Moogerah Lakeside Bush Retreat, Moogerah QLD

For those who prefer their camping experience to be more about the bush than the bitumen, Moogerah Lakeside Bush Retreat offers an authentic escape on the stunning western shores of Lake Moogerah. This is a genuine bush camp that prioritises space, nature, and a relaxed atmosphere over manicured lawns and extensive facilities. Spread across a large, scenic property, the retreat provides ample unpowered camping areas, allowing you to find your own secluded spot amongst the trees with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect destination for self-sufficient campers, 4WD groups, and families who love the freedom of a classic, back-to-basics Australian camping trip, complete with campfires crackling under a starry sky.

A major drawcard of the retreat is its pet-friendly policy, meaning your four-legged family members can join in the adventure. The camp provides direct access to Lake Moogerah, with a private boat ramp making it easy to launch your boat for a day of waterskiing, fishing, or exploring. The spacious grounds mean there’s plenty of room for kids to run around and explore safely. While the facilities are simple, they are well-maintained and include the essentials like hot showers and toilets. The emphasis here is on disconnecting from the daily grind and reconnecting with nature and each other. If you’re looking to escape the crowds of more formal parks and enjoy the tranquillity of the Scenic Rim with the added bonus of lakeside access and the freedom to have a campfire, Moogerah Lakeside Bush Retreat is an unbeatable choice.

Moogerah Lakeside Bush Retreat – QLD Location Map

Moogerah Lakeside Bush Retreat

Address: 170 Ski Zone Rd, Moogerah QLD 4309
Website: https://moogerah.com/contact_us
GPS Coordinates: -28.0332, 152.53337

Site Information

Location: Lakeside bush setting on the western side of Lake Moogerah.
Site Suitable For: Self-contained Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, Tents, 4WDs, Groups.
Road Access: Access via Ski Zone Rd, which can be unsealed. Suitable for 2WD in dry conditions, 4WD recommended in wet.
Site Surface: Grass.
Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered bush camping.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with management.

Facilities

Facilities: Basic amenities block with hot showers and toilets, private boat ramp.
Picnic Tables: Not provided; campers should be self-sufficient.
Potable Water: Limited availability; it is recommended to bring your own drinking water.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Can be very limited and patchy. Telstra may have some service.
TV Reception: Unlikely to be reliable.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, but campers are encouraged to take rubbish with them where possible.
Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits or your own off-the-ground fire pit, subject to local fire bans. Firewood often for sale.
Generator Use: Permitted during designated hours only. Check with management.

Essentials & Activities

Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, camp cooking gear, lighting, fishing gear, and everything needed for a self-sufficient trip.
Pet Friendly: Yes, this is a major feature. Pets must be kept under control.
Fishing: Excellent for Bass, Golden Perch, and Silver Perch. A QLD fishing permit is required.
Short Walks: Plenty of space to walk and explore around the property and along the foreshore.

Local Amenities

Local Pubs:
- Aratula Hotel Motel (approx. 13 km)
- The Dugandan Hotel, Boonah (approx. 20 km)
- Simon’s Tavern, Boonah (approx. 20 km)
Places to Eat: The nearest cafes and pubs are in Aratula and Boonah.
Local Attractions:
- Moogerah Dam (approx. 5 km drive)
- Main Range National Park – Cunningham’s Gap (approx. 28 km)
- The town of Boonah (approx. 20 km)
Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Lake Moogerah Caravan Park (approx. 5 km drive)
- Aratula Village Caravan Park (approx. 13 km)
Next Free Camps: Fassifern Reserve, Fassifern (approx. 27 km).
Nearest Dump Points:
- Boonah Showgrounds (Public, approx. 20 km)
Nearest Petrol Station: Aratula (approx. 13 km).
Drinking Water Resupply: Best to resupply in Boonah or Aratula. Bring your own.
Public Toilets: Available at Haigh Park near the dam wall.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot, with average temperatures from 20°C to 33°C. Ideal for watersports. High chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
Autumn (Mar – May): Warm, pleasant days and cooler evenings. Temperatures range from 14°C to 28°C. Perfect camping and fishing weather.
Winter (Jun – Aug): Cool and dry with clear sunny days. Temperatures from 5°C to 22°C. Nights can be very cold, ideal for campfires.
Spring (Sep – Nov): Warms up with sunny days. Temperatures average 13°C to 29°C. A great time for all activities before the summer heat.