Plan the perfect winter school holiday family camping trip at Murphys Creek Escape near Toowoomba. Enjoy spacious bush campsites, kid-friendly activities, cosy campfires, and nature adventures with clean facilities and pet-friendly options. Book now for a memorable outdoor getaway!

The winter school holidays are a golden opportunity to swap busy routines for the simple joys of campfires, bushwalks, and starry skies. At Murphys Creek Escape, families find the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and nature—plus plenty of space for kids to run wild and explore.

If you’re considering a bush camping trip near Toowoomba, here’s how to make your winter break truly memorable.

Taking the Kids Camping for the Winter School Holidays - Murphys Creek Escape

Why Winter Camping at Murphys Creek Escape?

Winter camping in Queensland is a treat. The days are mild, the nights are crisp (perfect for campfires), and the bush is alive with birdsong and wildlife.

Murphys Creek Escape is a family-friendly, pet-friendly bush campground that makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the magic of the outdoors—no matter your camping style or experience level.

  • Spacious campsites: Choose from powered, unpowered, and remote bush sites, all nestled among tall gums and ironbarks. There’s room for tents, camper trailers, caravans, and even glamping tents for a touch of luxury.
    Check out camp accommodations and rates for more info.
  • Pet-friendly camping: Dogs, horses, and other small animals are welcome—just be sure to read the pet policy before you arrive.
  • Top-notch facilities: Clean amenities, hot showers, camp kitchens, and family-friendly facilities make camping easy, even with little ones in tow.

Campfire Magic and Cosy Nights

Nothing says winter camping like gathering around a crackling campfire. At Murphys Creek Escape, every campsite comes with its own in-ground fire pit (when permitted). There’s nothing quite like:

  • Toasting marshmallows under a sky full of stars
  • Swapping stories and laughter as the fire glows
  • Cooking damper, spuds, or even a hearty stew together as a family

Before lighting up, always check our safety guidelines and use only the provided fire pits. Fire bans may apply in some conditions, so check with reception on arrival.

Activities to Keep the Kids Smiling

Boredom isn’t an option at Murphys Creek Escape! The park is packed with activities and opportunities for kids of all ages to burn energy, learn new skills, and fall in love with the bush.

Playgrounds and Bush Adventures

With two well-equipped playgrounds, there’s plenty for younger kids to climb, swing, and slide.

For the more adventurous, kilometres of bushwalking trails wind through the property—perfect for wildlife spotting, nature scavenger hunts, or a family hike.

The natural bushland is also ideal for games of hide-and-seek, stick forts, and letting imaginations run wild.

Eco Billabong and Nature Play

Even in winter, the eco rock pool billabong is a hit. Kids can paddle, spot frogs and dragonflies, or simply enjoy nature play on the banks.

Pack gumboots for splashing and exploring!

Adventure Activities

Older kids and teens will love the on-site adventure activities. Depending on the season and availability, you can book:

  • Archery sessions for all ages (with supervision)
  • The thrilling giant swing for a rush of adrenaline
  • Ropes courses (check with reception for age and height requirements)

Activities for kids often run on weekends and during school holidays, so plan ahead and book early to avoid disappointment.

Mountain Biking

Bring your bikes and helmets! The property features mountain bike tracks that wind through the bush, offering fun for older kids and adults alike.

Wildlife Encounters and Birdwatching

Murphys Creek Escape is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Keep an eye (and ear) out for the vibrant King Parrot or the dazzling Azure Kingfisher as you explore.

Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for spotting native wildlife—bring binoculars and a camera for a real bush adventure.

If you’re lucky, you might also spot wallabies, echidnas, or even a goanna basking in the sun.

Encourage the kids to keep a nature journal to record all the amazing creatures they encounter.

Check out the birdwatching guide.

Creative Bush Activities for Kids

Winter camping is the perfect time to nurture creativity and curiosity. Here are some favourite ways to keep young minds and hands busy:

  • Nature scavenger hunts: Make a list of things to find—gum nuts, feathers, animal tracks, or different coloured leaves.
  • Bush art: Collect fallen sticks, leaves, and stones to create natural sculptures or mandalas.
  • Campfire cooking challenges: Let the kids help prepare damper, toast marshmallows, or invent their own campfire recipes.|
  • Storytelling nights: Encourage everyone to share a favourite story or make up a bush adventure around the fire.

Family-Friendly Facilities Make Camping Easy

Camping with kids is a breeze at Murphys Creek Escape, thanks to thoughtful facilities:

  • Clean amenities blocks with hot showers and flushing toilets
  • Camp kitchens and BBQ areas for easy meal prep and family feasts
  • Laundry facilities for those inevitable muddy socks and jumpers
  • Onsite equipment hire for tents and campers (ask at reception for details)
  • Pet-friendly camping—just check the rules before you arrive

For a full list of what’s available, see the facilities page.

Sustainable Camping: Teaching Kids to Care for Country

Winter is a wonderful time to teach kids about looking after the bush. At Murphys Creek Escape, sustainability is part of the camping experience.

Here are some ways to tread lightly and set a great example:

  • Use the bins provided and recycle where possible
  • Stick to marked trails to protect native plants
  • Never feed the wildlife—admire from a distance
  • Keep campfires small and always use designated fire pits
  • Conserve water and energy in the amenities blocks

These simple actions help keep the bush beautiful for future generations.

Good Camping Etiquette Makes Happy Holidays

A great family camping experience is all about respect and consideration. Brush up on caravan park etiquette before you go:

  • Keep noise down during quiet hours (10 PM to 7 AM)
  • Tidy up your site and use the bins provided
  • Use facilities thoughtfully so everyone has a great time
  • Keep pets under control and clean up after them
  • Never feed the wildlife

For more tips, see the full etiquette guide.

Accommodation for Every Family

Whether you’re in a caravan, tent, or looking for a touch of comfort, Murphys Creek Escape has you covered. Choose from:

  • Spacious powered and unpowered sites
  • Remote bush sites for those who want a true back-to-nature experience
  • Group sites for camping with friends or extended family
  • Glamping options for those who want the camping experience with a few extra luxuries

You can find all the details and book your ideal site on the main camping page.

A Day in the Life: Sample Winter School Holiday Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive and set up camp. Let the kids explore the playground while you get the fire going. Enjoy a simple BBQ dinner and toast marshmallows under the stars.

 

Day 2:
Start the day with a bushwalk—see if you can spot a King Parrot or Azure Kingfisher. After breakfast, book in for archery or the giant swing. Spend the afternoon paddling at the eco billabong or riding the mountain bike trails.

 

Day 3:
Try a bush art project or scavenger hunt before packing up at your own pace. Let the kids have one last play on the swings before heading home—already planning your next visit!

Making the Most of Winter Evenings

One of the true joys of winter camping is how the evenings bring everyone together.

As the sun sets and the bushland cools, families gather around their campfires, sharing stories and laughter. The clear winter air means the stars shine even brighter—perfect for a bit of stargazing or a quiet moment of reflection with a hot chocolate in hand.

For those who love a bit of friendly competition, bring along board games or a deck of cards for some old-fashioned fun in the tent.

And don’t forget to encourage the kids to keep a nature journal—recording the birds they spot, the animals they see, and their favourite moments from the trip.

Building Bush Skills and Confidence

Camping is about more than just having fun—it’s a wonderful chance for kids to build independence and learn new skills. At Murphys Creek Escape, children can:

  • Learn how to safely collect and prepare firewood
  • Help pitch the tent and set up camp
  • Try their hand at campfire cooking
  • Practice navigation and observation skills on the bush trails
  • Take responsibility for their own gear and campsite

These experiences help foster resilience, teamwork, and a lifelong love of the outdoors.

Connecting With Nature and Each Other

Perhaps the greatest gift of a winter camping trip is the chance to slow down and reconnect.

Without the distractions of screens or busy schedules, families can focus on what really matters: time together. Whether you’re sharing a meal, exploring the bush, or simply sitting quietly and listening to the sounds of nature, you’ll find countless opportunities to create memories that last a lifetime.

Winter at Murphys Creek Escape is a time for crisp mornings, sunny days, and cosy nights by the fire.

It’s a chance for the kids to run free, for parents to unwind, and for everyone to discover the simple joys of bush camping.

Ready to plan your winter school holiday adventure? View availability and rates and get ready to make memories your family will treasure for years to come!