Sandon River Campground – Yuraygir National Park

Sandon River is more than just a campground; it’s a legendary destination that captures the essence of a classic, off-the-grid Australian coastal holiday. Tucked away in a remote corner of Yuraygir National Park, this stunning location is a paradise for boaties, anglers, and adventurous campers. The journey in is an adventure, requiring a high-clearance 4WD to navigate the long, unsealed roads, which preserves its secluded and untouched character. The campground is nestled behind the dunes and sits beside the historic Sandon fishing village, a unique collection of rustic fishing shacks that creates a timeless, community atmosphere. The main campground offers spacious, grassy sites suitable for self-sufficient tents and off-road camper trailers.

Life at Sandon revolves around the pristine river and the ocean. The campground has its own boat ramp, making it the perfect launch point to explore the beautiful Sandon River, which is renowned for its incredible fishing and prawning. The river is also a haven for paddlers, with endless tranquil waterways to discover by kayak or canoe. A short walk over the dunes brings you to the wild and beautiful Sandon Beach, perfect for surfing, swimming, and beach fishing. This is a classic, back-to-basics national park experience, with facilities limited to non-flush toilets and cold showers. Campers must be fully self-reliant, bringing in all their own drinking water and taking all rubbish home. For those who are well-prepared, Sandon River offers a truly unforgettable escape into one of the most beautiful and untouched corners of the NSW coast.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -29.67443, 153.32717

Site Information

• Location: Yuraygir National Park, north of Coffs Harbour.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: Long, unsealed roads. 4WD with high clearance is strongly recommended. Can be impassable after heavy rain.
• Site surface: Grass and sand.
• 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: 45 marked sites.
• Facilities: Cold showers, non-flush toilets, picnic tables, boat ramp.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None. A satellite phone or PLB is highly recommended.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Not permitted. Fuel stoves only.
• Generator use: Not permitted.
• Number of sites available: 45 sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with recovery gear and a full tank of fuel.
• All drinking water for your entire stay.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• A fuel stove for cooking.
• Boat, kayak, or fishing gear and a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: World-class river, estuary, and beach fishing.
• Short walks: Part of the multi-day Yuraygir Coastal Walk, with beautiful sections accessible from the camp.

Local Amenities (in Maclean / Grafton)

• Local Pubs:
  • Maclean Hotel, Maclean (~55 km)
  • The Argyle Hotel, Maclean (~55 km)
  • Jacaranda Hotel, Grafton (~70 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A wide selection of cafes, bakeries, and pubs in Maclean (~55 km)
  • Extensive dining options in Grafton (~70 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The Sandon River and historic fishing village
  • Yuraygir Coastal Walk
  • The Scottish town of Maclean (~55 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Maclean Riverside Caravan Park (~55 km)
  • BIG4 Big River Holiday Park, Grafton (~70 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • There are no designated free camps in the immediate area.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Maclean Showground (~55 km)
  • Grafton Showground (~70 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Maclean (~55 km). It is essential to arrive at the park with a full tank of fuel.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Maclean or Grafton. You must arrive at the park fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The next closest are in Maclean (~55 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: North Coast NSW

• Summer (December – February): Hot and very humid, with a high chance of thunderstorms. Perfect for swimming. Average temperatures from 21°C to 29°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, often sunny days and mild, pleasant evenings. Ideal for hiking and fishing. Temperatures range from 16°C to 26°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp, and often sunny days with cool nights. Great for whale watching from the headlands. Temperatures range from 9°C to 20°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The bush is vibrant with wildflowers. Temperatures range from 14°C to 25°C.