Cockburn River Campground, Free Riverside Camping near Tamworth, NSW

Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Cockburn River, this popular campground offers a classic Australian bush camping experience just a short drive from the country music capital, Tamworth. As a designated free camping area, it provides a fantastic opportunity for self-sufficient travellers to unwind and connect with nature without breaking the budget. The site is a spacious, level, and grassy reserve, shaded by magnificent river gums, creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing getaway. Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rich culture and attractions of the New England region or a perfect stopover for those travelling along the New England Highway.The campground is best suited for those in self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers, as there are no onsite facilities such as toilets or drinking water. The wide-open space allows for easy access and positioning of even the largest rigs. The main attraction is undoubtedly the river itself. It’s a wonderful spot for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day, a leisurely paddle in a kayak, or for trying your luck fishing for local species. The area is also a haven for birdlife, providing a constant, soothing soundtrack to your stay. At night, the clear country skies offer a spectacular display of stars, far from the glare of city lights.Being entirely free and without formal management, the campground operates on a principle of respect. Campers are expected to be considerate of others and to practice leave-no-trace principles by taking all their rubbish with them. While beautifully serene, the camp is only a short drive to the small town of Kootingal for basic supplies, or a bit further to Tamworth for major supermarkets, petrol stations, and services. For travellers seeking a simple, peaceful, and picturesque riverside camp with the convenience of a major regional hub nearby, the Cockburn River Campground is an exceptional choice.

Cockburn river campground – NSW Location Map

Cockburn River Campground
Unnamed Road, Limbri NSW 2352
GPS Coordinates: -31.05165, 151.14376

Site Details

Location: On the Cockburn River, near Limbri and Kootingal, NSW.
Site suitable for: Self-contained vehicles including caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers. Tents are possible but note there are no facilities.
Road access: Dirt/gravel road, generally accessible by 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. Caution advised after rain.
Site surface: Grass and dirt.
Camping permitted: Yes, free camping.
Maximum overnight stays: Not specified, but short-term stays are standard practice.
Number of powered sites: 0
Number of un-powered sites: Multiple unmarked sites in a large open area.

Facilities & Rules

Facilities: None. This is a primitive bush camp.
Picnic tables: No.
Potable water: No. You must bring all your own water.
Mobile phone coverage: Limited. Telstra generally has the best chance of reception.
TV reception: Possible, but may be unreliable.
Onsite public toilets: No. You must have your own toilet facilities.
Ullage / Dump Point: No. The nearest public dump point is in Tamworth.
Drive through sites: Not designated, but the area is large and open, allowing for easy access.
Rubbish bins: No. All campers must take their rubbish with them.
Open fires: Generally permitted, but be sure to check local fire restrictions and bans, especially in summer. Use existing fire pits where possible.
Generator use: Permitted, but please be considerate of your neighbours regarding noise and fumes.
Number of sites available: Numerous, not individually marked.

Activities & Notes

Essentials to bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, rubbish bags, firewood, power source (solar/generator), and all other supplies.
Pet friendly: Yes, this is a popular spot for campers with dogs. Keep pets under control.
Fishing: Yes, fishing in the Cockburn River is a popular activity.
Short walks: Enjoy walks along the riverbank and through the reserve.

Local Amenities

The nearest towns are Kootingal (approx. 13km) for basics and Tamworth (approx. 28km) for all major services.

Nearest Pubs:
- Kootingal Hotel (approx. 13 km)
- The Tamworth Hotel (approx. 28 km)
- The Albert Hotel Tamworth (approx. 28 km)
Places to Eat: A pub, cafe and takeaway in Kootingal. A huge variety of options in Tamworth.
Local Attractions:
- The Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre (approx. 25 km)
- Australian Country Music Hall of Fame (approx. 28 km)
- Oxley Scenic Lookout (approx. 30 km)
Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Paradise Tourist Park (Tamworth) (approx. 25 km)
- City Lights Caravan Park (Tamworth) (approx. 26 km)
Next Free Camps:
- Moore Creek Recreation Reserve (approx. 35 km)
- Woolomin Reserve (approx. 38 km)
Nearest Dump Points: Tamworth Regional Council Waste Management Facility, or check various caravan parks in Tamworth.
Nearest Petrol Station: Kootingal (approx. 13 km) and multiple major stations in Tamworth.
Drinking Water Resupply: Service stations in Tamworth often have a tap available.
Nearest Public Toilets (offsite): Kootingal (approx. 13 km) and numerous locations in Tamworth.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Tamworth region experiences a distinct climate with hot summers and cool, crisp winters. Be prepared for temperature variations.

Summer (December – February): Hot and often dry, with average maximum temperatures ranging from 30-33°C, though days can be significantly hotter. Excellent weather for river activities.
Autumn (March – May): A very pleasant season with warm, sunny days and mild nights. Average maximums are between 22-28°C. Ideal for camping.
Winter (June – August): Days are typically cool and clear, with average maximums of 15-17°C. Nights are cold, with frequent frosts, so warm gear is essential.
Spring (September – November): Mild and warming, with average maximums from 21-27°C. A beautiful time to visit as the countryside turns green.

Cockburn River Campground – Free Riverside Camping near Tamworth, NSW