Somerset is made for family camping, with lakeside stays, shady creek-side campsites and country hideaways where the biggest decision of the day is whether to go exploring for platypus or stay put and enjoy a game of cricket.
Summer in Somerset is water sports, bushwalking, sport, bikes, fishing, wildlife spotting and all sorts of family fun.
Whether you’re travelling with a caravan, pitching a tent or looking for a camping experience with a little extra comfort, here are five spots in Somerset to add to your Summer school holiday plans.
1. ESK CARAVAN PARK, ESK
For families who like their camping with a few creature comforts, Esk Caravan Park ticks plenty of boxes. Set against the backdrop of Mount Glen Rock, it offers powered and unpowered sites, cabins and safari-style glamping tents, so you can choose your preferred level of camping commitment.
The kids can burn off energy in the heated family pool, enjoy the playground and join the daily lorikeet feeding, while the camp kitchen and pizza ovens make dinner easy. Best of all, you’re within walking distance of Esk’s cafés, shops and country pubs, making it a great base for exploring the town and nearby Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
Best for: Families who want outdoor fun without giving up all the comforts of home.
Plan your Esk Caravan Park stay
2. NRMA LAKE SOMERSET HOLIDAY PARK, HAZELDEAN
If your family holiday involves boats, fishing rods and as much time on the water as possible, NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park is a natural choice. Sitting on the northern shores of Lake Somerset, this expansive holiday park offers powered and unpowered campsites alongside cabins, lakeview villas and safari tents.
Bring the boat for a day on the dam, cast a line, or enjoy the playground and mini golf between adventures. With barbecue areas and a camp kitchen available, you can finish the day with an easy family dinner and a lakeside sunset. It’s a great option for families who want to mix outdoor adventure with plenty of activities close to camp.
Best for: Water-loving families who want boating, fishing and lakeside camping.
Book your Lake Somerset escape
3. JIMNA BASE CAMP, JIMNA
For a school holiday adventure away from the crowds that’s a little more relaxed and right on the doorstop of National Park adventures, head to Jimna Base Camp. Set on the former Jimna State School grounds, this relaxed campground centres around a large grassy oval shaded by tall trees, with a cricket pitch and tennis court that beg for a little family rivalry.
Kids can enjoy the playground, sandpit and multipurpose sports court while the adults set up camp and get dinner sorted. There are hot showers, flush toilets and shared barbecue facilities, plus fire pits for evenings around the flames when conditions allow. The campground is unpowered, with no water supplied directly to individual sites, so arrive prepared and ready to enjoy a simpler kind of getaway.
Best for: Families who love a traditional camping trip, outdoor games and campfire evenings.
Find out more about Jimna Base Camp
4. PEACH TREES CAMPING AREA, JIMNA
For families who prefer their camping with a healthy dose of bushland, Peach Trees Camping Area is a beautiful spot to unplug. Tucked into an open forest setting beside Yabba Creek, it’s a place for kids to explore the natural surroundings, spot wildlife (perhaps a platypus!) and enjoy the simple pleasures of sleeping under the stars.
The grassy camping area accommodates tents, caravans and camper trailers, with toilets, shared fire rings and walking tracks nearby. Bring your own drinking water, camping essentials and a sense of adventure. The creekside setting is a major drawcard, but remember that water conditions vary, so check local advice before swimming.
Camping permits and fees apply, and bookings are required. Check current access and fire conditions before travelling.
Best for: Families who want a more natural camping experience, with room to spread out and explore.
Check Peach Trees camping information and bookings
5. NEURUM CREEK BUSH RETREAT, MOUNT ARCHER
Another great bushland camping area, Neurum Creek Bush Retreat offers a nature-filled escape on the edge of D’Aguilar National Park, with spacious camping areas and plenty of opportunities to get outdoors.
Settle in with your tent, caravan or camper trailer, then spend your days exploring the natural surroundings, walking tracks and swimming holes. It’s a great choice for families who want a little more space, fresh air and a chance to reconnect with nature. The kids can take their bikes, canoes and yes, even the family dog.
Facilities are more about getting back to basics but there are amenities onsite including a camp shop (to purchase kindling, ice and lollies, milk and water), showers and eco-friendly toilets).
Best for: Families keen on self-contained bush camping, outdoor exploration and switching off for a few days.
Explore Neurum Creek Bush Retreat
TIPS BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD
- Book ahead: School holidays are popular, so secure your campsite before you leave home.
- Pack for the experience: Lakeside holiday parks and remote bush camps have different facilities. Check what’s supplied and what you’ll need to bring.
- Plan a town stop: Stock up on supplies and explore Somerset’s country towns, cafés and local attractions along the way.
- Check conditions: For bush camping, check park alerts, weather forecasts, fire restrictions and access requirements before departure.
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