A place of connection
Imagine your students stepping off the bus and taking a deep breath of fresh country air. Before them: 20 hectares of open space, towering gum trees, and the sparkling waters of Lake Cooby stretching to the horizon.
This is Camp Cooby - a place where young people disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature, with each other, and with themselves.
Located just 20 minutes from Toowoomba, our campus offers the perfect balance of accessibility and escape. Close enough for easy travel. Far enough to feel like a real adventure.
50+ Activities
Every student is different. Some thrive on physical challenges. Others come alive in creative problem-solving. Some need quiet moments in nature to find their confidence.
That's why we offer more than 50 activities—so every young person finds something that sparks their curiosity and stretches their comfort zone:
- Adventure activities: High ropes, climbing, abseiling, zipline
- Water activities: Canoeing, kayaking, raft building
- Team challenges: Initiative games, problem-solving, leadership activities
- Nature connection: Bushwalking, orienteering, environmental education
- Evening programs: Bonfires, night walks, stargazing, reflection
Our experienced outdoor educators tailor programs to your group's goals - whether that's building teamwork, developing leadership, fostering resilience, or simply giving students an unforgettable experience.
Cabin accommodation
Our modern cabin accommodation provides comfortable, secure lodging for your group:
- 3 cabin blocks with 18 rooms total
- Air-conditioned for year-round comfort
- Bunk beds with mattresses
- Linen and pillows available (additional fee)
Cabins are purpose-designed for school groups, with convenient access to bathroom facilities and dining areas.
Our three cabin blocks are named Echidna, Koala, and Wallaby to pay homage to our native wildlife.
Adventure camping in tents
For groups seeking a more immersive experience, our adventure camping option lets students sleep under canvas on our beautiful grounds.
Expedition camps can also be arranged for groups wanting to extend their adventure beyond our campus.
Camp Cooby delivers the Adventurous Journey (Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels) for the Duke of Edinburgh program both on our campus and across South East Queensland national parks.
Private Waterfront on Lake Cooby
Not many camps can offer this.
Camp Cooby enjoys private waterfront access to Lake Cooby - a stunning freshwater reservoir nestled in the Toowoomba region. While other venues talk about outdoor education, we deliver it at the water's edge.
Our lakefront location means water-based activities aren't an excursion. They're part of everyday camp life:
- Canoeing & kayaking: Build coordination, teamwork, and quiet confidence
- Raft building: Problem-solve, collaborate, then test your creation on the water
- Stand-up paddleboarding: Balance, focus, and fun
- Water safety: Essential life skills in a supervised environment
- Sailing: Harness the wind and learn to read the water
Catering and Bonfires
Dining
Our dining facilities cater for groups of all sizes, with nutritious meals prepared on-site. We accommodate dietary requirements and allergies with advance notice.
Bonfire Areas
At the end of a big day, our bonfire spaces are where the real magic happens. Students share stories, reflect on their achievements, and connect with classmates in ways that don't happen in the classroom.
With stunning views across Lake Cooby, our bonfire areas are the perfect setting for evening programs, marshmallow toasting, or simply watching the stars emerge.
Loveday Barn
The estate was originally owned by the Loveday family and held in the family for generations as a working farm. The original homestead on the property was moved during the building on Lake Cooby.
The original barn built over 100 years ago still remains on the property and we have aptly named it ‘Loveday Barn’. With some modern touches now added inside, the Loveday Barn offers is the perfect space for hosting your next party or team-building event.
Campus map
Get a bird's eye view of our 50-acre campus and start planning your group's adventure.
There's a whole lot to do and see at Camp Cooby. Want to see what our entire campus looks like and how you can make the most of your time here with your group?
Download a free map of our site below.
A venue rich in history
Camp Cooby sits on land with deep roots.
Originally the Loveday family estate - a working farm held across generations - the property became the Abingdon Outdoor Education Centre under Toowoomba Grammar School, serving young people for over 15 years.
Today, we're honoured to continue that legacy. The original homestead may have been relocated during the building of Lake Cooby, but the spirit of this place remains: a commitment to helping young people learn, grow, and discover their potential through outdoor experiences.
We don't just operate on this land. We care for it, preserve its history, and ensure it continues to shape young lives for generations to come.
We're honoured to not only be part of, but also preserve the legacy of Camp Cooby's 35+ years in providing quality outdoor education to the Darling Downs region.
Large open spaces
Sprawling green spaces at every corner overlooking Lake Cooby.
Function centre
A spacious function centre that includes two large spaces accommodating up to 60 people each.
Bell tents
A comfortable stay under the stars, including a heater, electric blankets, power, and lighting.
Aquaponics hub
Learn about organic plant and fish cultivation at our aquaponics hub.