Dinosaur Stampede and Carisbrooke Station Full Day Tour

This experience made our article of The Top 5 Winton Queensland Tours.

Experience the Outback with the Dinosaur Stampede and Carisbrooke Station Full Day Tour

If you’re looking to combine a taste of Australia’s prehistoric past with the rugged beauty of the outback, this tour offers just that. For $116 per person, you get a full nine hours exploring Lark Quarry’s Dinosaur Stampede—home to 3,300 footprints made 95 million years ago—and visiting the private Carisbrooke Station, a working cattle ranch with spectacular views of the Cory Range.

What we really love about this tour is how it manages to blend scientific wonder with authentic outback life. The dinosaur footprints are a true highlight—an almost tangible link to a time when giant creatures roamed—and the panoramic vistas from the station and escarpment are breathtaking. Plus, the included lunch and morning tea add a nice touch of comfort to long day out.

One potential consideration is that the tour involves some walking at the Dinosaur Stampede site and on uneven terrain around the station. Also, because access to the station is on private property and not available for independent visits, this guided experience offers a rare chance to go behind the scenes.

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy history, geology, and outdoor landscapes, especially those eager for an authentic outback experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s perfect for curious souls wanting a mix of natural wonders and rural immersion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique dinosaur footprints: See 3,300 footprints made 95 million years ago, a true glimpse into prehistoric life.
• Private cattle station: Visit Carisbrooke Station to understand outback farming and see spectacular views of the Cory Range.
• Comprehensive experience: Includes guided tours, meals, and access to private property.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle transport and a well-planned itinerary.
• Authentic insights: Learn about the history of cattle farming and paleontology from knowledgeable guides.
• Suitable for: Those interested in dinosaurs, rural Australia, or outdoor scenic vistas, and willing to spend a full day exploring.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

The Dinosaur Footprints at Lark Quarry

Our journey begins with a visit to the Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry, an internationally renowned site preserving roughly 3,300 footprints. These footprints, made by dinosaurs approximately 95 million years ago, offer a rare window into the past. The footprints are believed to be a snapshot of a herd running through a muddy waterhole, leaving behind evidence of their movements and behaviors.

What makes this spot so special is the way natural processes buried and preserved these footprints, creating a frozen moment in deep time. Over millions of years, erosion exposed this layer of footprints, leading to discovery in the 1970s by paleontologists and volunteers like Malcolm Lark. Recognized as Australia’s first National Monument, the site is now protected within the Lark Quarry Conservation Park.

During the site tour, guides explain the environment of the time—forests, swamps, flood plains—and how the footprints came to be preserved. The site’s interpretive displays help you visualize these creatures in the landscape, turning a simple set of footprints into a vivid story of prehistoric life.

The Scenic Journey to Carisbrooke Station

After the dinosaur adventure, we hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to travel to Carisbrooke Station—a genuine working cattle station not open to independent visitors. The drive itself offers sweeping views of the outback—the expansive grazing lands, the rugged Cory Range escarpment, and iconic features like the Three Outback Sisters rock formations.

The station is a working farm, but your visit is carefully managed to ensure an authentic, respectful experience. Here, you’ll learn about ranching history and current practices from knowledgeable guides. It’s a chance to see how cattle are raised in the harsh but beautiful environment of Queensland’s outback.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Vistas and Landmarks at Carisbrooke

Once on the station, you’ll enjoy spectacular vistas across the valley, with sweeping views that are perfect for photography. The Cory Range escarpment provides a dramatic backdrop, and guides point out notable features like the Three Sisters, iconic rock formations that add a touch of natural artistry to the landscape.

The highlight is simply sitting back and soaking in the vastness of the outback. The sense of space and time here makes you appreciate Australia’s rugged beauty in a way that’s hard to beat. Guides often share stories about the station’s history, cattle operations, and the natural environment, giving you insight into life in the Outback.

Lunch and Inclusions

A well-organized tour means you’ll enjoy a lunch that caters to various tastes, providing a break from the long day of exploration. The morning tea also helps keep energy levels up. All logistics—transport, meals, and site entry—are included, making it straightforward and hassle-free.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The entire tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential given the outback’s climate. This not only keeps you comfortable but also allows for a relaxed journey between sites.

Group Size and Guides: Guided by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll get personalized insights and answers to your questions. While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours like these generally maintain a balance—small enough for a personal feel but large enough to be lively.

What to Bring: Be prepared with essentials such as a camera, reusable water bottle, closed-toe shoes, hat, and a jacket for cooler mornings or evenings. The terrain at the dinosaur site can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are a good idea.

Accessibility and Considerations: If you have dietary requirements, the tour organizer asks that you communicate them beforehand. Also, because access to Carisbrooke Station is on private land, this guided tour is your only chance to visit.

The Value and Who Will Love This Tour

At $116 for a full day—including site visits, meals, and expert guides—the tour offers excellent value for those interested in paleontology, Australian cattle stations, or scenic landscapes. It’s an immersive experience that combines education with stunning visuals, making it ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers eager for a genuine outback adventure.

Travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling and want more than just a quick glance at tourist sites will find this tour rewarding. The inclusion of both a fossil site and a working station provides a well-rounded understanding of Australia’s natural and cultural history.

The tour is also quite accessible for those comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor conditions, but it might be less suitable for visitors with mobility issues or those seeking a purely indoor experience.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour offers a rare combination of prehistoric discovery and authentic outback life. The dinosaur footprints at Lark Quarry are a true highlight, providing a tangible connection to a distant past that feels almost within reach. Meanwhile, visiting Carisbrooke Station allows you to witness how cattle ranching continues in one of Australia’s most rugged and scenic landscapes.

For travelers craving a mix of geology, history, and rural scenery, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s well-paced, with plenty of opportunities for photos, stories, and quiet moments gazing across the endless horizon. Whether you’re a dedicated dinosaur enthusiast or simply seeking a meaningful outback experience, you’ll find this trip offers both value and authenticity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable with outdoor activities and walking will enjoy the experience. The sites are fascinating for all ages, especially those interested in dinosaurs and natural landscapes.

How long is the travel time between sites?
The tour includes a scenic drive in a comfortable vehicle, with the total duration of the day being approximately 9 hours. The exact travel time depends on the group and conditions but is designed to be manageable within the full-day format.

Are there any physical requirements?
Some walking is involved at the Dinosaur Stampede site and around the station. Wearing closed-toe shoes and being prepared for uneven terrain will make the experience more comfortable.

What meals are included?
The tour provides morning tea and lunch. You should inform the organizer of any dietary restrictions in advance.

Can I join this tour if I am staying outside Winton?
Yes, but you must provide your pick-up and drop-off location when booking. The tour is based in Winton, and transportation arrangements depend on your location.

Is this tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the tour schedule, so check current dates before booking.

How many people are in a typical group?
While not specified, tours of this nature generally keep groups small enough for personal attention but large enough to foster a lively atmosphere.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Details about accessibility are not provided; it’s best to contact the tour provider directly if you have mobility concerns.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring a camera, water, sun protection, closed shoes, and a jacket if needed. Be prepared for outdoor conditions and uneven terrain.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others in the region?
The unique combination of prehistoric footprints and access to a working cattle station on private land makes it a rare and authentic outback experience. Plus, the guided insights make it both educational and memorable.

This tour is a fantastic choice for anyone eager to see ancient footprints, understand rural life, and experience the Australian outback’s vast scenery—all in one well-organized day.

You can check availability for your dates here: