Acacia Ridge Bush Camp, Hargraves NSW
For a truly authentic and peaceful escape into the heart of NSW’s historic goldfields, Acacia Ridge Bush Camp is a premier private campground that consistently wins the hearts of its visitors. This beautiful farm stay, often booked via platforms like Hipcamp, offers a complete retreat from the noise of modern life. Located in the quiet rural locality of Hargraves, the camp is set on a sprawling property with vast, open spaces, allowing campers to find their own private sanctuary with panoramic views of the rolling hills and classic Australian bushland. It’s an idyllic setting for self-sufficient travellers who value serenity, nature, and the freedom to truly unwind.
The experience at Acacia Ridge is defined by its back-to-nature philosophy and the warm hospitality of its hosts. The campground is exceptionally pet-friendly, providing a paradise for dogs who are free to run and explore the wide-open spaces. A major highlight is the incredible night sky; far from any city lights, the stargazing is simply breathtaking. Evenings are made for campfires, with fire pits available, creating a magical atmosphere to watch the spectacular sunsets and the emergence of a brilliant, star-filled sky. While the focus is on an off-grid, self-sufficient experience, the hosts provide basic amenities like a clean toilet to add a touch of comfort to the rustic setting.
The location is superb for exploring the rich history and attractions of the Mudgee region. The camp is surrounded by areas famous for gold fossicking, and it’s just a scenic drive to the wonderfully preserved gold rush town of Hill End. The renowned wineries and gourmet delights of Mudgee are also within easy reach for a fantastic day trip. For a serene, pet-friendly, and perfectly positioned country escape, Acacia Ridge Bush Camp is an outstanding choice.
Site Information
- Location: Private property in a rural setting in Hargraves, near Mudgee.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, Caravans, and Motorhomes of all sizes.
- Road Access: Good quality unsealed access road.
- Site Surface: Large, level grass and dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Booking is essential.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with the hosts when booking.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous spacious, private sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Basic toilet facility. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy. Telstra provides the best chance of a signal.
- TV Reception: Poor.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a basic toilet is provided for guests.
- Ullage: No. The nearest public dump point is in Mudgee.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a leave-no-trace property; you must take all rubbish with you.
- Open Fires: Yes, campfires are a key feature and are permitted in provided fire pits (subject to fire bans).
- Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use regarding timing and neighbours.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All food and drinking water, shower, power, rubbish bags, firewood, and gold fossicking gear.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, this is an exceptionally pet-friendly campground.
- Fishing: Fishing opportunities in the nearby Macquarie and Cudgegong Rivers.
- Short Walks: Excellent for bushwalking and exploring the large property.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Hargraves Hotel (approx. 7 km)
- The Golden Fleece Hotel, Windeyer (approx. 20 km)
- Lawson Park Hotel, Mudgee (approx. 40 km)
- Places to Eat: Pubs in Hargraves and Windeyer. A full range of supermarkets, cafes, bakeries, and award-winning restaurants in Mudgee.
- Local Attractions:
- Gold fossicking at Hargraves General Fossicking Area
- The historic gold rush town of Hill End
- The extensive Mudgee Wine Region
- Windeyer Hotel and goldfields history
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Mudgee Valley Park
- Ingenia Holidays Mudgee
- Next Free Camps: Low-cost camping at Mudgee Showground. Free camping at Woods Reef Mine (near Barraba, a long drive).
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Mudgee.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Mudgee.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Mudgee.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite for guests.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and generally dry, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Thunderstorms are possible.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A stunning season in the region with beautiful autumn colours. Days are warm and sunny, nights are cool. Temperatures average 8°C to 24°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Temperatures range from 1°C to 15°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the countryside is green and vibrant. Days are pleasant and nights are cool. Temperatures average 7°C to 23°C.