Tattersalls Hole Reserve, Bruinbun NSW
Tattersalls Hole Reserve is another jewel in the crown of the legendary Bridle Track, offering a spectacular free camping experience for the intrepid 4WD explorer. This remote and beautiful site is a classic bush camp, set in a secluded grassy clearing right on the banks of the historic Turon River. It is a place of profound peace and rugged beauty, where the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination. Access is strictly for high-clearance 4WD vehicles, requiring drivers to navigate the steep, narrow, and often challenging terrain of the Bridle Track, complete with river crossings. This demanding access ensures the reserve remains a pristine and tranquil sanctuary for those who are well-prepared.
This is primitive, self-sufficient camping at its finest. Tattersalls Hole offers a stunning natural setting but has absolutely no facilities—no toilets, no bins, no water. It is exclusively for campers who are fully self-contained, carry a portable toilet, and are committed to the ‘leave no trace’ philosophy by taking all rubbish with them. Like the other reserves along this historic route, it is wonderfully pet-friendly, providing a fantastic opportunity for dog owners to share the riverside freedom with their companions. The Turon River itself, the heart of the 1850s gold rush, is now a tranquil haven for swimming, trout fishing, and trying your luck with a gold pan.
The campground is steeped in history, surrounded by the remnants of the gold rush era. It’s an ideal stopover for those traversing the full length of the Bridle Track between Bathurst and Hill End. Evenings here are perfect for a campfire by the river, with the sounds of the flowing water and the vast, starry sky creating an unforgettable outback atmosphere. For a free, rugged, and historically rich adventure, Tattersalls Hole Reserve is an exceptional choice for the experienced explorer.
Site Information
- Location: In a remote valley on the Turon River, accessed via the Bridle Track.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Tents, Swags, and rugged Off-road Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: High-clearance 4WD access only via the steep, narrow, and challenging Bridle Track. Not suitable for caravans. Roads are impassable in the wet. Multiple river crossings required.
- Site Surface: Natural grass and dirt clearings.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free, informal camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays are standard practice.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: A number of small, undefined spots.
Facilities
- Facilities: None. This is a completely primitive bush camp.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device is essential.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own toilet and take all waste with you.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and total fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be very considerate of the quiet environment.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Absolutely everything, including water, toilet, shower, power, food, rubbish bags, firewood, and 4WD recovery gear.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be under control.
- Fishing: Good fishing for trout and other species in the Turon River.
- Short Walks: Excellent for unmarked bushwalking and exploring along the river and old gold mining areas.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Royal Hotel, Hill End (approx. 8 km via 4WD track)
- The Royal Hotel, Sofala (approx. 25 km via 4WD track)
- Places to Eat: The nearest reliable options are the pubs in Hill End or Sofala. Major supermarkets are in Bathurst.
- Local Attractions:
- The historic, living museum town of Hill End
- The Bridle Track 4WD route
- Gold fossicking in the Turon River
- The extensive gold rush history of the region
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Hill End Ranch (Glendora)
- Village campground, Hill End (NPWS)
- Next Free Camps: Other remote sites along the Bridle Track such as Black Gate and Mary Flynn.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Bathurst.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Hill End (check hours). The nearest reliable fuel is in Bathurst. Essential to carry spare fuel.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bathurst.
- Public Toilets: The nearest are in Hill End.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot. The river is perfect for cooling off. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 12°C to 28°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with stunning autumn colours. Days are mild and sunny, nights are cool. Ideal for 4WDing. Temperatures average 5°C to 21°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Snow is possible on the higher peaks. Tracks can be very slippery and dangerous. Temperatures range from -1°C to 12°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the countryside is green and vibrant. Weather can be variable. River levels can be high. Temperatures average 4°C to 21°C.