Ponto Falls Reserve – Free Macquarie River Camping NSW

Ponto Falls Reserve is a true gem of the Central West, offering a classic and much-loved free camping experience on the beautiful Macquarie River. This spacious and serene reserve is a paradise for self-sufficient campers, particularly those with a passion for freshwater fishing. The campground consists of a large, sprawling, grassy area that lines the riverbank, providing a huge number of sites suitable for all types of setups, from tents to the largest of big rigs. You can choose a prime spot with direct access to the water’s edge or a more shaded site back under the magnificent, towering gum trees. The gentle rapids, or ‘falls’, that give the area its name provide a constant, soothing soundtrack to your stay.

The main attraction here is undoubtedly the mighty Macquarie River. It’s renowned for its fantastic fishing, with anglers travelling from all over to chase the legendary Murray cod and yellowbelly that inhabit these waters. The easy access to the river also makes it the perfect spot to launch a kayak or canoe for a leisurely paddle. The campground is proudly pet-friendly, with endless space for dogs to run, play, and have a swim. This is a back-to-basics bush camp with basic facilities, including non-flush toilets, so campers must come prepared with their own drinking water and supplies. The freedom to find your own secluded spot, enjoy a campfire under a brilliant canopy of stars, and wake to the sounds of kookaburras and the flowing river makes Ponto Falls a top-tier destination for an authentic and budget-friendly Aussie camping adventure.

• GPS Coordinates: -32.4658, 148.82244

Site Information

• Location: On the Macquarie River, north of Wellington.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs.
• Road access: Access is via unsealed roads, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans with care in dry weather.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy and dirt areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: No specified limit, but respectful short to medium stays are the norm.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets.
• Picnic tables: Some available.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Patchy. Telstra service is most likely.
• TV reception: Possible with a good setup.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers due to the large space.
• Number of sites available: Hundreds of unmarked sites in a massive reserve.

Essentials to Bring

• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own fire pit and firewood.
• Fishing gear and a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence.
• Kayak or canoe.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray cod and yellowbelly.
• Short walks: Pleasant walks along the extensive riverbank.

Local Amenities (in Wellington)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Lion of Waterloo Tavern, Wellington (~18 km)
  • The Federal Hotel, Wellington (~18 km)
  • Wellington Soldiers Memorial Club (~18 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A wide selection of pubs, clubs, cafes, and bakeries in Wellington (~18 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Wellington Caves (~25 km)
  • Lake Burrendong (~45 km)
  • Wellington Osawano Japanese Gardens (~18 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Wellington Riverside Caravan Park (~18 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Terramungamine Reserve, Dubbo (~40 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Wellington Showground (~19 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Wellington (~18 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Wellington Visitor Information Centre (~18 km). Arrive at the camp fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. Public toilets are also available in Cameron Park, Wellington (~18 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central West Slopes

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and often dry. Average temperatures from 18°C to 34°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for fishing and camping. Temperatures range from 9°C to 28°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with heavy frosts common. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 2°C to 17°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and vibrant. Temperatures range from 8°C to 26°C.