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Manilla Freedom Camp
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Manilla Freedom Camp – Free Riverside Camping NSW

Manilla Freedom Camp – Free Riverside Camping NSW

Discover one of the region’s most popular and convenient free camps at the Manilla Freedom Camp, also known as the Manilla Showground camping area. Located on the sweeping banks of the beautiful Namoi River, this expansive grassy reserve offers travellers a fantastic place to rest and recharge. Its appeal lies in the perfect combination of a serene, natural setting and the ultimate convenience of being just a short walk from the centre of Manilla. This makes it an ideal spot for self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs, with ample space to find a level spot with a lovely view of the river.

The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with plenty of room for everyone to spread out. It’s a haven for fishing enthusiasts who can often be seen casting a line directly from the riverbank, hoping to catch a Murray cod or yellowbelly. The camp is proudly pet-friendly, allowing your four-legged friends to enjoy the open space alongside you. While the facilities are basic, they are well-maintained and include a public toilet block and rubbish bins, covering the essentials for a comfortable short stay. The local council and community support this camping area, and users are encouraged to show their appreciation by patronising local businesses, from the pubs and cafes to the supermarket and butcher. For a stress-free, scenic, and budget-friendly stopover just 45km north of Tamworth, the Manilla Freedom Camp is a top-tier choice that showcases the best of country town hospitality.

Manilla Freedom Camp – NSW Location Map

Manilla Freedom Camp
(Adjacent to Manilla Showground), Manilla NSW 2346
GPS Coordinates: -30.74432, 150.71749

Site Information

  • Location: On the Namoi River, next to the Manilla Showground.
  • Site suitable for: Self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs. Some areas suitable for tents.
  • Road access: Sealed road access.
  • Site surface: Mostly flat, grassy areas.
  • Camping permitted: Yes, this is a designated free camping area.
  • Maximum overnight stays: 7 Days.
  • Facilities: Public toilets.
  • Picnic tables: Yes.
  • Potable water: A tap is generally available near the amenities block.
  • Mobile phone coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
  • TV reception: Excellent.
  • Onsite public toilets: Yes.
  • Drive through: Yes, very large open area suitable for drive-through access.
  • Rubbish bins: Yes.
  • Open fires: Generally not permitted; check for local signage and fire bans.
  • Generator use: Permitted, but adhere to considerate usage hours (e.g., 8 am – 8 pm).
  • Number of sites available: Dozens of unmarked sites.

Essentials to Bring

  • Levelling ramps, as some spots may have a slight slope.
  • Fishing equipment.
  • Insect repellent, especially in warmer months.

Activities

  • Pet friendly: Yes, a very popular spot for those travelling with pets.
  • Fishing: Excellent fishing opportunities in the Namoi River.
  • Short walks: Easy, flat walk into the town centre and along the river.

Local Amenities

  • Local Pubs:
    • Royal Hotel Manilla (~1 km)
    • Imperial Hotel Manilla (~1.2 km)
    • Post Office Hotel Manilla (~1.2 km)
  • Places to Eat:
    • Manilla Bakery (~1.2 km)
    • Various cafes and takeaways along the main street (~1.2 km)
  • Local Attractions:
    • Manilla Heritage Museum (~1.5 km)
    • Mount Borah (world-renowned paragliding site) (~20 km)
    • Warrabah National Park (~50 km)
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Manilla River Gums Caravan Park (~2 km)
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Bendemeer Camping Ground (~45 km)
    • Lake Keepit Fossicking Area (~50 km)
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Manilla Showground (check for accessibility) or Manilla River Gums Caravan Park (a fee may apply).
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Multiple service stations in Manilla (~1.5 km)
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Tap available onsite.
  • Public Toilets:
    • Onsite at the campground.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Manilla Region

  • Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot days, with mild to warm nights. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 33°C.
  • Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights. Temperatures range from 9°C to 27°C.
  • Winter (June – August): Cool to cold, with frosty mornings and mild, sunny days. Temperatures range from 3°C to 17°C.
  • Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. Temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C.

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