The Ultimate Guide To Kenilworth Camping: Best Campgrounds, Free Camping, FAQs & More!

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Last updated on May 26, 2023 by Wandering our World

Kenilworth is a beautiful town located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland of Queensland, Australia. The town is situated amongst the picturesque Mary Valley and is surrounded by lush rainforest and rolling green hills. Considering that backdrop, it’s little surprise camping in Kenilworth is so popular.

We’ve found this town to be the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and tranquillity. And with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy – from hiking, fishing, swimming, and canoeing – it’s not a place you can get easily bored in either.

That’s exactly why we love camping in Kenilworth, and it may be why you’re planning a potential camping adventure in the town too.

If you are thinking of camping in Kenilworth, then you’re in the right place!

That’s because right here we share with you a few of our favourite Kenilworth campgrounds, we also give information on free camping in Kenilworth too.

Then we show you places to check out and eateries to try when visiting. And on top of all that, we’ve included a very quick FAQ at the bottom of this article which should answer many of your questions about the town and camping there.

So read on to begin your Kenilworth camping adventure!

CONTENTS:

  1. The Best Campgrounds in Kenilworth
  2. Free Camping in Kenilworth
  3. Unique Things To Do & Eateries To Try
  4. Kenilworth Camping FAQ
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/nortonrsx

The Best Campsites In Kenilworth For Fun, Views & Adventure!

There are many different campgrounds located in and around Kenilworth, so there is sure to be one that suits your needs.

And with many of those campgrounds being centred around the middle of town, you’re always close to eateries and attractions! Here are a few of our favourites:

1. Kenilworth Camping on the River

This campground is located on the banks of the Mary River and offers beautiful riverfront camping sites.

This is rustic camping as there’s no power or showers but there are toilets throughout the campground. In fact this campground is located on a friendly working farm, so is a fantastic place for kids to meet the farm cows and learn about rural life.

And as an added bonus, the campground is dog friendly and allows campfires! However, it is a leave no trace campground – so make sure you take your rubbish with you.

On top of that, Mary River – which is where you will pitch your tent beside – is a great swimming and kayaking river.

For $20 per adult per day, this campground is a budget-friendly, relaxing spot!

Address: Paulger Road, directly off Eumundi Kenilworth Rd, Kenilworth, QLD 4574

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Pawzi

2. Kenilworth Showgrounds

This is a great option for those who want a bit more of an ‘upmarket’ camping experience. Being a flat oval, the Showgrounds are the perfect camping spot for anyone with a caravan! After all, who doesn’t like a nice flat campsite.

There’s powered and unpowered sites, as well as hot showers and flush toilets. There is also a dump point on site. The location is fantastic too as you’re within walking distance of shops, restaurants and more.

Dogs are allowed on leads as well. However because it is a showground, that means no campfires!

Prices start at $20 per night per couple for powered sites and $15 per couple per night for unpowered sites. Booking in advance is recommended.

Address: 7 Maleny Kenilworth Rd, Kenilworth, QLD 4814

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/welcomia

3. Kenilworth Homestead

This campground is set on a working cattle farm and provides a very unique camping experience. The campsites themselves are located amongst the farm buildings in lush green surroundings and offer stunning views of the valley.

There is a toilet and shower block available for campers, as well as a dump point. Dogs are allowed on leads at all times. Campfires are permitted, provided that there is no current fire ban in the region.

Kenilworth Homestead have a limited number of powered sites but an almost unlimited number of unpowered sites! Their pricing is also very affordable, with adults at $16 per night and children at $9 per night.

Address: 2760 Eumundi Kenilworth Rd, Kenilworth QLD 4574

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/g-stockstudio

4. Bluffs Creek Campground

This primitive campsite is located in the Bluff Creek day-use area and is a great Kenilworth camping option for those who really want to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet.

However with flushing toilets and hot showers available, this campground is perfect for a camper who still wants some remnants of civilization. But with no power, it’s a perfect opportunity to disconnect and leave your devices at home!

You’ll be right in nature if staying here, and there’s plenty of hiking trails, swimming holes, and the nearby Mary River for kayaking on. And at $15 per person per night (the price sometimes changes over school holidays and public holidays), this is also one of the cheapest Kenilworth camping options too.

As a final bonus, campfires are permitted and firewood is available from the campsite. Marshmallows over a fire anyone?

Address: 44 Wilcox Rd, Kenilworth Qld 4574

Photo via Unsplash+

5. Parklands Camping Kenilworth

This campground is located on the edge of town and has stunning views of the valley. Set in a working farm on the banks of the Mary River, and near state and national forests, this is a campground for people looking to be immersed in nature.

The campground has powered and unpowered sites, as well as hot showers and flush toilets. Campfires are permitted when there is not a fire ban in place in the region, so you can enjoy a campfire at night while listening to the sounds of nature around you.

Bookings are essential here though – so make sure you reach out and confirm there is a spot! Pricing starts at $15 per person per night and may vary on public holidays.

Enjoy the peace and quiet, hike the forests, or swim and kayak at Mary River. This is a place you can do all of that as soon as you step out of your tent in the morning.

Address: 188 Kenilworth Brooloo Rd, Kenilworth QLD 4574

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/StephanieFrey

Free Camping In Kenilworth & Nearby

DISCLAIMER: Below we give general advice, but we always recommend staying in an official campsite. If you choose to go free camping/dispersed camping, then make sure you do so with someone who already knows the area where you’re planning on camping for your own safety.

Kenilworth and the surrounding regions are quite tolerant of free campers – so long as you stick to the free campsite zones and take your rubbish with you!

However setting up camp on someone else’s property or in public places is a no-go in this region – people are very protective of their property and you will get yourself in trouble.

If you’re in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, you’d be best to make use of one of the pre-established free camp spots – you can see some of our favourites in and around Kenilworth below.

Searching on the national park database for campgrounds may also reveal more options that are not on our list.

Just remember that in the precious ecosystem in this part of the world, always take away what you brought with you.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/SolisImages

To help you out if you are looking for a free camping spot near Kenilworth, here are four nearby that we really like:

1. Kandanga RV Campground

Near to eateries and attractions, this campground is one of the best free camping options in the region!

It has toilets, showers, and BBQs, but you’ll have to be quick – this place only has 12 sites so make sure you’re one of the few who gets here first!

You can stay at Kandanga Campground for a maximum of 3 nights for free – making it the perfect weekend getaway spot!

As an added bonus, it’s pet friendly and fires are allowed in the designated fire pits!

Address: 47/51 Main St, Kandanga QLD 4570

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Peera Sathawirawong

2. Amamoor Creek Campground

This campground is located in the beautiful Amamoor State Forest and has great facilities such as toilets, BBQs, and picnic tables.

You’ll need to reserve your spot using their online booking system, but don’t worry! They have a capacity for 170 patrons at the campground. But do keep in mind that free camping is only allowed for a maximum of 48 hours here.

Address: Amamoor Creek Rd, Amamoor QLD 4570

Photo for illustrative purposes only. iStock.com/Matthew H Irvin

3. Tiaro Memorial Park

This park offers free camping for a maximum of 3 nights, and has great facilities, including toilets, showers, and BBQs.

The park is actually located in the town centre of a small town called Tiaro, which has many quaint shops and stores to explore!

Address: 42/44 Mayne St, Tiaro QLD 4650

4. Little Yabba Creek Park

This park is in Imbil State Forest and also has good facilities for free camping, including toilets, BBQs, and picnic tables.

Close to this campground is the Fig Tree Walk as well as many other beautiful bushwalks – so there’s plenty of nature to get immersed in for a fantastic weekend getaway! But don’t forget, you’ll need to pack your own drinking water!

Address: 3145 Maleny Kenilworth Rd, Kenilworth QLD 4552

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Eshma

Kenilworth Camping: Places You Have To Visit & Eateries To Try Out!

Must-Visit Places

Nestled in the hills behind the Sunshine Coast, Kenilworth has a whole host of attractions that will keep you busy.

There are plenty of great things to do located in this region, but here’s a few of our favourites:

1. Mary River National Park

This park is situated just a short drive from Kenilworth and is home to beautiful rainforests, waterfalls, and lookouts.

There are also several walking tracks and swimming holes to enjoy. Pack up a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring!

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Indigo Making Studio

2. Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk

This is a beautiful walking track that takes you through the lush rainforest of the Sunshine Coast hinterland. It is a great way to see some of the area’s most stunning scenery.

3. Kenilworth Cheese Factory

This is a fantastic place to sample some of the area’s delicious cheese and other dairy products. The factory also offers tours and tastings.

4. Mary Valley Rattler Railway

This heritage steam train travels through the Mary Valley and is a wonderful way to see the scenery. The railway also has several interactive displays and exhibits.

5. Ewen Maddock Dam

This dam is located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland and is a great spot for fishing, swimming, and canoeing. There are also several walking tracks around the dam that offer stunning views.

6. Sunshine Coast Botanic Gardens

Located in the nearby town of Maroochydore, these gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. With over 30 hectares of gardens to explore, you’re sure to find something that interests you.

iStock.com/Everste

7. Big Pineapple

Located just a short drive from Kenilworth, the Big Pineapple is a must-visit attraction.

With a pineapple museum, big slide, animal farm, and plenty of photo opportunities – you’re sure to have a unique day out!

8. Glass House Mountains

These unique mountains are located just a short drive from Kenilworth and offer stunning views of the Sunshine Coast.

There are also several walking tracks that wind their way through the mountains, so you can explore at your own pace.

9. Canoeing on Mary River

Mary River is a great place for canoeing and there are several operators in Kenilworth who offer tours and rentals.

Photo via Unsplash+

Eateries In Kenilworth Well Worth Trying Out

Kenilworth is home to several great eateries! A few of our favourites include:

1. Kenilworth Bakery

This bakery is famous for its delicious pies and pastries. It is a great place to stop for a quick snack or lunch.

You cannot leave Kenilworth without sampling one of their famous meat pies – they are absolutely delicious!

2. Valley View Cafe

This cafe overlooks the stunning Mary Valley and offers a variety of fresh food and drinks.

3. Mary Valley Country Markets

These markets are held on the first Sunday of every month and offer a great selection of fresh produce, food, and drink.

4. Kenilworth Hotel

This hotel is a great place to enjoy a meal or a drink in a relaxed setting. The hotel also has a beer garden and live music most nights so is a great stop for food and entertainment.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/William87

5. The Kenilworth Store

This store is a good place to stock up on supplies for your camping trip. But it also has a cafe and a deli – the meat pies in particular are a must-have!

Camping In Kenilworth: FAQ

What is the best time of year to visit Kenilworth?

The best time to visit Kenilworth is from April to November when the weather is mild and the days are long.

December to March can be very hot and humid, so it is best to avoid this time if possible.

What are some activities to do with kids in Kenilworth?

Some activities to do with kids in Kenilworth include visiting the Kenilworth Cheese Factory, the Kenilworth Bakery, or the Kenilworth Historical Museum.

There are also many parks and playgrounds scattered throughout the town too.

What is there to do in Kenilworth at night?

There are a few bars and pubs in Kenilworth that offer live music most nights of the week. The Kenilworth Hotel is a great place to relax with a drink and listen to some local talent. There is also a movie theatre in town that shows new release films.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Pro2sound

What types of animals can be seen during spring (September-November)?

During spring, you can expect to see a variety of animals in Kenilworth, including birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Some of the more common animals that can be seen are kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and koalas. Keep your eyes peeled and you might just spot one!

What is there to do on a rainy day in Kenilworth?

On a rainy day in Kenilworth, you can visit the Kenilworth Cheese Factory or the Kenilworth Bakery.

You can also visit the Kenilworth Historical Museum or one of the town’s many shops. If you’re looking for something more active, there is a movie theatre in town that shows new release films.

Are there any festivals in Kenilworth?

The Kenilworth Show is held annually in April and is a great family-friendly event. There are also several art and music festivals held throughout the year, such as the Kenilworth Folk Festival and the Kenilworth Jazz Festival.

Check out the local calendar of events to see what’s on while you’re in town!

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/sarra22

How far is Kenilworth from Brisbane?

Kenilworth is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes south of Brisbane, depending on traffic.

What towns are nearby Kenilworth that are worth visiting?

Some towns nearby Kenilworth that are worth visiting include Maleny, Montville, and Mapleton. All of these towns offer great views, restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Kenilworth Camping: Our Final Thoughts

Kenilworth is a great place to camp all year round – but remember to pack the right camping gear. Being a safe camper is always a priority – make sure you take drinking water, first aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent!

And don’t forget to check out and support some of the local attractions and eateries while you’re in town. With so much to do, Kenilworth is sure to keep you busy for days on end.

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.