Leyburn, Queensland
The Little Town with Big Surprises (and Talking Showers?! Yes, really.)
Just 195km south-west of Brisbane and 66km from Toowoomba, you’ll find the charming little town of Leyburn (pronounced “Lee-burn”, not “Lay-burn”—unless you want the locals to look at you like you just licked a lamington). And let us tell you—what an absolute gem of a place!
Now, let’s talk camping: Leyburn Sports Ground is where the magic happens. This free camp area isn’t just generous on space, it comes with a few unexpected delights—namely, two automated talking showers. Yes, the showers talk. No, they won’t offer you life advice or comment on your shampoo brand, but they will instruct you through the process like a polite robot concierge. You haven’t lived until a shower has welcomed you like an airline pilot.
Also on-site:
• A toilets (the regular non-talking kind)
• A dump point (because you and your grey tank are not animals)
• Easy, flat access right off the bitumen—perfect for low-clearance motorhomes or those of us who avoid anything with the word “incline”
• Pet-friendly vibes—your dog is not only welcome but also allowed to chill in the beer garden of the local pub. Because what’s better than a cold one with your best mate who may or may not try to steal your wood-fired pizza?
The campground is huge—we’re talking enough room to swing a cat (not that we’d recommend it), stretch out, and avoid awkwardly close camp neighbours who insist on chatting before you’ve had coffee. And the internet reception is solid, so you can still watch Netflix while pretending to “connect with nature.”
You’re allowed to stay up to 72 hours, which gives you the perfect amount of time to explore, unwind, and reconsider your life as a city dweller.
Now, what’s there to do in Leyburn?
Glad you asked! Strap on your walking boots (or just hop in the car because we don’t judge) and check out the Leyburn Heritage Trail. It’s a 10km self-guided stroll through historic sites, charming old buildings, WWII airfields, and classic Aussie pioneering spots. Expect to say, “Wow, I didn’t know that,” at least three times—or pretend you did to impress your travel buddy.
But wait—motorsport fans, hold onto your helmets! Every August, Leyburn becomes a roaring hub of action during the Leyburn Sprints—a weekend where thousands descend on this sleepy town to celebrate Australia’s very first Grand Prix (yes, the actual first one!). It’s a loud, fun, petrol-scented party full of vintage race cars, fast engines, and fast food. Basically, it’s Bathurst meets small-town charm. Unmissable.
We had a blast in Leyburn—and we didn’t even scratch the surface. Which means, yes… we’ll be back. Maybe the talking showers will even remember us.
Ciao for now, Leyburn legends!
