Camping at Lake Moogerah

Never let weather dictate your plans. Whenever I decide to take a quick weekend away, I can almost guarantee Queensland is going to throw some of its crazy weather at me (like when I went to Noosa). So when a weekend came up that both my husband and I had free, we were going camping and we weren’t going to let the forecast stop us!

So with a 100% chance of rain on Sunday we knew we really had to make the most of the Saturday as we would probably end up packing up and leaving first thing in the morning. The drive out to Lake Moogerah only takes around an hour from Brisbane and takes you through some beautiful farmland. After a casual start to the morning, we arrived at around midday ready to set up.

Being winter there were plenty of available spots to set up in the main camp-ground, but we went a bit further around and managed to score a spot right on the water’s edge, still within walking distance to a nearby toilet block. It was great to set up and not have anyone else around – we literally couldn’t see another camp!After setting up camp including a tarp to brace for the rain, we had a quick lunch before launching our kayaks and heading out for a paddle. Some men by their wives jewellery…mine bought me a kayak! I haven’t been able to give it much use lately but it was great to get back out on the water. Lake Moogerah is not very busy in winter so with the exception of a few boats that kept out of the way, we only had to share the water with the pelicans.

After paddling around for a couple of hours it was time to head in as I wanted to grab my camera for some sunset shots. Unfortunately the weather still was not cooperating and the sky was blanketed in such thick cloud that I was sure I wasn’t going to see anything. But still, you never know what is going to happen with sunsets, so I set up, crossed my fingers and hoped the magic would happen.

Sunsets are such fickle things, and after looking at the same dull orange glow through the clouds as the sun dipped below the horizon that moment happened and the sky changed. It was literally only for 30 seconds before it was gone but the smallest pink glow penetrated through the clouds and reflected in the still water. I think it makes for quite an interesting photograph anyway.

Sitting around a crackling fire, drinking wine, listening to all the water birds was such a relaxing way to spend the evening. It made me so happy that we didn’t cancel the trip. The rain did come overnight, but thanks to the tarp and a good quality tent we stayed dry and warm. After a cup of coffee and some breakfast while watching the ducks, black swans and pelicans swim around in front of us, the rain eased off and allowed us to pack up without getting too wet.

The facilities at Lake Moogerah are great, and with it so close to Brissy there really isn’t much reason not to visit! I can’t wait to head out again, and I will keep my fingers crossed for blue skies!

Where is you favourite spot to go camping?