How do I book a campsite? or day trip?
We now have a booking calendar. Please select the dates you wish to book and complete the form.
If you want to get in contact with us for further information or special requests you can do this in several ways…
- Email: bankscreekretreat@gmail.com
- Join our Facebook page here and message the admins directly (Grant or Nicole) via Facebook messenger.
- Grant: 0401 182 744
- Nicole: 0401 922 061
We cannot receive standard text messages on the property (one of the side effects of being off-grid). If you send a text message, we may not receive it until we touch base with the “real” world. We will eventually get them.
I haven’t received confirmation of my booking. What do I do?
Grant checks the bookings once every couple of days. It is best to book your stay at least a week in advance. If you are booking at the last minute (less than 48 hours notice), send Grant a message via Facebook messenger or his mobile (0401 182 744).
Generally, you will receive an automated email when you first make your booking. Once Grant approves your booking you will receive a second email. If you do not receive either of these emails, please check your junk mail folder.
Who can I bring out with me?
Banks Creek Retreat is for the support of the Emergency Service and ADF community. You are welcome to bring your family and friends as part of your camping group. All we ask is that you and your guests remember that this is a special place for you. All guests must be respectful of the service community and understand what this retreat is for. We value family and friends as they are your support group.
How much does it cost?
Donation ONLY or Free. We are a not-for profit organisation and rely on donations and funding grants to keep operating. We don’t set fees, as we want all of our Emergency Service and ADF family to feel welcome regardless of their financial position.
If you can afford it, we certainly appreciate donations. You can donate here.
We also encourage visitors to donate their time and skills to improve the property. If you are handy and can think of ways to leave the property with something special then feel free to leave your mark.
What facilities do you have?
Currently Banks Creek Retreat only caters for “bush camping”.
Day Use Area:
We have a day use area with play equipment and a shelter for visitors. Please do not camp in this area.
Undercover Area and BBQ:
We have a large undercover area with a BBQ guests can use. You may need to bring a gas bottle in case ours is empty. You will need to bring your own cooking equipment, etc. Please leave the BBQ clean after you use it and tidy up the undercover area. As always… Leave BCR better than you found it.
Camping Shelters
We are slowly building camping shelters in each of the camping areas. There are currently two carport size shelters in the upper camping area which you are free to use as part of your camp site. At present there is no way to reserve them, they are a “first in, first served” arrangement. We are currently looking for C-Pulins, hats and roofing material to complete 3 more shelters on the property.
Toilets:
We have three useable portaloos on the property. Always bring a roll or two of toilet paper in case we aren’t here to keep the stock up. DO NOT dispose of your own toilet waste or rubbish in these toilets. Be conservative with the “pump flush” as these toilets need to be pumped out regularly and filled with water.
No Showers:
We have a single shower “cubicle” near the toilets, but you will have to supply your own camping shower if you wish to use this. We currently do not have serviceable shower facilities.
Camp fires:
Please DO NOT create your own camp fire pits. These are a hazard to other campers and our ability to mow the paddocks safely.
There are some fire pits located around the property for lighting fires and plenty of natural firewood available. Campers are encouraged to use fallen wood for fires (Do not cut down trees). Please keep fires contained and away from the bushland. Never leave them unattended. You will need to bring your own cooking equipment with you. Please feel free to donate fire-pits for others to use. We are ALWAYS looking for replacement fire-pits as we do not allow people to build rock fire-pits (i.e. 44 gallon drums cut in half).
No town water:
There is no town water and the creek is seasonal. It is always better to bring drinking water with you. When the creek is flowing the water is beautifully fresh.
No mains power (BYO Solar Power):
There are no powered sites as we are totally off-grid. You will need to power your own campsites with solar or quiet generators.
We encourage people to undertake a day visit first to see what is available.
What sort of vehicle do I need to access Banks Creek Retreat?
The road from Fernvale is a graded dirt road. It gets graded approximately once a year and does get corrugated in sections. Generally you can reach us with a standard 2WD vehicle. If it has been wet, there are 8 small creek crossings which generally don’t get any deeper than 1 foot deep. If the crossings are any deeper, we will let you know by posting updates on the Facebook page and on this website. We drive the road every day. Just take it slow and contact us if you are concerned.
We have had caravans and campervans out here with little problems. Just take it slowly over the creek crossings. They are usually shallow and sometimes dry, with a rock base.
There is one large hill for those towing caravans and campers. It is essential that you have an appropriately sized vehicle to tow your campers. Loose gravel and underpowered vehicles has been a problem for some in the past (rarely though).
Can I bring my dog (pets)?
Yes. We welcome your furry friends as we know they provide companionship. All we ask is that you keep your furry friend confined to your campsite or on a leash. Please be respectful of other visitors to the property. DO NOT take your pets into other camps without their express permission.
Common sense is the key here. We don’t want anyone to get hurt.
At times, local properties near Fernvale lay baits for wild dogs and foxes. We occasionally see foxes out this way and we don’t want to see your companion accidentally get poisoned. So don’t let them wander too far.
Any injuries to pets are the owners responsibility, so please keep a close eye on your friends.