Camping near Roma

More than five hours’ drive from Brisbane, Roma is one of the last major towns enroute to Queensland’s vast outback region. Get a taste of laidback life as you explore historic sites, go birdwatching, or sample local wines. A visit to the Roma Saleyards, Australia’s largest cattle-selling center, is an unmissable experience—head there on a Tuesday to watch the sales taking place. Roma is also a popular stop-over for road-trippers driving the Great Inland Way, so campers have several choices.

Carnarvon Range

The craggy peaks of the Carnarvon Range loom on the horizon north of Roma, and the region’s star attraction is the Carnarvon National Park. Hike beneath soaring sandstone cliffs, admire spectacular views over Carnarvon Gorge, and discover ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. The main camping areas are at Carnarvon Gorge and Big Bend, but there are also backcountry campsites for hikers along the Carnarvon Great Walk.  

Barakula

East of Roma, lush pine forests blanket the slopes of the Great Dividing Range. Hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride along the wooded trails of the Barakula State Forest, and look out for wildlife along the way—this is a bird-watching hotspot, with sightings including Glossy black cockatoos and turquoise parrots. Campers can pitch their tent or park their camper trailer along the banks of Dogwood Creek.

Great Inland Way 

One of Australia’s less-known road trip routes, the Great Inland Way runs from Sydney through outback Queensland and up to the Coral Coast. Driving the 1,863-kilometer route takes at least nine days, but the 3-4-day trip from Roma to Clermont is a scenic slice of outback Australia. Pass red desert plains and tiny rural towns, stopping at attractions such as Carnarvon Gorge, the Emerald Gem Fields, and Hoods Lagoon. 

Summers (November through March) in the Australian outback can be sweltering—expect daytime temperatures to reach 35°C or more. If you’re visiting at this time, plan activities in the early morning or evening, and stay out of the midday sun as much as possible. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 20°C during the day, but it can get chilly at night, so tent campers will still need to wrap up warm. 

• While Roma is small enough to explore on foot, you’ll need your own transport to get around this rural region.

• Roma is the region’s largest town, so stock up on camping supplies, groceries, and fuel before heading out into the outback. 
• Fire bans are common in Queensland during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting a campfire.