Cranky Rock Nature Reserve – Camping Warialda NSW

Prepare to be amazed by the geological wonders of Cranky Rock Nature Reserve, a truly unique and spectacular camping destination just a short drive from the historic town of Warialda. This beautiful reserve is dominated by a dramatic jumble of giant granite boulders, with the namesake ‘Cranky Rock’ precariously balanced, creating a breathtaking landscape that is a paradise for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers. The campground is set in a spacious, peaceful, and shady clearing, offering a range of powered and unpowered sites that make it perfect for all types of campers, from tents to large caravans. The combination of stunning scenery and excellent facilities makes it one of the best campgrounds in the New England North West region.

The main attraction is the network of walking tracks that wind their way through and over the incredible rock formations. A suspension bridge takes you across Reedy Creek to the main boulder field, where you can explore, climb, and discover the legend of the ‘cranky’ man who gave the rock its name. The reserve is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and an incredible diversity of birdlife commonly seen. The facilities are a major drawcard, with the council-run park offering the rare comforts of hot showers, flush toilets, and a dump point, ensuring a very comfortable stay. The campground is also proudly pet-friendly. For a memorable and comfortable holiday that combines unique landscapes, great walks, abundant wildlife, and a touch of local folklore, Cranky Rock is an unmissable destination.

• GPS Coordinates: -29.56087, 150.64638

Site Information

• Location: Cranky Rock Nature Reserve, 8km east of Warialda.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes.
• Road access: Sealed road. Easy 2WD access.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check with management.
• Number of powered sites: A good number of powered sites are available.
• Number of un-powered sites: Numerous unpowered sites are available.
• Facilities: Hot showers, flush toilets, electric barbecues, dump point, kiosk (check opening hours).
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: Yes.
• Mobile phone coverage: Good for Telstra, patchy for others.
• TV reception: Good.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Ullage: Yes, a dump point is available.
• Drive through: Some drive-through sites may be available.
• Rubbish bins: Yes.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted in designated areas/times, check with management.
• Number of sites available: Large area with dozens of sites.

Essentials to Bring

• Coins for showers if required.
• Sturdy walking shoes for exploring the rocks.
• Binoculars for birdwatching.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, pet friendly.
• Fishing: Possible in Reedy Creek when flowing.
• Short walks: Excellent walking tracks through the rock formations and along the creek.

Local Amenities (in Warialda)

• Local Pubs:
  • Royal Hotel, Warialda (~8 km)
  • Warialda Golf & Bowling Club (~9 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A selection of pubs, clubs, cafes, and bakeries in Warialda (~8 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The unique rock formations and suspension bridge (on site)
  • Warialda’s historic main street and buildings (~8 km)
  • Warialda Standard Printing Works Museum (~8 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Warialda Caravan Park (~9 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Warialda Creek Reserve (~10 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Onsite at the campground.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Warialda (~8 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the campground.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: North West Slopes

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and often dry. Average temperatures from 20°C to 34°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures range from 11°C to 28°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with frequent frosts. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 3°C to 18°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and vibrant with wildflowers. Temperatures range from 11°C to 27°C.