In the heart of The Gemfields of Central Queensland lies the quiet little town of Sapphire. As the name would suggest, this is a place filled with sapphires… if you know where to look!
If you’re planning a fossicking trip into The Gemfields, Sapphire Reserve is the only Free Camping area for both Sapphire and Rubyvale.
Travellers are welcome to unhitch, set up camp and explore the area with the convenience of two days of free camping. Flushing toilets, a dump point and drinking water are available next to the campground.
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Sapphire Reserve Free Camping
Camp Features
💲 FREE
⏰ 48-hour limit
⛺️ Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, RVs
🐶 Dogs allowed
🚻 Flushing Toilets
💧 Drinking Water
🗑 Bins
⬇️ Dump Point
⚡️ Generators allowed
🔥 Camp Fires allowed
📶 Telstra Reception
🚗 2WD Access
🚌 Big Rig Friendly
❌ NO: showers or power
Camp Location
| SAPPHIRE RESERVE FREE CAMP | |
|---|---|
| Address | 925 Anakie Sapphire Road, The Gemfields QLD 4702 (next to the local swimming pool) |
Things to do in The Gemfields
The main attraction for visiting The Gemfields is ofcourse sapphire fossicking.
I’ve got to tell you, when we pulled into town, we were overwhelmed with signs and information but had no clue as to how we meant to fossick. Did we need a licence? Should we purchase equipment? Where do you even begin!
After spending 6 weeks in Sapphire and Rubyvale we got it down pat pretty quickly. Read our Guide to Fossicking for Sapphires in The Gemfields for the full rundown.
As you would expect to find in a town rich with gemstones, there are loads of mines around. The most popular one to do a tour in would be the Miners Heritage – Australia’s Largest Underground Sapphire Mine.
While you’re in the area, take a climb to the peak of an ancient Volcanic Basalt Plug. Policeman’s Knob got its name from years gone by when the cops used to scout criminals from the top of the hill, as it’s the best lookout in the area. If you can catch a sunset up there, you’re in for a treat!
Another quirky attraction unique to The Gemfields is the Thong Tree. Yep, it’s a tree covered in pluggers – you can’t get more Aussie than that. You won’t find this on very many maps as it’s hidden in the depths of the Rubyvale Mining Claims, which are also worth taking a look at.
For the complete list of things to do while visiting Sapphire and Rubyvale, click on the article below.
FREE CAMPING ESSENTIALS
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