This excellent
free camp is where the old Bruce Highway crosses the
Calliope River via a low level
bridge. The area was bypassed by the highway many years ago but is maintained by the local council as a
free camping area. No vehicle access over
bridge with camping available on both sides of the river.
Calliope River Picnic Area is located 26km west of
Gladstone and 100km south of
Rockhampton, beside the
Calliope River.The southern side can be accessed by turning off the Bruce Hwy on to the Old Bruce Hwy, River Ranch.The southern side has one large septic ablution block with flush
toilets.This side is better suited to campers in tents as you must be self contained on the north side (no
toilets).Maximum stay is 48 hours. The area is regularly patrolled and penalties apply for exceeding the maximum stay periodThere are no chemical
toilet waste disposal units at the
rest area. Chemical
toilets must be emptied at a designated
dump point, with the closest located at corner of Taragoola Rd and Dawson Hwy, Calliope.Dogs must be on a lead or tethered at all times.