How to do the Southern Queensland Country Camping Trail

Waking up to fresh air, birds chirping and the smoking charcoals of last night’s campfire – that’s what camping in the country is all about. From Goondiwindi in the west to Kingaroy in the north, watch as the landscape dramatically changes as you wind your way through our countryside. Follow our Southern Queensland Country camping trail for a journey packed to the bitumen with natural beauty, hiking trails and inland lakes. Dust off the camping gear and get ready to experience the very best country camping spots with this guide.

STOP 1

Brisbane to Lockyer Valley, Glen Rock State Forest

Explore Lockyer Valley in the Great Dividing Range foothills, west of Brisbane. Glen Rock State Forest, neighboring Main Range National Park, offers breathtaking views of the red volcanic outcrop. Book your campsite in advance and take the 5.2km Christie’s Loop trail to see Glen Rock up close.

STOP 2

Lockyer Valley to Toowoomba, Crows Nest National Park

Visit Toowoomba Region, 100km west of Lockyer Valley, and head 40km north to Crows Nest National Park for a serene camping experience. Book your camping permit and enjoy a few days exploring Crows Nest Falls and the surrounding high country.

STOP 3

Toowoomba to South Burnett, Lake Boondooma

Depart Toowoomba and head north-west towards Lake Boondooma in the South Burnett region, every avid fisherman’s dream and your destination for the next few nights.

If you’d like a night off from camping, check into one of the cabins at Lake Boondooma near Proston, otherwise set up camp beside the lake - book ahead for a powered campsite.

In between relaxing by the waterside, keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos and wild horses that call this patch of country home.

STOP 4

South Burnett to Western Downs, Bunya Mountains National Park

Only after you’ve got your fix of lakeside living, head south again to the Bunya Mountains. With three campsites to choose from, camping in the Bunya Mountains is a bit like a choose your own adventure novel with Dandabah, Westcott and Burtons well catering for a range of camping experiences. Psst… the roads into the Bunya Mountains are steep and winding - sorry owners of long or heavy vehicles, this isn’t the campsite for you.

STOP 5

Western Downs to Goondiwindi Region, Yelarbon Recreation Grounds

As you make your way south-west, keep an eye out for the fluffy white fields of cotton as you drive through the surrounding farmlands (if you happen to be visiting during the Autumn months that is).

The Goondiwindi Region is overflowing with riverside campsites but be sure to spend at least one night at the Yelarbon Recreation Grounds –remember to bring a $10 note for the honesty box to enjoy the full amenities! Explore the onsite museum and machinery yard.

STOP 6

Goondiwindi Region to Southern Downs & Granite Belt, Girraween

National

Park

Head deep into granite country for a night among the stars at Girraween National Park with its precariously balanced boulders and 17 kilometres of walking trails for you to choose from. Here you’ll find two campsites catering to tents, camper trailers and caravans – while both have amenities, choose Castle Rock if you’d like a shower after a long day of hitting the trails.

Finish your trip on a high note (pun intended) and scale the Pyramid Track.