Newnes Campground – Wolgan Valley Camping NSW

Camping at Newnes is a pilgrimage for anyone who loves spectacular scenery, Australian history, and a true sense of adventure. Located deep within a remote section of the Wollemi National Park, this vast campground is set on the grassy flats of the Wolgan River, completely encircled by breathtaking, sheer sandstone cliffs that dominate the skyline. The journey into this lost world is an experience in itself, culminating in the famous Wolgan River crossing—a rite of passage that often requires a 4WD and adds to the feeling of having truly escaped into the wilderness. The campground is the former site of the Newnes shale oil mining town, and the extensive and fascinating industrial ruins are scattered throughout the valley, waiting to be explored.

The campground itself is huge, offering an enormous, open area where campers can spread out and find their perfect spot, whether it’s by the river or under the shade of a gum tree. It’s a classic, self-sufficient bush camp, with facilities limited to non-flush toilets and fire pits. You must bring all your own supplies, including drinking water and firewood, and take every piece of rubbish with you when you go. The area is a hub for hikers and explorers. You can wander through the historic ruins, tackle the Pipeline Track, or take a 4WD trip to the nearby and world-famous Glow Worm Tunnel. The river provides a place to cool off in summer, and the valley is alive with wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, and prolific birdlife. For an unforgettable trip that combines awe-inspiring landscapes, fascinating history, and a classic Aussie bush camping atmosphere, Newnes is a top-tier destination.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -33.17207, 150.23808

Site Information

• Location: Wollemi National Park, Wolgan Valley.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, off-road caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road access: Long, unsealed Wolgan Road, plus a concrete river causeway. 2WD is possible in dry weather with high clearance, but 4WD is strongly recommended. The river can be impassable after heavy rain.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy and dirt areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings and park entry fees are essential via the NSW National Parks website.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details.
• Number of un-powered sites: Over 100 unmarked sites in a very large area.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets, wood barbecues/fire pits.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator use: Permitted in designated areas, with consideration for others.
• Number of sites available: 100+ sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared vehicle with good clearance (4WD recommended).
• All drinking water for your entire stay.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own firewood.
• A good torch for exploring the Glow Worm Tunnel.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Possible in the Wolgan River.
• Short walks: Explore the extensive Newnes industrial ruins. The Pipeline Track and other hikes start from the valley.

Local Amenities (in Lithgow)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Court House Hotel, Lithgow (~50 km)
  • The Grand Central Hotel, Lithgow (~50 km)
  • A range of other pubs in Lithgow’s main street.
• Places to Eat:
  • The old Newnes Hotel (check for opening hours, often serves snacks/drinks) (~1 km)
  • Extensive options including pubs, cafes, and restaurants in Lithgow (~50 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Newnes Industrial Ruins (on site)
  • Glow Worm Tunnel, Wollemi National Park (~15 km via 4WD track)
  • Gardens of Stone National Park (nearby)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Lithgow Tourist and Van Park (~50 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Lake Wallace, Wallerawang (~60 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Lithgow Showground (~50 km)
  • Lake Wallace, Wallerawang (~60 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Lidsdale (~40 km) or Lithgow (~50 km). It is essential to have a full tank of fuel before entering the valley.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Lithgow Visitor Information Centre (~50 km). Arrive at Newnes fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the campground.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central Tablelands (High Altitude Valley)

• Summer (December – February): Hot days, with the valley trapping heat. Average temperatures from 15°C to 30°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Often considered the best time to visit. Temperatures range from 6°C to 24°C.
• Winter (June – August): Very cold, with severe frosts common in the valley floor. Days are often clear and sunny but cold. Temperatures range from -2°C to 14°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and beautiful. Temperatures range from 6°C to 23°C.