Explore the great Outdoors

Walk, swim, fish or 4WD to experience our dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife and ancient heritage. Discover our favourite outdoor experiences.

Bulloo River Bliss

Nothing could be finer than an early morning or late afternoon stroll along the Bulloo River Walk.

Pause along the walk to read native plant interpretive signs or perhaps to rest beneath one of our magnificent Red River Gums. Keep an eye out for our feathered friends too. Perhaps spy a silvery grey Brolga performing its elaborate, wing flapping dance or marvel at a graceful Pelican gliding serenely along the watercourse.

If you’re more of a hunter-gatherer type, then this might be the perfect spot to catch a Yellowbelly (Golden Perch) or snare some delicious Yabbies (fresh-water Crayfish). Pick up your Yabbying Guide to Quilpie at the Visitor Information Centre with tips and tricks and some great local recipes.

Access via Bulloo River Walk car park, just 1km east from town.

Baldy Top To Table Top

Take yourself to higher ground with the choice of two favourite local lookouts.

Begin with a relatively easy 10 minute scramble to the summit of Baldy Top It’s pretty straight forward to pick which of the two red rocky formations is Baldy Top – very few trees on the summit. The curious might like to explore the many caves and crevasses of this impressive, ancient boulder formation. But, those seeking a more sensory experience might prefer to indulge with sunset nibbles and 360 degree view awesomeness. If you’d prefer to stay on the ground there is a new covered picnic area with BBQ facilities at the base – perfect spot for a picnic.

There’s no prize for guessing which formation is Table Top either, due to its flat, table-like summit. The vista from Table Top is no less splendid than Baldy Top, so the choice is yours.

Lake Houdraman Aka The Lake

Around a 10 minute drive north-east of Quilpie you’ll happen upon the lush natural oasis of Lake Houdraman. Now known as The Lake, this natural depression in the Bulloo River floodplain retains water even in drought years. Seasonally thousands of resplendent water lilies frame the edges of the lake like a Monet painting. It’s also a haven to masses of native birds. Swim, fish or simply revitalise in this beautiful expanse of water set amongst shady gum trees. The Lake is on private property and has a number of accommodation options should you wish to stay awhile and enjoy the serenity. Day visitors welcome.

Ask for a local bird brochure from the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre.

The Dowling Track

The Dowling Track is a 4WD adventure experience spanning some 567km from Bourke to Quilpie. Other towns along the track include Hungerford, Thargomindah and Toompine. Explore the Quilpie section of the famous Dowling Track, travelling in the footsteps of early pioneer Vincent James Dowling. This track is not for the novice and is suitable for 4WD/AWD vehicles only. You’ll need to make sure that your vehicle is fit for the trip, carry plenty of water and make sure somebody knows where you are.