Mibanbah – Black Rocks campground, Esk NSW
For adventurous campers seeking a wild and remote coastal escape, Mibanbah – Black Rocks campground is a spectacular destination within the vast Bundjalung National Park. This is a true back-to-nature experience, offering a profound sense of seclusion and a direct connection to a rugged, unspoiled stretch of the NSW North Coast. Reaching the campground is part of the adventure, requiring a journey along unsealed forest roads, with the final section often recommended for 4WD vehicles only, especially after rain. This ensures the campground remains a peaceful haven, far from the bustling crowds of more accessible locations. The campground itself is set in a beautiful clearing amongst coastal heath and banksia trees, just a short walk behind the magnificent, sweeping expanse of Ten Mile Beach.
This is a classic National Parks bush camp designed for the self-sufficient traveller. The facilities are basic but well-maintained, consisting of pit toilets, picnic tables, and wood barbecues. Campers must be fully prepared, bringing all their own drinking water and firewood, and are required to take all rubbish home. The sites are individually marked, offering a sense of personal space to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The area is a sanctuary for wildlife; it’s common to see goannas, kangaroos, and an incredible array of coastal birdlife.
The main attraction is the stunning and often deserted Ten Mile Beach, a paradise for beach fishing, surfing, and long, soul-reviving walks. The headland at Black Rocks offers fascinating geology and rock pools to explore. The campground also serves as a fantastic base for exploring the Jerusalem Creek area, a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing. While it feels a world away, the coastal town of Evans Head is the nearest hub for supplies. For a rugged, beautiful, and truly memorable coastal wilderness experience, Mibanbah – Black Rocks campground is an exceptional choice. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In a remote part of Bundjalung National Park, on the coast north of Iluka.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, and rugged Off-road Camper Trailers. Not suitable for caravans.
- Road Access: Unsealed roads (The Gap Rd). A 4WD is recommended, especially after rain, as the road can be rough and boggy.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass sites.
- 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: 45 designated bookable sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to 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: Permitted, with considerate use.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, 4WD recovery gear, surf gear, fishing rods.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent beach fishing on Ten Mile Beach.
- Short Walks: Fantastic walks along the beach and to the Jerusalem Creek canoe launch area.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Hotel Illawong, Evans Head (approx. 25 km)
- Woodburn Hotel (approx. 30 km)
- The Pacific Hotel, Yamba (across the ferry from Iluka)
- Places to Eat: A full range of supermarkets, bakeries, cafes, and pubs in Evans Head.
- Local Attractions:
- Ten Mile Beach and Black Rocks headland
- Jerusalem Creek for kayaking and canoeing
- The coastal town of Evans Head
- The historic town of Woodburn
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Silver Sands Holiday Park, Evans Head
- Reflections Holiday Parks Evans Head
- Next Free Camps: Very limited. Main options are highway rest areas. Low-cost camping at showgrounds like Maclean.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Evans Head.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Evans Head and Woodburn.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Evans Head.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and humid. The peak season for swimming and beach holidays. Temperatures average 20°C to 28°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with warm, sunny days, lower humidity, and pleasant water temperatures. Ideal for hiking and fishing. Temperatures average 15°C to 26°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): The whale watching season. Days are mild and often sunny, but can be cool and windy. Nights are cool. Temperatures range from 9°C to 20°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season with warming temperatures and coastal wildflowers in bloom. Excellent for walking. Temperatures average 13°C to 25°C.