Hardings Paddock

Hardings Paddock is an exclusive scenic campground that is surrounded by bushland, just 20 minutes from Ipswich CBD.

Not only does its proximity to the CBD make it unusual, but what makes Hardings Paddock truly unique is that there are only 8 camps sites and it costs nothing to camp here.

While the sites are unpowered, there are camp shower cubicles (BYO water), state-of-the-art gas BBQs, an undercover camp kitchen and picnic pavilions. The well-maintained expansive green ‘paddock’ has quirky country features including a rotunda and an old windmill.

Whether coming for a few hours or putting up a tent and staying for a few days, Hardings Paddock makes a great place to visit, with plenty of bird-watching and hiking tracks of varying length in the adjacent Flinders-Goolman Conservation Reserve. Some of the trails are also suited to trail bikes and horse-riding.

Onsite, there’s also an interesting bush tucker trail and garden for use by campers.

Need to know – Bookings for campsites are made through Ipswich City Council. Once the booking is confirmed, campers will receive a confirmation permit and camping code for accessing the campground. Caravans and camper vans are permitted as well, and there’s also a holding yard for horses with access to water.