Alexanders Hut campground, Tantawangalo NSW
For the intrepid 4WD explorer and self-sufficient bush camper, Alexanders Hut offers a truly remote and rewarding high-country experience. Tucked away in a secluded clearing deep within the South East Forest National Park, this is not a formal campground but a primitive, informal camping area next to a site of significant pastoral heritage. Reaching this spot is a genuine adventure, requiring a high-clearance 4WD to navigate the unsealed, steep, and often challenging forest tracks. This ensures that only the well-prepared can access this slice of wilderness, guaranteeing a peaceful and isolated stay far from the crowds.
The centerpiece of the site is the historic Alexanders Hut itself, a relic from the region’s cattle grazing past that provides a tangible link to the rugged characters who once worked this land. The camping area is a simple grassy flat, offering a serene spot to set up a tent, swag, or off-road camper trailer. This is the definition of primitive camping; there are no facilities whatsoever—no toilets, no water, no bins. Visitors must be completely self-reliant, bringing in every necessity and adhering to a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy by packing out all rubbish. The reward is an unparalleled sense of solitude, with the only sounds being the wind in the snow gums and the calls of native wildlife.
The surrounding national park is a paradise for adventurers, with a vast network of 4WD tracks to explore, including the nearby Nunnock and Six Mile Creek campgrounds. It’s a fantastic area for bushwalking, birdwatching, and simply disconnecting from the modern world. Evenings are made for a campfire (when restrictions permit) under a brilliant, unpolluted night sky. A stay at Alexanders Hut is a true test of self-sufficiency and a journey back in time, offering an authentic Australian high-country experience.
Site Information
- Location: In a remote part of the South East Forest National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Tents, Swags, and rugged Off-road Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: High-clearance 4WD access only via unsealed, steep, and potentially rough forest tracks. Roads are impassable in wet weather.
- Site Surface: Natural grass and dirt clearing.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free, informal camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, short stays are standard.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Small, undefined camping area.
Facilities
- Facilities: None. This is a completely primitive bush camp.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device (PLB) is essential.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own toilet and take all waste with you.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and total fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Absolutely everything, including water, toilet, shower, power, food, rubbish bags, firewood, and 4WD recovery gear.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Limited opportunities in small local creeks.
- Short Walks: Excellent for unmarked bushwalking and exploring the surrounding forest.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Candelo Hotel (approx. 35 km)
- The Bemboka Hotel (approx. 40 km)
- The Imperial Hotel, Bombala (approx. 45 km)
- Places to Eat: The nearest reliable options are in Candelo, Bemboka, or Bombala.
- Local Attractions:
- The historic Alexanders Hut
- The extensive 4WD network of the South East Forest National Park
- Nunnock Campground and walking tracks
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Bega Caravan Park
- Bombala Caravan Park
- Next Free Camps: Nunnock Campground (bookings required).
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Bega and Bombala.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Candelo, Bemboka, or Bombala. Essential to have a full tank and spare fuel.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bega or Bombala.
- Public Toilets: The nearest are at Nunnock Campground.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Mild to warm days, but the weather can change rapidly in the high country. Nights are cool. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 10°C to 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time to visit, with crisp, clear air. Days are cool, and nights are cold. Temperatures average 4°C to 18°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Very cold. Days are often sunny but frigid. Nights are well below freezing with heavy frosts. Snowfall is common and will close access roads. Alpine-rated gear is essential. Temperatures range from -3°C to 10°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the high country comes to life with wildflowers. Weather can be very variable, with cold snaps and even late snow still possible. Temperatures average 3°C to 17°C.