Booloumba Creek Camping Guide

In the heart of Queensland lies Conondale National Park, where you can find Booloumba Creek and its many serene camping spots, perfect for those who love nature and adventure. Throughout the Booloumba Creek area, you’ll find crystal clear waters, green rainforests, and a diverse range of wildlife—a hidden gem that packs an unforgettable outdoor experience.

If you’re planning a camp in this beautiful area, here’s what to know as you navigate the area and find the perfect campsite for you and your crew for a spectacular trip.

Where is Booloumba Creek?

Booloumba Creek is located within Conondale National Park in Queensland. It lies about 70 km west of Maroochydore’s Sunshine Coast and 130 km north of Brisbane. This waterway is an integral part of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, famous for its natural beauty and diverse plant and animal ecosystems.

To make your way to Booloumba Creek, you’ll drive south through Kenilworth, which can be a great stop for some artisan cheese but is still a beautiful scenic drive on its own. Alternatively, you can also enter through Maleny from the east. After passing through there, you’ll soon find yourself on Booloumba Creek Road, winding through lush farmland before finally arriving at the national park. 

As you get to the camping areas, look out for the large eucalyptus trees and listen for the creek’s gently flowing waters.

Booloumba Creek Camping: Which Area Should You Choose?

You have three distinct camping areas to choose from, plus a few other nearby spots. Each location has its own attractions and beauty, so let’s explore them below to decide which area will best meet your camping needs and desires.

Camping Area 1

Campground 1 is the largest in the park and also the most popular of its three official sites. If you’re camping with a family or a large group and are looking forward to a social camping experience with others nearby, it could be just the spot for you. Here, you’ll find spacious grassy camp spots that fit just about any tent and some smaller campers. 

You’ll also find it easy to work your way to Booloumba Creek to swim or fish for dinner. Nearby are fire pits, picnic tables for your meals and get-togethers, and walking trails, including the gorgeous Booloumba Falls trail. 

Here, you’ll have plenty of space to set up all your equipment, including an EcoFlow Portable Power Station like the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max, to enjoy all your beloved comforts from home. These power stations are a perfect addition to your camping gear as they’ll allow you to keep your devices and appliances charged so you can cook a meal, stay connected, and enhance your overall experience.

Camping Area 3

Are you looking for an experience a little more secluded with more solitude and time with the quiet of nature? Take a wander to Camping Area 3, a smaller and more intimate space for those who want to get up close and personal with the natural surroundings. Camping Area 3 has beautiful, shady spots nestled into the trees. It’s quieter than Area 1, providing a perfectly peaceful atmosphere if you want to enjoy birdwatching or simply existing in nature while camping solo.

Though some spots can be in the shade, you can still find areas perfect for an EcoFlow Solar Generator, which will allow you to capture energy from the sun and use it to power your appliances and devices at your campsite for as long as you plan to stay. Plus, since they don’t require fuel and are nearly silent when running, you won’t have to worry about disturbing the peace around you.

Camping Area 4

Not sure whether you want all the social interaction that Camping Area 1 offers but aren’t ready to commit to the solitude of Camping Area 3? You may find the perfect sweet spot with Camping Area 4. You’ll find a good balance between a social atmosphere and seclusion here. It’s a mid-sized campground with a pretty equal mixture of shaded areas and open campsites, allowing you to choose the vibe you prefer. 

Accessing the creek directly here is also easy if that’s important to you. Additionally, it’s not far from the Booloumba Gorge circuit walk, a 12 km circuit trail that will take you to swimming holes, canyons, and stunning waterfalls.

If you have a small group, consider choosing Camping Area 4 and bringing your pick of the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Series Portable Power Stations. They have the capacity and output to handle several devices and appliances simultaneously. However, they’re still small and compact enough to put in the trunk without taking up too much car space (or campsite space). 

Booloumba Creek Camping: What You Need To Know

Proper preparation will make your camping trip a great one. You’ll know what to expect, what you need, and the essential rules.

Do You Need a Permit to Camp at Booloumba Creek?

You’ll need a permit if you plan to camp overnight at Booloumba Creek. Head to the Queensland Department of Environment and Science’s website and find their bookings page. You’ll need to pay the applicable fee, and then you’ll receive a permit. 

Try to book in advance, as open spots fill up quickly, especially during holidays or school breaks.

Do I Need a 4WD for Booloumba Creek?

Driving a 4WD vehicle for Booloumba Creek camping is highly recommended, as the areas in Campgrounds 1, 3, and 4 all require high-clearance 4WD vehicles. This is because the roads are unsealed and may include creek crossings. These roads can be slippery and rough, especially after substantial rain. Don’t risk damaging your vehicle or getting stuck by taking a car that does not have 4WD.

Are Dogs Allowed at Booloumba Creek?

Sadly, you’ll need to leave Fido at home as dogs and other domestic pets aren’t allowed to come with you in Conondale National Park, which includes any of the Booloumba Creek campgrounds. 

Why can’t dogs come? The aim is to protect the delicate native ecosystem. If you must bring your furry friend along on your camping adventures, choose a different pet-friendly park in the area or venture beyond to check out other dog-friendly camping spots in Victoria.

Can You Swim at Booloumba Creek? 

Yes, many people head to this area for a weekend of swimming in the beautiful, clear, cool waters of Booloumba Creek. You can swim from all three campground areas throughout the creek and in several swimming holes and rock pools. 

If you’re looking forward to swimming during your stay, check out the Breadknife. This unique rock formation created a natural waterslide of sorts. Also, explore Booloumba Falls, a large waterfall with a deep swimming pool at its base that you can access via a hiking trail.

You should always practice safety protocols when swimming, especially if rainfalls have been heavy and water levels are higher. Look out for rocks, and consider wearing water shoes to protect your feet. Children should never swim without an adult present.

Can You Take a Caravan to Booloumba Creek?

Yes, you can take a caravan if it’s a high-clearance 4WD. However, note that your caravan cannot go to Camping Area 3, as this is for tents only. Remember that your caravan will have to trek through winding, unsealed roads. 

There are also nearby caravan parks in Kenilworth or Maleny where you can set up and enjoy day trips to Booloumba Creek. 

Want to stay in Booloumba Creek Campground but don’t want to give up the luxury of AC that your caravan provides? Find a compromise by tent camping with the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable AC, which can keep you cool without needing a caravan.

Booloumba Creek Camping Essentials and Packing Tips

You must pack properly to maximise your enjoyment from your camping trip to Booloumba Creek. Don’t leave home without the essentials. They’ll keep you comfortable, equipped, and happy.

Sleeping

• Sleeping bag – thick for winter, thin for summer
• Sleeping mats or air mattresses if you prefer additional padding
• Pillows
• Pillowcases
• Sheets if using an air mattress
• Extra blankets (even in summer, nights can get chilly)
• Tarp
• Tent

Cooking

• Portable camp stove and fuel (or alternative power source like an EcoFlow Solar Generator)
• Cooking equipment – pots, pans, knives, serving spoons
• Utensils and dinnerware – plates, forks, knives, spoons
• Napkins or paper towels
• Cooler for food storage
• Water containers for drinking and anything else
• Dish soap and scrubber (biodegradable if possible)
• Dish rags
• Trash bags (take all rubbish with you when you leave the campground)

Power and Lighting

• Portable power source – portable power station or solar generator
• Flashlights or lanterns (battery-powered)
• String lights for ambient campsite lighting
• Extra batteries
• Headlamps for night adventures
• Portable AC unit 

Clothing

• Light layers that are comfortable and weather-appropriate
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Water shoes if planning on swimming
• Rain jacket, umbrella, or poncho
• Sunglasses and hat
• Jacket, scarf, and warm socks for chilly evenings

Personal Care

• Toiletries – toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, sunscreen
• Bug repellent
• First aid supplies
• Medications
• Towels
• Hand sanitiser

Recreation/Fun

• Swimsuits, flippers, goggles, etc.
• Fishing equipment 
• Games, books, puzzles
• Binoculars (if you like bird-watching)
• Camera or cameraphone to capture great memories

Extra

• Camping chairs
• Folding table
• Firewood
• Maps or GPS device
• Tent repair kit

Booloumba Creek is a delicate environment, so “pack in, pack out” is crucial here. This means you pack anything you brought to the campsite as you leave, so nothing remains behind. Take all trash to the appropriate spots, as animals can easily get into rubbish, and it can harm them, or they can scatter it around and disrupt the natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

Booloumba Creek is a stunning part of Australia that everyone should visit at some point. With its three campgrounds offering a slightly different experience, you can tailor your camping trip to your specific needs and preferences and make memories to last a lifetime. 

Remember—drive a 4WD vehicle to get there so you can travel safely, arrange for your permit ahead of time, and pack all the essentials to enjoy the area to its fullest. Enjoy the swimming, hikes, and gorgeous scenery of the park, and when you leave, follow the Leave No Trace principle to maintain the area’s pristine beauty. 

To elevate your camping trip to the next level, bring a reliable power source to stay connected and power your essential devices and appliances. Browse the selection of EcoFlow Portable Power Stations and EcoFlow Solar Generators to find the solution that best meets your needs.