Chesterfield Farm Stay – Merlwood

Chesterfield Farm Stay offers a tranquil and authentic bush camping experience, providing a peaceful escape in the heart of Queensland’s beautiful South Burnett region. Located in the rural area of Merlwood, just a short drive from the towns of Murgon and Wondai, this private property is a haven for self-sufficient travellers seeking serenity and a genuine connection with the countryside. The campground is set on a working farm, offering spacious, grassy unpowered sites where visitors can spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings, often with views of the rolling hills. The focus is on a simple, back-to-nature stay, perfect for those in self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers. The farm stay is known for being extremely pet-friendly, with plenty of open space for dogs to enjoy under supervision. The hosts typically offer warm country hospitality, making guests feel right at home while respecting their privacy. While facilities are minimal, the experience is all about the location and the escape it provides, with opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching, and enjoying the quiet of a rural setting. Its proximity to the South Burnett wine trail and the magnificent Bunya Mountains National Park makes it an excellent, affordable base for exploring the region’s diverse attractions. For a quiet, friendly, and genuine bush camp, Chesterfield Farm Stay is a superb choice.

Site Information

• Location: In the rural area of Merlwood, between Murgon and Goomeri.
• Site Suitable For: Self-contained vehicles are preferred. Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed road, with a final short stretch of good quality gravel road.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a paid farm stay, typically booked through platforms like Hipcamp. Bookings are essential.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with hosts when booking.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous spacious unpowered sites available.
• Facilities: Basic facilities may be available; best to be fully self-contained.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: It is recommended to bring your own main supply of drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Check with host; not guaranteed.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a leave-no-trace property; you must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Check with hosts; generally permitted in fire pits subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use for other guests.
• Number of Sites Available: Many sites across a large property.
• Essentials to Bring: It is best to be fully self-contained with your own toilet, shower, and power.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, this is a very pet-friendly location.
• Fishing: Nearby creeks and Bjelke-Petersen Dam offer fishing.
• Short Walks: Excellent walking opportunities around the farm property.

Local Amenities

The nearest towns with services are Murgon and Wondai.

• Local Pubs:
  • The Australian Hotel, Murgon (approx. 20 km)
  • The Royal Hotel, Murgon (approx. 20 km)
  • The Wondai Hotel (approx. 30 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Pubs, cafes, and bakeries in Murgon and Wondai.
• Local Attractions:
  • South Burnett Wine Trail (Moffatdale)
  • Bjelke-Petersen Dam
  • The Queensland Dairy & Heritage Museum, Murgon
  • Bunya Mountains National Park (day trip)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • This is a private campground. Options include Yallakool Park on Bjelke-Petersen Dam and parks in Murgon.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Goomeri Showgrounds (low-cost, approx. 15 km)
  • Wondai Showgrounds (low-cost, approx. 30 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Murgon.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations are available in Murgon.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Murgon.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available in Murgon and Goomeri.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The South Burnett region enjoys a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild, dry winters with cool nights.