Mt Barney Lodge sits at the foot of Queensland's most impressive peak, beside the World Heritage-listed Mt Barney National Park.
Walks start close to camp, there are swimming spots nearby, and some of the Scenic Rim's pubs, cellar doors and country cafes are a short drive away.
We've picked the places we love to visit, all within a day's drive.
Before you head out, check park alerts for the walks, and remember dogs aren't allowed in Mt Barney National Park.
Places we love
Yellow Pinch lookout
A steady climb to a natural lookout with the best view of Mt Barney. 2 km return, about 1 hour. Stay well back from the cliff edge.
Lower Portals
A deep pool in a rocky gorge on Mt Barney Creek. 7.4 km return, about 3 hours, with two rocky creek crossings. Never dive or jump in.
Cronan Creek Falls
Follow rock-tumbled Cronan Creek to the falls, with natural creek crossings on the way. 12 km return, about 4 hours.
Mt Maroon and Mt Barney summits
Summit routes, not walking tracks, for experienced climbers only. Mt Maroon is 966 m and about 6 hours return. Mt Barney's East Peak is 1,354 m. Go with a capable leader and never climb in wet weather.
The Rathy
An unpretentious pet friendly and people friendly country pub with proper pub meals in Rathdowney.
Rathlogan Olive Grove and Shed Cafe
A weekend cafe and gift shop in an olive grove at the foot of Mt Maroon, on our own road. A delightful pet friendly spot for morning tea or lunch.
Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm
A cellar door, restaurant and lavender shop looking over the vines and the Scenic Rim mountains.
Dugandan Hotel
Pub meals under shady trees, open for lunch and dinner daily and all day Sunday. Dogs are welcome.
Bunjurgen Estate
Relaxed tastings outdoors under a jacaranda tree, with picnic areas and a walk through the vineyard.
Lake Moogerah
Swim in the designated area at A G Muller Park, or picnic at Fred Haigh Park. Fishing needs a permit.
Lovett at Kalbar
A popular country bakery and cafe in Kalbar, full of house-made treats, indoor plants and more than 300 teapots.
The Emporium
A treasure trove of antiques, vintage finds, homewares and gifts in Kalbar’s heritage-listed Wiss Emporium building, with a coffee bar.
Scenic Rim Farm Shop
Just past Kalbar, enjoy coffee and bite, and shop gourmet local products, flowers, clothing and accessories.
Queen Mary Falls
A 40 m waterfall in Main Range National Park. The 2 km circuit takes about 40 minutes. If Head Road is closed, go via Carneys Creek Road and White Swamp Road.
Summer Land Camels
Feed the camels, stock up on some wonderful camel’s milk products, and enjoy a nice lunch at the Homestead Cafe in Harrisville. No pets.
Scenic Rim Adventure Park
More than 28 km of 4WD tracks, plus bushwalking and a maze. Bookings essential by email.
Sample itineraries
Walks and Waterholes Day
Perfect for hikers, families and anyone who wants to stay close to camp.
| Morning | Walk to Yellow Pinch lookout (about 1 hour) |
| Mid-morning | Walk to Lower Portals (about 3 hours) or Cronan Creek Falls (about 4 hours) |
| Lunch | Picnic at Yellow Pinch Reserve, which has tables, toilets and barbecues |
| Afternoon | Cool off at the creek, or take a well earned nap |
| Evening | Enjoy a camp cookout, and relax around the campfire under billions of stars |
Boonah and Mt Alford Food and Wine Trail
Perfect for couples, food lovers and guests on the way home.
| Morning | Coffee at Arthur Clive’s Bakery Cafe or The Story Tree |
| Mid-morning | Tasting at Bunjurgen Estate (book ahead) |
| Lunch | Dugandan Hotel, or the restaurant at Kooroomba (Wednesday to Sunday) |
| Afternoon | Sample some wines at the Cellar door at Kooroomba and stock up some gorgeous lavender products. |
Lakes and Farms Day
Perfect for families and a longer day out.
| Morning | Feed or ride the camels at Summer Land Camels |
| Launch | The Homestead Cafe at Summer Land Camels |
| Afternoon | Swim at Lake Moogerah |
| Evening | Dinner at The Rathy or Dugandan Hotel/ on the way back |
| Optional | Queen Mary Falls, a longer drive via Carneys Creek Road |
Base yourself at the foot of the mountain
Walks, creek swims and local know-how are all on your doorstep when you stay. Choose your spot and give yourself something to look forward to.