Queensland is home to some of the most iconic sites, experiences and camping spots the country has to offer. Whether you’re out to explore and you’re ready for some off road adventure, or you’re looking to pack up the car and simply drive between unforgettable stays, you’re going to need some inspiration for planning your trip. Check out the best Queensland road trips going to put together an incredible camping stint, however long the trek you’re planning is.
Pacific Coast Way
Venture from Brisbane to Cairns over 10 days for a tropical trip like no other. The Pacific Coast Way road trip stretches across 1970 kilometres, taking you through every iconic spot dotted along the way. Stop by the Sunshine Coast, relax at Noosa Heads, see Airlie Beach, explore Ingham, chill out at Mission Beach and visit Atherton Tablelands along your trail to Cairns. You’ll find all kinds of serene, untouched sandy beaches, cool coastal sights, sleepy beachside towns and lush rainforests packed full of exciting wildlife. Activities to keep your camping clan busy include whale spotting, snorkelling the coral reefs of Lady Elliot, ferries over to Magnetic Island for a fun day trip complete with horseback riding and even whitewater rafting at the Tully River for the true adrenaline seeker in your group.
The Great Inland Way
The drive along the Great Inland Way road trip itinerary will take you all the way from Brisbane to Townsville. This 2,267 kilometre drive is about 8 days long, so it’s perfect for a shorter getaway that still gives you plenty of adventure, views and experiences to tackle. There are so many stops to see along the way – a few highlights include Hebel, St George, Roma, Injune, Emerald, Clermont, Charters Tower and of course Queensland’s most northern tip and your final destination, Townsville. This trail takes you inland so you’ll get to experience the excitement of Queensland’s outback – think secluded sprawling land, rural towns, rich cultural history, star studded skies and dusty red sand deserts. You can even stop off at a locally owned vineyard if you want to add a touch of luxury to your outback adventure. Every road is fully sealed, so it’s a comfortable drive through seemingly uncharted sites. Must-sees include Lochern National Park, a paddle up the Thompson River and day trips to islands, too.
Big Red
Begin at Brisbane, travel through Nindigully, Cunnamulla, Noccundra and Innamincka and find yourself at Birdsville on the drive along the Big Red itinerary. This is a shorter 5 day drive which will take you along 1892 kilometres of great Aussie outback. The Big Red is perfect if you’re looking to veer away from popular attractions for tourists and take a deep breath of clean air off the beaten track. You’ll see vast stretches of landscape, red hills, traditional towns with small populations, old school pubs and wide open horizons fit for basking in for as long as you like. This is a more serious drive that calls for some off roading tact and most importantly gear so keep this in mind when you’re preparing to do your Big Red trip right.
The Escape at Cub is the ideal bed fellow for all kinds of off-road adventures. It’s roomy, convenient and gives you every essential you need to tear through the Queensland desert your way. Housing up to four campers, you’ll meet those creature comforts and amenities that you need to feel human while also getting all the freedom and flex you need for off kilter driving and every road bound adventure you have on your mind. For the ones with the call to the wild in them, there’s nothing better than investing in a camper trailer that lets you express your most adventurous side.
The Overlander’s Way
This road trip starts at Townsville and takes you on a 5 day drive across a 1,097 kilometre span across to Camooweal. You’ll get the opportunity to explore Charters Towers, Hughenden, Richmond, Cloncurry and Mount Isa along the way. Studded with historic spots, little populated calming towns with plenty of culture and character, there’s no end to the stories and memories you’ll collect along the way. Take in the unique and unspoilt landscapes along this sealed and easy drive. Some key highlights include the iconic Charters Towers, Kronosaurus Korner for some Dino spotting, Hard Times Mine and the Underground Hospital and Camooweal Caves. This is a great way to really see all the mystery and magnetism that’s hiding away in the state – Queensland has some amazing surprising history and sites, many of which you won’t find in your usual travel books. For a drive that you’ll never forget through the northern lands of Queensland, there’s nothing better than the Overlander’s Way.
The Adventure Way
The shortest option but by no means the sparsest. True to its name, the adventure way will guide you through a track from Brisbane across the intrepid Cobb & Co stagecoaches connected between the east coast to the outback. You’ll find dreamy distant desert plains, charming country towns and villages and Australia’s iconic inland fishing capital George. Explore the Balonne River to spice up a dinner on an evening outdoors on the riverbank. You’ll also spy wallabies, hiking trails and incredible local flora and fauna at the Bunya Mountains National Park, as well as rich cultural history at Cooper Creek. You can follow the Creek on the border to Australia’s biggest billabong Cullyamurra Waterhole where there is some amazing rock art and plenty of serene, calming waters. This is a 4 day stint and takes you across 1152 kilometres of fascinating culture, viewpoints and excitement.
Which one of these unforgettable Queensland road trips will you conquer first? Whether you’re looking for a shorter whirlwind trip or you’re planning something more slow and steady, you’ll find the right fit out in the country’s north. Hitch up your cub camper, pack up your car, it’s time to start exploring.
