Unforgettable Things to Do in Charleville, Outback QLD
If you’re heading west through Outback Queensland, there’s one town that absolutely deserves a spot on your must-visit list: Charleville. Located in the heart of Queensland’s Mulga Country, Charleville is a small town with a big personality – full of outback charm, fascinating history, and star-filled skies that will leave you absolutely awestruck.
Whether you’re into wildlife conservation, history, or simply soaking up some country hospitality, Charleville is the kind of place that sneaks into your heart and stays there.
Where is Charleville?
Charleville is about 750km west of Brisbane, sitting along the Warrego Highway. It’s often considered the unofficial capital of Outback Queensland, and once you’re there, you’ll see why. Think wide open spaces, endless skies, and that classic Aussie outback vibe where everyone still gives you a wave.
This town of just over 3,000 people is an important hub for graziers, travellers, and grey nomads alike. It’s also a great base for exploring the wider region of the Murweh Shire, whether you’re travelling with a caravan, camper, or good ol’ fashioned tent.
Top Things To Do in Charleville
Charleville Cosmos Centre
If you only do one thing in Charleville, make it this.
The Charleville Cosmos Centre is out-of-this-world (literally). It’s an astronomical observatory that brings the night sky to life. And with zero light pollution out here, the view is next level.
By day, you can check out interactive exhibits, meteorites, and learn about life in space. But come nighttime, you’ll be looking through powerful telescopes at planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies.
Hot Tip: Book in advance for any of the Night Observatory experiences. They’re popular, and for good reason!
Save the Bilby Experience
Australia’s cutest endangered marsupial calls Charleville home, and this is your chance to meet one in person.
The Save the Bilby Experience is part of a national conservation effort, and this immersive tour is both heart-warming and eye-opening. You’ll learn about the bilby’s fight for survival, the breeding program, and the passionate team behind the project.
Fun fact: The bilby is affectionately known as the ‘Easter Bunny of the Bush’!
The endangered Greater Bilby
WWII Secret Base Tour
This one is for the history buffs, and even if you’re not, trust us, it’s fascinating.
During World War II, Charleville was home to a top-secret American Air Base, used by the United States Army Air Forces. More than 3,500 US personnel were stationed here, and the town played a critical role in the war effort, all hidden in plain sight.
Book in for the tag along tour to explore 6 unique sites and get up close and personal with one of the most classified pieces of military equipment from WWII.
Where We Stayed
If you’re travelling with a caravan or camper, we highly recommend the Charleville Bush Caravan Park. This place ticks all the boxes – spacious sites, modern amenities, great hosts, and the kind of peaceful bush setting that makes you instantly feel relaxed.
Each evening, the campfire gets lit and travellers come together to swap stories under the stars. It’s a great vibe.
Extra Tips Before You Go
– Best time to visit: April to October (the cooler months are ideal for exploring and stargazing!)
– Support local: Grab a coffee in town, fuel up your vehicle, stock up at the IGA, and book direct with local tours – it all helps keep these amazing small towns thriving.
Charleville is the kind of place that surprises you – it’s more than just a stop on the map. It’s a town of big skies, red dirt, passionate people, and experiences you just won’t find anywhere else. It’s a destination that’ll leave you feeling a little more connected to Australia’s outback story.
Check out our top picks for more awesome Queensland destinations and experiences!
