Waterside camping near Goondiwindi with campfires
This lively border town is the meeting point of Queensland and New South Wales.
- Goondiwindi
Popular camping styles for Goondiwindi
Waterside camping near Goondiwindi with campfires guide
Overview
Perched on the border of Queensland and New South Wales, Goondiwindi makes a popular stopover for campers and roadtrippers exploring the region. Head down to the Macintyre River to fish, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, then take in the views from the Border Bridge between the two states. Bushwalks along the riverside and around the Botanic Gardens provide ample opportunities for bird-watching—look out for spotted bowerbirds, grey-crowned babblers, and plum-headed finches. After browsing the shops and cafés along Marshall and Herbert Streets, discover Goondiwindi’s agricultural heritage with a visit to a cotton farm or sheep station.
Where to go
Coolmunda
State forests, lakes, and national parks stretch northeast of Goondiwindi on the Queensland side. Hike or mountain bike along the tree-lined trails of Whetstone or Bringalily forests, then check into a camping ground on the shores of Lake Coolmunda. Bushwalks and bird-watching are the most popular activities around the lake, while summer campers can enjoy water sports and boat cruises.
Texas and around
East of Goondiwindi, the country town of Texas serves up a slice of rural Aussie culture—visit for the legendary Texas Races in December for the full experience. Camp by the lakeside at nearby Glenlyon Dam, dive into the region’s history at the Tobacco Museum and Texas Rabbit Works, or enjoy bush camping at Goat Rock. Or, escape over the border into NSW and explore Dthinna Dthinnawan National Park by mountain bike or 4WD.
Northwest NSW
Across the border in NSW, the mosaic farmlands of Goondiwindi give way to the creeks, floodplains, and lagoons of the Gwydir Valley. Paddle around the wetlands in a canoe or kayak, enjoy bird-watching around the waterways, or camp out by the waterside. The region’s main town is Moree, known for its natural mineral-rich thermal springs—ideal for recuperating after a day of exploring.
When to go
Goondiwindi’s mild weather makes it a year-round destination for campers, but bird-watching is best in spring (September through November). Wildflowers dot the surrounding countryside at this time, and the town’s jacaranda trees burst into bloom from October—the vibrant purple flowers make for some beautiful photos.
Know before you go
- Goondiwindi has bus links to nearby towns, but having your own transport is useful for exploring the wetlands and forests.
- Goondiwindi has a good selection of shops where you can pick up camping gear and stock up on supplies.
- Fire bans are common in Queensland during summer and dry periods, so check local recommendations before lighting a fire or always use designated fire pits.
