Emu Creek Camping Area – Benarkin State Forest, Qld
Benarkin State Forest – Queensland bush camping at its very best! This State Forest is about a 2hr drive northwest of Brisbane, just off the D’Aguilar Highway near the little township of Benarkin. The forestry road into the camping areas is suitable for 2WD vehicles and is generally well graded. Both camping areas are well-maintained large open grassy areas with vehicle access to sites and are suitable for caravans, camper trailers, campervans, motorhomes, tents and swags.
Emu Creek Camping Area is larger than Clancy’s Camping Area and has great access to Emu Creek.
Things you need to know before you go:
- Pre-book your campsite via Queensland National Parks Online Booking Service
- Emu Creek Camping Area is 16km from the D’Aguilar Highway
- The camping area is well-maintained
- Clean flush toilets
- Bring your drinking water (some non-potable water available)
- Wood fires allowed in the fireplaces that are provided
- BYO firewood
- No generators
- No mobile coverage
- No dogs allowed (Clancy’s Camping Area is dog friendly)
- Take all rubbish when you leave, no bins
The Day Use Area here had plenty of space and lots of shade. You’ll find picnic tables, barbeques and flush toilets here too. Dogs on lead are allowed in this day use area.
Emu Creek itself can be accessed from both camping areas. You can swim or fish and kayak or canoe. There are 4WD tracks as well and opportunities for walking in Benarkin State Forest. The Forest is a haven for pademelons, bettongs and quail, and you will find lots of waterbirds near the creek. We had a variety of birds going about their day right by our campsite, as well as a very large and curious goanna! If you are quiet, you may spot deer very early in the morning.
Benarkin State Forest is managed for timber production. It also protects habitats of many animals and plants, including some rare and endangered species.
Supplies and fuel are available at Blackbutt or Moore, with limited supplies available at nearby Benarkin. We highly recommend the bakery at Blackbutt – just the best pies and sweet treats.
You can take a close look Emu Creek Camping and Day Use Areas on our YouTube channel – https://youtu.be/a6av6RAJu9U
