A former Australian tourist hotspot has become so bad due to its youth crime rate that visitors have been racing online to tell others to stay away.
Holidaymakers have been urged to steer clear of Mount Isa, north-west Queensland, with TripAdvisor inundated with unhappy reviews.
The popular mining town has a property offence crime rate more than three times above the average across the states, according to latest data.
Four years ago, a 70-year-old crocodile was found decapitated at a lake.
MP Robbie Katter wants the government to do more to restore its reputation and keep tourism alive.
A family using a campsite in the town told others to think twice about going in one of many scathing reviews.
"There are no gates so anyone can walk in at anytime and this is not acceptable in a town with so much crime already," they wrote.
"Will NEVER go back again and I am posting this to hopefully help others in deciding to NOT stay here because it is unsafe and we were extremely uncomfortable all night."
A family from Sydney left Mount Isa before their three-day trip was over.
"I really hate to leave bad reviews and this one is based pure and simply on the youth crime," they wrote.
"I would not recommend anyone staying in Mt Isa. We found the managers to be very friendly and helpful but unfortunately, it does not alleviate the problem of crime.
"My advice is, just stay away from Mt Isa."
Last week, vandals broke into Island BMX Club and set fire to the property, sparking anger across the community.
The reviews went viral and sparked anger from local state MP Robbie Katter.
He told Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk to "show leadership and step in" to address the problem.
He told Daily Mail Australia: "My advice is to take precautions.
"Most of what Mount Isa has to offer for visitors is outside the town and is amazingly spectacular, which should be enjoyed by all Australians.
"It's a double-edged sword for them. They want travellers to come here but at the same time, they can't ignore the fact it's an issue."
Ms Palaszczuk acknowledged youth crime is a serious issue.
She said: "These are very complex issues. Unfortunately, some young children who are involved in youth crime do not have safe and secure homes.
"We need to continue to grow our foster care system and we must recognise that that needs to be culturally appropriate as well."
