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Mann River campground and picnic area
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Mann River Campground – Free Camping Old Grafton Rd NSW

Mann River Campground, Free Camping Old Grafton Rd NSW

Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the northern tablelands at the Mann River Campground and Picnic Area. Tucked away in the serene Mann River Nature Reserve, this idyllic free campground is a reward for those willing to venture down the historic and unsealed Old Grafton Road. The journey itself is an adventure, winding through dramatic landscapes before revealing the campground, a large, grassy flat nestled beside the crystal-clear waters of the Mann River. This is a true bush camp, perfect for self-sufficient travellers looking to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature. The river is the star attraction, with its deep, inviting swimming holes, granite boulders, and gentle rapids providing the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing getaway.

The campground is well-suited for tents, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans, offering plenty of space to find a private spot. Basic but clean facilities, including non-flush toilets and wood barbecues, are provided. Days here are best spent swimming in the refreshing river, trying your luck fishing for bass, launching a kayak to explore upstream, or simply relaxing with a book under the shade of a she-oak. As night falls, the remote location ensures a spectacular display of stars, often accompanied by the sounds of the surrounding bushland. Campers must be fully self-reliant, bringing all their own drinking water, firewood, and supplies, and are required to take all rubbish with them. For those with a sense of adventure and a love for pristine river environments, the Mann River Campground is a hidden gem that offers an authentic and unforgettable Australian camping experience.

Mann River campground and picnic area – NSW Location Map

Mann River campground and picnic area
11780 Old Grafton Rd, Diehard NSW 2370
Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -29.68796, 152.09935

Site Information

  • Location: Mann River Nature Reserve, on the Old Grafton Road between Grafton and Glen Innes.
  • Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, small off-road caravans.
  • Road access: Unsealed road (Old Grafton Rd). 2WD accessible in dry conditions with caution, but 4WD is recommended, especially after rain.
  • Site surface: Grass and dirt.
  • Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
  • Maximum overnight stays: Check NPWS guidelines, but short stays are standard.
  • Facilities: Non-flush toilets, wood barbecues.
  • Picnic tables: Yes.
  • Potable water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
  • Mobile phone coverage: None. Expect no signal.
  • TV reception: None.
  • Onsite public toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit/composting) toilets.
  • Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
  • Open fires: Permitted in designated barbecues/fire pits, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
  • Generator use: Discouraged to preserve the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Number of sites available: Numerous unmarked sites in a large, open area.

Essentials to Bring

  • All drinking and washing water.
  • Rubbish bags to carry out all your waste.
  • Your own firewood.
  • A well-stocked first-aid kit due to the remote location.
  • Insect repellent.

Activities

  • Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Nature Reserve.
  • Fishing: Yes, fishing for bass is popular in the Mann River.
  • Short walks: Explore the riverbanks and surrounding bushland.

Local Amenities

  • Local Pubs:
    • Nymboida Coaching Station Inn (~50 km)
    • Pubs in Glen Innes (~85 km)
    • Pubs in Grafton (~95 km)
  • Places to Eat:
    • Nymboida Coaching Station Inn (~50 km)
    • Extensive options in Grafton (~95 km) or Glen Innes (~85 km)
  • Local Attractions:
    • The historic Old Grafton Road drive
    • Swimming and kayaking in the Mann River
    • Washpool National Park and Gibraltar Range National Park (via Gwydir Hwy)
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Various caravan parks in Glen Innes (~85 km) and Grafton (~95 km)
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Dalmorton Campground (further along Old Grafton Rd)
    • Other roadside rest areas on the Gwydir Highway.
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Grafton Showground (~95 km)
    • Glen Innes Showground (~85 km)
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Nymboida (~50 km – may have limited hours)
    • Major service stations in Grafton (~95 km) and Glen Innes (~85 km)
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Visitor Information Centres in Grafton or Glen Innes.
  • Public Toilets:
    • Onsite. Next closest are in Nymboida, Grafton or Glen Innes.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Northern Tablelands/Clarence Valley

  • Summer (December – February): Hot days and warm nights, with potential for thunderstorms. Average temperatures range from 19°C to 32°C.
  • Autumn (March – May): Warm, pleasant days and cool nights. Temperatures range from 12°C to 28°C.
  • Winter (June – August): Cool to cold days with cold nights, often with frost. Temperatures range from 5°C to 19°C.
  • Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. Temperatures range from 11°C to 27°C.

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