Camping at Charlie Moreland camping area
This leafy camp ground, located in the Imbil State Forest, is approximately a two hour drive from Brisbane. Set in a grassy, open forest, close to Little Yabba Creek and native pine plantations, it makes a picturesque spot to pitch a tent.
The camp ground is made up of an open grassy area, without separately defined sites, and is suitable for tents, camper trailers, camper vans and caravans.
The best part is, open fires are allowed (except when fire bans apply) so that you can enjoy those gooey, toasted marshmallows. Waking up to the sounds of the bell birds, and listening to the wind rustling through the forest, are also highlights.
Facilities at Charlie Moreland camping area
- Water taps (must be treated before drinking, or bring your own drinking water)
- Flushing toilets, some are wheelchair accessible
- Picnic tables in day use area
- BBQs in day use area
- Pay phone at ranger’s office (no mobile coverage)
- Fire pits at camp sites for open fires (BYO firewood)
- Horse paddock (for those wishing to bring their horse camping)
There are no showers or rubbish bins at the Charlie Moreland Camp Ground. You will need to keep your rubbish secure (so that the local wildlife cannot access it) and take it with you when you go. Generators are not permitted.
Activities to enjoy at Charlie Moreland camping area
Bushwalking
There are a number of bush walks that leave from the camp site, including short walks that are suitable for the whole family. If you’re lucky, you may spot wildlife such as goannas, pademelons and many different bird species.
Fig Tree walk—780m circuit
This short circuit walk leaves from the end of Sunday Creek Road, not the camping area. Parking is available in the adjoining rest area with picnic tables. Enclosed shoes are required for this walk through some magnificent rain forest because of the large stinging tree leaves that litter the forest floor—look but don’t touch! This circuit is suitable for wheelchair access.
Little Yabba circuit—1.5km return
Wade across Little Yabba Creek to explore the rain forest, including pretty pine plantations. This is a lovely little walk that even little legs can accomplish.
Piccabeen circuit—3.5km return
An extension of the Little Yabba circuit, this walk goes deeper into the rain forest, and also passes through a stunning piccabeen palm grove.
Mount Allan shared trail—8.8km return
This is a more challenging walk that older kids will love. From the Charlie Moreland camping area, follow a steep shared trail through a hoop pine plantation towards Mount Allan in Conondale National Park. Watch out for horse and mountain bike riders along the way. You may also encounter rangers and logging vehicles on this route. At the hitching rail, ascend the 300m walking track to the top of Mount Allan. If you’re game, you can climb the stairs of the fire tower for splendid 360 degree views of the surrounding ranges.
Swimming
There is a lovely expanse of Little Yabba Creek that is accessible from the camp site. You can swim in the creek, or even take an inflatable boat or kayak with you, for extra aquatic fun. For those that don’t want to enter the water, there is a pleasant “beach” area where you can take your folding chair down and watch the kids play.
Camp fires
The camp fire is an activity in itself – and you may like to bring some simple meals that can be cooked over the fire, and then finish with marshmallows for dessert!
How to make the most of your stay at Charlie Moreland camping area
This camp site is popular, so it is best to book as far in advance as possible. Camping permits are required and fees apply. A camping tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site.
The temperature can drop at night, so pack plenty of warm clothing and bedding for evenings, but cooler clothes for the day time.
Children are welcome to ride bikes, scooters and skateboards around the camp site, so you may want to add them to your list of things to take.
Horses are permitted on shared trails and roads in the State forest, and there is a large enclosed paddock provided beside the camping area, so that you can bring your horse with you. Other pets, such as dogs, are not allowed in the camp ground or in Imbil State Forest.
The camping area is accessible by conventional two wheel drive vehicles, although Sunday Creek Road is unsealed.
For more information, or to make a booking, visit the Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing’s web site.
The Charlie Moreland camping area is accessed via Sunday Creek Road, off the Kenilworth–Maleny Road, about seven km south of the Kenilworth Township.
Kenilworth QLD 4574, Australia
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