Visiting Wongi safely
Getting there and getting around
From Maryborough: Travel north on the Bruce Highway 12.5km, to the Warrah Road turnoff on the left. Drive 10km along this gravel road until you reach the sign indicating entry into the day-use area and camping areas.
Caution: gravel roads can be severely corrugated.
Mirror-like reflections in the dark tannin-stained waters are a special feature of the waterholes.
Photo credit: Brian Tighe, Queensland Government
Wongi State Forest day-use area.
Photo credit: Brian Tighe, Queensland Government
Wheelchair accessibility
Trails in Wongi State Forest do not meet Australian Standards for wheelchair-accessibility.
Staying safe
- Supervise children—natural areas have hazards with which children are unfamiliar—creeks, stinging plants and defensive wildlife.
- Water hazards—never dive into the creek or waterholes, as the dark tannin-stained water contains submerged rocks and logs. Water depth is unpredictable. Very cold water in deep areas can cause distress, lack of mobility, shock and even death.
- Take care when canoeing—wear life jackets at all times and never canoe or kayak alone.
- Obey all road closures—roads may be closed due deep water levels at creek crossings or wet and slippery conditions.
- Heavy rain can flood creek crossings. If it is flooded forget it! Wait it out. Flood waters in this area rise and fall quickly and are a hazard to life and property. Even in a small amount of water the current can pick up your car and sweep you away.
For more general safety information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.
In an emergency
- Call Triple Zero (000).
- Advise the location and nature of the emergency.
- Stay on the phone until you are told to hang up.
The nearest hospital is at Maryborough.
Mobile phone coverage: is not reliable in Wongi State Forest. The nearest reliable mobile phone reception is at the junction of Warrah Road and Warrah Top Road.
Before you visit
Essentials to bring
- Plan your trip carefully, be self-sufficient and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
- Carry enough food, water, equipment and other supplies for your trip.
- Bring your own drinking water. A small amount of non-potable tank water is provided for washing and showering.
- Bring fuel or gas stoves for cooking–camp fires are not permitted. Test your stove before leaving home and never use them in confined spaces, such as tents.
- Rubbish bins are not provided. Remove excess packaging when you pack for your trip. Bring rubbish bags, and take all recyclables and rubbish with you when you leave.
- Wear a hat and apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
- Bring a first-aid kit and a fully charged mobile phone.
Essentials to know
Mobile phone coverage: is not reliable in Wongi State Forest. The nearest reliable mobile phone reception is at the junction of Warrah Road and Warrah Top Road.
Fishing in the creek and waterholes within Wongi State Forest is prohibited—penalties apply.
Lenthalls Dam, a short drive north of the Wongi waterholes camping area, is stocked with fish for permitted recreational fishing.
Opening hours
Wongi State Forest is open 24 hours a day.
Permits and fees
Camping permits
Camping permits must be obtained prior to camping in the park and fees apply. A camping tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site.
- Book your camp site online.
- If you cannot book online, see camping bookings for other options.
Other permits
A special permit is required for an organised event or commercial and large scale competitive event.
If you are a commercial film maker or photographer wanting to operate in Wongi State Forest and the activity involves 11 or more people, you must apply for a Commercial Activity Permit.
Pets
Dogs are permitted in Wongi State Forest—they must be on a leash and under control at all times. Carry a doggy bag when walking your dog. Make sure you pick up your dog’s faeces, carry it with you and dispose of it responsibly.
Horses may be ridden on National Bicentennial Trail.
Other domestic animals are not permitted.
Climate and weather
Wongi State Forest enjoys a warm humid summer with temperatures reaching a maximum of 28 to 35°C. Winters are usually mild with temperatures dropping to an average minimum of 5°C, frosts are uncommon.
Watch out for late spring and summer thunderstorms, which bring lightning and strong winds. Most rain falls between December and March.
Always check the current weather forecast before you visit.
Fuel and supplies
Fuel and supplies are available at Torbanlea.
- There are currently no park alerts for this park.