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Washpools campground
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Washpools Campground – 4WD Camping & Swimming near Scone NSW

Washpools Campground – 4WD Camping & Swimming near Scone NSW

Tucked away in the rugged landscape of Towarri National Park, the Washpools campground is a true hidden gem for 4WD enthusiasts and lovers of remote bush camping. This spectacular free campsite is famed for its namesake—a large, deep, and incredibly beautiful waterhole on the Isis River, framed by striking rock formations. Reaching this secluded paradise is an adventure in itself, requiring a high-clearance 4WD to navigate the unsealed roads and river crossings of Middlebrook Road. This challenging access ensures the campground remains a peaceful sanctuary, far from the highway hustle and rewarding for those who make the journey.

The campground is a spacious, grassy flat set beneath a canopy of she-oaks, offering a handful of serene spots for tents and off-road camper trailers. It is a back-to-basics experience; facilities are limited to non-flush toilets and wood barbecues. This means campers must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying in all their water, food, and firewood, and packing out every scrap of rubbish. The main attraction is undeniably the waterhole, just a short stroll from the campsites. It’s the perfect place to cool off with a swim, launch a kayak, or simply relax on the rocks and soak in the tranquility. The surrounding park offers opportunities for bushwalking and wildlife spotting, with kangaroos and a rich variety of birdlife being common sights. For those seeking solitude and a stunning natural swimming pool all to themselves, the Washpools campground is one of the Upper Hunter’s most rewarding off-the-beaten-track destinations.

Washpools campground – NSW Location Map

Washpools campground
Middlebrook Road, Middle Brook NSW 2337
Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -31.90243, 150.78545

Site Information

  • Location: Towarri National Park, north of Scone.
  • Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers. Not suitable for 2WD vehicles or caravans.
  • Road access: 4WD with high clearance is essential. The route includes multiple river crossings that can become impassable after rain.
  • Site surface: Grass and dirt.
  • Camping permitted: Yes, this is a free campground. Bookings via NPWS may be required.
  • Maximum overnight stays: Check NPWS guidelines.
  • Facilities: Non-flush toilets, wood barbecues/fire pits.
  • Picnic tables: Yes.
  • Potable water: No. Bring all required water for your stay.
  • Mobile phone coverage: None.
  • TV reception: None.
  • Onsite public toilets: Yes.
  • Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
  • Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
  • Generator use: Not permitted in this park.
  • Number of sites available: A small number of unmarked sites.

Essentials to Bring

  • A well-maintained 4WD with recovery equipment.
  • All drinking water, cooking water, and food.
  • Rubbish bags to pack out all waste.
  • Your own firewood.
  • A personal locator beacon (PLB) is recommended for this remote area.

Activities

  • Pet friendly: No. Pets are strictly forbidden in National Parks.
  • Fishing: Possible in the Isis River.
  • Short walks: Explore the riverbanks and the surrounding bushland.

Local Amenities (in Scone)

  • Local Pubs:
    • The Belmore Hotel, Scone (~55 km)
    • The Thoroughbred Hotel, Scone (~55 km)
    • Royal Hotel Scone (~55 km)
  • Places to Eat:
    • A wide selection of pubs, cafes, and bakeries in Scone (~55 km)
  • Local Attractions:
    • Burning Mountain Nature Reserve (~30 km)
    • Scone Race Club & Horse Studs (~55 km)
    • Lake Glenbawn (~50 km)
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Scone Motor Inn & Caravan Park (~55 km)
    • Invermein Caravan Park, Scone (~55 km)
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Various rest areas on the New England Highway.
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Scone Council Depot (~55 km)
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Multiple service stations in Scone (~55 km)
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Scone Visitor Information Centre (~55 km)
  • Public Toilets:
    • Onsite. The next closest are in Scone (~55 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Upper Hunter

  • Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and often dry, perfect for swimming. Average temperatures from 18°C to 33°C.
  • Autumn (March – May): Warm sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Temperatures range from 10°C to 27°C.
  • Winter (June – August): Cold with frequent frosts, but typically clear, sunny days. Too cold for swimming. Temperatures range from 3°C to 17°C.
  • Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The water starts to warm up. Temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C.

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