Somerset Dam is a scenic holiday destination located 115km North-West of Brisbane. It is the ideal location for an outdoor adventure holiday. Whether you enjoy water sports, fishing or trail walking, this beautiful scenery will make an unforgettable getaway. The dam welcomes day visitors and holiday makers. So pack your fishing rods, bicycles and camping equipment and plan a trip to Somerset Dam.
Boating
Somerset Dam allows both powered and non-powered boats with permits. There are two public access areas with multi-lane, concrete boat ramps. Electric model boating is also permitted outside the designated swimming areas.
Camping
There are two main camping locations: Kirkleigh which can accommodate 2,200 campers, and the smaller Somerset Park which accommodates 800.
There are also various camping resorts in the surrounding areas:
Camp Duckadang
Camp Duckadang is set in a magnificent 1.5 hectare site on the upper reaches of the Brisbane River, between the Blackbutt and Conondale ranges. The camp provides a truly picturesque setting, catering for groups wanting to absorb themselves in the countryside and its many attractions. More information
Esk Caravan Park
Esk Caravan Park is located away from the highway in a quiet and peaceful parkland setting, boasting mountain views, a creek boundary, animal and bird life. The caravan park is situated within easy walking distance to restaurants and shops. More information
Lake Atkinson Waterfront Caravan Park
Set on 25 acres, the caravan park provides plenty of space for camping, boating, fishing or relaxing. Campfires are permitted as are dogs (to be on leashes or inside vehicle at all times). The two boat ramps are available for guest use as well as camp kitchen, salt water pool, three amenities blocks and coin operated laundry. More information
Lake Somerset Holiday Park
Lake Somerset Holiday Park is a short drive from the country towns of Kilcoy, Esk and Woodford and is situated in the heart of the Valley of the Lakes. Set on 45 hectares on the northern shores of Somerset Dam, the park offers an ideal getaway for families, groups and individuals, and is perfect for water sport enthusiasts, freshwater anglers or those just wanting to relax and unwind amidst nature. More information
Neurum Creek Bush Retreat
Camping, caravanning, motorhome, camper trailer, swag? You’re all welcome at Neurum Creek Bush Retreat, stay a few days or more, or come for a day visit. Ideal relaxation retreat in which to kick back from the rush and bustle of city life. More information
Fishing
Somerset Dam is a very popular fishing destination, and one of the top five fishing spots in Queensland. Fish species found in the dam include Australian bass, golden perch, silver perch, bony bream, eel-tailed catfish, spangled perch, Mary River cod, snub nosed gar, Queensland lungfish and saratoga. A stocked impoundment permit is required to fish in the dam.
Water Sports
Canoeing – In addition to the main dam area, there is also a selection of various rivers and creeks which make excellent canoeing and kayaking hot spots. Click here to download the Somerset Canoe Trails.
Other water sports offered include jet skiing, sailing and swimming in designated areas.
Trail Walking
The region has several walking trails to suit any fitness level. Whether you prefer a relaxed, scenic trail where you can take photographs, or a more mountainous hike, the Somerset region has a variety of trails to choose from.
Other Attractions
The Somerset region is a meandering of historical homesteads, buildings and rail trails, that intertwine the forest landscape and creeks. There is an abundance of restaurants, pubs and bakeries to tempt every taste bud, an unforgettable cultural heritage and award-winning wineries.
The landscape unravels and transforms as you travel through the region. From rugged mountains to hidden valleys, the man-made lakes, native bushlands, and meandering rivers take you on a scenic journey of unforgettable beauty.
So whether you opt for a more relaxed and tranquil holiday, or an action-packed adventure holiday, Somerset Dam is definitely the place to set as your next destination.