach?
There is so much to see and enjoy at Longreach. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the reinvigorated outback town. We recommend you allow at least 4-5 days.
We thoroughly enjoyed all Longreach has to offer and their unique experiences are some of our favourite experiences in all of Australia.
Read more: Our Favourite Experiences as we Travel Australia
Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Outback Heritage Centre
Longreach is known as the heart of the outback Queensland and for the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame. It truly is a magnificent centre and has received a $15m makeover.
We not only looked through all of the amazing exhibits and galleries but also made the most of the opportunity and did the complete experience which included the live show which we thoroughly enjoyed and certainly recommend.
Qantas Founders Museum
Another of the top tourist attractions in Longreach.
There were two things we wanted to explore while we were in Longreach and the Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach, Queensland was one of them!
We can happily tick it off our list. It was great to wander through the museum and the National Heritage listed Q.A.N.T.A.S. Hanger and see the history of Qantas and the advancement from the 1920’s.
It was an exceptional experience doing the 747 and 707 Jet Tour and Wing Walk in addition to checking out this amazing museum.
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Outback Pioneers Tours & Experiences
Outback Pioneers have created 3 fabulous tours providing unique experiences showcasing the pioneering past of Australia’s iconic outback and we thoroughly enjoyed two of them.
The Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience provides Australia’s only stagecoach gallop!
Besides the tremendous thrill of riding in an authentic restored stagecoach, you are treated to a delicious home-made morning tea, an Australian movie in a Retro Cinema and the hilarious old time tent show!
The Starlight’s Cruise provides a sensational sunset cruise along the majestic Thomson River, a traditonal aussie bush dinner, after dinner entertainment including the barefoot poet, a light and sound show finishing with billy tea and damper.
Update October 2022: Sadly Scotty the Barefoot Bush Poet passed away in late October 2022.
The Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience as well as the Starlight’s Cruise Experience are highly recommended and not to be missed when visiting Longreach.
Read more about our: Top 10 Things to Do in Longreach
Other great places to stay near Longreach:
Pin – Longreach Camping
Have you visited Longreach and stayed at the Apex Riverside Park Longreach Camping Area? Tell us about your Longreach camping experience.
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.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
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.us/br9MeO 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 9 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.
_______________________________________________________________________
For more fun and information 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.
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