The Steps Barrington Campground, Bindera NSW
For an unforgettable bush camping experience where rugged wilderness meets pristine river beauty, The Steps Barrington Campground is a premier private retreat. Nestled on a stunning 500-acre property on the banks of the magnificent Barrington River, this campground is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and families seeking an authentic escape. The campground offers vast, grassy, and well-spaced unpowered sites, allowing campers to find their own secluded spot to soak in the tranquillity of the surrounding forest and the soothing sounds of the flowing river. This is not a typical caravan park; it’s a carefully managed natural sanctuary at the foothills of the World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park.
The heart of the experience is the spectacular Barrington River itself. The campground provides direct access to a series of deep, crystal-clear waterholes and gentle rapids, famously known as ‘The Steps’. This natural wonder creates a perfect playground for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and liloing. The area is also renowned for its bass fishing. The campground champions a classic, self-sufficient camping ethos, with campfires in designated pits being a central part of the experience, making for magical evenings under a brilliant, star-filled sky. The facilities are basic but immaculately clean, with well-maintained composting toilets that reflect the site’s eco-friendly focus.
A major drawcard is that the campground is proudly pet-friendly, allowing dogs to join in the adventure and enjoy the river swims. While feeling wonderfully remote, the charming town of Gloucester is just a scenic drive away for all necessary supplies. For those looking to explore the incredible hiking trails, lookouts, and ancient rainforests of the Barrington Tops, this campground serves as the perfect, peaceful base. For a true back-to-nature river adventure, The Steps is an unbeatable destination. Bookings are essential as it’s a very popular spot.
Site Information
- Location: Private property on the Barrington River, at the foothills of Barrington Tops National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, and Off-road Caravans/Hybrids.
- Road Access: Unsealed road access (Manchester Rd). A 2WD is generally suitable in dry weather, but a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is recommended as the road can be corrugated and includes creek crossings.
- Site Surface: Large, level grass and dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Booking online in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the booking platform for details.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous spacious, undefined sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (composting) toilets. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water or be prepared to treat river 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 designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, rubbish bags, firewood, toilet paper, kayaks/lilos, fishing gear, and hiking boots.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, this is a very pet-friendly location.
- Fishing: Excellent bass fishing in the Barrington River (NSW fishing licence required).
- Short Walks: Fantastic opportunities for bushwalking on the property and into the adjoining national park.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Roundabout Inn, Gloucester (approx. 35 km)
- Avon Valley Inn, Gloucester (approx. 35 km)
- Places to Eat: A full range of supermarkets, bakeries, cafes, and pubs in the town of Gloucester.
- Local Attractions:
- Barrington Tops National Park (World Heritage Area)
- The Barrington River
- The historic town of Gloucester
- Copeland Tops State Conservation Area (for historic gold mine tours)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Gloucester Holiday Park
- Gloucester Showground (low-cost)
- Next Free Camps: Bretti Reserve (further north), various state forest camps.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Gloucester.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Gloucester. It is essential to arrive with a full tank.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Gloucester.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot. The river is the perfect temperature for swimming. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 16°C to 29°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with beautiful autumn colours in the region. Days are mild and sunny, nights are cool. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures average 9°C to 24°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold, especially at night. Days are often crisp and sunny. Nights can drop below freezing with heavy frosts. Snow can fall on the higher Barrington Tops. Temperatures range from 2°C to 17°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the forest and riverbanks come to life. The weather can be variable. Temperatures average 8°C to 24°C.