Dingo Tops Campground | Tapin Tops National Park

Nestled deep within the breathtaking rainforest of Tapin Tops National Park, Dingo Tops Campground offers a serene and spacious free camping experience for nature lovers. This idyllic spot, surrounded by towering eucalyptus and ancient Antarctic beech trees, provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The air here is crisp, filled with the sounds of native birdlife like the magnificent paradise riflebird, making it a haven for birdwatchers and those seeking tranquillity. The campground itself is a large, grassy area, providing ample room for tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs to find their perfect spot amongst the trees.

The site is well-maintained and provides essential facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Visitors will find picnic tables perfect for an outdoor meal, wood barbecues and fire rings for that quintessential campfire experience (check local fire bans before visiting), and non-flush toilets. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding park. Several walking tracks originate nearby, including the gentle stroll to the Potoroo picnic area or more adventurous hikes through the dense forest, revealing spectacular lookouts and pristine creeks. Access is via well-maintained gravel roads, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, though caution is advised after rain. For those seeking a peaceful, back-to-nature camping adventure with the convenience of basic amenities in a spectacular Australian bush setting, Dingo Tops Campground is a premier destination. It’s a place to recharge, reconnect with the natural world, and create lasting memories under a canopy of stars.

Site Information

• Location: Located within Tapin Tops National Park, accessible from the Pacific Highway via Wauchope.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Unsealed gravel roads. Generally 2WD accessible in dry weather, 4WD recommended in wet conditions.
• Site Surface: Large, level grassy area.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping. Bookings are not required.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for current regulations.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked sites in a large open area.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes
• Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited to none. Telstra may have intermittent service at higher points.
• TV Reception: No
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit/long-drop) toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: No, please take all your rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire rings, subject to local fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers.

Activities & Essentials

• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, and first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in NSW National Parks.
• Fishing: Not available at the campground.
• Short Walks: Yes, several walking tracks are accessible from the campground, including trails to scenic lookouts.

Local Amenities

The nearest major town for supplies is Wauchope.

• Pubs:
  • Hastings Hotel, Wauchope (approx. 55 km)
  • The Star Hotel, Wauchope (approx. 55 km)
  • Bago Tavern, Wauchope (approx. 50 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Wauchope (approx. 55 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Ellenborough Falls (approx. 40 km)
  • Timbertown Heritage Theme Park, Wauchope (approx. 50 km)
  • Bago Maze and Winery (approx. 50 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Wauchope Showground Camping (approx. 55 km)
  • Timbertown Resort & Motel, Wauchope (approx. 50 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Ellenborough Reserve (approx. 40 km)
  • Cobrabald Recreation Area (approx. 60 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Wauchope Showground, Wauchope (approx. 55 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Wauchope (approx. 55 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Service stations or public taps in Wauchope (approx. 55 km)
• Nearest Public Toilets:
  • Bain Park, Wauchope (approx. 55 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Dingo Tops Campground experiences a temperate climate.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days with cooler evenings. Expect potential for rain and thunderstorms.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and cool nights. Generally stable weather, making it an ideal time to visit.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold days with very cold nights. Frost is common. Pack warm clothing.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant days, though weather can be variable. A beautiful time for wildflowers and wildlife.