Bittangabee campground, Green Cape NSW
For an adventure that combines rugged coastal beauty with fascinating history, Bittangabee campground is a truly captivating destination. Tucked away in a secluded, sheltered bay within the magnificent Beowa National Park (formerly Ben Boyd National Park), this remote campground offers a genuine escape for the self-sufficient camper. The journey to Bittangabee is part of the experience, involving a long drive on unsealed forest roads that lead you deep into the wilderness of the Far South Coast. The campground itself is a collection of beautiful, grassy clearings set amongst tall coastal forest, just a short walk from the calm, protected waters of the bay. It’s a place of immense peace and natural splendour.
The bay is the star of the show, its tranquil, turquoise waters making it a paradise for swimming, snorkelling, fishing, and kayaking. A small boat ramp provides easy access for launching small vessels. History permeates the site, with the intriguing stone ruins of an old storehouse, built by the pioneering Imlay brothers in the 1840s, standing as a silent testament to a failed pastoral settlement. This is a classic National Parks bush camp with basic but well-maintained facilities, including pit toilets and wood barbecues. Campers must be fully self-reliant, bringing all their own water and firewood, and packing out all rubbish.
The campground is a haven for wildlife; it’s common to see goannas, kangaroos, and lyrebirds, while the bay is often visited by seals and dolphins. During the migration season, it’s a spectacular spot for whale watching. It also serves as a key point on the multi-day Light to Light walk, a world-class coastal hike. Despite its remote feel, the historic whaling town of Eden is the nearest hub for supplies. For a truly memorable and wild coastal adventure, Bittangabee is an exceptional choice. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In a remote bay in the southern section of Beowa National Park, south of Eden.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, and small-to-medium Caravans/Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Long unsealed road (Edrom Rd/Bittangabee Rd). Generally 2WD accessible with care in dry weather, but can be rough and slippery. Not recommended for large, low-clearance vehicles.
- Site Surface: Grass and dirt clearings.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 24 designated bookable sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits, boat ramp (for small boats). No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in provided BBQs only, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, hiking boots, kayak/SUP, fishing gear.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent bay fishing from the shore or by boat.
- Short Walks: A great base for sections of the Light to Light walk and exploring the historic ruins.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Great Southern Inn, Eden (approx. 40 km)
- Hotel Australasia, Eden (approx. 40 km)
- Places to Eat: The nearest reliable options, including supermarkets, are in the town of Eden.
- Local Attractions:
- Green Cape Lightstation
- The Light to Light Walk
- Disaster Bay Lookout
- Eden Killer Whale Museum
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Numerous parks in Eden (e.g., BIG4, Eden Beachfront Holiday Park).
- Saltwater Creek campground (also in the park).
- Next Free Camps: Very limited. Low-cost camping at Nethercote Falls or Myrtle Creek Rest Area.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Eden.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Eden. It is essential to have a full tank.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Eden.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm and can be humid. The bay is perfect for swimming. This is the peak season and can be busy. Temperatures average 15°C to 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with mild, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures average 10°C to 21°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): The peak whale watching season. Days are cool and can be windy and wet. Nights are cold. Temperatures range from 6°C to 16°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season with warming temperatures and coastal wildflowers in bloom. Excellent for walking. Temperatures average 9°C to 20°C.