A boutique-style camping area in the Beerwah State Forest
Hubby and I recently came across Coochin Creek camping area, whilst out and about with the
Camel Cuddles Farm Tour. A 'boutique-style' camping area is what springs to mind as an apt description for Coochin Creek camping, referring to the
only twenty-one camp sites, rather than the facilities, which appear to be on the 'lean' side. I'm sure my readers might remember that my idea for a holiday, if it
must be camping, would be to go the
glamping route. My favourite mantras are:
'not working harder on holiday, than at home' and
'one does not go on holiday to lose weight'.
Important camping info to read on entering Coochin Camping
The up-side to the Coochin Creek camping area, located in the
Beerwah State Forest, is that this area is perfect for visitors - campers and day visitors - who love fishing and exploring the waterways, in canoes and small boats. Coochin Creek flows into the sheltered waters of the Pumicestone passage in the
Moreton Bay Marine Park. The Coochin Creek camping site can be found on Roys Road, about three kilometres upstream from the Pumicestone Passage. The proximity to suburbia is a bonus, especially if one has forgotten to pack something i.e. matches for the camp fire, drinking water and other important 'stuff'. The
camp sites are numbered and individual camp site details are provided so that visitors can book the site most suitable for their tent, camper trailer, camper van or caravan.
Neat and tidy
Another bonus: holidaymakers can reach the camping area with conventional vehicles - no bundu-bashing vehicles required here.
A terraced area provides vantage points for fishing from the creek bank. A boat ramp is located about one kilometre from the camping area, whilst canoes or kayaks can be launched into the creek too, more than likely from the terraced area.
Coochin Creek is perfect for fishing and canoeing
The facilities at Coochin Creek include communal fire rings; water (though the water provided is not suitable for drinking purposes) and wheelchair-accessible composting toilets. Open fires are permitted at Coochin Creek but
only in the fire rings that are provided. Campers are advised to bring their own clean-milled firewood and/or a fuel stove. It is illegal to collect wood from the State forest. Generator use is not permitted in the Beerwah State Forest.
Domestic animals are not permitted at Coochin Creek camping area.
Definitely a water-sport enthusiast
Adequate drinking water (as mentioned earlier, the water provided at the park is unsuitable for drinking)
Rubbish bags to remove rubbish
Insect repellant and a first-aid kit
Sunscreen, hats and long-sleeved shirt for sun protection
Mobile phone (mobile phone coverage in this area is very poor)
A very well organised camper, they even have their own solar panels
Beerwah State Forest is open twenty-four hours a day and visitors are cautioned to only bush walk, drive or ride through the State Forest during daylight hours.
Camping permits are required and
camping fees do apply.
Book your camp site online here.
Even though I'm not a huge camping fan, there are a few distinct
advantages to camping at
Coochin Creek camping area (from my perspective)
Fewer camp sites make for more congenial camping - meet your neighbours-style camping
Close to suburbia - no need to stress about leaving something at home
Accessible by conventional vehicles
Great for short-term getaways
Picnic tables and gas BBQ's for day visitors
(my perspective)
I wouldn't be happy without shower facilities - hence my 'great for short-term getaways';
Our furry family members are not permitted. But … we do have other options i.e.
Australian Adventure Park, though a bit further up the track;
Mozzies could be a problem, hence the pre-requisite insect repellant
All camp sites are very clearly marked
For day visitors there are picnic tables, wheelchair-accessible toilets and gas barbecues at both the Coochin Creek day-use area as well as at the
Glass House Mountains lookout day-use area.
School holidays are just around the corner and if you haven't managed to secure a getaway for the family yet, Coochin Creek camping in the Beerwah State Forest might just be a great short-term option.
All images courtesy of author
Do's and don't's ... with pictures
