Why You Should Visit Lake Baroon on the Sunshine Coast

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Located between Maleny and Montville in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Lake Baroon is a picturesque lake tucked between these charming towns. The area around the lake is home to abundant wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and other species, making it a haven for nature lovers. The dam was built in 1989 across Obi Obi Creek and has been a popular spot for recreation ever since.

Get Wet in the Picturesque Lake

Lake Baroon’s calm water is perfect for a swim or a lazy kayak ride. The lake is so peaceful, and the views are so nice, it’s the perfect place to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

Kayaking lets you explore the lake’s secret coves and tributaries and see the surrounding landscape from a different angle. The fantastic recreational facilities, including picnic areas, barbeques, playgrounds, and a range of activities such as kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking, make it a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages and interests.

For anglers, Lake Baroon is a fisherman’s paradise with an abundance of Australian Bass. The lake has well-maintained facilities, including a boat ramp, so it’s easy to get to the best fishing spots. With a bit of patience and the right technique, you might just land a big one.

Chill Out at Lake Baroon

Lake Baroon isn’t just about water activities; it also has plenty of amenities for those who want to just chill out. The lake’s shoreline has picnic tables and free BBQs, so it’s perfect for a family gathering or a get-together with friends.

The playgrounds offer kids a place to play while you sit back and take in the views. The scenic routes leading to Baroon Lookout include open forest ridges, offering breathtaking views of the dam and the surrounding lush greenery.

If you want to explore the surrounding nature, Lake Baroon has you covered. The area has several walking trails that wind through the forest, allowing you to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the region.

Our pro tip? Don’t miss the Baroon Lookout, which has stunning views of the Obi Obi Gorge and the dam catchment. The walking trails are also popular with mountain bikers, who are recommended to circle the track clockwise to make the most of the turns in the higher section.

For a more leisurely stroll, take a walk along the boardwalks that run through the tree-lined streams.

See the Abundant Wildlife

As you explore Lake Baroon and its surrounds keep an eye out for the local wildlife. Koalas, kangaroos and a wide variety of bird life call this place home. Additionally, the Mary River cod can be found just below the Baroon Pocket Dam in Queensland.

Wildlife	Best Time to Spot	Tips
Koalas	Early morning	Look for them in the eucalyptus trees near the shore
Kangaroos	Dawn or dusk	Be quiet and move slowly to avoid startling them
Birds	Throughout the day	Bring binoculars for a closer look at the various species

Remember to respect the wildlife and their habitat by keeping a distance and not feeding them.

Surrounding Attractions on the Sunshine Coast

Lake Baroon is close to Maleny and Montville so it’s a great base to explore the Sunshine Coast hinterland. These charming towns have a range of accommodation from cozy B&Bs to luxury retreats.

Be sure to visit the markets, art galleries and cafes to get a taste of the region. To access Lake Baroon, take Baroon Pocket Road from North Maleny to the Southern Recreation Zone, where you will find amenities such as picnic areas and restrooms along the way.

Other attractions nearby are the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, which has great views of the Glass House Mountains and information on the local rainforest. For a more adventurous outing, head to Kondalilla National Park, where you can hike to the Kondalilla Falls and swim in the rock pools.

Before You Head Out to Lake Baroon

Before you arrive at Lake Baroon, remember:

The ungated dam allows water to flow over the spillway when it reaches 100% capacity, ensuring safe water management during flood events. The dam also supplies drinking water to the region as part of the SEQ Water Grid.
Dogs are allowed in the recreation area but must be on a leash at all times.
No camping at the dam or in the surrounding area.

By following these rules and respecting the environment you’ll have a safe and great time here.

Quick Facts On Lake Baroon

Lake Baroon is a stunning lake between Maleny and Montville. It is a great place for swimming, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. You can also see koalas, kangaroos, and various birdlife. Visit Maleny, Montville, and the surrounding national parks. Remember to respect the environment and follow the rules for a safe time.

Lake Baroon is a secret hideaway that has it all – outdoor fun and natural beauty. Whether you want a peaceful picnic by the water, a hike through the forest or to spot some of Australia’s unique wildlife, this place has it all. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure and get to Lake Baroon on the Sunshine Coast.

FAQs

What are the best spots for picnicking around Lake Baroon?

Baroon Pocket Dam has picnic tables, BBQs, playgrounds, and waterways, making it a great spot for a family picnic. On the Montville side of the lake, there are sheltered picnic tables and a toilet, which provides a nice view of the dam wall and a quieter area to rest.

Are there any camping facilities near Lake Baroon?

No, camping is not permitted at the dam or in the immediate surrounding areas

What are the best hiking trails around Lake Baroon?

There are a couple of walks near the south end of the dam, including one that is a couple of km long and good for bird-watching. A short walk will take you to Gardners Falls downstream of Obi Obi Creek, where you can find small rock pools ideal for children and larger pools perfect for a freshwater swim.

Can you swim in Lake Baroon?

Yes, the calm waters of Lake Baroon are suitable for swimming. You can also swim in the freshwater pools of Gardners Falls downstream of Obi Obi Creek.