Bullocky Rest
Moreton Bay
Joyner
View of Bullocky Rest (drone)
View of Bullocky Rest (drone)
Lake Samsonvale
View of Bullocky Rest (drone)
Click to see full image.
A beautiful park and picnic area on the shore of Lake Samsonvale, with stunning views, particularly at sunset.
This heavily trafficked location is found along Forgan Road in Joyner.
While the area is well-visited on weekends, the expansive nature of the park means it rarely ever feels too crowded, with plenty of shoreline to spread out across, and well-placed picnic areas that provide a little space from other groups.
Bullocky Rest overlooks the picturesque Lake Samsonvale, with views west towards the ranges of Mount Glorious, Mount Nebo and Mount Mee.
Be sure to explore the elongated headland that extends into the lake, with a beautiful shoreline to explore and views in every direction.
The location is packed with amenities, including ample parking, numerous covered picnic shelters, BBQ’s, toilets, and even a playground.
With its wide grassy banks, Bullocky Rest is a great place for a stroll along the shore, a picnic or a fun place to kick around a ball or thrown a Frisbee.
There are also loads of opportunities to spot wildlife, including birds, turtles and koalas, or wildflowers.
Unfortunately, swimming is not permitted at Bullocky Rest.
Paddle craft, such as kayaks and paddleboards, are also not permitted to launch from Bullocky Rest – instead, you’ll need to launch from nearby Forgan Cove and stay in the designated zones where paddle craft are allowed (see the map for more details).
Fishing is permitted at Bullocky Rest, however you will require a permit. Numerous native fish reside in the lake, including Australian Bass, Yellow Belly, Mary River Cod, Snub Nose Gar and Saratoga. You can apply for a fishing permit from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
There is also a walking trail linking the picnic areas at Bullocky Rest and Forgan Cove, with more than five kilometres of multi-use trails.
Take note that the gates to Bullocky Rest are open at 6am and shut at 6pm, daily.
Track: The walk consists of the grassy banks of the lake, and you can cater the length of the walk as you desire.
Difficulty: The walk along the shoreline is relatively flat, with just a slight decline to reach the shore from the car park, and so is suitable for all fitness levels. Those in wheelchairs can also enjoy the area, with some assistance, with some of the shelters being accessible and having excellent views.
Direction: The walk is best performed as a loop around the headland, however you can really choose your own adventure and explore the area however you like.
getting there
Bullocky Rest is located along Forgan Road in Joyner, 45 minutes drive north of Brisbane.
Parking is ample, however the location is particularly busy on weekends.
best time to go
The location can be visited completed year-round. It is particularly busy on weekends, however with so much space to spread out, rarely feels crowded. The views are particularly amazing at sunset.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.