Pinch River – Moyangul Campground
Nestled deep in the southern reaches of Kosciuszko National Park, Pinch River – Moyangul Campground offers a serene and authentic Australian bush camping experience. This picturesque, free campsite is situated on the banks of the Pinch River, providing a tranquil escape for nature lovers, avid anglers, and those looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Snowy Mountains. The campground itself is a spacious, open area dotted with native gums, providing ample shade during the warmer months and a sense of seclusion despite its open-plan layout.
Access to the campground is via the iconic Barry Way, a largely unsealed road that winds its way through spectacular mountain scenery. While accessible to 2WD vehicles in good weather, conditions can be variable, so a 4WD or AWD vehicle is recommended for a more comfortable journey. The remote location is a significant part of its charm; it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle, with the gentle sound of the flowing river and the chorus of native birdlife as your primary soundtrack.
Pinch River is a popular spot for trout fishing, and you’ll often see campers trying their luck along the riverbanks. The area is also a fantastic launching point for bushwalking, with several informal tracks and the nearby Ingeegoodbee Track offering more challenging 4WD and hiking adventures. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and while it provides basic amenities like non-flush toilets and picnic tables, campers must be entirely self-sufficient. This means bringing your own drinking water, firewood for the designated fire pits, and packing out all your rubbish. The lack of mobile phone reception completes the off-grid experience, allowing you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the magnificent natural surroundings.
Horseshoe Camping Area Access, Ingeegoodbee NSW 2627
Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -36.79246, 148.40721
Campground Features
- Location: Pinch River – Moyangul campground, Horseshoe Camping Area Access, Ingeegoodbee NSW 2627
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, off-road caravans, and swags.
- Road Access: Unsealed road (Barry Way). 2WD accessible in dry conditions, 4WD/AWD recommended.
- Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but standard National Park stays are typically around 14 days.
- Number of Powered Sites: 0. This is a completely unpowered campground.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Undefined number of sites in an open area.
- Facilities: Basic, non-flush toilets.
- Picnic Tables: Yes, available throughout the campground.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: No. Expect zero reception for most carriers.
- TV Reception: No.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a ‘pack it in, pack it out’ location.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only. Check for local fire bans before visiting.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: First-come, first-served.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, insect repellent, and recovery gear if planning off-road travel.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Fishing: Yes, trout fishing is popular in the Pinch River. A NSW fishing license is required.
- Short Walks: Yes, explore the areas along the river and surrounding bushland.
Local Amenities
This is a remote campground. The nearest major town with services is Jindabyne (approx. 65-70km / 1.5 hours drive).
Local Pubs
- Banjo Paterson Inn: Jindabyne (approx. 65km)
- The Lake Jindabyne Hotel: Jindabyne (approx. 66km)
- Jindabyne Brewing: Jindabyne (approx. 68km)
Places to Eat
- A wide range of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries are available in Jindabyne (approx. 65km).
Local Attractions
- Snowy Mountains: The campground is located within the park itself.
- Thredbo Village & Alpine Resort: (approx. 95km via Jindabyne)
- Lake Jindabyne: A hub for water sports and fishing (approx. 66km)
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Jindabyne: Jindabyne (approx. 66km)
- NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park: Jindabyne (approx. 67km)
Next Free Camps
- Jacobs River Camping Area: South along Barry Way (approx. 20km)
- Willis Campground (VIC): South along Barry Way, across the border (approx. 40km)
Nearest Dump Points
- NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park: Jindabyne (Public dump point available for a small fee) (approx. 67km)
Nearest Petrol Station
- BP or Shell Jindabyne: Jindabyne (approx. 66km)
Drinking Water Resupply
- Centennial Park, Jindabyne: Public taps available (approx. 66km)
Nearest Public Toilets
- Onsite: Non-flush toilets available at the campground.
- Jindabyne Town Centre: Multiple public toilet blocks available (approx. 66km)
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Weather in the Snowy Mountains can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Always be prepared for all conditions.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are typically warm and pleasant, with cool nights. Perfect for hiking and fishing. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp days and cold nights. The changing colours of the foliage make it a beautiful time to visit. Be prepared for early frosts.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold with frequent snowfall, especially at higher elevations. Access via Barry Way may be impacted by snow and ice. Only suitable for well-prepared and experienced campers.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable conditions as the snow melts. The rivers run high, and wildflowers begin to bloom across the park.