Perched on the edge of the Simpson Desert, remote Birdsville is a popular stopover for intrepid travelers heading out along the Birdsville Track. While in town, join locals for breakfast at the Birdsville Bakery, head down to Birdsville Billabong to fish, kayak, or spot birds along the waterfront, then watch the sunset from the Big Red sand dune. Campers can check into the Birdsville caravan park, while 4WD enthusiasts can explore the rugged trails along the desert's edge. For an unforgettable experience, time your visit for the annual Birdsville Races or Birdsville Big Red Bash music festival.
Simpson Desert
West of Birdsville, the Birdsville Track leads the way into the Simpson Desert, where the Munga-Thirri National Park covers more than 17 million hectares. Set out to explore the vast dunes and desert wilderness in a 4WD, stop at desert lookout points miles from civilization, then camp out in the desert beneath the outback stars.
Innamincka
South of Birdsville, Innamincka is the gateway to the Coongie Lakes National Park. Enjoy bird-watching around the natural waterholes and wetlands, paddle around the lakes in a canoe, or camp by the lakeside. Back in Innamincka, there's more camping along Cooper Creek.
Diamantina Lakes
The bird-watching hotspot of Diamantina National Park lies north of Birdsville, along the Diamantina River. Look out for Australian bustard, straw-necked ibis, and inland Bourke's parrot as you drive the park's 4WD trails, canoe around the lakes, and take in the views from Janets Leap lookout. Pitch your tent at one of the two waterfront camping grounds and get up early for the best sightings.
The most pleasant time to visit Birdsville and the Simpson desert is April through September, when average daytime temperatures are around 20-25°C. The Munga-Thirri National Park is closed to visitors each summer (December through March), when temperatures climb above 45°C. The Birdsville Races in May and the Birdsville Big Red Bash in September draw huge crowds to the small town—book your camping spot months in advance if you plan to visit at this time.