Wandoan, Queensland
Wandoan: Small Town, Big Surprises
We rolled into Wandoan, Qld, expecting a quick stopover and instead ended up with six nights, two camps, and a list of adventures longer than our grey water hose.
Camp 1: Juandah Heritage Site
First stop was the Juandah Heritage Site, where we stayed two nights for $15 a night with power and water. Bargain! The bonus was camping right among the history — old buildings, relics, and a sense that if our motorhome broke down, we could probably rebuild it using parts from the heritage machinery lying around.
Camp 2: Waterloo Plain Environmental Park
Then we moved to Waterloo Plain Environmental Park for four nights. A free camp with toilets and a hot shower — you know you’ve been travelling in rural Australia too long when free hot water feels like striking gold. There’s a lovely lagoon with a walking track around it – perfect for watching the birdlife.
Day Trips and Wandering About
From Wandoan we ventured further afield:
• Downfall Creek – so small, it’s not even on the map!
• Taroom – We visited the famous Leichhardt Tree, a big old survivor from explorer days. We gave it a pat for lasting longer than most of our camping chairs.
• Guluguba – A tiny town with a name that’s more fun to say than it has streets.
Back in Wandoan we walked along the Soldier Settlers Avenue, a moving tribute to those who worked the land after returning from war. At night, the Silo Light Show lit up the giant grain silos with stories and colours, reminding us that even small towns know how to put on a big spectacle.
Final Thoughts
Wandoan might look small on the map, but between the heritage, the parks, and the light show, it packs a lot into the visit. Two camps, six nights, and plenty of exploring later, we left feeling like we’d discovered one of Queensland’s best-kept little secrets.
Ciao for now!
