CAMPSITES LOCATED IN PARKS AND RESERVES
Guy Fawkes River State Conservation Area
Whian Whian State Conservation Area
CAMPSITES LOCATED IN OTHER AREAS
THE SUBTROPICAL CLIMATE AND rich, fertile soil of the coastal and hinterland region stretching from Coffs Harbour north to the Queensland border have given rise to a stunning range of national parks and reserves. Yuraygir National Park protects the largest stretch of undeveloped coastline in NSW – a seemingly endless string of sweeping beaches, rocky headlands, serene coves and tranquil estuaries. Not far north of this is Bundjalung National Park, with another 38 km of options for swimming, fishing, birdwatching and canoeing. Campers can learn about the Aboriginal history of the area, visiting middens and sites of cultural significance.
In this region, the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia reign supreme: the Border Ranges, Mebbin, Richmond Range and Toonumbar national parks are just a few of the 50 national parks between Newcastle and Brisbane that are included in this World Heritage listing – together, they protect more than 200 threatened plant and animal species. For the outdoor enthusiast, these parks offer infinite opportunities for camping, bushwalking, birdwatching, wildlife-watching, scenic driving and nature appreciation. Some of the forest experiences are second to none, such as Old Spotty, a spotted gum in Toonumbar National Park believed to be up to 300 years old.
Water, it seems, is never far away on the tropical north coast. It’s not just the world-renowned beaches – Nymboida and Nymboi– Binderay national parks both offer spectacular whitewater rafting, and Toonumbar Dam, north-west of Kyogle, is a popular spot for boating, canoeing and fishing. And there are creeks and waterfalls aplenty, from beautiful Minyon Falls in Nightcap National Park, accessible by a short walk from Whian Whian State Conservation Area, to the cheerful Chaelundi Creek in Guy Fawkes River National Park.
No campers worth their salt could be bored exploring this region – whether their passion is wild and pristine forest, stunning beaches, laid-back coastal towns or wild rivers.
CAMPSITES LOCATED IN PARKS AND RESERVES
BORDER RANGES NATIONAL PARK
Sprawling across the very northern perimeter of NSW and extending for 85 km along the Queensland state border, this World Heritage–listed national park embraces 3 wilderness areas. It is an area of great biodiversity, with the border region said to have the highest concentration of marsupial, bird, snake and frog species in Australia. Bush camping is permitted in the park (keep 200 m from public roads, walking tracks and other facilities) but vehicle-based bush camping is prohibited. The Tweed Range Scenic Dr loops through the park and gives access to the camping areas, as well as a number of walks. Some lead to spectacular lookouts, such as the Bar Mountain and Pinnacle lookouts.
Who to contact: NPWS Kyogle (02) 6632 0000
157 Forest Tops camping area
If you enter the national park along Tweed Range Scenic Dr, 30 km north of Kyogle, you’ll see signposted access for this camping area. The medium–difficult 10.5 km Booyong Walk (5 hr) sets out from here and links Forest Tops and Sheepstation Creek, passing tumbling waterfalls and enticing swimming holes. The camping sites are a 10–50 m walk from your car. Access includes unpaved roads, reachable by 2WD. Boil or treat the water before use; gas/fuel stove preferred; bring your own firewood. Map refs: D1, N2
158 Sheepstation Creek camping area
With 40 sites, this sizeable camping area is just off Tweed Range Scenic Dr, 31 km north of Kyogle. The easy Rosewood Loop (6 km, 3 hr) and Palm Forest Walk (2 km, 1 hr) begin here: the former will take you through magnificent stands of old-growth flooded gum; the latter, luxuriant subtropical rainforest. Both of these walks cross the creek and also give access to views of Rosewood Falls. In the springtime, just after dark you may be treated to the forest around the camping ground filling with fireflies – a truly magical sight. Access to the campsite includes unpaved roads, reachable by 2WD. Boil or treat the water before use; gas/fuel stove preferred; bring your own firewood. Map refs: D1, N2
BUNDJALUNG NATIONAL PARK
Bundjalung National Park protects a superb 38 km stretch of NSW’s far-north coastline, including secluded beaches, sand dunes and headlands. The landscape is a mosaic of coastal cypress, freshwater lakes, mangrove mudflats and wetlands. In the south, the beautiful Esk River flows through undisturbed countryside – a marvellous area for self-reliant bushwalkers.
Who to contact: NPWS Lismore/Alstonville (02) 6627 0200 How to book: tent/cabin bookings essential during peak periods; (02) 6646 6134 for campsite no. 160
159 Black Rocks camping area
Black Rocks is on Ten Mile Beach, via unsealed Gap Rd, 5 km south of Woodburn. There are concrete bunkers from World War II here – a section in the north of the park is still used by the military for target practice. A walk on the beach to the north of the camping area takes you to the unusual and interesting Black Rocks, soft, dark-brown stone eroded into intriguing shapes by the sea. There is also a walk along Jerusalem Creek from the camping area to the creek mouth where many shorebirds roost and nest. To get here from Grafton via the Pacific Hwy, take Gap Rd. Bring firewood and drinking water; gas/fuel stoves preferred. Map refs: D4, O5
160 Woody Head camping area
Surrounded by remnant subtropical rainforest, Woody Head is the larger of the park’s 2 camping areas with more than 100 sites, 4 cabins, hot showers, a kiosk and a boat launch. Fishing, swimming, snorkelling and rockpool-hopping are visitors’ favourite pursuits, and staff conduct regular Discovery activities. Map refs: D4, O5
CHAELUNDI NATIONAL PARK
Chaelundi National Park protects one of the largest swathes of old-growth forest in northern NSW. Sparkling creeks, gorges, ridges and delightful swimming holes make this a perfect backdrop for bushwalking, mountain-biking, birdwatching and 4WD touring. The park is north-west of Dorrigo, via Boundary Creek or Ellis rds from Waterfall Way, the Armidale–Grafton Rd. It is necessary to book and pay in advance to receive a permit and key.
How to book: Dorrigo Rainforest Centre (02) 6657 2309
161 Doon Goonge camping area
Tranquil and secluded, Doon Goonge is accessed by 4WD (off-road camper trailers permitted), mountain-bike or on foot – via Chandlers Fire Trail or Quartz Rd. Once here, experienced bushwalkers can explore the Chaelundi Wilderness Area, provided they’re self-sufficient and armed with detailed, up-to-date topographic maps. This is a dry weather access only campsite; bring your own firewood and drinking water. Map refs: B5, L6
DIGGERS HEADLAND RESERVE
Explore rocky headlands, swim, laze on the beach or paddle out on a surfboard at this sleepy and secluded area near Diggers Camp village, 45 km south-east of Grafton via Wooli Rd. During summer and school holidays the campground comes alive with beachgoers; at other times of the year it closes and blends into its pristine, natural surroundings.
Who to contact: Clarence Valley Council, Grafton (02) 6643 0200, (02) 6626 6858 after hours
162 Diggers Headland Reserve Camping Ground
There are up to 26 camping sites here, tucked in among coastal banksias, only a stone’s throw from the beach. To get here, follow Diggers Camp Rd off Wooli Rd, about 12 km north of Wooli. It’s a pretty basic setup, but it’s quiet and attractive, and there’s plenty of swimming, fishing and walking to keep you occupied. Note: camping is only permitted here Dec–Jan and NSW and Queensland school holidays. Map refs: D5, N6
GUY FAWKES RIVER STATE CONSERVATION AREA
The Guy Fawkes River State Conservation Area is adjacent to the national park of the same name, and it shares the same rugged, picturesque landscape. It comprises 2 sections with a total of a little more than 5200 ha. Dalmorton camping area is perched on the north-eastern edge of the conservation park, on the Boyd River.
Who to contact: Dorrigo Rainforest Centre (02) 6657 2309
163 Dalmorton camping area
Dalmorton camping area is a pleasant spot on the southern banks of the Boyd River. The nearby village of Dalmorton may look like a ghost town, but in the mid-1800s it was a bustling goldmining town of up to 5000 people. Access to the camping area is via Old Grafton–Glen Innes Rd, 66 km west of Grafton. Turn onto Chaelundi Rd at Dalmorton. Bring your own firewood and drinking water. Map refs: B5, L6
MEBBIN NATIONAL PARK
Adjacent to Border Ranges National Park, Mebbin forms part of the remains of the Tweed shield volcano, and it’s also one of 50 national parks included in the World Heritage–listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. Its rich and rugged landscape can be enjoyed on foot or by 4WD.
Who to contact: NPWS Murwillumbah (02) 6670 8600
164 Cutters Camp camping area
You’ll find Cutters Camp where Mebbin Forest and Caddell rds meet. Unsealed Mebbin Forest Rd is a 35 km scenic route with wonderful views of the region’s volcanic, forest-clad landscape; you’ll need a 4WD if it’s been raining. Byrrill Creek walking track (450 m each way) leads from the camping area through subtropical rainforest down to the creek. Note: Cutters Camp is only suitable for small camper trailers and caravans. Bring along drinking water. Map refs: D1, O2
NYMBOI–BINDERAY NATIONAL PARK
Nymboi Binderay is the local Gumbaynggirr name for the river that cuts through this national park, 25 km north of Dorrigo, creating a dramatic backdrop for whitewater rafting. Access from Dorrigo is via Moonpar Rd off Tyringham Rd; or from the north via Nymboida–Kangaroo River Rd from Nymboida, 35 km south of Grafton. These roads are unsealed; you’ll need a 4WD if it’s wet.
Who to contact: Dorrigo Rainforest Centre (02) 6657 2309; or NPWS Grafton (02) 6641 1500
165 The Junction camping area
Take the Black Mountain Rd south from Nymboida, Glenreagh or Lowanna and turn onto Junction Rd, a 1.4 km unsealed road suitable for 4WDs only – unless you’re prepared to walk or paddle in. Once there, you’ll find a peaceful camping area by the Nymboida River, where you can launch your canoe or kayak or just kick back on the banks and look for platypus and river turtles. Bring your own drinking water and firewood. Map refs: C5, E5, G4, M7
166 Platypus Flat camping area
Perched on the banks of the Nymboida River, just off Moonpar Forest Dr, Platypus Flat provides tent sites in a grassy clearing beneath blue gums and river oaks, a short walk from your car. There are fabulous swimming holes within easy reach and you can launch your canoe or kayak here. If you’re in the mood for a short walk, the delightful 300 m Red Cedar Track begins 1 km east. Note: this is 2WD access in dry weather only, and the roads are unsuitable for caravans. Bring drinking water and firewood. Map refs: C6, M7
NYMBOIDA NATIONAL PARK
If you’re tiring of ocean vistas and coastal camping, you can venture deep into the rugged, pristine wilderness of Nymboida National Park, 55 km west of Grafton. Whitewater rafters revel in the twists and turns of the Nymboida River, while selfsuffi cient, experienced bushwalkers will enjoy the opportunity to explore a park with no marked walking trails.
Who to contact: NPWS Grafton (02) 6641 1500
167 Nymboida River camping area
You’ll need a 4WD vehicle to get to this secluded camping area near Nymboida River, in the south-eastern corner of the park. Follow the T Ridge Rd 57 km west of South Grafton; take Dobby Rd, then Ramornie Rd from Glens Crossing. Swimming, fishing and canoeing are popular activities, as is bushwalking. There are no marked walking trails, however, so walkers need to be experienced and well prepared. Bring your own drinking water and firewood; gas/fuel stove preferred. Map refs: C4, M6
RICHMOND RANGE NATIONAL PARK
Richmond Range National Park, 40 km west of Kyogle and Casino, is a rich treasure trove of eucalypt, old-growth forest and World Heritage–listed rainforest. The park protects an astounding diversity of plants and animals, making it a fabulous destination for wildlife-watching, walking and 4WD touring. Note: roads may be closed when wet.
Who to contact: NPWS Kyogle (02) 6632 0000
168 Peacock Creek camping area
Located in a bend on the Peacock River, this is a grassy, sunlit camping area popular with birdwatchers, cyclists, walkers and 4WD enthusiasts. It’s off Peacock Creek Rd, 36 km north of Mallanganee. To get here, take the Cambridge Plateau Scenic Dr from Mallanganee or Peacock Creek Rd from Bonalbo. Access for 2WD vehicles is in dry weather only. Bring your own drinking water and firewood. Map refs: C2, M3
TOONUMBAR NATIONAL PARK
Two World Heritage–listed rainforests, Murray Scrub and Dome Mountain, are contained within this park, 35 km north-west of Kyogle. It’s a landscape rich with tropical and subtropical rainforest and a number of rare and threatened animals, including the sooty owl and red-necked pademelon. Access for 2WD vehicles in dry weather only. The land is comanaged by NPWS and the Githabul people.
Who to contact: NPWS Kyogle (02) 6632 0000
169 Iron Pot Creek camping area
Rest in the dappled shade of flooded gums at this spacious, grassed camping area. There’s a 750 m loop track leading to Iron Pot Creek; a night walk with a torch may reveal possums, native mice and gliders. To get here, follow Afterlee Dr from Kyogle for about 35 km and turn onto Toonumbar Forest Dr. Iron Pot Creek camping area is signposted along Murray Scrub Rd. Bring your own firewood and drinking water. Map refs: C2, M2
WHIAN WHIAN STATE CONSERVATION AREA
Established in 2003 to preserve a small area surrounded by Nightcap National Park, Whian Whian plays a vital role in the protection of koalas, platypus and spotted-tailed quolls. It’s a relaxing place for a rainforest picnic or short walk. You’ll find it 35 km north of Lismore, via Whian Whian Forest Dr off Lismore–Mullumbimby Rd.
Who to contact: NPWS Alstonville (02) 6627 0200
170 Rummery Park camping area
From this roomy, friendly camping area you can take a short walk following Boggy Creek to the beautiful Minyon Falls in Nightcap National Park. Other activities include birdwatching and car touring. To get here, turn off Whian Whian Forest Dr onto Peates Mountain Rd. You’ll need to bring your own drinking water and firewood. Map refs: E2, O3
YURAYGIR NATIONAL PARK
Yuraygir National Park protects the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in NSW: a glorious sweep of beaches backed by forest and heath. The state’s coastal fringe is increasingly busy and developed, so this park’s 60 km tract of largely untouched bushland is an important natural reserve. The 4-day, 65 km Yuraygir Coastal Walk follows the coast from Angourie to Red Rock. You can stay at the national park campgrounds along the way, or in accommodation at Brooms Head, Minnie Water and Wooli.
Who to contact: NPWS Grafton (02) 6641 1500
171 Boorkoom camping area
In the southern section of Yuraygir National Park, small and secluded Boorkoom is north of Wooli near Diggers Camp. The 10 campsites here aren’t suitable for caravans or camper trailers; access is via the unsealed Diggers Camp Rd. There’s an easy 3 km (1 hr) walk between the camping area and Wilsons Headland, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping ocean vistas. Bring your own water and gas/fuel stove as campfires are not permitted. Map refs: D5, N6
172 Grey Cliff camping area
Next to Red Cliff camping area on the headland south of Lake Arragan, Grey Cliff is 5 km north of Brooms Head along the unsealed Brooms Head Rd. The campsites are big enough for camper trailers and caravans. Bring firewood or try the userpays system. Map refs: D4, N6
173 Illaroo camping area
Just north of Minnie Water, via Minnie Water Rd off Wooli Rd, this is a large and spacious camping area with 60 sites shared between Illaroo north and Illaroo south. There’s room for tents, campervans and trailers. The beach is close by, with 4WD beach access, and there are a couple of short tracks: the 30 min Angophora Grove Walk and the 2 km return Rocky Point Track, which leads to a walk-in camping area with no facilities. Bring your own firewood or try the user-pays system. Map refs: D5, N6
174 Lake Arragan camping area
Next to a small coastal lagoon ringed with paperbarks and nodding reeds, this camping area is just as popular with migratory and resident birds as it is with campers, but with 50 campsites there’s room for everyone. The Angourie Walk (10 km, 3 hr return) is a medium-grade track that joins Mara Creek and Lake Arragan. The camping area is 5 km north of Brooms Head, along the unsealed Brooms Head Rd. Bring firewood or try the user-pays system. Map refs: D4, N6
175 Pebbly Beach camping area
This is a top spot in a bay north of Station Creek Beach, with 60 campsites surrounded by banksias and horse-tail she-oaks. Sites are large and spread out behind the beach. There is a pleasant walk north to Freshwater Beach. You’ll need a 4WD to get here and you should plan to travel at low tide as there’s a saltwater creek crossing and beach driving. It’s at the end of Barcoongere Way. Station Creek Beach is a vehicle-free area (it’s a breeding site for the endangered little terns), so it’s a good place to bring children, along with your own drinking water. Firewood is provided. Not suitable for large caravans. Map refs: D5, D3, I12, N7, F6
176 Red Cliff camping area
This is next to Grey Cliff camping area, on the headland south of Lake Arragan, 5 km north of Brooms Head along the unsealed Brooms Head Rd. The campsites are big enough for camper trailers and caravans. Bring firewood or try the userpays system. Map refs: D4, N6
177 Rocky Point camping area (walk-in camping)
This is a walk-in camping area with no facilities, accessible via an easy 100 m walking track leading from Illaroo camping area. Campfires are not permitted, so bring your own gas/fuel stove and drinking water. Map refs: D5, N6
178 Sandon River camping area
You get the best of many worlds from here: sweeping sandy beach to the north; rockpools to the south at the base of Sandon Bluffs; and fine fishing in Sandon River. The 40 sites in the camping area are suitable for tents, caravans and camper trailers, and there’s a boat ramp nearby. To get here, follow Sandon Rd off Brooms Head Rd south of Brooms Head. Bring firewood or try the user-pays system. Map refs: D5, N6
179 Shelley Head camping area (walk-in camping)
This walk-in selection of campsites is en route between Lake Arragan and Mara Creek on the Angourie Walk (10 km, 3 hr return). Campers need to bring their own drinking water and gas/fuel stove as campfires are not permitted. Map refs: D4, N5
180 Station Creek camping area
This is a popular spot in peak periods, positioned by a peaceful creek with access through the sand dunes to the beach. Bring a canoe and go for a paddle, or set out on the Corkwood and Scribbly Gum Walk (1.5 km, 1 hr loop, easy grade) upstream through coastal forest. There are 20 sites here; bring your own water. You can get here via Barcoongere Way, which is an unsealed road; if it’s wet, a 4WD is recommended. Map refs: D5, N7
CAMPSITES LOCATED IN OTHER AREAS
181 The Arts Factory camping area
This relaxed backpacker-dominated site features a variety of accommodation options: tent sites, dorm and private rooms and even a tepee! Created in the 1970s by alternative lifestylers, the Arts Factory remains true to its roots with myriad options for self-expression – juggling, yoga, didgeridoo lessons, crystal healing and African drumming sessions. It’s a 15 min stroll from the beach and the centre of Byron Bay; from town join Lawson St, turn left into Butler St and then follow the signs to the ‘arts centre’. Bookings are essential in peak periods. Map refs: E2, O3
How to book: 1 Skinners Shoot Rd, Byron Bay (02) 6685 7709 nomadhostels.com/arts-factory
182 Bells Bay camping area
Situated beside picturesque Toonumbar Dam, 31 km northwest of Kyogle via Afterlee Rd, Bells Bay is a vision in green, surrounded by swathes of forest. Boating (8-knot limit), canoeing, swimming and fishing for Australian bass and east coast cod are some of the popular pastimes here. Facilities on offer include sheds, rainwater tanks, a jetty and boat ramp. Take note of signs indicating water quality before heading in for a swim. Map refs: C2, N2
Who to contact: (02) 6633 9140 Camping fees: fees payable using self-registration
183 Broken Head Holiday Park
At Broken Head Nature Reserve, lush and fertile rainforests reach emerald tendrils all the way down to long, sweeping beaches, and this holiday park is tucked in right next to the reserve, 7 km south of Byron Bay. Villas, cabins, and powered and unpowered sites are all available at this beachfront haven, which also has a laundry, kiosk, barbecue facilities and showers. Bookings advisable during peak periods. Map refs: E2, O3
How to book: 184 Beach Rd, Broken Head (02) 6685 3245, 1800 450 036 www.brokenheadholidaypark.com.au
184 Clarkes Beach Holiday Park
Nestled on the sands of one of Australia’s most famous holiday towns, Byron Bay, this park’s serene environment is complemented by its modern facilities and amazing views. It’s within walking distance of town and some of the country’s most iconic beaches: Main Beach, the Pass and Wategoes Beach. An experience not to be missed is a picnic lunch on the park’s viewing platform while watching migrating whales pass. There are cabins and villas, and tent and caravan sites as well as a playground and laundry. Map refs: E2, O3
How to book: Lighthouse Rd, Byron Bay (02) 6685 6496 www.clarkesbeach.com.au
185 Flat Rock Tent Park
This is a simple camping spot 4 km north-east of Ballina on the Coast Rd (Lennox Head Rd) but it’s quiet and protected despite being about a 3 min walk to Angels Beach. With Ballina and Lennox Head close by, it’s a great place to kick back and lose track of time over summer. Bookings recommended in peak periods. Map refs: E3, O3
How to book: 38 Flat Rock Rd, East Ballina (02) 6686 4848 www.flatrockcamping.com.au
186 Massey Greene Holiday Park
This is in a top location, right on the Brunswick River and minutes away from Brunswick Heads town centre. The river offers swimming, fishing, snorkelling and boating, and there’s a surf beach only a 10 min walk away. You can choose from tent and caravan sites and self-contained family cabins. Facilities include a laundry, camp kitchen, linen hire and free wi-fiinternet. Map refs: E2, O3
How to book: Tweed St, Brunswick Heads (02) 6685 1329 www.masseygreene.com.au
187 Mount Warning Rainforest Park
Surround yourself with lush and up-tempo rainforest and mountain streams in this verdant mid-north-coast holiday park at the foot of Mt Warning. Accommodation options include deluxe, ensuite and budget cabins, and tent sites. There’s a swimming pool, TV room and children’s toy area, games room and camp kitchen, to name just a few of the facilities. Bookings are essential. To get here, take the Mt Warning Rd from Murwillumbah; less than 2 km along this road you’ll see the turn-off to the left. Map refs: D1, O2
How to book: 153 Mt Warning Rd, Mt Warning (02) 6679 5120 www.mtwarningrainforestpark.com
188 Woolgoolga Beach Caravan Park
A great family holiday spot fronting the Pacific Ocean, Woolgoolga Beach Caravan Park’s facilities include powered sites with beach views, villas with private verandahs, a camp kitchen complete with herb garden and a large children’s playground. The town itself is well-known for its Indian community and Sikh temples (open to visitors on weekends). Woolgoolga Headland is the perfect spot to watch migrating humpback whales May–Nov. A 2 km riverside walk along Woolgoolga Creek wends through subtropical rainforest to a spectacular waterfall. Turn right off the Pacific Hwy onto Clarence St and follow the road to the beach. Map refs: D6, N7
Who to contact: 55 Beach St, Woolgoolga 1800 200 555 www.coffscoastholidayparks.com.au/woolgoolga-beach-caravan-park/