Australia Day is all about celebrating our beautiful country, embracing the great outdoors, and making lifelong memories with loved ones. And what better way to spend the long weekend than by heading into nature for an unforgettable camping trip with your family, friends, and beloved pup?

For the ultimate Australia Day camping experience, Murphy’s Creek Escape is the perfect destination. Located just 1.5 hours from Brisbane and 20 minutes from Toowoomba, this dog-friendly bushland campground offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it ideal for families, couples, and camping enthusiasts alike.

With spacious campsites, dog-friendly areas, outdoor activities, and stunning scenery, Murphy’s Creek Escape provides the perfect setting for an Australia Day getaway filled with BBQs, swimming, hiking, and campfire fun.

australia day camping qld - murphys creek escape

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Reasons to Camp at Murphy’s Creek Escape for Australia Day Long Weekend

✅ Dog-friendly campsites – Plenty of space for your furry friend to explore
✅ Pet-friendly walking trails – Enjoy scenic hikes with your dog by your side
✅ Adventure activities – Archery, mountain biking, high ropes, and more
✅ Eco-billabong swimming – A natural swimming hole to cool off in
✅ Campfire-friendly – Perfect for classic Australia Day BBQs and marshmallow roasting
✅ Bush camping with modern amenities – The best of both worlds

 

Australia Day Activities at Murphy’s Creek Escape

Whether you want to relax by the campfire, take a refreshing swim, or enjoy an action-packed weekend, Murphy’s Creek Escape offers plenty of ways to celebrate Australia Day with your family and dog.

1. Start the Day with a Scenic Bushwalk

Begin your Australia Day with a peaceful morning bushwalk through the stunning landscapes surrounding Murphy’s Creek. The property boasts 100,000+ acres of bushland, with well-maintained dog-friendly walking trails.

Tip: Bring plenty of water for both you and your pup, and keep your dog on a leash in shared areas.

2. Cool Off with a Swim in the Eco-Billabong

After a morning hike, take a dip in Murphy’s Creek’s eco-billabong—a natural, spring-fed swimming hole perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. Kids, adults, and even water-loving pups will enjoy splashing around and soaking up the sunshine.

Note: If your dog loves water, this will be their favorite part of the trip! If they’re new to swimming, introduce them slowly.

3. Enjoy a Classic Aussie BBQ and Picnic

No Australia Day celebration is complete without a traditional BBQ feast. At Murphy’s Creek Escape, you can fire up the grill at your campsite or use the communal BBQ facilities to cook up some delicious food.

🔥 Australia Day BBQ Must-Haves:
✔️ Sausages, steak, and fresh seafood
✔️ Damper bread for an authentic Aussie touch
✔️ Pavlova or lamingtons for dessert
✔️ Ice-cold drinks to keep cool

Tip: Keep an eye on your pup around the BBQ—they’ll definitely be hoping for a sneaky sausage!

4. Get Adventurous with Outdoor Activities

For families who love a bit of action and adventure, Murphy’s Creek Escape offers a range of thrilling outdoor activities, including:

✔️ Archery – Test your aim with a fun archery challenge
✔️ Ropes Course – Try climbing and obstacle activities
✔️ Mountain Biking – Explore the rugged trails on two wheels
✔️ Bushcraft & Survival Skills – Learn something new in the great outdoors

Tip: If you’re heading off for an activity, make sure your dog is comfortable and supervised at the campsite.

5. Gather Around the Campfire for a Cozy Evening

As the sun sets, light up the campfire, toast marshmallows, and share stories under the stars. Australia Day is the perfect occasion to unplug from technology and enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones.

Tip: Bring a comfy blanket or dog bed so your pup can relax by the fire with you.

Dog-Friendly Camping Tips for a Stress-Free Trip

Bringing your dog camping can be an amazing experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to ensure a stress-free, fun-filled trip for both you and your pup:

  • Pack all dog essentials – Bring their bed, leash, food, and water bowls
  • Check local pet rules – Some areas may require dogs to be on-leash
  • Keep your dog cool – Bring a cooling mat and plenty of water
  • Clean up after your pet – Help keep the campground clean and dog-friendly
  • Supervise your dog at all times – Keep an eye on their safety and comfort

Booking Your Australia Day Camping Trip at Murphy’s Creek Escape

Australia Day is a popular time for camping, so it’s best to book your site in advance to secure your spot. Murphy’s Creek Escape offers various campsite options, from unpowered bush camping to luxury safari tents, making it a great choice for all types of campers.

📅 WHEN: Australia Day Long Weekend (January 25th–27th, 2025)
📍 WHERE: Murphy’s Creek Escape – 356 Thomas Road, Upper Lockyer QLD
🔗 BOOK NOW: Murphy’s Creek Escape

The Ultimate Australia Day Camping Experience

Camping at Murphy’s Creek Escape for Australia Day is a fun, family-friendly, and pet-friendly way to celebrate our great country. With adventure activities, stunning scenery, plenty of space, and a welcoming atmosphere, this is the perfect place to enjoy a long weekend getaway.

So, gather your family, pack your tent, and bring your furry friend for an unforgettable Australia Day camping adventure!

Will you be celebrating Australia Day with a camping trip this year? Let us know your favorite camping traditions in the comments below!

 

Top Australia Day Camping Traditions for Family Fun

Australia Day is all about celebrating the great outdoors, enjoying time with family and friends, and embracing the summer holiday vibes. If you’re heading on a camping trip for the long weekend, here are some classic Australia Day traditions that will make your camping experience even more memorable!

1. Classic Aussie BBQ Feast

An Australia Day BBQ is non-negotiable—it’s a time-honored tradition where families and friends gather around the grill for a delicious feast under the open sky.

BBQ Must-Haves:

✔️ Sausages & Steak – A must for any camping trip
✔️ Prawns on the BBQ – The ultimate Aussie treat
✔️ Damper Bread – Cooked over an open fire
✔️ Grilled Veggies & Salads – Light, fresh, and tasty
✔️ Pavlova or Lamingtons – No Aussie celebration is complete without them!

Tip: If you’re bringing your dog along, pack some dog-friendly BBQ treats like grilled chicken or veggies (skip the seasoning).

2. Beach & Bush Adventures

Australia is known for its stunning landscapes, so make the most of your camping trip by exploring the great outdoors.

Top Activities:

✔️ Bushwalking & Hiking – Discover local trails, waterfalls, and lookouts
✔️ Swimming in a Creek, River, or Beach – Cool off in the summer heat
✔️ Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Great for families who love water sports
✔️ Exploring Rock Pools – Fun for kids to find shells, crabs, and small fish

Tip: Always bring plenty of water for your dog, especially on hot days, and check for dog-friendly trails and beaches.

3. Cricket, Footy & Backyard Games

No Australia Day camping trip is complete without a bit of friendly competition. Whether you’re at a beachside campsite, a bush retreat, or a lakefront location, there’s always room for a game!

Camping-Friendly Games:

✔️ Backyard Cricket – The ultimate Aussie camping game
✔️ Footy Match – Perfect for open grassy campsites
✔️ Frisbee & Bocce – Great for the whole family
✔️ Cornhole or Ring Toss – Easy, low-maintenance fun
✔️ Tug-of-War (for Dogs & Kids!) – A fun way to get everyone involved

Tip: Bring a dog-friendly frisbee or ball so your pup can get in on the fun!

4. Australia Day Playlist & Campfire Singalongs

Set the mood by playing iconic Aussie music throughout the day. Whether you’re relaxing at your campsite, having a BBQ, or sitting around the campfire, great music is a must!

Australia Day Artist Playlist Ideas:

🎵 John Farnham
🎵 Men at Work
🎵 Daryl Braithwaite
🎵 Cold Chisel
🎵 AC/DC

Tip: If your pup gets nervous around music, set up a quiet, cozy spot in the tent or camper for them to relax.

5. Fun in the Water – Aussie Style!

Since Australia Day falls in the middle of summer, spending time in or near the water is essential.

Water-Based Activities:

✔️ Floating on Inflatables – Bring Aussie-themed floaties!
✔️ Beach or River Swimming – Nothing beats a refreshing swim
✔️ Slip n’ Slide (DIY Camping Version) – Set up a tarp and some soapy water for endless fun
✔️ Canoeing, Kayaking & Boating – Explore local lakes and rivers
✔️ Water Balloon Fights – A fun way to cool down

Tip: If you’re at a dog-friendly beach or lake, let your pup splash around and chase a ball in the water. Just make sure they stay hydrated and cool.

6. Campfire Cooking & Damper Making

After a day of exploring, playing games, and swimming, nothing beats gathering around the campfire to cook up some traditional Aussie camping food.

Campfire Cooking Ideas:

✔️ Damper Bread – Cooked over hot coals and served with butter, golden syrup, or jam
✔️ Campfire Jaffles (Toasties) – Fill them with cheese, ham, or baked beans
✔️ S’mores (Aussie-Style) – Made with Tim Tams & marshmallows
✔️ Baked Potatoes in Foil – Loaded with butter, cheese, and bacon
✔️ Roasted Marshmallows – A camping classic!

Tip: If you’re making damper, set aside a small piece for your pup (without sugar or salt) as a treat.

7. Watching the Fireworks (or Avoiding Them with Your Dog!)

Many towns and cities host Australia Day fireworks, but not all dogs love the loud noises.

Fireworks-Friendly Camping Tips for Dogs:

🐾 Set up a cozy den in the tent or camper where they feel safe
🐾 Use calming treats or pet-friendly anxiety relief
🐾 Keep them on a leash if outside—some dogs may try to run if scared
🐾 Distract them with toys, treats, or gentle music
🐾 Choose a remote camping spot away from major firework displays

Tip: If fireworks stress your pup out, head to a quiet bush campsite like Murphy’s Creek Escape where fireworks are not allowed.

8. Watching an Outdoor Movie Under the Stars

Bring a portable projector and set up an outdoor movie night at your campsite. Watching a classic Aussie film under the stars is a perfect way to wind down after a fun-filled day.

Great Movies for Australia Day Camping:

🎬 The Castle – A classic Aussie comedy
🎬 Red Dog – A must-watch for dog lovers
🎬 Crocodile Dundee – Because, well… it’s an Aussie classic!
🎬 Storm Boy – A heartfelt, nature-based film
🎬 Finding Nemo – Fun for kids and adults

Tip: Set up a cozy dog bed next to you so your pup can relax and enjoy movie night too!

Plan Your Ultimate Australia Day Camping Trip!

Camping on Australia Day is about embracing the outdoors, enjoying great food, spending time with loved ones, and making unforgettable memories. Whether you’re relaxing by the beach, hiking through the bush, swimming in a creek, or sitting around the campfire, these traditions will help you create the perfect long weekend celebration.

Bringing your dog along? Make sure to pick a dog-friendly camping spot like Murphy’s Creek Escape for the ultimate pet-friendly adventure!

Which of these traditions will you be doing on Australia Day? Let us know your favorite camping activities in the comments!

 

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