Coorongooba Campground – Capertee Valley 4WD Camping

For those who believe the best destinations are earned, not given, Coorongooba Campground is a spectacular reward. Hidden deep within the rugged beauty of the Gardens of Stone National Park, this remote campground offers one of the most visually stunning camping experiences in New South Wales. The journey in is a true 4WD adventure, involving a descent into the magnificent Capertee Valley and culminating in several crossings of the Capertee River itself. This challenging access ensures that the campground remains an uncrowded sanctuary for self-sufficient campers. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by a magnificent sight: a large, sandy, and grassy flat nestled on the riverbank, completely encircled by soaring, dramatic sandstone cliffs that glow golden in the afternoon sun.

This is a classic bush camp where the focus is entirely on the pristine natural environment. The Capertee River, which can range from a gentle trickle to a flowing waterway, features several beautiful, deep swimming holes that are utterly irresistible on a hot day. The campground itself is spacious, allowing tents and off-road camper trailers to find their own private spot beneath the towering gums. Facilities are basic, with non-flush toilets and fire rings being the only amenities. Campers must be entirely self-reliant, bringing in every drop of their own water and all firewood, and strictly packing out all rubbish. The sense of isolation is profound; with no mobile signal and only the sounds of the bush, it’s a place to truly disconnect. For adventurous 4WD owners, Coorongooba is a top-tier destination that delivers an unforgettable wilderness experience.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -33.12451, 150.32393

Site Information

• Location: Gardens of Stone National Park, Capertee Valley.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: 4WD with high clearance is essential. The track involves multiple river crossings that are impassable after heavy rain.
• Site surface: Sand, grass, and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings are essential via the NSW National Parks website.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details.
• Number of un-powered sites: 10 unmarked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (pit/long-drop) toilets, wood barbecues/fire rings.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• 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.
• Number of sites available: 10 sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with a snorkel and recovery gear.
• All drinking water for your stay.
• Rubbish bags to carry everything out.
• Your own firewood.
• A personal locator beacon (PLB) is highly recommended.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Possible in the Capertee River.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful riverbanks and surrounding dramatic landscapes.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The Royal Hotel, Capertee (~45 km)
  • Glen Davis Pop-Up Pub (check opening times) (~20 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The Royal Hotel, Capertee (~45 km)
  • Capertee General Store (~45 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The historic shale oil ruins at Glen Davis (~20 km)
  • Capertee Valley, a world-renowned birdwatching destination.
  • Glow Worm Tunnel, Wollemi National Park (~60 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Glen Davis Campground (~20 km)
  • Lake Wallace, Wallerawang (~80 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Lake Wallace, Wallerawang (~80 km) is the nearest major free camp.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Lake Wallace, Wallerawang (~80 km)
  • Lithgow Showground (~95 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Capertee (~45 km) or Lithgow (~95 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Lithgow Visitor Information Centre (~95 km). It is essential to arrive fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The next closest are in Glen Davis (~20 km) or Capertee (~45 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central Tablelands

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot, perfect for swimming. Average temperatures from 16°C to 31°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Ideal for camping and hiking. Temperatures range from 7°C to 25°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with heavy frosts common in the valley. Days are often clear and sunny but cool. Temperatures range from 0°C to 15°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and vibrant. Temperatures range from 7°C to 24°C.