Stonesthrow Bush Camping – Illinbah

Stonesthrow Bush Camping offers a truly secluded and authentic back-to-basics camping experience, nestled in the stunning Lost World Valley region of the Gold Coast hinterland. This private property is a haven for self-sufficient campers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the Australian bush. Located on the banks of the pristine upper Coomera River, the campground provides a limited number of spacious, private, and grassy unpowered sites, ensuring an uncrowded and peaceful stay. Access to the property can be challenging, particularly after rain, with an unsealed road and creek crossings that make a high-clearance 4WD vehicle highly recommended. This journey is part of the appeal, guaranteeing a genuine sense of remoteness. The experience is tailored for the fully self-reliant camper, as there are no facilities like toilets or showers; visitors must bring everything they need and adhere to a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy. The main attraction is the stunning natural environment. The crystal-clear river is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and liloing in the gentle rapids, while the surrounding bushland is rich with birdlife. Evenings are spent around a campfire under a brilliant, star-filled sky, with the only sounds being the flow of the river and the calls of the wild. For a genuine digital detox and a chance to reconnect with nature, Stonesthrow is a premier bush camping destination.

Site Information

• Location: In the remote Illinbah area of the Gold Coast Hinterland, near Lamington National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained 4WD vehicles, off-road camper trailers, and tents. Not suitable for large 2WD caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed road with multiple creek crossings. High-clearance 4WD is strongly recommended.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a paid private campground, typically booked through platforms like Hipcamp. Bookings are essential.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with hosts when booking.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: A limited number of exclusive unpowered sites available.
• Facilities: None. This is a fully self-contained camping experience.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict leave-no-trace property.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Check with hosts, generally discouraged.
• Number of Sites Available: A small number of sites across the property.
• Essentials to Bring: Everything. Water, food, power, toilet, shower, and rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, this is a very pet-friendly location.
• Fishing: Possible in the Coomera River for freshwater species.
• Short Walks: Excellent walking opportunities around the property and along the river.

Local Amenities

This is a remote location. The nearest town with services is Canungra.

• Local Pubs:
  • The Canungra Hotel (approx. 25 km)
  • The Beechmont Hotel (approx. 30 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The local pubs, cafes, and bakeries in Canungra.
• Local Attractions:
  • Lamington National Park (Binna Burra and Green Mountains sections)
  • O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
  • Local wineries in the Canungra Valley.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • This is a private campground. Canungra Showgrounds offers camping.
• Next Free Camps:
  • No official free camps in the immediate Gold Coast hinterland area.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Canungra.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Service stations are available in Canungra.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Canungra.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available in Canungra.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Gold Coast hinterland has a subtropical highland climate with four distinct seasons, cooler temperatures, and higher rainfall than the coast.