Yabba Creek Park – Kenilworth Free Camp
Yabba Creek Park is a well-regarded free camping destination located just a short distance from the charming country town of Kenilworth in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hinterland. Nestled alongside the gentle Yabba Creek, this picturesque spot offers travellers a peaceful and convenient overnight rest stop. The park is particularly popular with those in self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and campervans, providing a spacious, level area with easy access. While facilities are basic, they cover the essentials for a short stay, including public toilets and rubbish bins, which are maintained by the local council. The surrounding landscape is characterised by lush greenery and mature trees that provide ample shade, creating a relaxing atmosphere. The creek itself is a highlight, perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day, a spot of fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature. Its proximity to Kenilworth means campers are never far from supplies, local cafes, and the famous Kenilworth Dairies. The park operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has a maximum stay period, ensuring a regular turnover for all to enjoy. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the scenic Mary Valley, with its rolling hills, quaint villages, and beautiful drives. For budget-conscious travellers seeking a genuine slice of Australian country life, Yabba Creek Park is an ideal choice, blending natural beauty with essential conveniences.
Yabba Creek Park
3145 Maleny Kenilworth Rd, Kenilworth QLD 4552
GPS Coordinates: -26.624381, 152.689355
Site Information
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Campervans, Big Rigs.
- Road Access: Sealed road.
- Site Surface: Grass and gravel.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: 3 nights (72 hours).
- Facilities: Basic amenities.
- Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage with Telstra; variable with other providers.
- TV Reception: Generally good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets available.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes, provided onsite.
- Open Fires: Not permitted. Contained fires may be allowed subject to local fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, considerate use is advised (e.g., between 8am-8pm).
- Number of Sites Available: Approximately 20-30 unmarked sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, insect repellent, levelling blocks.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Yes, fishing is popular in Yabba Creek.
- Short Walks: Yes, pleasant walks along the creek and around the park.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Kenilworth Hotel (approx. 2 km)
- Places to Eat:
- Kenilworth Bakery (famous for its 1kg donuts, approx. 2 km)
- Various cafes and eateries in Kenilworth town centre (approx. 2 km)
- Local Attractions:
- Kenilworth Dairies (cheese, yoghurt, mousse tasting, approx. 2.5 km)
- Fig Tree Walk, Conondale National Park (approx. 20 km)
- Mary Valley Scenic Drive
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Kenilworth Showgrounds (offers powered sites, approx. 2 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Booloumba Creek Camping Areas (permit required, approx. 25 km)
- Amamoor Creek Camping Area (permit required, approx. 35 km)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Kenilworth Showgrounds (available for a small fee, approx. 2 km)
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Kenilworth (approx. 2 km)
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available in Kenilworth town, check local signage for public taps.
- Public Toilets:
- Onsite at Yabba Creek Park
- Additional toilets in Kenilworth town centre (approx. 2 km)
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Kenilworth enjoys a subtropical climate. Here’s a general guide to the seasons:
Season | Average Temp (Max/Min) | Conditions |
---|---|---|
Summer (Dec – Feb) | 28°C / 18°C | Warm to hot and humid with higher rainfall and afternoon thunderstorms. |
Autumn (Mar – May) | 25°C / 15°C | Pleasantly warm days with cooler evenings. Lower humidity and less rain. |
Winter (Jun – Aug) | 21°C / 8°C | Sunny, dry days with cool to cold nights. Ideal for campfires where permitted. |
Spring (Sep – Nov) | 26°C / 13°C | Warm and sunny days, becoming more humid towards the end of the season. |