Leslie Dam Washpool Reserve Warwick QLD

Washpool Reserve at Leslie Dam is a sprawling and immensely popular campground that serves as a recreational paradise in the heart of the Southern Downs. Located just a short drive from the historic city of Warwick, this low-cost camp offers an unbeatable waterside experience for families, fishing fanatics, and water sports enthusiasts. The reserve is a massive, open area with a mix of powered and unpowered sites spread across grassy flats and shady spots along the dam’s extensive shoreline. The sheer size of the campground means that even during its busiest periods, you can find a comfortable spot to set up. The main attraction is, of course, Leslie Dam itself, a vast expanse of water that is a hub of activity year-round. It is renowned for its exceptional freshwater fishing, with anglers targeting prized species like Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), and Silver Perch.

The dam is also a playground for boaties, with dedicated boat ramps providing easy access for water skiing, wakeboarding, and leisurely cruising. For those who prefer paddling, the calm waters are perfect for kayaking and canoeing. The campground is well-equipped to handle the crowds, with multiple amenities blocks offering toilets and coin-operated hot showers. While it fosters a lively and social atmosphere, its vastness allows for peaceful retreats as well. The abundance of wildlife, particularly the kangaroos that graze nonchalantly through the campsites and the diverse birdlife, adds to the natural charm. With its combination of excellent facilities, endless recreational opportunities, and proximity to the heritage city of Warwick, Washpool Reserve at Leslie Dam is a top-tier destination for an action-packed or a relaxing regional getaway.

Campsite Information

• Location: On the shores of Leslie Dam, approximately 15-20 minutes’ drive from Warwick.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types and sizes, including big rigs, caravans, and tents. Powered and unpowered sites available.
• Road Access: Sealed road all the way to the campground entrance.
• Site Surface: Mostly grass and dirt. Can become soft in places after heavy rain.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a paid campground. Bookings are recommended, especially during peak periods.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: Flushing toilets, coin-operated hot showers, rubbish bins, boat ramps, kiosk (seasonal hours).
• Potable Water: Yes, potable water is available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good Telstra coverage is available. Other carriers can be patchy.
• TV Reception: Good digital TV reception is usually reported.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted in unpowered areas, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: A very large area with hundreds of potential sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Coins for showers, fishing gear, and a QLD fishing permit (SIPS).
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent freshwater fishing for Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and Silver Perch.
• Short Walks: Plenty of space for walking along the dam’s foreshore.

Local Amenities (in Warwick, ~15 km away)

• Local Pubs: The Criterion Hotel, The Warwick Hotel, The Horse and Jockey Hotel Motel.
• Places to Eat: A wide variety of pubs, cafes, restaurants, and fast-food outlets in Warwick.
• Local Attractions: Warwick’s heritage sandstone buildings, the Warwick Rodeo Heritage Centre, Morgan Park Raceway, Glengallan Homestead.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: This is a major caravan park. Others are located in Warwick town centre.
• Next Free Camps: Connolly Dam (~30 km, donation camp), various rest areas on the main highways.
• Nearest Dump Points: A dump point is available on-site for paying guests.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations are available in Warwick.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available on-site.
• Public Toilets: On-site, and at various parks throughout Warwick.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Southern Downs, QLD

• Summer (December – February): Hot, with average maximum temperatures around 29-31°C. Often humid with a high chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm and sunny days with milder evenings. A beautiful and popular time to visit.
• Winter (June – August): Mild, crisp, and sunny days with cold nights. Frosts are very common. Ideal weather for campfires.
• Spring (September – November): Days are warming up, typically dry and sunny with comfortable humidity.