| Cost | Budget-friendly camping option |
|---|---|
| Location | Various locations including Mary Valley, QLD |
| Pet Friendly | See Camps App |
| Campfires | See Camps App |
| Facilities | Self-contained camping available |
| Vehicle Access | See Camps App |
| In Camps App | Yes – Little Yabba Picnic Area (QLD site 247 in Camps 10) |
Right now, councils and local commerce groups need to work even harder and smarter to reinvigorate tourism after lockdown, and welcome people into their region.
Although Aussies have done it tough during the crisis, we know from the surge in interest post-Covid – that people cannot wait to get back on the road.
The beauty of the camping industry is that compared to traditional accommodation:
1. It is relatively cheap – so very appealing if you are on a budget.
2. Travellers who are self-contained don’t have to worry about public facilities, and
3. Self distancing in the bush or beach is EASY!
4. You can use your saved dollars to help build the economy of communities, and really help small business owners survive.
We hope communities capitalise on that. In fact, campers tell us they are keen to spend in communities – not just those recovering from drought and fires, but also lack of tourists!
We are back planning our outback Queensland adventure, now – and it feels good! Just knowing we can venture further than 50 km is wonderful. As I write, many are frustrated that border closures are still crippling businesses, others are relieved they are still shut. Either way, we can all make the most of our own states or territories.
Last weekend we ventured into Queensland’s beautiful Mary Valley, and lunched at Little Yabba Picnic Area (pictured: Queensland site 247 in Camps 10), south of Kenilworth. We drove through Gympie, Dagun, Amamoor, Imbil State Forest and Borumba Dam. Of course, we stopped at the Kenilworth Dairies on the way home. Glad we had our bread rolls – because the queue for #1kgdonutchallenge at Kenilworth Country Bakery was atrocious!
I’ve also popped down to Coolangatta on the NSW/QLD border. You can check out some videos of the views on our Facebook page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is camping a good option after COVID-19 lockdowns?
Camping is budget-friendly, allows for easy social distancing in bush or beach settings, and self-contained travellers don’t need to worry about shared public facilities. It’s also a great way to support local communities recovering from reduced tourism.
Where is Little Yabba Picnic Area located?
Little Yabba Picnic Area is located in Queensland’s Mary Valley, south of Kenilworth. It’s accessible via Gympie, Dagun, Amamoor, Imbil State Forest and Borumba Dam. Check the Camps App for current details.
What attractions are near the Mary Valley camping areas?
Popular stops include Kenilworth Dairies and Kenilworth Country Bakery (famous for their 1kg donut challenge). The area features scenic drives through Imbil State Forest and around Borumba Dam.
Can I find Little Yabba Picnic Area in the Camps Australia Wide app?
Yes, Little Yabba Picnic Area is listed as Queensland site 247 in Camps 10.
Is camping expensive compared to traditional accommodation?
No, camping is relatively cheap and very appealing if you’re on a budget. Your saved dollars can then be spent supporting local communities and small businesses.
Do I need to be self-contained for camping?
Being self-contained is recommended as you won’t have to worry about public facilities and can maintain social distancing more easily. Check the Camps App for current details about specific site facilities.
How can camping help local communities?
By choosing camping, you save on accommodation costs and can spend those dollars in local communities, helping small business owners survive and supporting regions recovering from drought, fires, and reduced tourism.
What are the best camping spots in Queensland’s Mary Valley?
Little Yabba Picnic Area south of Kenilworth is a beautiful option. The region also includes Imbil State Forest and Borumba Dam for scenic exploration. Check the Camps App for current details on all available sites.
