Kenilworth Camping Guide – Top 8 Best places to Stay & Must do’s

Welcome to our Kenilworth Camping Guide! Whether you’re after large powered campsites overlooking the Mary River or off-the-grid bush camping in Conondale National Park, this charming country town has something for everyone. And the best part? It’s just a short drive from Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast. 

Let me tell you all about my experiences, Kenilworth camping prices, and some insider tips to help you plan your trip to Kenilworth.

Welcome to Kenilworth

Kenilworth is a small country town nestled in the upper Mary Valley Country, behind the Blackall Range. With a population of about 300, it feels like stepping back in time.

The main street, Elizabeth Street, has a nostalgic 1930s vibe, complete with a historical museum, visitor centre, shops and some great places to eat. And let’s not forget the Kenilworth Cheese Factory, a must-visit for any foodie.

Kenilworth is perfectly positioned on the Mary River, making it an excellent base for exploring the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Just 15 kilometres away lies Conondale National Park. A dream for nature lovers, hikers and 4WD enthusiasts. Think creek crossings, bush-camping, hidden rock pools and lush rainforests. Sounds too good to be true, right?

Where to camp in Kenilworth

Kenilworth offers a wide variety of camping options, from family-friendly powered sites to secluded bush camping spots. Whatever you’re looking for, Kenilworth has it.

Here’s a rundown of the campgrounds I came across while planning my own visit to Kenilworth which I want to share with you. We only stayed at Kenilworth Homestead and used the dump point at the Showgrounds, and I happily give you my honest opinion about those two in this Kenilworth Camping Guide.

Kenilworth Hall and Showgrounds

Costs:

• $30 for two (powered site)
• $20 for two (unpowered site)

Pros:

• Dump point available
• Flushable toilets
• Walking distance to Kenilworth town

Cons:

• Hot shower cost $1 for three minutes
• Limited privacy

Kenilworth Homestead camping

Costs:

• $40 for two (powered site)
• $36 for two (unpowered site)

Pros:

• Spacious sites
• Some unpowered sites are right by the Mary River

Cons:

• Limited amenities (only three showers and three flushable toilets for a large property)
• Facilities could use some love

Bluff Creek Campground 

This small campground is surrounded by rolling hills, the beautiful Mary River and a permanent creek. Each grassy site comes with a fire pit, and the creek is perfect for swimming, fishing or kayaking.

Costs:

• $40 per night (unpowered site)

Pros:

• Spacious sites
• Easy access to the creek and Mary River

Cons:

• Limited privacy
• Limited toilets and showers
• Showers require $1 coins 

Kenilworth Camping on the river

For a more rustic experience, Kenilworth Camping On The River is a family-run campground on a dairy farm that offers large grassy sites by the river. It’s perfect for swimming, kayaking or simply relaxing.

Costs:

• $22 per adult per night

Pros:

• Riverside camping
• Option to book a private area with a rock pool ($500 for up to 10 vans)

Cons:

• Limited privacy 
• No showers, you’ll need to head over to the showgrounds to shower
• No powered sites

Free camping in Kenilworth

Yes, you read that right. Kenilworth has a free camp! Little Yabbs Creek Rest Area is located near the Fig Tree Walk and the entrance to Conondale National Park. This spot is perfect for a quick overnight stay, making Kenilworth Camping budget friendly. This free camp comes with pit toilets and a BBQ area.

Costs:

• Free

Pros:

• BBQ area 
• Pit toilets

Cons:

• No bookings (first come, first served)
• No showers

Kenilworth Camping Booloumba Creek 

If you’re up for some adventure, head to Booloumba Creek Camping Areas in Conondale National Park. There are three 4WD-accessible campgrounds near Bouloumba Creek. The Booloumba Creek Road includes several creek crossings, making it only accessible for high-clearance 4WD vehicles. For us, this was the best Kenilworth Camping experience.

Camping areas 1 and 3 are located in a lush rainforest, with camping area 3 being the closest to Booloumba Creek. When travelling with a campervan, camper trailer, or rooftop tent, Booloumba Camping Area 1 is your go-to. Camping Area 3 is suitable for tents only. And camping area 4 is in a grassy open forest, ideal for groups, and suitable for tents, campervans, camper trailers and off-road caravans.

Booloumba Creek Camping Area 1

Costs:

• $7.25 per person per night

Pros:

• Private sites 
• Flushing toilets

Cons:

• 1.5 km walk to Booloumba Creek
• No showers

Booloumba Creek Camping Area 3

Camping area 3 is great for tent camping in Kenilworth. Here you’ll find 14 tent sites. This camping area is located closest to Booloumba Creek, and located in a beautiful rainforest. Find more information on the Queensland National Parks Website here.

Costs:

• $7.25 per person per night

Pros:

• Private sites 
• Flushing toilets
• Right next to Booloumba Creek

Cons:

• No showers

Booloumba Creek Camping Area 4

This is an open area without separately defined sites. The maximum capacity is 75 people, making it perfect for large groups.

Costs:

• $7.25 per person per night

Pros:

• Flushing toilets
• Walking distance to Booloumba Creek
• Great for large grous

Cons:

• No showers
• No privacy

When travelling with a 2WD, and you want to experience bush camping, nearby you’ll find Imbil State Forest. Charlie Moreland camping area and Sunday Creek Road are both are accessible for two-wheel-drives .

Things to do in Kenilworth

Kenilworth might be small, but there are plenty of things to do in and around Kenilworth. If you want to read more about things to do in Kenilworth, read the full blog about Kenilworth here.

But here are some highlights:

Kenilworth Bakery

Famous for its 1 kg donuts and sausage rolls, the Kenilworth Bakery is a must-visit. When really hungry and feeling competitive, you can participate with their challenge. Don’t miss their coffee served in a donut, it’s as delicious as it sounds.

Kenilworth Hotel

The perfect spot for an afternoon beer is Kenilworth Hotel and brewery. They are open 7 days a week and have a brewery onsite.

Kenilworth Cheese

Stop by Kenilworth Dairies for a tasting platter or some take-home goodies like mousse, yoghurt, ice cream, jams and more. Their grazing platters start at just $14, and everything is made fresh on-site. 

Conondale National Park

15 km South of Kenilworth, you’ll find the idyllic Conondale National Park. This National Park is a dream for 4WD enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and crystal clear creeks while camping under the stars in the rainforest. 

Booloumba Creek

This turquoise coloured waterhole is picture perfect. Whether you’re swimming, relaxing, or trying out the rope swing (hopefully with more grace than I managed), it’s a perfect spot to unwind. 

Booloumba Falls

For a bit more adventure, take the 3 km return hike from the Booloumba Falls Car Park. The 4WD track to get there is quite steep, so a high-clearance 4WD is essential to reach the starting point. But trust me, it’s worth it. 

Fig Tree Walk

This short, wheelchair accessible walke takes you through a lush rainforest a past a giant fig tree. It’s an easy and rewarding activity and fun for all ages.

Tips for Kenilworth Camping

Book Early

Especially during school holidays or long weekends. Campgrounds fill up fast. Secure your spot to avoid disappointment.

Check Your Insurance

Driving in Conondale National Park requires some experience with 4WDing. Creek crossings and steep inclines and declines are part of the adventure. We are using Club 4×4 and it’s reassuring knowing that they cover 4X4s anywhere they’re legally allowed to go and can recover them when things go wrong. This gives us peace of mind when exploring the remote corners of Australia.

Bring Coins for Showers

Many campgrounds require $1 coins for hot showers, so stock up before you arrive.

Pack for All Weather

Kenilworth weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, rain gear, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Stock Up on Supplies

While Kenilworth has a small friendly grocer, it’s a good idea to stock up on essentials before you arrive. Especially if you’re heading to the more remote camping spots in Conondale National Park.

Respect the Environment

Whether camping by the river or deep in the rainforest, always follow the leave no trace principles to keep this area beautiful, keep the noise down and respect nature.

Kenilworth Camping is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re looking for a peaceful riverside retreat or an adventurous journey into the rainforest. With its charming town, friendly community, stunning natural surroundings and a variety of campgrounds, Kenilworth truly has something for everyone. It’s time to start planning your adventure in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Happy camping!

The content on Bush and Bay is based on our personal experiences and opinions. While we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date information, travel conditions and recommendations may change over time. We do not take responsibility for any decisions or actions made based on our content. Always conduct your own research and consult with professionals where necessary. Bush and Bay may earn a small commission from affiliate links, but this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. We only endorse products and places we have personally tested and believe in.