Detour from the highway and explore the Lockyer Valley’s rolling hills, farmland and charming towns that will make you want to slow down and enjoy the ride.
Located only an hour west of Brisbane and under 40 minutes from Toowoomba along the Warrego Highway, the Lockyer Valley is known as the ‘Salad Bowl of Australia’ and is one of Queensland’s best locations for road trippers chasing a slower, more meaningful adventure.
From vibrant community events like the annual Laidley Spring Festival to serene bush camps, unique towns and plenty of fresh produce from generational farmers, the Lockyer Valley offers a blend of country hospitality and experiences that reward those who detour off the highway in search of a more scenic route.
Laidley Spring Festival
Held every September (12–14 September 2025), the Laidley Spring Festival is one of the Lockyer Valley’s most colourful events. What began more than 60 years ago as a humble flower show has grown into a vibrant three-day event that captures the essence of the region — colour, creativity and community spirit.
It’s a festival for all ages, and every year it transforms the town of Laidley with floral displays, market stalls, on-theme window decorating competitions by local businesses and live entertainment, drawing visitors from far and wide to discover the wonders of the Lockyer Valley in springtime.
The best part? Most of the festival fun is completely free, with a few community-led events asking for a donation entry to support the locals who make it all happen. Park your van and explore at your leisure — you can even bring your pooch along (must be on leash). There’s a free shuttle bus to all festival venues and the event has accessible spaces throughout the precinct.
Embrace the theme!
Building on its strong roots, the festival offers something new and exciting every year, whether it’s changing up the stage entertainment or showcasing a new theme, like this year’s ‘Retro Revival’ focus which delights newcomers and keeps the locals coming back for more.
What’s on at the festival:
Friday: Let the festival fun begin
The festival kicks off on Friday evening with the Twilight Feast & Fest at Laidley Recreational Reserve, featuring live music, great street food and a makers and creators market. Bring your picnic blanket along and enjoy live music from some of South East Queensland’s best musicians performing from 5pm to 9pm.
The Twilight Feast & Fest on Friday night
Saturday: Festivities galore
Saturday is the biggest day of the festival, so get ready for a jam-packed schedule. The fun starts at 8am, so you’ve got plenty of time to grab a coffee, pick up fresh flowers and shop for handmade treasures that have a vintage flair.
At 10am, Laidley’s famous Street Parade will roll through town with retro floats, classic trucks, vintage cars, community groups and marching bands — all fitting the ‘Retro Revival’ theme.
The Street Parade is always a crowd favourite
From 11am, the festival stage heats up with family-friendly performances by Elmo and the Cookie Monster, plus the high-energy group Geed Up.
Other Saturday highlights include the Show ‘n’ Shine display of classic cars, the foodie precinct featuring celebrity chef Matt Golinski cooking with fresh Lockyer Valley produce, the Quilt and Craft Expo, Das Neumann Haus Museum and Markets, Orchid Show, Spring Gardening Fair, Gem Show, Under 5s, Art Exhibition and Open Gardens.
Celebrate the region’s produce and producers at the annual Laidley Spring Festival
Sunday: Take it slow and steady
The final day of the festival is perfect for taking things a little slower and soaking up the Lockyer Valley serenity. If you’ve got little ones with you (six months and older), head over to Forest Hill’s Bee Happy Day. There’ll be arts and crafts, theatre workshops, local food and a fantastic artisan market full of treasures.
If you’re travelling without kids, Forest Hill is the perfect place to unwind. It’s renowned for its cafes, boutiques and historic buildings, offering a peaceful way to round out the busy festival weekend.
The festival is only the beginning
The Laidley Spring Festival might be what draws you to the Lockyer Valley, but it’s the laidback charm, welcoming locals and beautiful landscapes that will tempt you to stay longer — and you should.
Once the festivities wind down, take your time exploring everything the region has to offer. From scenic food trails and peaceful bushwalks to charming country towns with their own unique character and attractions, the Lockyer Valley is best explored at a slow and steady pace.
Follow the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive through the Lockyer Valley
Pubs, pies and perfect pit stops
A cruisy road trip is one of the best ways to explore the Lockyer Valley. Unhitch the van at your campsite (keep reading for ideas) and get ready for a relaxed drive between the region’s tastiest stops.
Country pub crawl
If you love a good country pub — the kind with hearty pub grub, cold beer and friendly locals — you’re in the right place. Drop into favourites like the Fairways Tavern (Hatton Vale), Mulgowie Hotel (Mulgowie), Lockyer Hotel (Forest Hill) and Porters Plainland Hotel (Plainland). You’ll also find great vibes and good food at Queensland National (Laidley), Royal Hotel (Gatton), Tenthill Hotel (Upper Tenthill) and Murphys Creek Tavern (Murphys Creek).
Best bakeries
No road trip is complete without a proper country bakery stop, and the Lockyer Valley delivers on all fronts. From the perfect crusty pie and cream-filled delights to a hot cuppa with a view, the Lockyer Valley’s bakeries serve up old-school favourites in style. Here are some you should add to your road trip itinerary:
- Gatton Bakehouse, Gatton
- Valley Bake & Coffee, Gatton
- Sweet Valley Bakery, Laidley
- Golden Harvest Bakery, Laidley
- King Crust Bakery Cafe, Crowley Vale
- Plainland Bakery, Plainland
Das Neumann Haus scones and jam in Laidley
Perfect pit stops
In the Lockyer Valley, the journey is just as good as the destination. Scenic lookouts like Cunninghams Crest and Schultz Lookout are great spots to pause for a picnic (pack your pie!) or simply take in the view. The wide horizons and rolling farmland are what road trips are made of, so be sure to bring your camera along.
Local produce galore
As the ‘Salad bowl of Australia’, Lockyer Valley offers a vast array of fresh produce straight from the farm. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer, but for a full list head to the region’s online foodie guide.
- 9Dorf Farms: Chicken, eggs and fish — there are farm gate sales and tours available by appointment
- Australian Organic Farmers: Organic seasonal produce straight from the farm shop
- Dunlop Honey: Fantastic golden honey available at the Lockyer Valley Visitor Information Centre
- Flagstone Fresh: Fresh tomatoes sold from a roadside stall
- Ghost Gully Produce: A hydroponic lettuce and herb farm roadside stall
- Harmy’s Farm Fresh: Seasonal veggies and watermelons roadside stall
- Kitchen Kreations: Local handmade jams and chutneys available at the Lockyer Valley Visitor Information Centre
- Schulte’s Fresh Gourmet Market: Meaty delights, gourmet deli, wines and veggies
- Shingle Hut Creek Farm: Fresh meat sold from the farm gate
- Tamor Roses: Fresh blooms available from the roadside stall
- Wegner Farms: Seasonal veggies fresh from the roadside stall
Ghost Gully Produce
Schulte’s Fresh Gourmet Market
And a visit to a farming region isn’t complete without a classic country market. It’s the perfect way to sample fresh produce, chat with the growers and soak up the local spirit. Here are some options to include in your trip:
- Mulgowie Real Farmers Markets (first Saturday of the month)
- Gatton Village Markets (first Sunday of the month)
- Ma Ma Creek Markets (second Saturday of the month)
- Ferrari Park Markets (fourth Saturday of the month)
- Plainland Country Markets (fourth Sunday of the month)
Visiting one of the Lockyer Valley’s markets is a must
If you need a cuppa to fuel your exploring, then stop by one of the Lockyer Valley’s great cafes where you can sit back and enjoy the relaxed country lifestyle. Some favourites to keep on your radar include The Hen House Cafe and Grumpys Diner in Plainland, Grace Eats in Laidley, Cafe 4342 in Forest Hill, Jak & Mo Taste Co and Tins & Trays in Gatton.
Jak & Mo Taste Co in Gatton
Outdoor delights
The Lockyer Valley’s beauty extends beyond its lush farmland to reveal a region full of natural wonders and outdoor activities for all ages.
If you’re travelling with kids, Lake Apex in Gatton offers a pedal train ride and playground, while adults can relax by the water or enjoy the picnic area. For something more adventurous, head to Murphys Creek Escape for a high ropes course or mountain biking.
Birdwatching
For birdwatching enthusiasts, the Lockyer Valley is a must-visit, home to more than 350 species. Join local expert Mick Atzeni on a guided tour to prime spots, including Lake Apex where 160 species have been recorded. Mick’s tours head to the area’s prime birding spots. You can enjoy all the benefits of Mick’s more than 40 years of birding in this area plus private property access, custom day trips and small group tours. Bookings are a must, and you can contact the Lockyer Visitor Information Centre team on 07 5466 3426 for more information.
Plenty of birdwatching opportunities
Stargazing and astrophotography
When the sun dips below the hills, the night sky in the Lockyer Valley truly comes alive. With little light pollution and wide-open horizons, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some classic bush camping and appreciate the galaxy in all its glory. Head to Murphys Creek Escape, Cunninghams Crest Lookout or Glen Rock State Forest for some of the best views after dark — perfect for astrophotography.
Glen Rock State Forest
More spots worth the detour
Queensland Transport Museum
Military Exhibition
If you love vintage vehicles or military history, then be sure to visit the Queensland Transport Museum in Gatton, located inside the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. This museum features a unique collection of original military vehicles dating back to World War I — think rugged army trucks, essential equipment vehicles, plus field gear and wartime equipment.
Each display is carefully restored and tells a story, offering a fascinating look at the grit, innovation and human spirit behind transport during wartime and also reflects on the honour of those who served. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good engine, this museum is worth a wander and is open seven days a week, except on public holidays.
Queensland Transport Museum
Delve into the Lockyer Valley’s heritage highlights
History lovers will be in their element in the Lockyer Valley, with plenty of heritage gems dotted throughout the region.
Start your journey in Laidley, where the Das Neumann Haus offers a glimpse into the area’s German roots, complete with vintage furniture and charm. Then step further back in time at the Gatton and District Historical Society, Laidley Pioneer Village or Jessie’s Cottage Local History Museum where you can explore restored buildings, machinery and old wares that capture daily life in the town’s early days.
Laidley Pioneer Village
For a more in-depth dive into local history, drop into the Lockyer Valley Visitor Information Centre for a self-guided heritage trail map or check it out online.
Local favourites
Finding out where the locals go is one of the best ways to experience a new area. Here are some top recommendations to add to your Lockyer Valley road trip.
- Native Oz Bushfoods: Head on a cultural tour with Doug and Tracey Goebel, proud Aboriginal owners of Native Oz Bushfoods. Their tours include traditional storytelling, a smoking ceremony and a delicious bush tucker-inspired morning tea.
- Narda Lagoon, Laidley: This peaceful spot in Laidley is great for a stroll or picnic. Cross the suspension bridge to meet the friendly ducks and turtles — bring some birdseed, lettuce or corn to feed them, but skip the bread, please!
- Caffe Sorella, Forest Hill: If you want to feel like you’ve been swept away to Italy, then this charming cafe in Forest Hill can do it, serving up the best gelato in the Lockyer Valley. Grab a scoop (or two) then explore the heritage streets and enjoy golden hour as the sun sets over the paddocks.
Native Oz Bushfoods
Make a date with the Lockyer Valley
The Laidley Spring Festival might be one of the big-ticket events on the Lockyer Valley calendar, but there are plenty of other festivals you can enjoy ...
- Mulga Bull Ride (13 June 2025): Held in Mulgowie, watch as fearless riders take on bucking bulls then enjoy a night dancing under the stars with live music by Mik and Clay Oberle.
- Lockyer Valley Powerfest (27–29 June 2025): An action-packed weekend at Lake Dyer with some of Australia’s fastest boats.
- Murphys Creek Chilli Festival (21 September 2025): Celebrate 10 years of this piping-hot festival that pays homage to all things chilli.
- Lights on the Hill (4–5 October 2025): Watch hundreds of trucks in convoy and a big weekend of community, camaraderie and so much more at the Gatton Showgrounds.
There are also country race days, swap meets and seasonal harvest events you can add to your calendar, and you can find them all here.
Where to stay
Free rest areas
- Narda Lagoon, Laidley
- William Kemp Park, Gatton
- Lake Clarendon, east of Gatton
- Centenary Park Camping Area, Thornton
- Heifer Creek Rest Area, Fordsdale
Free camping available at William Kemp Park
Best camping spots
- Murphys Creek Escape (356 Thomas Road, Upper Lockyer): Powered and unpowered sites, glamping, adventure activities, campfires allowed, toilets and showers, pet friendly.
- Lake Dyer (134 Gatton-Laidley Road, Laidley): Lakeside views with swimming, boating, powered and unpowered sites, showers and toilets, pet friendly.
- Laidley Showgrounds (2 McGregor Street, Laidley): Powered and unpowered sites, showers and toilets, close to town, pet friendly.
- Glen Rock State Forest (East Haldon Road, Glen Rock): Bush camping with drop toilets, hiking, horse trails and birdwatching.
- Mulgowie Hall Camping (Mulgowie Road, Mulgowie): Powered and unpowered sites, toilet and shower block, panoramic views, pet friendly and only a short walk from Mulgowie pub.
- Rocky Creek Homestead (12 Brookside Place, Postmans Ridge): Private off-grid camping (must be self-sufficient) where you can camp alongside goats and cheeky Highland cows, Milly and Maple.
Lake Dyer is great for watersports and has camping spots as well
Indulge in country comfort
Whether you’re taking a break from your caravan or simply craving a touch of luxury, the Lockyer Valley offers a range of stylish stays.
Branell Homestead in Laidley offers country elegance, while Eco Ridge Hideaway (Preston), The Cabin (Thornton) and Valhalla Glamping (West Haldon) provide stunning views and eco-friendly, one-of-a-kind experiences.
For a more laid-back stay, Porters Plainland, Gatton Motel and Trip Motel in Gatton offer a range of convenient amenities.
Camp under the stars
Handy extras
Dump points:
- Spencer Street, Gatton
- East Street, Gatton
- John Street, Laidley
Water refill stations:
- Opposite 2108 Laidley Rosewood Road, Laidley
- 48 Cochrane Street, Gatton
- 112 Murphys Creek Road, Postmans Ridge
- 51 Fairway Drive, Hatton Vale
- Opposite 15 Forest Hill Fernvale Road, Forest hill
Lock in your Lockyer Valley adventure
If you’re craving big skies, sprawling paddocks and the kind of welcoming hospitality you only get in the country, then the Lockyer Valley is worth the detour off the highway. This is a region perfect for caravanning, with open roads, friendly locals and plenty of places to park the van and explore.
Safety is always key when caravanning, so before you set off, check in on road conditions and updates — the LVRC Disaster Dashboard (disaster.lvrc.qld.gov.au) and Qld Traffic (qldtraffic.qld.gov.au) will have the latest info to ensure your travels go smoothly.
Once you arrive, drop into the Lockyer Valley Information Centre for the best insider tips — the locals there are always ready for a chat and have the best recommendations to make your stay even better.
For more inspiration, head to the Lockyer Valley’s website.
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