IF YOU are thinking about taking the family for a picnic, a bush hike, a little fishing or maybe a mountain bike adventure than you’re in luck in the Scenic Rim.
There are numerous hidden places to discover, but one area that offers the lot is Wyaralong Dam which is located north-west of Beaudesert on the Teviot Brook, nestled at the base of Mt Joyce.
Completed in 2011, it is Southeast Queensland’s newest dam and was built in response to the Millennium Drought.
Those who have ventured to the dam have discovered it offers great recreation opportunities which has elevating it to one of the district’s most popular weekend drives.
At Lake Wyaralong, you can enjoy BBQ and picnic facilities, camping, canoeing, kayaking and rowing, sailing, fishing (permit required), boating (electric powered
only) and multi-use trails for mountain biking, bush walking and horse riding.
Seqwater rangers regularly patrol the lake and recreation areas, however it is important to plan ahead and play it safe when dropping in to enjoy the area.
Before your visit you should check Seqwater’s recreation and safety notices on their website, particularly if we have recently experienced heavy rains.
Picnic areas
The Meebun Recreation Area (located off Beaudesert-Boonah Road) is a popular picnic spot and offers facilities including picnic tables, shelters, and bbq.
There is also a playground to keep the kids amused.and it’s a great starting point for paddling, bushwalking, mountain biking and horse riding.
As the area is only serviced by tank water, it’s recommended to bring your own drinking water supplies.
Camping
There are two camping areas available at Lake Wyaralong.
The Lilybrook Recreation Area (Western Trail Access) caters primarily for horse enthusiasts with holding paddocks, watering areas and loading ramps.
Camping facilities are available for event use only at this stage and include a cleared area suitable for large groups. Toilets, showers (cold only), picnic tables and shelter are available on site.
The Ngumbi campsite in the centre of the park includes open camping areas, a toilet, a simple shelter shed and water tanks.
The campsite is remote without vehicular access but can be accessed via the trails and also via the lake.
To book, email recreation@seqwater.com.au
Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Lake Wyaralong and is only open to electric powered watercraft, sail craft and paddle craft .
The boat ramp is located at the Meebun Recreation Area.
You do not need a boating permit to access Lake Wyaralong.
Fishing
You can fish from your boat or paddle craft or along the shore of the designated recreation area.
Much of the land surrounding the lake is private property and accessing private land to fish is not permitted.
Remember the lake is home to an abundance of wildlife and it’s important to ensure that all rubbish, especially fishing line and hooks, are disposed of properly.
A fishing permit is required at Lake Wyaralong.
Tracks and Trails
The trails at Wyaralong have been designed and built to cater for horse riders, bushwalkers and mountain bikers.
There are more than 40km of multi-use tracks and trails and 25km of mountain bike trails.
Mountain Biking
A range of trails is available to challenge different skill levels – from beginners through to experienced mountain bike riders.
There is a limited shuttle service to take downhill mountain bike riders to the top of the trail network and is run by a private operator.
Bushwalking
Visitors can enjoy a broad range of bushwalking opportunities suited to their physical requirements from short trails around the dam wall and water’s edge, to robust hikes to the top of Mt Joyce.
Horse riding
Multi-use trails from the Lilybrook Recreation Area (Western Trail Access), along the shoreline and up onto the Mt Joyce ridgeline, create an environment for horse-riders.
Rowing
Lake Wyaralong is a popular location for rowing regattas.
You need to check SEQ recreation and safety notices before you head out for the latest information on events, restrictions and closures.
OPEN TIMES:
The dam and recreation facilities are open to the public seven days a week, from 5:30am to 6:30pm (Sept–Apr) and 6am to 5:30pm (May–Aug).
