Create memories in the country these summer holidays

The best nature activities to get the tribe moving

Escape the boredom and tackle a national park hike. Locals know the secret to enjoying our outdoors in a hot summer, where an early morning hike helps avoid the high temps and you’re less likely to come across slithery surprises. Plus it’s a great way to explore natures playground and get the step count up.

The parks in the higher parts of Southern Queensland Country are not as hot as those on the plains of the western regions so we suggest you navigate to these 3 elevated National Parks for some hiking heaven:

• Girraween National Park, Southern Downs and Granite Belt

• Bunya Mountains National Park, South Burnett and Western Downs

• Crows Nest National Park, Toowoomba Region

For those who like to cool off after a workout, try our parks and reserves with waterways and dams. We suggest you head to Caliguel Lagoon on the Western Downs, and the Wooroolin Wetlands on the South Burnett. A rare sight in summer and autumn are the rare Lillies that cover Chinaman’s Lagoon near Miles, a great spot for a picnic and walk, as is Lake Broadwater Conservation Park near Dalby where birds and wallabies will join you at this free camping and caravanning spot.

Water-skiers you haven’t been forgotten! The Goondiwindi Natural Heritage and Water Park - a 3km purpose built water channel for all kinds of water sports is a favourite for ski-lovers. Find out the best places to cool down in Southern Queensland Country this summer and discover the best places for water-sports.

The best bike rides for the family

A bike ride in the country with miles upon miles of space and clean air to breathe is unbeatable! Get the kids going with pedal-power while you meander along enjoying the sights! Whether it’s a casual ride along country roads through the heart of wine country, or a more fast paced downhill rush on a mountain bike trail, we have biking destinations for all the family to enjoy,

Mountain Bike Trails to travel for:

• Jubilee Park, Toowoomba
• Mount Marley, Stanthorpe
• Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Lockyer Valley and South Burnett
• Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail, South Burnett
• Riverside walkway, Goondiwindi
• McEuen State Forest, South Burnett

Discover the best mountain bike trails in the region and for repairs or equipment for your road bike or mountain bike, head to Granite Belt Bicycle Tours & Hire in Stanthorpe; Johnny Sprockets, Giant, Bakelite and I-Ride in Toowoomba.

From pedal power to saddle power

Horses are said to calm the mind and soothe the soul, so saddle-up for a holiday in the countryside with a difference. Take the kids horse riding at one of these beautiful country retreats, many of which also offer accommodation, so you can enjoy a sunrise ride or sunset experience amongst nature.

• Cowboy Up - Crows Nest, Toowoomba Region
• Bestbrook Mountain Resort, Southern Downs and Granite Belt
• Fordsdale Horseback Adventures, Lockyer Valley (Offers riding clinics and camping)
• Heritage Riding, Thornlands
• Carriage Rides at the Bunya Mountains

Stay and play at a farmstay

Teaching children where their food comes from can be one of life’s most valuable lessons. Take it next level and show them the origin of good wholesome food, by staying at a Farmstay. Gather eggs for breakfast, forage for herbs for your omelette and learn about paddock to plate while relaxing in the quiet countryside with your family.

Here’s where you can stay and play on a real working farm:

• Gleneden Family Farm, Warwick
• Bunyip Springs Farmstay, Bunya Mountains
• Kiambram Country Cottages, Toowoomba
• Bestbrook Mountain Resort, Warwick
• Passchendaele Farmstay, Kumbia
• Mount View Homestead, Ramsay
• Tweeters Country Getaway, Glenaven
• Lee Farmstay and Cottages, Kingaroy
• Rubern Lodge, Chinchilla
• Woodspring Farmstay, Inglewood