Murphy's Creek Escape

Murphy's Creek Escape is a glamping and camping property on rural creek frontage at Upper Lockyer, in the Lockyer Valley west of Toowoomba. For dog owners the pitch is simple: a designated fenced off-leash area, a creek and swimming hole, and wide open country for an active dog.

Dogs at the Escape

Dogs stay overnight in the camping and RV areas, and every dog must be registered at reception on arrival. Fees apply, though the property does not publish a fixed amount, so confirm the rate when you book. The published policy draws clear lines: dogs are on leash at all times except inside the fenced off-leash area, and they cannot be left unattended anywhere on the property; if you leave the grounds, the dog goes with you. Dogs are not permitted in the eco pool, the BBQ area and camp kitchen, the office, the amenities blocks, the luxury tent area or the bird feeding area.

The vibe

The property spreads across creek-frontage bush with glamping tents alongside campsites, and packs in activities: fire pits, archery, a ropes course, bird feeding and the swimming hole. Reviewers like the setting and the birdlife. For dog owners the off-leash enclosure is the facility that matters, giving a secure run while the rest of the property stays calm for wildlife and other campers.

Getting there and parking

Upper Lockyer sits on the eastern escarpment of the Toowoomba Range, about 15 minutes from Toowoomba's centre off the New England Highway. It is an easy hop from Brisbane via the Warrego Highway. You park on your site, so arriving with a van or camper is straightforward.

Close by with the dogs

The Murphys Creek Tavern down the road is the nearest pub stop for a meal with the dog under the outdoor tables. Otherwise this is a stay-put property: bring everything, keep the lead clipped on between your site, the creek and the off-leash area, and enjoy the one place your dog can properly run.