Theresa Creek Dam – Clermont QLD

Nestled approximately 22 kilometres southwest of Clermont in Queensland’s Isaac Region, Theresa Creek Dam is a favoured destination for travellers, grey nomads, and families seeking a tranquil escape. Originally constructed to supply water for the Blair Athol coal mine, the dam has evolved into a vibrant recreational hub, offering a quintessential Australian bush camping experience combined with modern conveniences. Its expansive shoreline and calm waters create a picturesque setting, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay to explore the surrounding historical goldfields and coal country.

The campground at Theresa Creek Dam caters to a wide range of visitors, from those with large motorhomes and caravans to traditional tent campers. With a generous number of both powered and unpowered sites scattered across a wide, open area, finding the perfect spot with a waterfront view is often an easy task. The facilities are well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable stay. Visitors can enjoy hot showers, clean toilet blocks, and access to potable water. The dam is particularly renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, stocked with Barramundi, Golden Perch, and Silver Perch, although it’s famous for the abundance of Red Claw crayfish. Boating and kayaking are also popular pastimes, with a concrete boat ramp providing easy access to the water for a day of exploration or angling.

Beyond the water-based activities, the area provides a peaceful environment for relaxation and connecting with nature. The birdlife is prolific, and the serene sunrises and sunsets over the water are truly spectacular. While campfires are permitted in designated areas (subject to local fire restrictions), they offer the perfect end to a day of adventure. With its combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and quality amenities, Theresa Creek Dam stands out as a premier inland camping and fishing location in Central Queensland.

Campsite Information

• Location: Theresa Creek Dam, 22km southwest of Clermont.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road to the dam entrance, with well-maintained gravel roads within the campground.
• Site Surface: Mostly grass and dirt. Some gravel areas.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, designated powered and unpowered camping areas.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified maximum, but long-term stays may require arrangement with management.
• Number of Powered Sites: Approximately 60.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Large open area with space for hundreds of unpowered setups.

Facilities & Features

• Facilities: Toilets, hot showers ($1 coin operated), boat ramp.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, located in various spots around the day-use area.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited coverage. Telstra generally has the best reception near the kiosk/office area.
• TV Reception: Variable, may require a signal booster for reliable reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Ullage/Dump Point: A public dump point is available in Clermont.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, provided for campers’ convenience.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans. Check with the kiosk on arrival.
• Generator Use: Permitted during specified hours (typically 8 am – 8 pm).
• Number of Sites Available: Varies; bookings are recommended during peak seasons and public holidays.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water hose, levelling blocks, insect repellent, fishing gear, and $1 coins for showers.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• Fishing: Yes – famous for Red Claw, also stocked with Barramundi, Golden Perch, and Silver Perch. A Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) is required.
• Short Walks: Yes, informal tracks around the dam shoreline.

Local Amenities (from Clermont)

Pubs

• Grand Hotel Clermont: ~23 km
• Commercial Hotel Clermont: ~23 km
• Leo Hotel: ~23 km

Places to Eat

• Clermont Hotel Motel (Restaurant): ~23 km
• Tuckerbox Takeaway: ~23 km
• Clermont Bakery: ~23 km

Local Attractions

• Clermont Historical Centre: ~24 km
• Hoods Lagoon: ~23 km
• Peak Range National Park (Wolfang Peak): ~60 km

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Clermont Caravan Park: ~24 km
• Clermont Showgrounds & Camping: ~25 km

Next Free Camps

• Copperfield Dam Recreation Area: ~110 km
• Capella Creek Rest Area: ~70 km

Essential Services

• Nearest Dump Points: Clermont Saleyards, Gregory Highway, Clermont (~25 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station: Various stations (BP, Caltex) in Clermont (~23 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite or in Clermont.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite or at Hoods Lagoon in Clermont (~23 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Clermont Region

The Clermont region experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasons.

• Summer (December – February): Hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 34°C. This period is also the wet season, with higher chances of rainfall and thunderstorms.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm and pleasant conditions. Temperatures cool down to a comfortable 17°C to 29°C, with decreasing humidity and rainfall.
• Winter (June – August): Dry and mild with plenty of sunshine. Days are typically warm, around 10°C to 24°C, but nights can be cool, occasionally dropping to single digits.
• Spring (September – November): Warming up again, with temperatures between 16°C and 31°C. It is generally dry, but the chance of rain increases towards the end of the season.