Only nature makes moments like these in Southern Queensland Country
If it’s been a while since your sense of wonder had a workout, it’s time to take it, along with sturdy shoes and a shady hat, on a trip to Southern Queensland Country.
In our third blog of the caravan series, we’re heading west towards Western Downs. Here are our favourite caravan parks, campgrounds and activities to keep the family busy.
There’s just something about caravan holidays. The wide open road, the fresh air of nature, more family time, and the flexibility to go where you want, when you want — what more could you possibly need? Southern Queensland Country, in particular, is hailed as one of the country's best areas to explore by car or caravan… and for good reason.
In fact, you’d almost forget you were just three hours outside of Brisbane. With its star-studded nights, laid-back lifestyle and nature-inspired experiences, it promises a complete change of pace — without the airfares.
Recently, we’ve rounded up our picks for the best caravan parks in Southern Queensland Country (you can catch up here and here) but we’re not done yet.
Our road trip continues inland, towards Western Downs and Lake Coolmunda in the Goondiwindi Region, so you can easily plan your next solo, couple or family escape.
Chinchilla Weir, Caliguel Lagoon, Lake Broadwater — Western Downs
300km (3 hours) from Brisbane
Western Downs understands you might be travelling with kids or pets, so the region makes it easy for you with a string of free and low-cost caravan parks, and countless activities to fill your day. And let’s not forget the sunsets, that are well and truly worth the drive west.
Set your GPS for Chinchilla Weir, Caliguel Lagoon and Lake Broadwater — aka, your very own mini-tour of the Western Downs. Here you’ll find waterside campgrounds and caravan parks to choose from, with upgraded facilities, BBQs, playgrounds and picnic spots.
Consider yourself a fishing fanatic? You might just catch dinner at Chinchilla Weir, coined as a ‘tranquil haven for boaters’ and known for its golden perch, Murray cod and silver perch. Water sports more your thing? You’ll prefer Lake Broadwater; a naturally-occurring freshwater lake for water skiing, canoeing and swimming.
Jondaryan Woolshed —Toowoomba
174km (2 hours 10 minutes) from Brisbane
After a big day of driving, imagine winding down by the fire at a world-heritage listed woolshed. This once-in-a-lifetime camping experience can be found halfway between Toowoomba and Dalby at Jondaryan Woolshed — Australia’s oldest woolshed showcasing 160 years of wool industry history. It’s an experience the cities just can’t compete with, and something your family will never forget.
While still in operation, The Woolshed has an onsite museum displaying historic buildings, machinery and equipment. It’s open daily for self-guided tours. If you’re after an in-depth glimpse into pioneer life (think demonstrations of working horses, blacksmithing, sheepdog skills, wool spinning and more), be sure to visit during an open day, taking place one weekend per month.
You can take it one step further, by sleeping over at the Jondaryan Woolshed — the onsite accommodation for caravans and campers is rustic but homely, and open 7 days a week.
Country Style Accommodation Park — Glen Alpin, Southern Downs & Granite Belt
229km (3 hour) from Brisbane
Next on our caravan journey we’re heading to Country Style Accommodation Park, just a stone's throw from Stanthorpe and in the heart of the Granite Belt wine region.
If your idea of a relaxing getaway involves local wineries, rolling hills and the rural countryside, this is the region you’ll want to visit. Pull up your caravan on the 12 acres of Glen Aplin land, dotted with eucalyptus trees and self-contained cabins.
From here, the choice is yours. Hike at Girraween, Bald Rock and Sundown National Parks; go fishing or canoeing nearby; or soak in the peaceful country atmosphere — red wine in hand, of course.
Lake Coolmunda Caravan Park, Coolmunda
255km (3 hours 10 minutes) from Brisbane
Feel that? It’s your body relaxing as you drive into the Lake Coolmunda area, filled with its natural beauty, hillside views and country wildflowers. As far as camping or caravan holidays, this is unlike anything you’d find in the coastal or city spots — it’s a must-do for an authentically Australian experience.
The Lake Coolmunda Caravan Park is the best of both worlds: dropped on the rural landscape, on the banks of the lake. It’s as close to nature as you get, with a few creature comforts — like a swimming pool, tennis court, parasailing, canoeing and fishing. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you can holiday with your pooch by your side.
Looking for more gems across Queensland Country? We’ve got plenty where that came from. Continue our three-part caravan series, where we explore different pockets of this idyllic region.
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