Gap Creek Campground – Watagans Rainforest Camping NSW

Escape into a lush, green world at Gap Creek campground, a beautiful and secluded spot tucked away in the rainforest heart of the Watagans National Park. This small and intimate campground is a favourite for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, offering a truly peaceful retreat from the noise of city life. The campground is set in a stunning clearing, surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees, ancient cabbage tree palms, and vibrant green ferns, creating a magical, subtropical atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for self-sufficient campers with tents or camper trailers who appreciate a more rustic and quiet camping experience.

The main attraction and a must-do for every visitor is the spectacular Gap Creek Falls walking track, which starts directly from the campground. This rewarding hike takes you on a journey through beautiful rainforest, across creeks, and past moss-covered rocks before descending to the base of the stunning waterfall, which is particularly impressive after recent rain. The campground itself is the perfect place to relax after your hike, with the sounds of bellbirds and other rainforest creatures providing a constant, melodic soundtrack. Facilities are basic, with non-flush toilets and wood barbecues provided, so you must arrive fully prepared with your own water and firewood, and take all rubbish with you. Due to its limited number of sites, bookings are essential to secure your spot in this rainforest paradise. For a tranquil and scenic bush escape with an incredible waterfall walk at your doorstep, Gap Creek is a top choice in the Watagans.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -33.01374, 151.43011

Site Information

• Location: Watagans National Park.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers.
• Road access: Unsealed road, generally 2WD accessible with care in dry weather.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• 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: 10 unmarked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets, wood barbecues, picnic tables.
• 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: Not permitted.
• Number of sites available: 10 sites.

Essentials to Bring

• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own firewood.
• Sturdy hiking shoes for the waterfall walk.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short walks: The main attraction is the Gap Creek Falls walking track.

Local Amenities (in Morisset/Cooranbong)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Bay Hotel, Bonnells Bay (~25 km)
  • Morisset Country Club (~28 km)
  • Hotel Jesmond, Jesmond (~35 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Cafes and takeaways in Cooranbong (~20 km)
  • A wide range of restaurants, pubs, and clubs in Morisset (~28 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Monkey Face Lookout (within the park)
  • Watagan Headquarters Camping Area (within the park)
  • Lake Macquarie (~30 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Lake Macquarie BIG4, Mannering Park (~35 km)
  • Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie, Morisset (~28 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Camps in the nearby Olney State Forest (e.g., The Pines) are the closest free options.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Morisset Showground (~28 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Cooranbong (~20 km) or Morisset (~28 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Service stations or supermarkets in Morisset or Cooranbong. Arrive at the park fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The next closest are in Cooranbong (~20 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central Coast Hinterland

• Summer (December – February): Warm to hot and humid, with high chance of rain and thunderstorms. The waterfall is often at its best. Average temperatures from 19°C to 29°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Mild, sunny days and pleasant evenings. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures range from 13°C to 26°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool and often damp, with cold nights. The rainforest is particularly lush and atmospheric. Temperatures range from 6°C to 18°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The bush is alive with wildflowers. Temperatures range from 11°C to 25°C.