Lake Moogerah is One of South-East QLD’s Most Tranquil Treasures

3/06/2021

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3/06/2021

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The Scenic Rim in South-East Queensland is home to one of Australia’s most pristine destinations for sojourn seekers: Lake Moogerah. Just a short drive from Brisbane, you’ve got hiking, wildlife spotting, swimming holes, and a local brewery at your fingertips.

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Bundjalung Nation, the traditional land of the Bundjalung people who have occupied and cared for this land for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Highlights

Turtle spotting!
Camping under the stars and right by the water
Beers at the brewery

Mountain Gazing at Haigh Park

Start your day off in Bundjalung country with some picturesque views of the lake and mountains. The rocky Mount Greville will stand out the moment you reach the lookout at Haigh Park, and it really pays off if you bring binoculars to spot the gorgeous landscape up close. But don’t worry, the scenery is breathtaking regardless!

Haigh Park is also home to BBQ facilities, picnic spots, and a cafe if you want to kick back and relax.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

Hiking & Wildlife Spotting at Mt Edwards

From Haigh Park, walk along the Moogerah Dam catchment towards the base of Mt Edwards, with Lake Moogerah on your left and Reynolds Creek on your right, both a sheer drop below. The Moogerah side of the dam catchment is a perfect opportunity to spot turtles.

The views of Reynolds Creek from the catchment are spectacular, with Mt Edwards on the left side of the gorge and Little Mt Edwards on the right.

The Mt Edwards summit trail is a moderate well-worn track with some steep and rocky sections. This 6km return hike will take you through stunning eucalypt woodland and Araucarian notophyll vine forest as you work up a sweat to the summit.

From the top of the mountain, enjoy beautiful views out towards the township of Kalbar and the surrounding patchwork of agricultural land. On a clear sunny day, you’ll even spot the tiny matchbox skyscrapers of the Gold Coast in the distance.

Taste The Region at Scenic Rim Brewery

A satisfying feed after a good hike is a given, and The Scenic Rim Brewery doesn’t disappoint. Around a ten minute drive from Lake Moogerah, this countryside brewery has it all: great food, smooth local beer, and friendly staff. You can even get a little taste of Germany with a Wurst platter to share — stacked with three gourmet German-style sausages, sauerkraut, fries, pickled vegetables, and coleslaw.

It’s the perfect accompaniment to any of their housemade tap beers (including a Spiced Pumpkin Ale, brewed with locally harvested pumpkins). Tasting unique local produce is always a great idea when exploring new regions.

Wild Swimming at Yarramalong Recreation Centre

If you’re wanting to make the most out of a weekend getaway at Lake Moogerah, you can’t go past the underrated Yarramalong Recreation Centre, which backs onto Reynolds Creek. From Lake Moogerah Rd, you’ll embark on a short drive along a dirt road until you reach a woodland campground.

The main attraction here for day-trippers is the swimming hole, or you can extend your stay by pitching a tent or pulling up your caravan. Day passes for the swimming hole can be purchased at the campground kiosk for just $5. It’s totally worth it, as this creekside oasis really is a hidden gem.

The swimming hole at Reynolds Creek can be found along a short trail at the back of the campground — perfect for a dip, a picnic, and maybe a swing off the rope swing if you’re feeling adventurous.

Read more: Staying Safe Around Swimming Holes

Basecamp

We camped at Lake Moogerah Caravan Park on our weekend getaway to the Scenic Rim, which is a choice spot for waterfront camping. We spent the chilly nights relaxing by a fire drinking red wine and stargazing after an adventure-filled day. The stars and milky way were incredibly visible at night!

Kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities at the lake, and you can either bring your own or rent them from the caravan park.

Although camping was our preferred accommodation, there’s plenty of other options around the area to suit every kind of traveller — from rustic farm stays in cabins and cottages, to motels and retreats. However, most accommodation in the Lake Moogerah region has a two-night minimum stay on weekends.