Lark Quarry Conservation Park

In the heart of the Australian outback, Lark Quarry Conservation Park is home to the world's only known dinosaur stampede – a fossilised treasure that captures a moment of prehistoric panic. This remote park, about 110km south-west of Winton, Queensland, offers a window into the Cretaceous period, with thousands of three-toed dinosaur footprints preserved in stone. It's a must-visit for palaeontology enthusiasts and anyone seeking a truly unique outback experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Dinosaur Stampede National Monument: The main attraction – a tilted rock slab with over 3,300 fossilised footprints, believed to be from a herd of small theropods fleeing a larger predator. A covered walkway allows you to view the tracks up close.
• Interpretive Centre: Start here for exhibits on the site's discovery, the dinosaurs that made the tracks, and the science behind the stampede theory. Friendly rangers offer guided tours that bring the story to life.
• Sunset Viewing Platform: For a quieter experience, the platform overlooking the surrounding plains offers brilliant outback sunsets and a chance to spot kangaroos and emus.
• Fossil Preparation Lab: Occasionally open to visitors, where you can see real fossil preparation in action – ask at the centre.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least half a day (3–4 hours) to fully appreciate the site. The guided tour takes about 45 minutes, and you'll want time to explore the interpretive centre and walk the short trails. If you're driving from Winton or Longreach, factor in travel time – the last 20km is unsealed road, so allow 30 minutes for that stretch. Most visitors combine Lark Quarry with a morning or afternoon stop on a longer outback road trip.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Winton: The nearest town (about 1.5 hours drive), known for the Australian Age of Dinosaurs museum and the Waltzing Matilda Centre – a good base for a multi-day dinosaur trail.
• Longreach: A major outback hub (2 hours south-west), home to the Qantas Founders Museum and the Stockman's Hall of Fame – ideal for a broader outback itinerary.
• Opalton: A tiny opal-mining town (around 45 minutes north-west) where you can try your luck fossicking for opals – just be sure to get permission.
• Bladensburg National Park: About 2 hours north-west of Lark Quarry, this park offers rugged landscapes, wildlife, and the historic Bough Shed – a good addition for nature lovers.

Please check official sources for current details.