The Settlement camping area – Springbrook

Nestled within the ancient Gondwana Rainforests of Springbrook National Park, The Settlement camping area offers an immersive nature escape in the stunning Gold Coast hinterland. As the only vehicle-accessible public campground in the park, it provides a unique opportunity to stay amidst world-heritage listed scenery. The campground features an open, grassy setting surrounded by towering trees, and is the perfect base for exploring the area’s renowned hiking trails, lookouts, and waterfalls. It is located directly adjacent to the start of the famous Purling Brook Falls circuit, a breathtaking walk that descends into the gorge past magnificent falls and through lush rainforest. The campground itself is well-maintained and provides a back-to-nature experience with basic but clean facilities, including toilets and picnic tables. There are no showers or powered sites, so campers must be relatively self-sufficient. Its high altitude location means the climate is often cool and misty, especially outside of summer, creating a magical atmosphere that feels worlds away from the nearby Gold Coast. Wildlife, particularly birdlife like crimson rosellas and pademelons, are common visitors to the campground. With only a small number of designated sites available, booking a permit well in advance through the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is absolutely essential. For those seeking tranquility, incredible walks, and a genuine rainforest experience, The Settlement is an unbeatable destination.

Site Information

• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, small campervans and small motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed road suitable for conventional vehicles.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, a camping permit is required and must be booked in advance via the QPWS website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Varies by season, check booking details on the QPWS website.
• Facilities: Toilets (non-flushing), picnic tables. No showers.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available. It is recommended to treat water before drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited and unreliable. Telstra has the best chance of reception.
• TV Reception: Poor to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Prohibited. Fuel or gas stoves only.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.
• Number of Sites Available: 11 designated sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Rubbish bags, fuel/gas stove, insect repellent, warm/wet weather clothing, walking shoes.
• Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are strictly prohibited in the national park.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: Yes, this is a major highlight. The Purling Brook Falls circuit starts at the campground.

Local Amenities (in Mudgeeraba/Nerang, approx. 25-30 km)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Wallaby Hotel (Mudgeeraba)
  • Mudgeeraba Hotel
  • Commercial Hotel (Nerang)
• Places to Eat:
  • Limited cafes in Springbrook village. Full range of supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants in Mudgeeraba and Nerang.
• Local Attractions:
  • Purling Brook Falls Lookout
  • Best of All Lookout
  • Natural Bridge (for glow worms at night)
  • Various other lookouts and walks in Springbrook National Park.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Numinbah Valley Adventure Trails
  • BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park (Nerang)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Tully Memorial Park (North Maclean, approx. 1 hour drive). Designated paid camping is the norm in this area.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Nielsens Native Nursery & LV Park (Advancetown, check for public access/fee)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Mudgeeraba or Nerang.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Onsite tap (treatment recommended).
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the campground and other visitor areas in the park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Springbrook’s mountain location gives it a cooler, wetter climate than the nearby Gold Coast, with distinct seasons.