Lake Awoonga Caravan Park | Barramundi Fishing & Nature Escape
Nestled in a serene bushland setting on the picturesque shores of Lake Awoonga, the Lake Awoonga Caravan Park is a true haven for anglers, nature lovers, and families seeking a peaceful escape. This sprawling freshwater lake, located a short drive south of Gladstone, is legendary in the fishing community as one of Australia’s premier destinations for catching trophy-sized barramundi. The caravan park provides the perfect basecamp for this pursuit, offering excellent facilities and direct access to this aquatic playground. Whether you’re launching a boat from the nearby ramps for a serious fishing expedition or simply casting a line from the shore, the chance to land a prized ‘barra’ is a constant, exciting possibility.
Beyond the world-class fishing, Lake Awoonga is a stunning natural environment teeming with wildlife. The park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 225 species recorded in the area, and the calm waters of the lake are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The park itself is spacious and well-equipped, offering a range of large, grassy powered and unpowered sites that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Clean amenities, a camp kitchen, and BBQ areas ensure a comfortable stay for all guests. At night, the clear skies offer a breathtaking display of stars, free from city lights. For families, the open spaces and safe swimming areas provide endless entertainment. The Lake Awoonga Caravan Park is more than just a place to stay; it’s an immersive outdoor experience that combines thrilling recreation with tranquil relaxation.
865 Awoonga Dam Rd, Benaraby QLD 4680
Phone: (07) 4975 0155
Site Information
- Location: Set in natural bushland on the shore of Lake Awoonga, near Benaraby.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
- Road Access: Sealed road to the park entrance.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass sites.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Contact park for information on long-term stays.
- Number of Powered Sites: Yes, a large number available.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Yes, a large number available.
Facilities
- Facilities: Clean amenities blocks, camp kitchen, laundry facilities, BBQ areas, kiosk, dump point.
- Picnic Tables: Yes, numerous tables and shelters are scattered throughout the recreation area.
- Potable Water: Yes.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good, but can be patchy in some areas of the park. Telstra is recommended.
- TV Reception: Can be variable; a satellite dish is recommended.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: Yes, a dump point is available on-site.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Generally not permitted; check for local fire bans and park rules.
- Generator Use: Permitted in designated areas/times; check with management.
- Number of Sites Available: The park is very large, but booking is always recommended, especially during holidays and fishing competitions.
Visitor Information
- Essentials to Bring: Fishing gear, boat/kayak, camera, binoculars for birdwatching, and insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, the park is pet-friendly. Please confirm conditions when booking.
- Fishing: World-class barramundi fishing in the lake. A stocked impoundment permit is required.
- Short Walks: Numerous walking tracks around the lake foreshore and through the bushland.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Benaraby Hilltop Motor Inn (approx. 15 km)
- Tannum Sands Hotel (approx. 25 km)
- Various pubs in Gladstone (approx. 30 km)
- Places to Eat:
- On-site kiosk for basics.
- Cafes and takeaways in Tannum Sands (approx. 25 km).
- Extensive dining options in Gladstone (approx. 30 km).
- Local Attractions:
- Lake Awoonga (on-site)
- Tannum Sands Beach (approx. 25 km)
- Gladstone Marina Parklands (approx. 30 km)
- Tondoon Botanic Gardens, Gladstone (approx. 28 km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Benaraby Hilltop Motor Inn (offers some sites, approx. 15 km)
- Discovery Parks – Tannum Sands (approx. 25 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Calliope River Rest Area (approx. 35 km).
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Available on-site at the park.
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Benaraby (approx. 15 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available on-site at the park.
- Nearest Public Toilets:
- Available on-site for guests and in the public day-use area.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Gladstone Region
- Autumn/Winter (April – September): The peak season for visitors. Expect mild to warm, sunny days with very little rain and low humidity. Perfect for all outdoor activities.
- Spring/Summer (October – March): This is the wet season, with hot and humid conditions. It’s also the prime time for barramundi fishing as the warmer water makes them more active. Be prepared for tropical downpours.