Gum Flat Reserve – Free Gwydir River Camping NSW

For a truly authentic and peaceful riverside camping experience, Gum Flat Reserve on the Gwydir River is a magnificent destination. This remote, free campground offers a genuine escape into the beautiful landscape of the NSW North West Slopes, far from the noise and crowds of popular tourist spots. The reserve is a vast, natural, and grassy area that stretches along a beautiful, wide section of the river, providing an abundance of secluded and private spots for self-sufficient campers. It’s the kind of place where you can find your own piece of riverbank, set up camp under the shade of a majestic river red gum, and not see another soul for days.

This is a paradise for keen freshwater anglers. The Gwydir River is legendary for its Murray cod population, and Gum Flat Reserve provides direct access to some prime fishing spots. The calm waters are also perfect for launching a kayak or canoe to explore the river and find even more secluded fishing holes. The campground is completely back-to-basics, with no facilities whatsoever—no toilets, no bins, no water. This means it is strictly for fully self-contained campers who are prepared to bring everything in and, crucially, take everything out. The reward is an unspoiled natural environment and the freedom to enjoy a classic campfire under the vast, star-filled outback sky. The reserve is also extremely pet-friendly, with endless space for dogs to run and swim. For a rugged, peaceful, and rewarding fishing and camping adventure, Gum Flat Reserve is a top-tier choice.

• GPS Coordinates: -29.46469, 150.08317

Site Information

• Location: On the Gwydir River, west of Biniguy.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes. Best for self-contained vehicles.
• Road access: Unsealed roads. 2WD accessible with extreme care in dry weather, but 4WD is highly recommended as tracks can be rough and boggy.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None.
• Picnic tables: No.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Very limited to none.
• TV reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite public toilets: No. Must be fully self-contained.
• 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 others.
• Number of sites available: Numerous unmarked sites in a large area.

Essentials to Bring

• Your own toilet and shower facilities.
• 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.
• A well-prepared vehicle with recovery gear.

Activities

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

Local Amenities (in Moree)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Royal Hotel, Moree (~70 km)
  • The Post Office Hotel, Moree (~70 km)
  • Amaroo Tavern, Moree (~70 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A wide selection of pubs, clubs, cafes, and restaurants in Moree (~70 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (~70 km)
  • Bank Art Museum Moree (~70 km)
  • The town of Bingara (~75 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Mehi River Van Park, Moree (~70 km)
  • Gwydir Caravan Park, Moree (~70 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Bingara Free Camping Area (~75 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Moree Visitor Information Centre (~70 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Biniguy (~25 km, limited) or multiple major service stations in Moree (~70 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Moree. It is essential to arrive at the camp fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • The nearest public toilets are in Biniguy (~25 km) or Moree (~70 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: North West Slopes

• Summer (December – February): Very hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm to mild sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for fishing. Temperatures range from 12°C to 29°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, especially overnight with heavy frosts. Days are typically cool but sunny. Temperatures range from 4°C to 18°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and vibrant. Temperatures range from 12°C to 28°C.