The Ultimate Outback Queensland Road Trip: Undara to St George + fREE Map
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Matilda Way, Outback Queensland
If you’re looking for one of Australia’s most unforgettable road trips, the Outback Queensland circuit from Undara to St George delivers it all — red dirt, ancient landscapes, dinosaur country, historic towns, hot springs and wide-open roads that seem to stretch forever! This journey takes you through some of the most iconic outback destinations including Winton, Longreach, Mount Isa, Charleville, and Cunnamulla, each offering something completely unique.
To make planning easy, we’ve included a free interactive map so you can follow the full route, save your favourite stops, and customise your own Outback Queensland adventure as you go. For accommodation, we booked most of our stays through the G’Day Parks app, which we highly recommend. It offers great value stays and access to 330+ holiday parks across Australia, making it a super reliable option for road trips like this.
Below, you’ll find our must-stop locations and experiences from this unforgettable Outback Queensland journey — from lava tubes and dinosaur country to riverside towns and natural hot springs.
Outback Queensland Road Trip Overview
Route: Undara → Charters Towers → Hugenden/Richmond (Dinosaur Trail) → Cloncurry → Mount Isa → Winton → Longreach → Charleville → Cunnamulla → St George
Distance: Approx. 2,000km+
Duration: 14 days recommended (due to the long drive days)
Best time to go: April – October (cooler outback season, we’ve just travelled the month of May and it’s been perfect!)
We’re currently travelling Australia full-time in our 2025 Jayco Destiny Mercedes Sprinter. If you’re interested in seeing more of out setup and what it’s like living on the road, check out our full van tour over on YouTube!
Important Fuel Stops & Driving Tips
Fuel availability is one of the most important things to plan in Outback Queensland, particulary in these current times you MUST PLAN AHEAD for this road trip.
Key Fuel Stops Along the Route
Undara / Mount Surprise – limited but available in Mt Surprise before the long stretch
Charters Towers – major fuel stop before heading west
Richmond – essential stop along the Dinosaur Trail & fuel available
Cloncurry – reliable fuel & food restock point
Mount Isa – full services (last major hub for a while)
Winton – important fuel stop before Longreach stretch
Longreach – full services and supermarkets
Charleville – key southern fuel hub
Cunnamulla – final remote fuel stop before St George
St George – full services and town amenities
⚠️ Road Trip Tips
Never let your tank drop below half in remote sections
Carry extra water and snacks between towns
Phone signal is be limited between towns; recommend Starlink Mini
Watch for wildlife; kangaroos, wallabies, birds of prey, emus especially at dawn and dusk
Plan accommodation ahead in peak season (June–August)
Expect long driving stretches with minimal services
Undara – Lava Tubes & Ancient Volcanic Landscape
Where to stay: Undara Discovery Resort
Located around 315km south-west of Cairns (approximately a 4-hour drive), Undara is one of the most unique geological areas in Australia, formed by volcanic eruptions over 190 million years ago. The lava created underground tunnels that are still intact today, with some stretching for kilometres beneath the savannah landscape.
This was easily one of our favourite stays in the outback, with plenty of accommodation options including powered and unpowered caravan sites, cabins, glamping tents, and restored railway carriages. Staying here feels completely remote — quiet, wild, and surrounded by savannah bushland where kangaroos, wallabies, and native birds are often spotted right outside your accommodation.
Best Things to Do
• Undara Lava Tube Tours
Guided tours take you inside massive underground lava tunnels. You’ll learn how they formed and see natural skylights, collapsed sections, and ancient rock formations.
• Savannah Wildlife Spotting
The surrounding bush is full of kangaroos, wallabies, birds, and reptiles. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for sightings.
• Outback Sunsets
Wide open landscapes create dramatic sunsets with huge skies and glowing red horizons.
• Stargazing
Minimal light pollution makes this one of the best night sky locations in Queensland.
Food & Dining
Meals are served in a relaxed, communal style dining area. Expect hearty, home-style outback meals designed for travellers — simple, filling, and social.
2. Charters Towers – Gold Rush Heritage Town
Where to stay: Charters Towers Tourist Park
Located around 515km from Undara (approximately a 6-hour drive) Charters Towers is one of Queensland’s most historic inland towns and was once considered one of the richest gold mining regions in Australia. Walking through the town today still feels like stepping back into the gold rush era, with beautifully preserved heritage buildings, old pubs, and wide streets lined with colonial architecture.
It’s the perfect first major stop heading into Outback Queensland and has a much bigger town feel than many other outback stops along the route, making it a great place to restock supplies and slow down for a couple of nights.
Best Things to Do:
• Heritage Town Walks
Spend some time wandering through the historic centre where many original buildings from the late 1800s still remain. The architecture throughout town is incredibly well preserved and gives a real glimpse into Charters Towers’ gold rush past.
• Towers Hill Lookout
One of the best spots in town, especially at sunset. The lookout offers panoramic views over Charters Towers and the surrounding outback landscape, with walking tracks and historical information throughout the area.
• Local Museums & History Sites
Learn about the town’s mining history and how the gold boom transformed Charters Towers into one of Queensland’s most important regional centres during the 19th century.
• Sunset Drives
The landscapes surrounding town open up into classic outback scenery, making for beautiful golden hour drives just outside the centre.
Food & Dining:
Charters Towers has plenty of easy dining options for road trippers, from bakeries and cafés to classic country pubs.
Grab a pie or pastry from a local bakery before hitting the road, or settle in for a pub dinner after a day of exploring. It’s a great place to enjoy simple, hearty meals before continuing further west into Outback Queensland.
Flinders Highway – Dinosaur Trail (Hugheden & Richmond Stop)
Driving the Flinders Highway is all part of the Outback Queensland experience and 1,800 km stretch from Townsville to Mt Isa, with huge open landscapes, very small country towns, and some of Australia’s most fascinating prehistoric sites along the way. This stretch forms part of Queensland’s famous Dinosaur Trail, where you can learn about the ancient inland sea that once covered much of the region millions of years ago.
A must-stop along the route is Kronosaurus Korner in Richmond. Inside you’ll find real fossils, massive marine reptile skeletons, and interactive displays that showcase prehistoric life discovered throughout Outback Queensland. We also recommend stopping in Hughenden at the Visitor Information Centre and Flinders Discovery Centre, where you can learn more about the Dinosaur Trail and the fossil history of the area before continuing west.
You’ll find small cafés, bakeries, and takeaway options in towns like Hughenden and Richmond, but services can be limited along this route, so we highly recommend stocking up on fuel, water, snacks, and groceries in Charters Towers before heading further into the outback.
4. Cloncurry – Outback History & Red Dirt Landscapes
Located around 770km west of Charters Towers (approximately an 8-hour drive) Cloncurry is a classic Outback Queensland town surrounded by rugged red dirt landscapes, rich mining history, and huge open skies. It’s also known as the birthplace of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, making it an important stop both historically and practically along this route. We loved this town its has a relaxed outback feel but there is tons to do and explore!
Where to stay: Discovery Parks Cloncurry
Best Things to Do
• Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum
One of the standout attractions in Cloncurry. The museum tells the story of how the RFDS began and how vital it still is for remote communities across Australia. It’s incredibly interesting seeing how healthcare operates across such isolated regions.
• Mary Kathleen Historic Site
Located just outside town, Mary Kathleen is an abandoned uranium mining town slowly being reclaimed by the landscape. Back in the 1950’s the The bright blue water against the rocky surroundings makes it one of the most unique photo spots in the region.
• Cloncurry Lookout
Head up to the lookout for panoramic views across the town and surrounding red dirt plains, especially beautiful around sunset.
• Chinaman Creek Dam & Picnic Areas
A peaceful local spot to relax, have lunch, or simply take a break from driving.
• Public Art & Murals
Keep an eye out for murals and public art installations throughout town that reflect the region’s culture and history.
Food & Dining
One of the biggest surprises in Cloncurry was the local pub; highly recommend, genuinely fantastic pub meals and proper outback atmosphere. You’ll also find a few casual cafés and takeaway options around town.
5. Mount Isa – Mining City & Underground History
Mount Isa is one of the largest outback cities in Australia, built around one of the country’s biggest mining operations. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and red dirt scenery, it offers a mix of history, mining culture, and classic outback sunsets.
Where to stay: Sunset Tourist Park(highly recommended) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We loved our stay here! Kylie, the owner, is fantastic and overall such a welcoming atmosphere throughout the park. The sites are spacious, there’s a magnesium pool, herb garden, and even a chicken coop with fresh eggs daily. It’s also one of the most dog-friendly stays we’ve come across, with doggy daycare available if you’re heading out for the day. Plus, it’s conveniently located close to town, making it easy to access local attractions and tours.
Mount Isa is one of the largest outback cities in Australia, built around one of the country’s biggest mining operations. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and red dirt scenery, it offers a mix of history, mining culture, and classic outback sunsets.
Best Things to Do
• Underground Hospital Tour – Originally built during WWII to protect locals from potential air raids, this fascinating underground site gives a unique insight into Mount Isa’s wartime history.
• Underground Mine Tour – One of the best ways to experience Mount Isa’s mining heritage, taking you underground to learn what life is like working in the mines.
• Mary Kathleen Tours – Guided tours to the abandoned uranium mining town of Mary Kathleen are available and offer a unique look into the region’s history and landscape.
• Granite Boulders Lookout – A stunning lookout area surrounded by huge granite rock formations and panoramic views over the outback. 4WD access only.
• Sunset Lookouts – Mount Isa is known for its incredible sunsets, with panoramic views across the mines and surrounding landscape.
👉 Tours to Mary Kathleen, the underground mine, and the underground hospital can all be booked online below or directly through Sunset Tourist Park.
Food & Dining
Compared to smaller outback towns, Mount Isa has plenty of food options including pubs, cafés, takeaway shops, and supermarkets — making it a great stop to restock supplies and enjoy a proper meal before continuing the drive.
Helpful Links 🔗
6. Winton – Dinosaur Capital of Australia
Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Winton, Queensland
Winton is one of the most iconic towns in Outback Queensland, known for its rich dinosaur history, red dirt landscapes, and deep connection to Australian culture. IIt was an absoluate highlight aking it one of the highlights of this entire road trip. Surrounded by wide open plains and dramatic outback scenery, Winton perfectly captures the classic Australian outback atmosphere.
Where to stay: Winton Wanderers (from around $40 per night for a powered site) ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
A great outback stay just outside town, offering private and spacious sites with incredible views across the surrounding landscape. Some of the best sunsets we experienced on the trip.
Best Things to Do
Winton Sign, Winton, Queensland
• Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum
One of the best dinosaur experiences in Australia and an absolute must-visit while in Winton! An absoluate highlight for us. About 30 mins out of Winton but the museum is home to real dinosaur fossils discovered in the region, interactive exhibits, and guided tours through the laboratory and collection rooms. The flat top location also offers incredible views over the surrounding landscape.
• Waltzing Matilda Centre
Learn the story behind Australia’s unofficial national anthem and the history of Banjo Paterson’s famous song, which was first performed in Winton.
• Winton Sign & Town Walks
The iconic Winton sign is a must for photos, and the town itself is great to explore on foot with historic buildings, murals, and classic outback streets.
• Sunset Drives
The red dirt landscapes surrounding Winton are especially beautiful at golden hour, making sunset drives one of the best ways to experience the area.
Food & Dining
Winton has a great mix of cafés, bakeries, and traditional outback pubs serving hearty meals perfect after long road trip days. It’s also a good stop to restock supplies before continuing further through Outback Queensland.
Helpful Links 🔗
Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tours
7. Longreach – Aviation & Stockman History
Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach
Located around 180km from Winton (approximately a 2-hour drive), Longreach is one of the most iconic towns in Outback Queensland and an essential stop along this route. Known for its deep connection to aviation, cattle stations, and pioneering history, the town offers a mix of major attractions, relaxed river experiences, and classic outback hospitality.
Where to stay: Outback Pioneers
Outback Pioneers offers a unique outback stay experience right in Longreach, with accommodation options ranging from camping and cabins to restored heritage-style stays. It’s also one of the best places to book tours and experiences throughout the region, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
Best Things to Do
• Qantas Founders Museum – Learn about the beginnings of Australian aviation through historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and guided tours.
• Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame – Discover the stories of stockmen, cattle stations, and the people who shaped rural Australia.
• Thomson River Sunset Cruises – One of the best ways to experience Longreach, especially at golden hour with classic outback scenery.
• Explore the Town Centre – Wander through the wide streets, heritage buildings, local shops, and relaxed outback atmosphere.
Food & Dining
Longreach has plenty of cafés, bakeries, and classic outback pubs throughout town, making it a great place to stop, restock supplies, and enjoy a proper meal after long driving days. We especially loved grabbing coffee and breakfast from Kynda Cafe, while Merino Bakery is perfect for pies, pastries, and easy road trip snacks before hitting the road again.
8. Charleville – Bilbies & Dark Skies
Cosmos Centre, Charleville
The Cosmos Centre is one of Australia's leading astronomy attractions. Thanks to the region's incredibly dark skies and minimal light pollution, it's the perfect place to experience the wonders of the night sky. You can explore the universe through guided stargazing sessions, telescopes, immersive planetarium shows, and interactive exhibits. It's a unique Outback experience that offers a whole new perspective on the vast landscapes above!
Located around 515km from Longreach (approximately a 6-hour drive), Charleville is a relaxed outback town known for its wildlife conservation, wartime history, and incredibly clear night skies. It’s a great place to slow down for a couple of nights and experience a different side of Outback Queensland.
Where to stay: Outback Pioneers
Outback Pioneers offers a unique outback stay experience right in Longreach, with accommodation options ranging from camping and cabins to restored heritage-style stays. It’s also one of the best places to book tours and experiences throughout the region, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
Best Things to Do
• Bilby Experience (night tour) – One of the biggest highlights in Charleville. The tour gives you the chance to see endangered bilbies up close while learning about the important conservation work helping protect the species.
• WWII History Sites – Charleville played an important role during World War II, and there are several historic sites and displays throughout town sharing this history.
• Charleville Cosmos Centre & Stargazing – Charleville is famous for its dark skies and minimal light pollution, making it one of the best places in Queensland for stargazing and astronomy experiences.
• Explore the Town Centre – Wander through the historic streets, local shops, murals, and classic outback buildings around town.
Food & Dining
Charleville has a mix of simple cafés, bakeries, pubs, and takeaway spots throughout town — perfect for travellers looking for an easy meal and a relaxed outback atmosphere after long driving days.
9. Cunnamulla – Hot Springs & River Country
Cunnamulla Hot Springs, Cunnamulla, QLD
Located around 200km from Charleville (approximately a 2-hour drive), Cunnamulla is a quiet outback town sitting along the Warrego River and one of the best places on this route to properly slow down and unwind. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, natural hot springs, and classic country charm, Cunnamulla feels much slower paced than some of the larger outback towns along the journey.
Where to stay: Cunnamulla Tourist Park
Cunnamulla Tourist Park is a great base for exploring the area, located within walking distance to town while still feeling peaceful and relaxed. The park regularly hosts bush poets around the open fire pit, which gives the stay a really authentic outback atmosphere and makes it easy to meet other travellers on the road.
Best Things to Do
• Cunnamulla Hot Springs – An absoluate highlight of the town and the perfect way to relax after long driving days! A range of mineral-rich geothermal pools, spas, saunas and cold plunges, as well as a zen lounge for after your soak. It’s especially nice in the cooler outback months, I couldnt recommend this enough! $40 pp entry.
• Warrego River Walks – Peaceful walking areas along the river with plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the quiet surroundings.
• Cunnamulla Fella Centre – Learn about the region’s history, culture, and the famous “Cunnamulla Fella” song.
• Outback Art & Sculptures – Explore murals, sculptures, and local artwork throughout town showcasing outback life and history.
Food & Dining
One of our favourite food stops in Cunnamulla was the 4 x Gold Pub — and trust us, get there early. They only make around 20 meals each night from 6:30pm, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. The food feels genuinely homemade and completely different from your typical pub meals, with incredible pastries and a real local atmosphere that made it one of the most memorable dining stops of the trip.
10. St George – Rivers, Wine & Relaxation
Located around 260km from Cunnamulla (approximately a 3-hour drive), St George is the perfect final stop on this Outback Queensland road trip. This small country town sits along the Balonne River and feels noticeably greener and more relaxed compared to the rugged outback landscapes further north. After long driving days, St George is the kind of place where you naturally slow down and enjoy the quieter pace of regional Queensland.
Where to stay: Pelican Rest Tourist Park
Pelican Rest Tourist Park is a peaceful and comfortable base close to town and the river, making it easy to explore the area while still enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
Best Things to Do
• Balonne River – The heart of St George, perfect for riverside walks, fishing, kayaking, and sunset views over the water.
• Riversands Winery – One of the region’s most well-known stops, offering wine tastings and local produce in a peaceful country setting.
• Jack Taylor Weir & Dam Area – A great spot to relax, enjoy the scenery, and experience the calmer side of outback Queensland.
• Explore the Town Centre – Wander through the small town’s cafés, local shops, and relaxed country streets.
Food & Dining
St George has a mix of cafés, bakeries, pubs, and relaxed picnic spots along the river. It’s the perfect place to slow down, enjoy a good meal, and soak in one final outback sunset before finishing the journey.
From the red dirt of Outback Queensland to the wide - open landscapes of western New South Wales, this next stretch of the trip showcases a completely different side of Australia.
Next up, we're heading into South Australia to explore the Flinders Ranges before continuing on towards Adelaide!
Hannah & Sam
Australia Travel Creators & Jayco RV Correspondents
Hi, we’re Hannah & Sam! Australian travel content creators and bloggers sharing road trips, destination guides, and real travel experiences across Australia.
As Jayco RV Correspondents, we travel full-time, exploring life on the road and documenting detailed itineraries, hidden gems, and practical tips through our social channels & blog to help you plan your own adventure!
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