Theodore, Queensland
Theodore, QLD: The Town That Puts the “Oar” in “Explore” (But Has Nothing to Do With Boats)
Nestled somewhere between “Where Am I?” and “Why Didn’t We Come Here Sooner?” lies Theodore, Queensland — a charming country town that punches way above its weight in good vibes, budget camping, and small-town friendliness.
If you’re road-tripping through the Banana Shire (yes, it’s a real place, no bananas were harmed in the making of this town), then Theodore is the perfect pitstop to rest, recharge, and re-evaluate why you ever thought you needed to pay $60 a night to camp near a city.
Stay in Style (Or Just With Hot Showers): Theodore Recreation Reserve and Showground
Move over five-star hotels, because Theodore Recreation Reserve and Showground has everything you actually need:
• 💡 Power
• 🚿 Hot showers
• 🚰 Water
• 🧺 Laundry
• 💩 Dump point
• 🐶 Dog friendly (bring the fluff!)
• 💵 All for just $25 per night or a budget-loving $125 per week
Want to rough it slightly and prove to your friends you’re “totally off-grid” (but still want a hot shower)? Go unpowered for just $20 per night or $100 a week. That’s less than you spend on snacks at a servo.
Not to mention, you’re camping on flat grassy grounds with plenty of space to park your caravan, stretch out your solar panels, or chase your dog in a socially acceptable way.
Feeling Wild and Free? Try Junction Park – The Free Ranger’s Paradise
If you’re more of a “free camp or bust” kind of traveller, Junction Park is your holy grail. Nestled along the Dawson River (bring the mozzie spray), this gem is 100% free, with a 7-day stay limit, which is honestly just enough time to emotionally bond with a bush turkey.
Facilities include:
• 🚿 Showers
• 🚽 Toilets
• 🗑️ Rubbish bins
• 🔌 Electric BBQs
• 🐾 Pets allowed (again, the dog wins)
This place is perfect if you enjoy fishing, walking, or standing around with a mug of instant coffee while making thoughtful comments about the sunrise.
Town Perks: Supplies, Pub, Petrol, and People Who Know Everyone’s Name
You won’t starve or go thirsty in Theodore. The IGA has your essentials (and a really cool rack of weird snacks you’ll buy on impulse). The Theodore Hotel – or just “the pub,” as it’s affectionately known – is where locals and travellers unite over a cold one and stories that may or may not be true.
There’s also:
• ⛽ A petrol station (you’ll need it after all the exploring)
• ☕ A café, because even adventurers need a latte sometimes
If you stay more than a day, expect at least three people to say “G’day” like they’ve known you for 20 years. It’s that kind of place.
Final Verdict: Why Aren’t You in Theodore Yet?
Whether you’re a grey nomad, a vanlifer, or someone who just likes public toilets with flushing power, Theodore has what you need. It’s peaceful, it’s pretty, and it doesn’t charge city prices for the privilege of existing.
So pull in, plug in, pat a dog, and park yourself in Theodore. You might come for the cheap camping—but you’ll stay for the warm showers and the even warmer welcomes.
Ciao for now!
