For keen anglers or those who just want to camp in the great outdoors, the grassy open camping ground at Borumba Dam is a great spot to pitch a tent. From Brisbane CBD it’s just 2-hour drive north to the Borumba Dam Camping Grounds on the edge of Imbil State Forest, on Old Yabba Road.
It is a lovely scenic spot, mostly flat, located on the banks of the Yabba Creek and about a 15-minute walk downstream from the dam itself. The Borumba Dam has been providing drinking water for South East Queensland since 1971 when it was built across Yabba Creek.
What facilities are at the camping ground?
Borumba Camping Ground has around 50 campsites, some with powered sites suitable for caravans, with lots of shady spots in summer. It has a well-maintained toilet/shower block with flushing toilets and hot showers as well. Drinking water is usually available at the camping ground, but it is advised to still boil the water before drinking. You’ll also need to leave ‘Fido’ at home as no domestic animals are allowed.
To book a spot at Borumba Dam Campground call (07) 5488 6662; they only take cash, there are no EFTPOS facilities. For a campsite expect to pay $10 per adult, $5 per child and $6 extra for a powered site.
What activities are available at Borumba Dam?
Borumba Dam provides a number of recreational facilities for the public and is a popular spot in the warmer months for lake-based activities. There is a boat ramp, and motorised boats are permitted so you can water ski, jet ski, wake board and tube. You can also canoe, kayak, sail and row.
There are some things you’re not allowed to do at Borumba Dam – swimming, scuba diving or snorkelling.
You can fish there, but you need to first have a fishing permit from the Queensland Government, Department of Fisheries, Agriculture and Forestry. Read our articleFishing on Borumba Dam to find out more about permit prices, fish you can catch and the best times for fishing.
At the campground itself, there are nearby swimming holes and plenty of opportunities for local bird and wildlife watching in the National Forest. Some of the campsites have fireplaces and firewood is provided at the onsite kiosk so you can have BBQs and picnics. Always check local fire bans and rules first before lighting fires.
For more information download the Lake Borumba Recreation Guide for detailed information about activities, as well as maps and important safety information.