Pure Glamping

Wivenhoe Dam is home to one of the most serene glamping spots this side of the range, with Pure Glamping setting up base camp on the shores of South East Queensland’s most picturesque dam at Logan’s Inlet.

Nestled on the bank of Wivenhoe and overlooking the peaceful bushland that hugs Brisbane’s major water source, these spacious, luxury bell tents have everything you need for a romantic getaway.

Bookings are a 2-night minimum, which is the perfect amount of time to relax, settle into your new digs, and explore everything that the region has on offer. But, if you can, try and squeeze in an extra night or two because this part of Queensland is very much untapped in terms of country hospitality and laid-back places to discover.

When it comes to five-star glamping in Queensland, everything you’d expect has been taken care of, so all you need to do is arrive and get acquainted with your surrounds.

Getting there is easy. If you’re driving from Brisbane, head out towards Ipswich and follow the signs towards Toowoomba & Esk, then take the Esk exit and cruise along the Brisbane Valley Highway. Not far along, the township of Fernvale is your last chance for groceries or to visit a bottle-o for supplies before you reach the campground, so don’t despair if there’s something you’ve forgotten.

If you need to restock during your stay, its only a 15km trip back to Fernvale, or a scenic 25km drive to the quaint village of Esk, for everything you need (and the perfect excuse to check out the vintage shops). You will be amazed at the expansive space of the countryside, with rolling hills and ranges in the distance, and appreciate how different the landscape is only a short drive from Brisbane.

Hand-in-hand with camping, the free-to-use, shared bathroom facilities are nearby - just a stones throw, really. Rest assured, though, the combined shower and toilet block is far enough away to not hear other campers visiting, but close enough for you to take in the wonderful bush habitat that surrounds you when you need to head there. Keep an eye out for the amazing birdlife during the day, and the possums during the night, coupled with frogs and the occasional snake, when the weather is right, day or night.

Keeping at one with nature, the glamping tents each have a solar panel, and your fully-screened abode features a queen-sized bed and luxurious linen, USB charging ports, a Bluetooth speaker that lets you listening to your own playlist via your device (quietly, of course, it is about taking in the sounds of nature, too, you know), and a lantern to let you set the mood for when the sun goes down. And, as you can imagine, sunsets and sunrises are just splendid over the water, so pack your camera.

In terms of catering, you are provided glassware, crockery and cutlery so don’t worry about packing that… it is glamping after all. And, you will have at your disposal dishwashing supplies, so don’t pack those either.

Your stay includes the first bag of ice for your supplied esky (but consider taking your own esky if you feel you might need another), along with having your own personal fire pit (only available in non-fire danger periods) set-up and ready to go. You can purchase more ice and extra firewood from the kiosk, during opening hours. Packing list tip: marshmallows for 'Smores.

When it comes to self-catering, you can either head to the communal camp kitchen or you can pack your own mobile BBQ and be totally self-sufficient (think Weber Baby Q or a camping stove and gas bottle). You will need to remember to take all your cooking utensils etc, as these are not included.

You might be out in the bush, but you still need to be pampered, and Pure Glamping Wivenhoe have ensured that personal pleasures don’t go unappreciated. Upon arrival, you will find the most fragrant take-home pack of Hepburn Wellness toiletries with all your needs for the next few days taken care of – Skin & Lip Balm, Sleep & Mozzie Mist (beautifully, the bottle tells you to ‘make a wish as you spray’ to help you unwind), Natural Shampoo Bar, and the most divine Bar Soap (Lemon Myrtle & Lemongrass).

Make sure you take time to read the in-tent information on how to best reconnect with nature and nurture your own wellbeing, along with getting the most out of your wellness escape. We all need a little reminder every now and again.

When the sun sets, be ready to enjoy the up-close-and-personal experience of the resident kangaroos that call the shores of Wivenhoe their home. They certainly embody what a weekend away is all about… chillin’ out and taking your time.

If kicking back around the tent all day isn’t for you, the 20-minute drive to Esk is definitely a must-do. From laid-back country markets every Saturday, to beautiful spots for a country café breakfast, not to mention an amazing hidden garden, and some pretty cool vintage shopping, you can’t go past spending time here to connect with the locals and see what the hype is all about.

If you’d rather just keep to yourself, pack the picnic basket and go in search of some of the most beautiful picnic spots that the Wivenhoe Dam has to offer. There's literally a plethora on offer in the Somerset Region.

Regardless of the time of year, the lack of light litter means that on a clear night, you will have the most majestic views of stars and constellations overhead. Look up and enjoy!

Nice to know – For the warmer months, you’ll be able to keep your cool on your glamping experience as all tents have a pedestal fan, plus you can keep open the front and rear canvas tent flaps., whilst keeping the screen flaps zipped up for insect protection, if you wish.

For the cooler months, an additional throw is included to keep you toasty, or use the drop in temperature as the perfect reason to just snuggle up. But, if you really feel the cold, pack an extra blanket, just to be sure you’re warm once the sun goes down and you've moved inside away from the warmth of your fire.

Need to know – Fishing at Wivenhoe Dam is allowed, but you'll need to organise a fishing permit prior to arrival which can be quickly and easily done online. If you have a boat, you’ll be happy to know watercraft are welcome on Lake Wivenhoe - click here to see what’s allowed. Bring your kayaks and canoes, too, for a wonderful way to explore the far reaches of Wivenhoe under your own steam.

Great to know – Family glamping is also something you can enjoy at Pure Glamping Wivenhoe Dam. General camping is also on offer at Logan's Inlet camp grounds, with both powered sites and non-powered sites available. If you have a caravan, you can also enjoy a visit to this part of the world, just around at Lumley Hill.

By Danella Perrins

Head to nearby Esk for the day and discover the charm of this country town - read our Daytrip to Esk guide HERE!