Blackbird Flat Reserve Campsite, Macleay River

For adventurous campers seeking a rugged and truly spectacular riverside escape, Blackbird Flat on the mighty Macleay River is one of the most rewarding destinations in the NSW hinterland. This vast, free camping reserve is a paradise for self-sufficient travellers who love fishing, 4WDing, and getting away from it all. The journey in via the winding, historic Armidale-Kempsey road is a scenic adventure in itself, but the final access tracks down to the river are best suited to 4WDs, ensuring the area remains a peaceful haven. The campground consists of huge, open, grassy flats that stretch along the riverbank, offering an incredible number of private and secluded sites where you can set up camp right by the water.

This is a classic ‘back-to-basics’ bush camp with no facilities, meaning campers must be completely self-reliant with their own toilet, shower, and drinking water, and must strictly follow the ‘leave no trace’ principle by taking all rubbish home. The reward is an unspoiled natural playground. The Macleay River here is magnificent, with deep, clear swimming holes, gentle rapids perfect for a lilo, and renowned bass fishing. It’s an ideal spot to launch a kayak and explore the stunning, rugged gorge country. The reserve is exceptionally pet-friendly, with endless space for dogs to run and swim. Evenings here are magical, with the freedom to have a campfire under a brilliant, star-filled sky, surrounded by the sounds of the Australian bush. For a genuine, pet-friendly, and unforgettable off-grid adventure, Blackbird Flat is a top-tier destination for the well-prepared camper.

• GPS Coordinates: -30.76373, 152.36338

Site Information

• Location: On the Macleay River, off the Armidale-Kempsey Road.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
• Road access: Unsealed roads. A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended due to steep access tracks and potential creek crossings.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy areas with some dirt patches.
• 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: None. A PLB or satellite phone is highly recommended.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: No. Must be fully self-contained with a portable toilet.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for the peaceful environment.
• Number of sites available: Hundreds of unmarked sites in a massive reserve.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with recovery gear.
• Your own portable toilet and shower setup.
• All drinking and washing water for your entire stay.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own fire pit and firewood.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: Excellent bass fishing in the Macleay River. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful and rugged riverbanks and surrounding hills.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The Bellbrook Hotel, Bellbrook (~35 km)
  • Numerous pubs and clubs in Kempsey (~85 km) or Armidale (~110 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The Bellbrook Hotel and a small store in Bellbrook (~35 km)
  • Extensive options in Kempsey (~85 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The scenic Armidale-Kempsey Road drive.
  • The historic village of Bellbrook (~35 km)
  • Slim Dusty Centre, Kempsey (~85 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Bellbrook Cabins & Camping (~35 km)
  • Numerous caravan parks in Kempsey (~85 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Other informal spots along the Macleay River.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Kempsey Showground (~85 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Bellbrook (~35 km, limited) or Kempsey (~85 km). It is essential to arrive with a full tank of fuel.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Kempsey. You must arrive at the camp fully supplied with water.
• Public Toilets:
  • The nearest public toilets are in Bellbrook (~35 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Mid North Coast Hinterland / Gorge Country

• Summer (December – February): Hot and humid, perfect for swimming. High chance of thunderstorms, which can make access roads impassable. Average temperatures from 19°C to 30°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Ideal for camping and fishing. 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.