Toogoolawah Showground – Low-Cost Queensland Camping

Nestled in the scenic Somerset Region, the Toogoolawah Showground offers travellers a peaceful and affordable camping experience with all the essential conveniences. Situated on almost 40 acres of expansive, flat grasslands on the edge of town, this site provides a genuine country-style retreat perfect for caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents. Whether you’re seeking a powered site to run your appliances or a simple unpowered spot to connect with nature, the showground accommodates all setups. Its prime location makes it an ideal stopover for adventurers tackling the famous Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, which runs adjacent to the grounds, offering kilometres of cycling and walking opportunities through picturesque landscapes. The showground is renowned for its clean, well-maintained amenities, friendly on-site caretakers, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a favourite for both short-term visitors and those looking for a longer, tranquil stay.

Beyond its function as a restful base, the Toogoolawah Showground places you at the doorstep of unique local attractions. The town of Toogoolawah is a hub of activity, from the adrenaline rush of skydiving at the Ramblers Drop Zone to the aviation history at Watts Bridge Memorial Airfield. Within the town itself, you can explore contemporary art at ‘The Condensery’ gallery, delve into local history at the Railway Museum, or enjoy a film at the historic Alexandra Hall. The campsite is pet-friendly, welcoming your furry companions to join in the adventure. With reliable facilities including potable water, an on-site dump point, and good television reception, it combines the simplicity of showground camping with the comforts needed for a modern trip. It’s an authentic, budget-friendly choice that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the charm and character of the Brisbane Valley without sacrificing convenience.

★★★★☆ (4.1 Stars)

Site Details

• Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
• Road Access: Sealed road to the entrance.
• Site Surface: Large, flat grassy areas with some shaded spots available.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, powered and unpowered sites available.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please confirm with the on-site caretaker upon arrival.
• Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, dump point.
• Potable Water: Yes, good drinking water is available at sites.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes, coverage is available (may vary by carrier).
• TV Reception: Yes, good reception reported.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Generally not permitted; please check for local fire bans and confirm with the caretaker.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for neighbours (standard hours usually apply).
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous sites across a large area.
• Essentials to Bring: Levelling blocks may be useful, power leads, and hoses.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and managed responsibly.
• Fishing: Nearby opportunities in the Brisbane River and at Lake Somerset and Lake Wivenhoe.
• Short Walks: Direct access to the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail for walking and cycling.

Local Amenities

Local Pubs

• Toogoolawah Hotel: Approx. 1.5 km
• Exchange Hotel Toogoolawah: Approx. 1.8 km
• The Handle Bar: Approx. 1.8 km

Places to Eat

• Hav’a’Chat Café: Approx. 1.7 km
• Picnic Society: Approx. 1.9 km
• The Coach House Cafe: Approx. 2.5 km

Local Attractions

• Brisbane Valley Rail Trail: Adjacent to the showground
• The Condensery – Somerset Regional Art Gallery: Approx. 1.8 km
• Toogoolawah History Museum: Approx. 1.8 km
• Ramblers Skydiving Drop Zone: Approx. 2.5 km

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Esk Caravan Park & Motel: Approx. 20 km
• NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park: Approx. 19 km
• Kilcoy Showgrounds: Approx. 23 km

Next Free Camps

• Gardener Street Overnight Rest Area (Toogoolawah): Approx. 2 km (20-hour limit, self-contained RVs)
• Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall Rest Area: Approx. 22 km

Nearest Dump Points

• On-site at Toogoolawah Showground: 0 m
• Esk Visitor Information Centre: Approx. 20 km

Nearest Petrol Station

• BP Toogoolawah: Approx. 2 km

Drinking Water Resupply

• On-site at Toogoolawah Showground: 0 m

Nearest Public Toilets

• On-site at Toogoolawah Showground: 0 m
• Toogoolawah Lions Park (Cressbrook St): Approx. 1.9 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Toogoolawah experiences a subtropical climate. Summers (December-February) are typically warm to hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C, and can be subject to thunderstorms. Autumn (March-May) is pleasant and mild. Winters (June-August) are cool and dry with sunny days, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 22°C. Spring (September-November) is warm and sunny, gradually becoming more humid as summer approaches. Always check the current forecast before your trip.