Rathdowney Memorial Grounds Caravan Park

Nestled in the heart of Queensland’s spectacular Scenic Rim, the Rathdowney Memorial Grounds Park offers a serene and convenient resting place for travellers. This welcoming campsite provides an authentic small-town experience, making it an ideal stopover for those exploring the breathtaking landscapes of nearby Mount Barney National Park or driving the popular tourist routes. The grounds are situated right in the township, allowing for easy access to local amenities while still maintaining a peaceful, park-like atmosphere. The large, open grassy areas provide ample space for various setups, from campervans and caravans to tents, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of campers. The convenience of this location cannot be overstated; it serves as a perfect base to recharge before venturing into the more rugged surrounding wilderness. It’s a community-supported site, which fosters a friendly and safe environment where travellers often share stories and tips about the road ahead. The park’s simplicity is its charm, offering an escape from the complexities of commercial caravan parks and providing just the essentials needed for a comfortable and self-sufficient stay. Whether you’re passing through for a single night or settling in for a couple of days to explore the local area, the Rathdowney Memorial Grounds provides a genuine slice of country hospitality and an affordable way to experience one of Australia’s most picturesque regions. It represents a classic Aussie free camp, valued by the travelling community for its practicality and prime location at the gateway to adventure.

★★★★☆ (4.7 stars)

Campsite Information

• Site Suitable For: Caravans, Campervans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, and Tent Camping.
• Road Access: Sealed road, easily accessible for all vehicle types.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, donations are encouraged to support maintenance.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally 72 hours, but check local signage.
• Facilities: Basic amenities suitable for self-contained vehicles.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available onsite.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra; may be variable for other carriers.
• TV Reception: Generally good digital TV signal.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, located within the grounds.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided. Please use them responsibly.
• Open Fires: Not permitted. Please use contained cooking appliances.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers regarding noise and timing.
• Number of Sites Available: Approximately 20-30 unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Levelling blocks may be useful as the ground can be uneven.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Fishing: Nearby opportunities in the Logan River.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walks around the town and along the river.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The Rathdowney Hotel – approx. 200 metres.
  • The Beaudesert Hotel – approx. 34 km.
  • The Canungra Hotel – approx. 50 km.
• Places to Eat:
  • The Rathdowney Hotel (Pub meals) – approx. 200 metres.
  • Rathdowney Store & Cafe – approx. 300 metres.
• Local Attractions:
  • Mount Barney National Park – approx. 15 km to the park entrance.
  • Maroon Dam – approx. 25 km.
  • Rathdowney Historical Museum – approx. 400 metres.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Barney Creek Vineyard Cottages (private camping) – approx. 12 km.
  • Lake Maroon Camping Ground – approx. 25 km.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Andrew Drynan Park (low-cost) – approx. 25 km.
  • Flanagan Reserve (low-cost) – approx. 22 km.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Beaudesert Showgrounds (Jubilee Park) – approx. 34 km.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Local petrol station in Rathdowney – approx. 500 metres.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Onsite at Rathdowney Memorial Grounds Park.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at Rathdowney Memorial Grounds Park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Rathdowney

• Summer (December – February): Expect warm to hot and humid conditions. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 32°C. This period sees the highest rainfall, often with afternoon thunderstorms.
• Autumn (March – May): The weather becomes milder and less humid. Temperatures are pleasant, typically between 15°C and 27°C, with decreasing rainfall.
• Winter (June – August): Days are typically dry, sunny, and mild, while nights can be cool. Average temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C. Frost can occur in the early mornings.
• Spring (September – November): Conditions are generally warm and dry as temperatures begin to rise. Averages range from 13°C to 28°C, with rainfall increasing towards the end of the season.