Darlington Park – Getting There is Part of the Fun
Having done a fair bit of Off-Grid Camping (no power, water or amenities), I often look for spots to recommend to campers who want to dip their toes in the off-grid world safely and with some level of support.
A place I have seen on a few social media pages over the years is Darlington Park, in the Scenic Rim Region of South-East Queensland and just 30 minutes south of Beaudesert – or 90 minutes south of Brisbane CBD.
The road out of Beaudesert takes you through the hamlet Kerry on the banks of the Albert River surrounded by lush grasses, crops and cattle.
You’ll find the campgrounds at 2505 Kerry Road, Darlington or https://w3w.co/owes.spear.rehearsed
The lands of this area are understood to be the the traditional lands of the Bundjalung First Nation People (aiatsis.gov.au)
The Road to Darlington
The Kerry Road to Darlington is single lane in each direction with some patches closer to Darlington where it is a single shared lane road with some single lane bridges.
This, in itself, is a good tester for new travellers who’d like to test out their new rigs in terms of width and handling in a quiet setting. Just take your time, pull off the road when you need to and avoid times where traffic would be coming the other way.
As always, keep a ‘weather eye’ out for interesting / quirky sights along the road – the locals have an interesting take on life in this quiet corner of the world.
SHAMROCK VALE STATION
As a day out, or a trip away for a weekend or longer, the journey up the Albert Valley towards the Border Ranges is very pleasant and feels as though you’ve travelled back in time a little with a reduced pace and great scenery of the surrounding hills – with Tamborine Mountain, O’Reillys and Lamington National Park looking down from the east.
Darlington Park
The camping and recreation grounds themselves are ‘owned’ by the Scenic Rim Regional Council and managed by private operators – currently Joe and Kate Murray.
The camping area straddles both sides of Kerry Road and sits comfortably on the banks of the Albert River providing swimming holes and small rapids to keep the kids amused with hours of fun (don’t mention the outdoor learnings).
FUN IN THE RAPIDS
There is also a huge central sports oval for ball games and heaps of room for simply running around.
Amenities and Services
- There’s two very clean flush-toilet blocks but no showers and disabled access at Darlington Park. Although ensuite shower and port-a-pottie style toilet tents are allowed).
- There’s even a Dump Point for the port-a-potties.
- Power – There is no power at the campgrounds.
- Water – Non-potable (not for drinking) water is available near the amenities.
- Payment – Payment in cash on arrival – NO EFTPOS
- Purchase Firewood at the office.
- Pets are welcome, but must be kept on a leash.
- Rubbish facilities in the campgrounds.
The Office stocks simple food stuffs like cans of carrots and beans, toilet paper and sanitary products, as well as refrigerated items like bacon. But, as Joe says, “If you’ve come away for the weekend you’re pretty unprepared if you have to buy something”. Regardless -Joe has what you need if you’ve forgotten something. Again, cash only.
DARLINGTON PARK OFFICE
THE KIOSK
There’s also swings etc for the kids as well as BBQs and heaps of fire pits spread about the park. Oh, and there’s lots of shade – just be careful of possible falling branches (as always).
BBQs
Should I book to stay at Darlington Park?
The website and brochure says that you only need to book on long weekends and holidays. But, I suggest you call Joe a call if only to have a chat.
CAMPING
RIVER
Camping fees are (at the time of writing):
- $10 per adult per night (slightly higher at peak times);
- $5 per child (5-15 years) per night (under 5 free); and
- families (2 adults and 4 children) $30 per night.
Daytime visitors are also welcome. Stop for a picnic and dip your toes in the water.
Plan a trip to Scenic Rim Area Read More
More information on the Scenic Rim Area Read More
