FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOUSE RULES/GENERAL QUESTIONS OFTEN ASKED WHEN STAYING MT BARNEY LODGE
Q. When is the office open?
A. Our office is open 8am-4pm Monday to Sunday with extended closing hours of 6pm on Fridays.
Q. When is check-in and check-out time?
A. Strictly 2:00pm check-in and 10:00am check-out. (Unless otherwise advised).
Q. Check-in procedure
A. Please check-in at the Office during office hours when you first arrive onsite: Saturday – Thursday 8:00am- 4:00pm, Friday 8:00am- 6:00pm. We can also email after-hours check-in instructions to you if you plan to arrive after office hours. Just let us know.
Q. Do you allow Pets?
A. No. Mt Barney Lodge is a Wilderness Retreat and a Land for Wildlife member. You will see many Redneck Wallabies, birds and other native wildlife in the campgrounds. Any pet found on the property will incur a $500 automatic charge to your account.
However, assistance and guide dogs will be considered under strict control. Please call us when making your reservation to discuss requirements.
Q. Is there mobile phone coverage?
A. There is very minimal coverage, and can be very unreliable.
Q. Do you have WIFI?
A. No.
Q. Can I camp for longer than 7 days ?
A. While we welcome extended camping bookings, if you are staying longer than a week, a condition of the booking is that you move campsite location every 7 days to protect the life of the grass that is under your tent/van. Bookings will not be confirmed until the guest can guarantee that the campsite/van will be moved every 7 days.
Q. Can I book more than 12 months ahead of time?
A. No. We give our outgoing guests first option to re-book for the next year upon check out. Anyone that enquires about the following year, more than a year in advance have the option to be placed on a waiting list and contacted when these dates are available.
Q. Can I fly a drone at Mt Barney Lodge?
A: Mt Barney Lodge is a wilderness ecotourism retreat. We prefer that you don’t fly a drone on our property without prior permission as it is disturbing to both wildlife and people.
It is essential that you do not fly your drone over the campground or buildings, other than the one you are occupying. The drone must be at least 30 meters above and/or away from other people.
It is a CASA law that you must keep your drone within the visual line of sight. This means always being able to see the drone with your own eyes (rather than through a device, screen, or goggles).Respect personal privacy. Don’t record or photograph people without their consent — this may breach other laws.
You are not permitted to fly a drone over National Park property without a permit.
The quick answer – please leave your drone at home
Q. Is the tap water drinkable?
A Yes.
Q. Do you have a kiosk/shop?
A. At the office we sell ice, milk, eggs, soft drink, wine and beer. Other items such as cheese and crackers are occasionally available.
Q. Do you have BBQs or cooking facilities?
A. No, we don’t have BBQs or cooking facilities in the camp grounds. We do however have hot plates to use over the fire for hire at the office for $20. This is refunded when the hot plate is returned clean.
Q. Where can I charge my mobile phones/ipad etc?
A. If you are camping, there are power points situated in the amenities block. Due to insurance and security purposes, we cannot charge your devices at the office.
Q. Is there somewhere to charge my electric vehicle?
A. We recognise EV (electric vehicles) are essential for the transition to clean energy however access to charging points is limited at Mt Barney Lodge
EV charging is possible when a homestead or hut booking is made.
EV charging is NOT possible with Hybrid Caravan or camping bookings.
Please confirm your need for EV charging before your arrival. A BYO 20m extension cord may be needed.
Q. What is your noise policy?
A. As we are a wilderness retreat on private property, we do ask all our guests to keep all noise to a respectable level at all times and to consider other guests. We do enforce a noise curfew after 10pm.
Q. How long will it take me to get there?
A. From Brisbane city or the Gold Coast, allow for a 2 hour drive.
Q. How do I get there?
A. Click here for detailed directions and links to google maps.
Q. Is there public transport?
A. No.
Q. How can I find out if the Mt Barney National Park is open or closed?
A. This decision is up to Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service – and they often just advise this with an alert on their website
Q. Do I need a 4×4 to get there?
A. No. The last 3km’s is a gravel road in good condition.
Q. Can we swim in the creek and water holes?
A. Yes. The creek frontage is perfect to swim and play in. There are also local water holes, ask us for the local knowledge!
Q. How far away is the waterhole?
A. Not far at all. Come up to the office and if you are staying with us, we will let you know where it is!
Q. What is the weather like?
A. For weather forecasts we recommend Bureau Of Meteorology or Weatherzone.
Q. Does it get cold at night, and what’s the temperature during the day.
A. To check current and future predicted temperatures, we use Weatherzone. Don’t forget to always pack warm clothes in case of cooler weather, even during the warmer months. An updated weather forecast printout is displayed in the office.
Q. What if it’s raining?
A. Be prepared! We will not refund a deposit or transfer your booking if the forecast is for possible showers or rain. See our terms and conditions here for detailed cancellation information.
Q. How far is the nearest shop?
A. The closest town is Rathdowney (20 minutes drive). There is a Visitors Information Centre, Pub, Service Station, Butcher and the Rathy Shop which sell the basics.
Q. What walks are there to do?
A. When you stay with us, we will share with you local information and maps on the popular walks, mountain trails and waterholes within Mt Barney National Park and some of the lesser known walking tracks too!
Q. What activities do you have for the kids and adults?
A. During the school holidays, see our Adventure Activity program. For other activities such as rock climbing, abseiling, and mountain expeditions, see here.
Q. Are there activities for toddlers?
A. Nature Play is perfect for all ages, in particular for toddlers. Find out more information about Nature Play here.
Q. What else is there to do?
A There are plenty of local attractions to visit and see.
Q. Can you fish in the creeks and waterhole?
A. You can see our blog for more information about fishing in the Scenic Rim.
Q: Do I need Travel insurance:
A: With any holiday things can go wrong! Mt Barney Lodge has Term’s and Conditions which outline our policies on refunds, cancellations and changes to your booking. Please refer to them for any questions on the above. We can suggest you purchase Travel insurance if you are concerned about not recovering cost if something should go wrong and you cannot make your booking arrangements.
Q. Do I need Adventure activity insurance:
A. Mt Barney Lodge has our own public liability insurance for all booked adventure activities. However, if you cannot make your booking arrangements or change your mind, your adventure payment may be forfeit. Please be familiar with the Mt Barney Lodge Term’s and Conditions which outline our policies on refunds, cancellations and changes to your booking. Please refer to them for any questions on the above. We can suggest you purchase Travel insurance if you are concerned about not recovering cost if something should go wrong and you cannot make your booking arrangements.
Q. Is the creek and waterhole big enough for kayaking or a boat?
A. No. However, Maroon Dam is a 40 minute drive from the Lodge and is very popular for boating and water sports.
Q. Can the kids bring their push bikes?
A. Yes. It is a great way to get to the toilet block or office! Mountain bikes are not permitted in the National Park.
Q. Can we bring our dirt trail motor bikes?
A. There are no dirt bike tracks in the area and motor bikes are not permitted in the National Park.
Q. Do you have a restaurant or café.
A. We do not have a restaurant or café.
Q. If I cancel my camping or accommodation reservation, do I get my money back?
A. Please see our full Terms and Conditions before booking.
Q. Do you accept Group Bookings?
A. Yes. See our group booking policy here.
Q. Can we come out for a day visit, a picnic or visit friends staying at the Lodge.
A. Yes. Please check in at the office. There is a $15.00pp charge to use our facilities or pass through our property, this includes insurance.
The creek frontage is a perfect spot for a picnic. Unfortunately we do not have picnic tables or BBQ’s available for day visitors.
Q. Do you cater for Functions, Workshops and school camps?
A. Yes. See here for all we offer, and please feel free to call or email us with your requirements.
Q. Do you cater for weddings?
A. Yes. Mt Barney Lodge is the ideal setting for your wedding. Our wedding package is designed for you to plan your wedding the way YOU want it. Email us for a Wedding Pack, or please feel free to call us in the office to discuss your requirements and what we have to offer.
Q. Are unaccompanied minors allowed?
We allow minors aged 16 and over to stay at our property unaccompanied, however it is important to be aware that the office is only attended 8am-4pm, there is no mobile reception on site (it can be accessed 1km off site) and use of the office phone is ONLY for emergencies
Accommodation & Glamping
Q. Do I need to make a reservation?
A. Yes, reservations for accommodation and Glamping are essential. You can make your reservation here.
Q. When is check-in and check-out time?
A. All accommodation including camping is s strictly 2:00pm check-in and 10:00am check-out. (Unless otherwise advised).
Q. Can we stay in the Glamping (Camper Trailers) or Huts and also camp in the same area as well?
A. Camper Trailers – Where bookings involve 4+ people using the Camper Trailer facilities, bookings will be charged Camper Trailer prices regardless if they choose to sleep in the Camper Trailer or in an external tent.
Huts – All guests will be charged at hut prices, regardless if they choose to sleep in the hut or in an external tent.
Q. What is the size of the unoccupied floor space inside the camper trailer?
A. 1.2m wide x 2m length.
Q. Check-in procedure
A. Please check-in at the Office during office hours when you first arrive onsite: Saturday to Thursday 8:00am- 4:00pm, Friday 8:00am- 6:00pm. We can email after-hours check-in instructions to you if you plan to arrive after office hours. Just let us know.
Q. What is your noise policy?
A. As we are a wilderness retreat on private property, we do ask all guests to keep all noise to a respectable level at all times and to consider other guests. We do enforce a noise curfew after 10pm.
Q. Is there tea and coffee in the Accommodation?
A. Yes, there is complimentary tea and coffee in the Huts, Homesteads and Camper Trailers. Complimentary milk is provided in the Huts and Homestead only.
Q. I am staying in a Hut or Homestead. What do I need to bring?
A. All food and linen.
Q. What’s in the kitchen of the Homesteads or Huts?
A. The kitchens are fully self-contained with all crockery, cutlery, glassware, pots, pans, serving bowls etc, toaster, microwave oven, full size fridge and oven, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Q. Are there doonas or spare blankets on the beds in the Homesteads?
A. Yes. But you will need to bring your own sheets, pillows and towels.
Q. Are there doonas or spare blankets on the beds in the Huts?
A. Only on the double bed. You will need to bring your own sheets, pillows, towels and doonas for the single beds (or sleeping bags).
Q. Are there electric blankets on the beds in the Huts or Homesteads?
A. No. But doonas are provided on all beds in the Homesteads and on the double beds in the Huts. Spare blankets are also supplied.
Q. I am staying in an onsite Camper Trailer (Glamping). What do I need to bring?
A. Esky or car fridge, all food, linen and comfy camping chairs to sit around the fire.
Q. What’s in the kitchen of the Camper Trailers (Glamping)?
A. Crockery, cutlery, glassware, pots, pans, serving bowls etc, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Q. Are there doonas on the beds in the Camper Trailers?
A. No. You will need to bring your own sheets, doonas (or sleeping bag), pillows and towels.
Q. Is there electricity to the onsite Camper Trailers (Glamping)?
A. Yes. But is not suitable for large appliances such as microwave ovens. Please leave them at home!
Q. Linen Hire – what’s included and what’s not? (Accommodation and Glamping only).
A. With any standard booking in one of Mt Barney Lodge’s Homesteads, Huts or Deluxe Camper Trailers we provide you with basic linen needs, such as tea towels and table cloths. You are required to bring your own bedding and bath linen, or you can let us provide it all for you with our Linen Hire option! For just $25pp, we will have all your beds made up for your arrival. (min 48hrs notice required)
Homesteads, Huts and Deluxe Camper Trailers
If you choose to hire linen from us for your stay at Mt Barney Lodge we will provide you with all Bed, Bath and Kitchen linen. This includes:
- BED – Sheets, pillows and pillowcases, doona
- BATH – Towel and face washer, bathmat and hand towel
Q. How big is the oven in the Homestead or Huts?
A. There is a full size gas oven with cook top and grill.
Q. Is there an oven in the camper trailers (Glamping)?
A. No. There is a gas cook top.
Q. Is there a BBQ?
A. Yes. (Homestead and Huts only). Each homestead and hut has its own BBQ in the outside courtyard/patio area.
Q. Can I have a fire?
A. This is currently dependant on whether a Fire Ban is in place for open fires. You can call the lodge to check conditions prior to arrival/booking.
Each Homestead and Hut has a fire box or open fire place. Each camper trailer has its own campfire place. In line with our Advanced Ecotourism principles and Climate Emergency Declaration – we are inviting our guests to “gaze at the mountain and stars instead of a fire”. Each guest can contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gasses by reducing the campfire size, duration or need.
Firewood can be purchased for $15.00 a bag from the office. We ask that you do not collect your own from the creek or bush as this is habitat for animals.
Q. Do you have a restaurant or café?
A. No.
Q. Are there TV’s or DVD players in the accommodation?
A. No. However, a stereo system is provided in the Homesteads only.
Q. Do you accept Group Bookings?
A. Yes. See our group booking policy here
Q. Do you allow Pets in the accommodation or Camper Trailers?
A. No. Mt Barney Lodge is a Wilderness Retreat and a Land for Wildlife member. You will see many Redneck Wallabies, birds and other native wildlife in the campgrounds.
Camping
Q. When is check-in and check-out time?
A. Camping: Check-in time is from 2pm and check out time is 10am.
Accommodation including Glamping: Strictly 2pm check-in and 10am check-out. (Unless otherwise advised).
Q. Check-in procedure
A. Please check-in at the Office during office hours when you first arrive onsite: Saturday to Thursday – 8:00am- 4:00pm, Friday – 8:00am- 6:00pm. We can email after-hours check-in instructions to you if you plan to arrive after office hours. Just let us know.
Q. Do I need to make a booking for camping?
A. Yes. As we choose to limit our camper number to only 100 people, the school holidays and long weekends can fill up very quickly. Book Now
Q. Can I book a site next to my family/friends?
A. We do not allocate camping sites, so once you have checked in, you will be able to choose your own campfire site to suit your group.
Q. Do you have a camp kitchen?
A. No. We recommend you BYO gas cookers and esky. There are washing-up facilities at the amenities block. Firewood and ice is available to purchase at the office.
Q. Do you have a shop?
A. From the office, we sell milk, bread, ice, eggs, limited soft drinks, and firewood. (Local produce such as bacon, sausages, meat, cheeses and yogurt dependent on availability)
Q. Do you allow pets?
A. No. Mt Barney Lodge is a Wilderness Retreat and a Land for Wildlife member. You will see many Redneck Wallabies, birds and other native wildlife in the campgrounds.
However, assistance and guide dogs will be considered under strict control. Please call us when making your reservation to discuss requirements.
Q. Do you sell ice-creams?
A. No. However, we do sell a small selection of soft drinks.
Q. Do you have powered sites?
A. No. We only have un-powered sites.
Q. Can I drive onto my camp site?
A. Yes. The campgrounds are divided into 3 sections. Only one section does not allow vehicles.
Q. Can I bring my caravan or motor-home?
A. Yes. Motorhomes, caravans and camper trailers are most welcome.
Q. What if it’s raining?
A. Be prepared! We will not refund a deposit or transfer your booking if the forecast is for possible showers or rain. See our terms and conditions here for detailed cancellation information.
When setting up campsite, do not dig trenches or holes. We work hard to provide a grassy campground for your enjoyment.
Q. What is your noise policy?
A. As we are a wilderness retreat on private property, we do ask all guests to keep all noise to a respectable level at all times and to consider other guests. We do enforce quiet time after 10pm.
Q. Do you allow generators?
A. No. But solar panels are welcome!
Q. Do you allow fires?
A. Yes. There are many campfire places scattered throughout the campgrounds.
While we do limit our onsite camping numbers to allow campers access to a fireplace we do not guarantee exclusive use to a fireplace to every guest. No transfer or refund is given if an exclusive fireplace is not available.
All fires must be placed within the designated fire rings provided. No new fires are to be created outside these rings.
Braziers are not permitted at Mt Barney Lodge.
When braziers or new fires cause external damage to the grass in the campground a $50 on the spot fine will be charged to your credit card on file. In accepting our Terms and Conditions you are agreeing to immediate payment of this charge.
In line with our Advanced Ecotourism principles and Climate Emergency Declaration – we are inviting our guests to “gaze at the mountain and stars instead of a fire”. Each guest can contribute to a reduction of greenhouse gasses by reducing the campfire size, duration or need.
Occasionally, the Qld Govt Rural Fire Service implements a total fire ban – you can check the status of fire bans anytime here:
Q. Do you sell firewood?
A. Yes. You are welcome to bring your own or we do sell it for $15.00 per bag.
We ask that you do not collect your own from the creek or bush as this is habitat for animals.
Q. Can I use my chainsaw?
A. No. Pre cut wood is available for sale from the office. We ask that large pieces of wood not to be collected from the surrounding private property or National Park.
Q. Where can I camp?
A. When you check-in at the office, we will show you a site map of the camp grounds where you will be able to choose a site that best suits you.
Q. Is there drinking water?
A. Yes, there are water taps throughout the camping grounds.
Q. Are there toilets or hot showers?
A. Your camping tariff includes the use of the modern amenities block which includes toilets and hot showers. No tokens or coins necessary!
Q. Where can I charge my mobile phones/iPad etc?
A. If you are camping, there are power points situated in the amenities block. For security and insurance purposes, we cannot charge them at the office for you.
Q. Do you have gas BBQ’s in the camp ground?
A. No. BBQ plates are available to hire at $20 for a fully refundable deposit when returned clean.
Q. Do I need a 4×4 to get in?
A No. The last 3kms is a gravel road in good condition.
Q. I am camping. What do I need to bring?
A. Download our ‘Complete Camping Gear Check List’
Q. Do you accept Group Bookings?
A. Yes. See our group booking policy here
Q. Do you provide a dump point?
A. No. Dump Points are usually local council funded infrastructure, as they cost thousands of dollars to install, and after that there is the running/emptying costs. For this reason a dump point would be a prohibitive cost to a small business like Mt Barney and a large portion of our campground would then become unusable … because who wants to camp within 500m of a dump point!!
Our nearest dump point is 40 mins away in Boonah, and most dump points are in urban thoroughfares. See this map for all the listed dump points in Australia. http://www.dumppoints.com/
Q. Do motor home rentals camp at Mt Barney Lodge?
A. Yes. We have good road access to all vehicle types. While we are on the subject, we can recommend Motorhome Republic as a rental camper provider.
