The Bluff Campground – Mount Boss State Forest

For those who believe the best campsites are found at the end of a challenging track, The Bluff Campground is a spectacular reward. Tucked away deep in the magnificent Mount Boss State Forest, this remote and beautiful free campground is a paradise for self-sufficient 4WD enthusiasts, anglers, and nature lovers. The journey in is an adventure, requiring a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the unsealed forest roads and several creek crossings, which guarantees a peaceful and uncrowded escape. The campground itself is a stunning, large grassy flat, nestled under a dramatic cliff face (‘The Bluff’) on a beautiful bend of the pristine Wilson River. It offers a handful of spacious, unmarked sites perfect for tents and off-road camper trailers.

The main attraction here is the incredible river. The Wilson River at this point is a series of crystal-clear, deep swimming holes and gentle rapids, making it an idyllic spot to cool off on a summer’s day. It’s a true natural water park. The area is also a renowned bass fishery, attracting keen anglers to its tranquil waters. This is a classic, back-to-basics State Forest experience; facilities are limited to a non-flush toilet and fire pits. You must be completely self-reliant, bringing in all your own water and supplies, and taking all your rubbish with you when you leave. Being a State Forest, it’s also proudly pet-friendly. The feeling of having your own private swimming hole and enjoying a campfire under a brilliant starry sky makes The Bluff a top-tier destination for a rugged and memorable bush adventure.

• Website: Forestry Corporation – Mount Boss State Forest
• GPS Coordinates: -31.2433, 152.52615

Site Information

• Location: Mount Boss State Forest, west of Wauchope.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: Unsealed forest roads with creek crossings. 4WD with high clearance is strongly recommended. Impassable after rain.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check Forestry Corporation guidelines.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilet, fire pits.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None. A PLB is highly recommended.
• 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.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for the peaceful environment.
• Number of sites available: A small number of unmarked sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with a snorkel and recovery gear.
• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own firewood and an axe.
• A personal locator beacon (PLB) is essential for this remote area.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes. Dogs are permitted in NSW State Forests.
• Fishing: Excellent bass fishing in the Wilson River. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful riverbanks and surrounding rugged forest.

Local Amenities (in Wauchope)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Hastings Hotel, Wauchope (~60 km)
  • The Star Hotel, Wauchope (~60 km)
  • Wauchope RSL Club (~60 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A wide range of pubs, clubs, cafes, and bakeries in Wauchope (~60 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Cobrabald Recreation Area (in the same State Forest)
  • Timbertown Heritage Theme Park, Wauchope (~60 km)
  • The historic town of Wauchope (~60 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Wauchope Showground (~60 km)
  • Wauchope Riverside Holiday Park (~60 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Other informal sites within the State Forest network.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Wauchope Showground (~60 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Wauchope (~60 km). It is essential to have a full tank of fuel.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Wauchope. Arrive at the camp fully supplied with water.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The next closest are in Wauchope (~60 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Mid North Coast Hinterland

• Summer (December – February): Hot and humid, perfect for swimming. High chance of thunderstorms. Average temperatures from 19°C to 30°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Ideal for hiking and camping. Temperatures range from 13°C to 26°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp, and often sunny days with cold nights. Frost is possible. Great for campfires. Temperatures range from 5°C to 19°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The landscape is lush and green. Temperatures range from 11°C to 25°C.