Great Artesian Bore Baths Goodooga, Australia

What it is

Great Artesian Bore Baths Goodooga is a free, public artesian bathing complex in the small outback town of Goodooga in north-west New South Wales. The NSW Government listing describes it as a warm 40-degree bath and notes it’s always open, with showers and other practical facilities on site. It’s a built, managed soak rather than a natural creek spring, which is exactly why it works as a reliable road-stop.

What makes it distinct

Goodooga is unusually straightforward for an outback soak: no booking, no hike, and no guesswork about where to rinse off. The listing also notes wheelchair access throughout the baths, showers and toilets, so it’s easier to plan if you need a stable surface and accessible amenities.

The vibe

Expect a shared, local facility that people use. If you want quiet, go early or late. If you want a friendly soak and a simple reset after long kilometres, it does the job well.

Where it is

The NSW Government listing gives the location as Queensland Street, Goodooga NSW 2831. It sits in town, so you can combine it with fuel, supplies and a meal without adding extra distance. Navigation is easy, and access is flat and close to parking.

How to get there

Drive into Goodooga and follow signage to the baths. Because it’s a town facility, you do not need special vehicle clearance in normal conditions. If you’re travelling after heavy rain, check regional road updates anyway, outback detours can add hours.

What to bring

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sandals with grip for wet surfaces. Pack drinking water, hot soaking dehydrates quickly, especially after a long drive. A light layer is useful for cooling down out of the water at night. Keep soaps and shampoos for the showers only, and skip oils or lotions before you soak, they end up in shared water.

When to go

Cooler weather usually feels best. In summer, treat it as a short dip and a rinse, not a long session.

Who it suits best

This suits travellers who want a dependable soak with facilities, plus anyone camping or road-tripping through Brewarrina Shire. It can work for families because it’s controlled and easy to reach, but children still need close supervision around wet edges and warm water. If you’re sensitive to heat, plan shorter dips and longer breaks.

Wheelchair access

The NSW Government listing notes it welcomes people with access needs and specifically states wheelchair access throughout the baths, showers and toilets. That supports planning for accessible paths and amenities on site. Pool entry details can still vary in practice, so if you rely on a specific transfer set-up, it’s worth calling the contact listed on the NSW page before you commit to a long detour.

Expectations vs reality

It’s not a luxury spa and it’s not a wild spring. It’s a practical, shared town soak that stays open and keeps moving. Treat it as a reset point, not a full-day destination, and it tends to land well.

Heat and hydration

The listing describes a 40°C bath, which is hot enough to overdo. Start with a short soak, then get out and cool down. Drink water between rounds. If you feel dizzy, unusually tired, or unwell, stop and rest out of the water before you drive.

Slip prevention

Wet paving is the most common risk. Wear sandals with grip, walk slowly, and keep your hands free when stepping in and out. If you’re helping someone with mobility needs, take your time and give yourselves space at the entry.

Shared-space etiquette

Keep noise modest, especially at night. Rinse before you get in if showers are available. Don’t use soaps in the baths. Keep photos tight on your own group. If it’s busy, rotate out after a reasonable time so others can have a turn. It goes best when everyone shares space and keeps the flow friendly.

Keep it tidy

Use bins where provided and pack out rubbish if they’re full. Small places stay open when visitors leave them clean.

Is there an entry fee?

No. The NSW Government listing states free entry.

How hot is the water?

The NSW Government listing describes it as a warm 40-degree bath.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

The NSW Government listing notes wheelchair access throughout the baths, showers and toilets. If you need specific transfer details, call the listed contact before you travel.

Are there showers and toilets?

Yes. The NSW Government listing includes public toilets and showers among the on-site facilities.