Relax by the River in Historic Merriwa
Situated halfway between Newcastle and Dubbo on the Golden Highway, Merriwa Caravan Park offers a convenient and restful stopover for travellers crossing New South Wales. Managed by the Upper Hunter Shire Council, this park is located on the tranquil banks of the Merriwa River, providing a leafy and green setting just a stone’s throw from the town centre. Whether you are hauling a caravan across the state or looking for a quiet weekend getaway to explore the region’s rich agricultural history, this park serves as an affordable and accessible base.
The park is well-regarded for its simplicity and cleanliness. It features level grassy sites suitable for caravans, motorhomes, and tents, with plenty of shade provided by established gum trees. Both powered and unpowered options are available to suit your travel style. While the amenities are traditional, they are kept clean and functional, ensuring a comfortable stay. The laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to unwind after a long day on the road, with the sound of the river providing a gentle backdrop to your evening.
Merriwa itself is a town steeped in the history of the wool industry, famously known for its “Festival of the Fleeces.” A short walk from the caravan park brings you to the main street, where you can admire historic sandstone buildings and the impressive Merriwa Silo Art, which celebrates the town’s sheep farming heritage. The park is pet-friendly, meaning your four-legged travel companions are welcome to join you as you explore the local walking tracks or relax by your campsite.
For those interested in unique geological formations, the nearby “Battery” is a must-see attraction, featuring basalt columns that resemble organ pipes. Back in town, you can enjoy genuine country hospitality at the local bakery, pubs, and cafes, all within easy reach of the park. With its combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and practical facilities, Merriwa Caravan Park is a hidden gem on the Golden Highway.
Merriwa Caravan Park – NSW Location Map
Contact & Location
Name: Merriwa Caravan Park
Address: Dutton Street, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Access via Golden Hwy)
Website: Merriwa Caravan Park
GPS Coordinates: -32.13919, 150.34905
Site Details
- Location: Merriwa, Upper Hunter Shire, NSW.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, Tents.
- Road Access: Sealed road access via Golden Highway/Bettington Street onto Dutton Street.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass with some paved areas.
- Facilities: Powered sites, Unpowered sites, Amenities block (Toilets/Showers), Laundry, BBQ area, River frontage.
- Essentials to Bring: Food supplies (local IGA is nearby), leveling ramps (grass sites can be uneven), insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: Yes (Dogs welcome on leash).
- Fishing: Merriwa River runs along the park (check local conditions).
- Short Walks: Walk to the Merriwa Silo Art; River walk tracks available nearby.
Local Amenities
Local Pubs
- Royal Hotel Merriwa – 94 Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.5 km)
Historic pub with accommodation and bistro meals. - Merriwa RSL Club – 121-127 Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.6 km)
Social club with dining facilities and entertainment.
Places to Eat
- Merriwa Bakery – 108 Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.5 km)
Famous for their pies and traditional baked goods. - Eat @ 153 – 153 Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.6 km)
Cafe offering coffee, breakfast, and lunch. - Merriwa Servo & Roadhouse – Golden Hwy, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.8 km)
Quick bites and takeaway food.
Local Attractions
- Merriwa Silo Art – Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Visible from town)
Stunning large-scale mural featuring sheep and the festival of the fleeces. - The Battery – Bunnan Rd, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 15 km)
Basalt rock formation resembling organ pipes. - Merriwa Colonial Museum – Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.7 km)
Local history museum housed in a sandstone cottage.
Alternate Caravan Parks
- Sandy Hollow Tourist Park – 1618 Golden Hwy, Sandy Hollow NSW 2333 (Approx. 35 km)
Full-service tourist park with pool and cabins. - Denman Van Village – 16 Macaulay St, Denman NSW 2328 (Approx. 55 km)
Well-equipped park in the nearby town of Denman.
Alternate Free Camps
- Merriwa Sports Club – King George V Ave, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 1.0 km)
Free camping behind the club for self-contained vehicles. - Battery Rock Rest Area – Golden Hwy, Gungal NSW 2333 (Approx. 20 km East)
Roadside rest area suitable for overnight stops. - Cassilis Rest Area – Golden Hwy, Cassilis NSW 2329 (Approx. 45 km West)
Basic park area with toilets.
Alternate Dump Points
- Merriwa Dump Point – 29 Blaxland St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.3 km)
Public dump point easily accessible from the highway.
Nearest Petrol Station
- Ampol Merriwa – 146 Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.4 km)
Fuel and convenience store on the main street.
Alternate Drinking Water Resupply
- Merriwa Park – Sollys Ln, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.5 km)
Taps available in local parks (check signage).
Alternate Public Toilets
- Merriwa Visitor Information Centre – 34-40 Vennacher St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.6 km)
Clean public amenities available during the day. - Apex Park – Bettington St, Merriwa NSW 2329 (Approx. 0.4 km)
Public toilets located in the main town park.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Upper Hunter Shire Council – Merriwa Caravan Park
Merriwa experiences a warm temperate climate, with hot summers and cool, crisp winters.
| Season | Months | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Dec – Feb | 30°C – 33°C | 15°C – 18°C | Hot days perfect for river activities. Thunderstorms possible. |
| Autumn | Mar – May | 21°C – 27°C | 8°C – 13°C | Mild and pleasant. The landscape is often green and lush. |
| Winter | Jun – Aug | 15°C – 17°C | 2°C – 5°C | Cold nights with regular frosts. Sunny, clear days. |
| Spring | Sep – Nov | 22°C – 28°C | 8°C – 12°C | Warming up. Canola fields in the region bloom yellow. |