Archers Campsite: A Secluded Hiker’s Haven on the Central Coast

Hidden away in the lush, subtropical rainforest of Ourimbah State Forest, Archers Campsite is a true gem for those willing to leave their vehicle behind for a genuine bush experience. This is a walk-in only campground, accessible via a short, gentle track from the main car park, ensuring a level of peace and seclusion rarely found so close to major hubs. The campsite is a beautiful grassy clearing set alongside the tranquil Ourimbah Creek, surrounded by towering red cedars, coachwoods, and cabbage tree palms. The air is fresh, filled with the sounds of bellbirds and the gentle babbling of the creek, creating an instant sense of escape.

The campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the forest’s network of walking trails. It’s located directly on the Cedar Brush Walk, a stunning loop that showcases the area’s diverse flora and fauna. With basic facilities like a pit toilet and picnic tables, Archers is designed for self-sufficient campers who appreciate simplicity and nature over creature comforts. You can spend your days hiking, spotting wildlife, or simply relaxing by the creek, and your evenings enjoying a campfire under a clear, starry sky. Being pet-friendly adds to its appeal, allowing you to bring your furry companion along for the adventure. For a free, peaceful, and immersive back-to-nature weekend, Archers Campsite is one of the Central Coast’s best-kept secrets.

Site Information

• Location: Ourimbah State Forest, NSW Central Coast.
• Site Suitable For: Tents and swags only (walk-in site).
• Road Access: 2WD accessible via unsealed roads to the car park. The campsite itself is a short walk (~200m) from the car park.
• Site Surface: Grass / dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with Forestry Corporation NSW for current guidelines.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Several unmarked sites in a designated clearing.
• Facilities: Non-flush (pit) toilet, picnic tables.
• Picnic Tables: Yes.
• Potable Water: No. Creek water is available but must be treated before drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent at the campsite.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, one basic non-flush toilet.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Not available on site.
• Drive Through Sites: No (walk-in only).
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken in and taken out.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Not permitted.
• Number of Sites Available: First come, first served.
• Essentials to Bring: All water and food, water treatment system, firewood, insect repellent, first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in NSW State Forests but must be under control at all times.
• Fishing: Possible for freshwater species in Ourimbah Creek.
• Short Walks: Yes, the Cedar Brush Walk starts at the campsite. The Great North Walk is also nearby.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: Ourimbah Hotel (~15km), The Valley Tavern (Niagara Park, ~18km), Royal Hotel Wyong (~20km).
• Places to Eat: Cafes and takeaways in Ourimbah (~15km), major food courts and restaurants at Westfield Tuggerah (~20km).
• Local Attractions: TreeTops Adventure Park, Strickland State Forest, Central Coast beaches (a 25-30 minute drive).
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Various options in Tuggerah, The Entrance, and Toowoon Bay.
• Next Free Camps: Limited options nearby; most are paid national park or commercial sites.
• Nearest Dump Points: Check with local caravan parks or council websites for public dump points near Wyong/Tuggerah.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Ourimbah (~15km) or Tuggerah (~20km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Supermarkets in Ourimbah (~15km) or Tuggerah (~20km).
• Nearest Public Toilets: Ourimbah town centre (~15km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and humid, with the forest canopy providing good shade. High chance of rain and afternoon thunderstorms.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant and mild. Ideal weather for hiking, with cooler nights perfect for a campfire.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp. Days can be crisp and sunny, but nights are cold. The forest can be misty and beautiful.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant weather as things warm up. A great time for wildflowers and wildlife activity.