Blackwater Attractions
Blackwater is a town surrounded by a natural museum of attractions and embedded with mineral wealth. Blackwater is reknowned as ‘The Coal Capital’, which makes it the perfect home to the iconic Australian Coal Mining Museum located right inside the Blackwater International Coal Centre.
Take some time out to visit the museum, and you can see how coal deposits were formed millions of years ago and learn the method of coal mining. Or why not experience the ultimate awe of a coal mine tour, where you can see amazing open cut pits, mammoth mining equipment and learn about coal mining from an expert!
If it’s natural beauty you seek, then look no further. The spectacular Blackdown Tableland National Park is located 55kms from the township, this is a must-see attraction whilst you’re visiting! The park protects a sandstone plateau rising abruptly above Central Queensland’s flat plains. Bordered by high rugged cliffs, this is the traditional home of the Ghungalu people. Aboriginal rock art across the park reminds us of their connection with this country. Dissected by deep gorges, the park offers spectacular lookouts and scenic waterfalls. The Tablelands is definitely worth a day visit or stay a little longer and set up camp at the peaceful Munall Campgrounds – visit Dept. National Parks for camping information.
Love a great sunset or a spot of fishing? The Bedford Weir (part of the McKenzie River) is located 25 kilometres north of town. Stocked with Barramundi, Saratoga and Red Claw it is a fishing enthusiasts mecca. A free 7 night camping area is available with toilets and hot shower facilities, dumping point, boat ramp, kids playground, park and BBQ facilities. Don’t miss the Saratoga fishing competition held each year in Spring – visit Mackenzie River Fish Stocking Assoc for more information.
Blackwater boasts a picturesque Japanese Garden that marks the relationship between Blackwater and its sister city Fujisawa, Japan. Entrance to the gardens are accessible through the Blackwater International Coal Centre, feel free to bring a rug and picnic basket whilst you enjoy the surrounds.
The Lions Park is well known for one of the largest displays of flags in the world, each flag being a representative of one of the 37 nationalities who laboured together in their efforts to establish the district’s coal industry. Situated on the corner of McKenzie Street and the Capricorn Highway.
We currently, as of January 2024, have a new garden being installed next door to us, courtesy of the CHRC. Called Ghungalu Nunee it will boast a walking track with a self guided “Walking with the Elders” audio tour surrounded by plants native to the area. Check out the council website for more information on this exciting attraction.
If you are caravaning through the Central Highlands and are planning on staying in Blackwater for a day or two, we have several camping options. The Bedford Weir, Blackdown Tablelands offer great camping sites, please check details on pricing and booking directly. Need to stay somewhere else? Comet, Bluff and Duaringa all have camping sites and free camping areas with toilets and shower available.
Blackwater is only a 50 minute drive from Emerald, home of the Fairbairn Dam and gateway to the Sapphire Gemfields. For more information on traveling through the Central Highlands we highly recommend visiting the Dig the Tropics website.