Benarkin State Forest – Clancy’s Camping Area
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.
We chose Clancy’s Camping Area for this trip and it is dog friendly.
Things you need to know before you go:
- Pre-book your campsite via Queensland National Parks Online Booking Service
- Clancy’s is 14km 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
- Dog friendly at Clancy’s
- Take all rubbish when you leave, no bins
Whilst here, we drove 2km further into the forest to look at Emu Creek Day Use Area, where dogs are allowed on a lead. They are not allowed into the Emu Creek Camping Area however. The Day Use Area here had plenty of space and lots of shade. You’ll find picnic tables, barbeques and flush toilets here too.
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.
Take a close look at Clancy’s Camping Area and Emu Creek Day Use Area on our YouTube channel – https://youtu.be/e9p-hO6MOsE
