Cedar Creek Rock Pools at Samford have long been a favourite destination among local Brisbane families. A hidden gem, these rock pools are a scenic spot to visit at any time of the year, whether it is to sit and relax, splash in the water, take photographs or just soak up the stunning natural surroundings.
Driving along Cedar Creek Road, which mostly follows the bank of the creek, you can find many peaceful and fun places to play, including Andy Williams Park and the Cedar Creek Rock Pools. The hardest part is deciding where to stop first!
Andy Williams Park
Touted as an ideal family picnic location near Brisbane, Andy Williams Park is a picturesque spot by the creek where you can spend lazy days enjoying the sunshine and enjoying a splash in the creek.
The shallow rock pools and mini rapids make this a relatively safe place for young children to play and paddle (with close adult supervision of course). Children can experiment floating leaves down the river seeing which leaf will win. You may even be able to spot some wildlife. Word has it wallabies and the elusive platypus can sometimes be seen early in the mornings or late afternoons, but you will have to be quiet though!
Andy Williams Park features:
- Toilets
- Picnic tables
- Electric BBQs
- Potable water
- Plenty of shade
- Parking
When you head down towards the river you will understand why this is a favourite destination for families. Imagine trickling streams, kids damming with rocks, scrub turkeys and even the odd rogue rooster (true!). This place is amazing and in the height of summer offers a welcome respite as visitors cool off in the rock pools.
Andy Williams Park is about 4kms in on the left as you head to Cedar Creek. You will drive over a small bridge and then notice a shoulder side-road where you can drive in and park.
Cedar Creek Rock Pools
With deep rock pools, lots of places to explore and trickling streams there is so much to like about this pretty destination.
When you are visiting with young children why not use the natural surroundings for some nature-based activities:
- Learn the art of rock skimming
- Listen closely to the sounds of nature – rustling leaves, flowing water, wildlife
- Float leaves down the flowing water
- Splash and paddle in the rock pools and shallow waters
- Snap some photos of nature – leaves, rocks, water, trees, wildlife
- Wildlife spotting – bring the binoculars for a closer look
As with Andy Williams Park, Cedar Creek Samford is best explored after rain to give the waterways a chance to flush out and to ensure you are paddling in fresh water.
While bushwalking is suggested on some websites, we would probably advise against heading here for that purpose. Localised exploring will keep the most active Brisbane Kid busy, while bushwalking in this area can be reserved for the adventurous adults.
Cedar Creek Rock Pools can be found at the end of the line. Keep driving past Andy Williams Park until you can drive no longer and you will reach Cedar Creek.
NB – Cedar Creek Rock Pools does not have any toilet facilities. The nearest toilets can be located at Andy Williams Park.
Enjoying Andy Williams Park and Cedar Creek Rock Pools
Like any waterway, you need to be mindful of the weather that precedes your visit. Andy Williams and Cedar Creek Pools are fed by mountain rains and if it has been dry for some time the streams can become stagnant. This is a destination that is best enjoyed after fresh rains and even better after several days of rain.
Cedar Creek Samford is a Home
The Cedar Creek Waterhole is not only frequented by visitors but is also a favourite among locals. Locals are keen to preserve this area and trust visitors will leave this wonderful place the way they found it. Please dispose of rubbish in the rubbish bins (where provided) or take it home with you.
Be mindful and courteous to the homes and people around you to ensure Cedar Creek remains a beautiful place for future generations to enjoy.
Discovering the Surrounding Area
When visiting Cedar Creek you should consider making the most of your visit by checking out all the Things to do for families in Samford. From quaint shops, cosy cafes, fun playgrounds, museums and sporting fields, there is something for everyone to discover in Samford.
How to Get to Cedar Creek Samford
To access Cedar Creek from Samford Village follow Mount Samson Road out of town. Turn left onto Cedar Creek Road, and follow it until you find your desired destination.
You will notice on this journey along Mount Samson Road that there are plenty of swimming holes and a road that ultimately leads to Cedar Creek. The journey is picturesque, with a lovely country feel thanks to the peppering of cows, green fields and even the odd llama.
Cedar Creek Road, Closeburn Queensland 4520, Australia
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