Things To Do
in Bedourie
Bedourie is a tiny outback town in Queensland's Diamantina region, famed as a gateway to vast desert landscapes. Nestled along the Bedourie Creek and near Lake Bedourie, it offers stark red deserts, clear skies, and wide-open horizons. The town centers on the Bedourie Hotel and a handful of roadhouses that serve as social hubs for locals and travelers.
It's a destination for travelers seeking solitude, stargazing, and authentic outback hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bedourie and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the small town to familiarize yourself with the local sights and sounds. Enjoy breakfast at a quaint café, sampling some home-cooked Aussie delights.
Visit the Bedourie Natural Hot Springs, a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate in the natural mineral waters. Take the time to explore the local history at the Bedourie History Museum, which showcases fascinating artifacts and stories from the region. Grab a light lunch at a local eatery, enjoying the friendly ambiance of this outback town.
Wrap up your first day with a visit to the iconic Bedourie Hotel for dinner, where you can enjoy some hearty Australian cuisine. Spend the evening mingling with locals and travelers, sharing stories and experiences. As night falls, watch the stunning outback sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Start your day with a guided tour of the Bedourie wetlands, a unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Bring your binoculars to spot various bird species and perhaps even a kangaroo or two. After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic breakfast in the refreshing surroundings.
Head to the nearby Simpson Desert for an exhilarating 4WD adventure, exploring the stunning sandy dunes and unique desert landscapes. Witness extraordinary wildlife and learn about the flora of the area from your guide. Stop for lunch in the desert, surrounded by picturesque scenery.
Return to Bedourie and enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant, savoring some regional dishes. Spend your evening at the town's community center, where you might find fun local events or workshops happening. Unwind under the stars, with the vast outback sky providing a breathtaking backdrop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🛏️Lodging per night (budget/roadhouse) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚗Local transport (if available) | $2-6 |
| ⛽Gasoline per liter | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Remote and peaceful with wide-open spaces
- Strong outback hospitality and simple, authentic experiences
- Affordable lodging and meals
- Very limited services and dining options in peak times
- Long travel distances between amenities
- Extreme heat in summer and occasional road closures during the wet season
Places to Visit in Bedourie
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water and soft morning light create mirror-like reflections of the outback sky.
Shallow waters and reed beds provide birdlife and interesting silhouettes at golden hour.
Vast red dunes and open sky offer dramatic wide-angle compositions.
Historic architecture with warm light and people-era scenes.
Food in Bedourie
Bedourie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A light, fluffy bread traditionally baked over a campfire, best enjoyed fresh.
Must-Try!
Grilled or pan-seared meat options commonly found at roadhouses and pubs.
Bush-tucker-inspired skewers offered as seasonal specials.
Local native fruits and flavors used in simple salads.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A practical stop for snacks, hot meals, and local produce when markets aren’t in session.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect traditional custodians and acknowledge land when visiting; ask permission before entering private land or engaging in activities on Indigenous country.
Outback communities value considerate noise levels, especially after dark in quiet rural areas.
If you’re on pastoral land, close gates behind you to prevent livestock from escaping.
Safety
Tipping in Bedourie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is optional in Australia; you may leave a small gratuity at pubs/hotels for good service.
Cash and EFTPOS/credit cards are widely accepted; some remote venues may have limited card processing; carry some cash for small roadhouse purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days (often above 35°C/95°F) with high UV; carry water, wear sun protection, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder days with cooler nights; great for outdoor exploration; nights can be cold, sometimes near freezing.
Occasional heavy rains and storms can affect travel; rivers and some roads may close; pack rain gear and be prepared for slower travel.
Bedourie at Night
Hiking in Bedourie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Seasonal trails through arid landscapes and river ecosystems in the Diamantina region; check park updates.
Short walks along desert ridges offering expansive views of red dunes and the horizon.
Airports
How to reach Bedourie by plane.
Public airport serving light aircraft; typically a short drive from town and subject to weather and maintenance schedules.
Regional airport offering charters and limited services; gateway to outback routes.
Major regional hub with broader connections to Brisbane and beyond; serves as a backup for medical and longer-distance travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A tight-knit population with ranching, farming, and service roles; largely self-reliant and welcoming to travelers.
Traditional owners and community members participate in local events and land stewardship; cultural knowledge is present in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Occasional local matches and social clubs; more common in larger towns but sometimes played in community events.
Traditional outback events with horses and cattle tasks in surrounding stations and regional events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bedourie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose salads and vegetable sides; inform staff of dietary needs; many roadhouses can prepare simple vegetarian options.