Everything you need to know before camping at Booloumba Creek, Conondale National Park
Booloumba Creek is in Conondale National Park, about 2 hours drive north of Brisbane via Maleny or Kenilworth. The turn-off is on Maleny-Kenilworth Road, about 7.5 km past Kenilworth. Follow Booloumba Creek Road for 7 km — it is unsealed with three creek crossings.
High-clearance 4WD is essential. After heavy rain, the creek crossings can become impassable. If you don't have a 4WD, you can park at the gate before the first crossing and walk in (adds at least an hour each way). Check the weather forecast on the main page before you go.
Creeks in Conondale National Park rise very quickly during storms. Never camp in dry creek beds. If heavy rain is forecast, reconsider creek crossings and avoid swimming. Always check the BOM radar (linked on the main page) before and during your trip.
Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings at Booloumba Creek campsites, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood — collecting wood in the park is prohibited. Never leave a fire unattended. Fully extinguish before leaving or sleeping.
📍 Booloumba Falls Walk — Short hike from Camping Area 3 to a stunning waterfall with deep swimming hole. Approx 15 km return from Camp 3. Also accessible via 4WD track.
📍 Booloumba Gorge Circuit — 12 km loop trail through canyons, swimming holes, and waterfalls. Strenuous but rewarding. Start from the day-use area.
📍 Artists Cascades & Strangler Cairn — Moderate walk to a controversial stone sculpture entwined with a strangler fig. About 3 km from the camping/day-use area, just beyond the old gold mine.
📍 Conondale Range Great Walk — 56 km multi-day trek through the heart of the national park. Requires serious preparation. Check park alerts for track closures.
Booloumba Creek has crystal-clear swimming holes and natural rock pools. The water is very cold year-round — especially in winter. Wear water shoes (sharp rocks on the bottom). Supervise children at all times. Best swimming is around Camping Area 3. The Breadknife rock formation creates a natural waterslide.
Safety: Never swim after heavy rain (strong currents, debris). Check depth before jumping. Avoid swimming alone.
Conondale National Park is home to diverse wildlife including wallabies, goannas, lyrebirds, and many bird species. Snakes are active in warmer months — watch where you step and never harass them. Store all food in sealed containers or your vehicle to avoid attracting animals. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. If you encounter a dingo, do not run — stand your ground and make yourself appear larger.
Pack out all rubbish, including food scraps and biodegradable items. Use the flush toilets provided at the campsites. Leave the site cleaner than you found it. Stay on designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
Camping permits are required and can be booked at QLD Parks website. Booloumba Creek has 4 camping areas — Area 4 allows caravans/campers, others are tent-only. Sites book out weeks in advance during peak periods (summer, Easter, school holidays). Book ahead.
Camping fees apply. Check-in time is generally from 2:00 PM, check-out by 11:00 AM.
⚠️ Fallen trees on Conondale Range Great Walk — repairs ongoing until April 2026. ⚠️ Mt Allan fire tower closed to climbing (until May 2026). Always check Conondale National Park alerts before departure.
For emergencies: Triple Zero (000). For non-urgent park issues contact Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service.