Yanda campground, Gunderbooka NSW
For the intrepid adventurer seeking a truly remote and spectacular outback river experience, Yanda campground is an unforgettable destination. Tucked away on the western banks of the Darling River, deep within the magnificent Gundabooka National Park, this is a primitive bush camp for the fully self-sufficient traveller. The journey to Yanda is a key part of the adventure, requiring a high-clearance 4WD to navigate the unsealed park tracks, ensuring that those who make the effort are rewarded with profound peace and seclusion. The campground is set in a beautiful, natural clearing under the shade of river red gums, offering direct access to the legendary river.
This is the essence of off-grid, outback camping. The facilities are basic, with a non-flushing toilet and wood barbecues being the only amenities. Self-reliance is not just recommended, it’s essential. Campers must bring all their own supplies, including drinking water, and strictly adhere to a ‘leave no trace’ policy by packing out all rubbish. The rewards for this preparation are immense. The campground is a sanctuary for wildlife; it’s a common sight to see emus and large mobs of kangaroos on the plains, and the river is a haven for birdlife. Evenings are magical, with incredible sunsets followed by a breathtaking display of stars in the clear, unpolluted night sky.
The location is a paradise for anglers and paddlers, with the Darling River offering excellent fishing for Murray Cod and Golden Perch, and tranquil waters for kayaking. Yanda also serves as a fantastic base for exploring the rich Aboriginal heritage of Gundabooka National Park, including the significant rock art sites at the base of Mount Gundabooka. While it feels a world away, the historic outback town of Bourke is the nearest hub for supplies. For a rugged, free, and deeply rewarding wilderness escape, Yanda campground is a top-tier choice. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In a remote part of Gundabooka National Park, on the Darling River.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Tents, Swags, and rugged Off-road Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: 4WD access only via unsealed and potentially challenging park tracks. Roads are impassable in the wet.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass clearing.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free unpowered sites. Bookings via the NPWS website are mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking platform.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 7 designated bookable sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilet, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device is essential.
- 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: Permitted, with considerate use.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Absolutely everything, including water, food, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, 4WD recovery gear, and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray Cod and Golden Perch in the Darling River.
- Short Walks: Access to the park’s walking tracks, including the trail to the Little Mountain Gallery rock art site.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Royal Hotel, Bourke (approx. 70 km)
- Port of Bourke Hotel (approx. 70 km)
- Oxford Hotel, Bourke (approx. 70 km)
- Places to Eat: The nearest reliable options, including supermarkets, are in the town of Bourke.
- Local Attractions:
- Gundabooka National Park’s Aboriginal rock art sites
- The Darling River
- Mount Gundabooka
- The historic town of Bourke and the Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Kidman’s Camp, Bourke
- Mitchell Caravan Park, Bourke
- Next Free Camps: Mayry Rolyatinyan campground (also in the park), various rest areas on the Kidman Way.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Bourke.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Bourke. It is essential to have a full tank and spare fuel.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bourke.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Extremely hot. Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 40°C. Travel is not recommended for the unprepared. High chance of thunderstorms.
- Autumn (Mar – May): The prime travel season. Days are warm and sunny, with cool, pleasant nights. Perfect for camping and exploring. Temperatures average 12°C to 28°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Mild and pleasant. Days are often clear and sunny, but nights can be very cold with frosts. Temperatures range from 4°C to 18°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season with warming days and abundant wildflowers after rain. Temperatures average 10°C to 27°C.