Kidman’s Camp: Your Outback Oasis on the Darling River

Positioned on the legendary Darling River just north of Bourke, Kidman’s Camp is more than just a caravan park—it’s an immersive outback experience. Evoking the pioneering spirit of Sir Sidney Kidman, the famous “Cattle King,” this park serves as a comfortable and welcoming oasis for travellers exploring the heart of outback New South Wales. Spread across spacious, grassy grounds shaded by native trees, the camp provides a serene retreat from the vast, red-dirt plains that characterise the region. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the history and natural beauty of the Australian bush, all while enjoying modern comforts and renowned country hospitality.

The park is thoughtfully designed to cater to all types of travellers, from those in large motorhomes to campers pitching a tent. Its prime location on the riverbank offers fantastic opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing and watching the incredible birdlife, including pelicans and corellas. One of the highlights is the nightly “Poetry on a Plate” dinner show during the tourist season, where guests enjoy a camp oven meal under the stars accompanied by classic Australian bush poetry. As a perfect base for discovering the rich history of Bourke—from the Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre to the historic paddle vessel PV Jandra—Kidman’s Camp provides not just a place to stay, but a memorable destination in its own right, capturing the timeless spirit of the Australian outback.

Site Information

• Location: On the Mitchell Highway, just north of the Bourke town centre, on the Darling River.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs. Also offers cabin accommodation.
• Road Access: Sealed highway access directly to the park entrance.
• Site Surface: Grass, dirt, and gravel sites.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings are highly recommended, especially during peak season (April-October).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with park management at time of booking.
• Number of Powered Sites: Multiple powered sites available.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Yes, a dedicated unpowered camping area is available.
• Facilities: Amenities blocks with hot showers and toilets, camp kitchen, laundry, swimming pool, barbecue areas.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, in communal areas.
• Potable Water: Yes, available throughout the park.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes, generally good Telstra coverage. Other carriers may be limited.
• TV Reception: Yes, generally good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, in amenities blocks.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Yes, available for guests.
• Drive Through Sites: Yes, a number of drive-through sites are available.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, located throughout the park.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated communal fire pits only, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Generally restricted. Check with management.
• Number of Sites Available: Bookings essential to guarantee a site.
• Essentials to Bring: Standard camping equipment. Insect repellent is recommended.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on sites by prior arrangement. Not permitted in cabins.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing for Murray Cod and Yellowbelly in the Darling River (NSW fishing licence required).
• Short Walks: Yes, along the riverbank within the park grounds.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: Port of Bourke Hotel (~6km), Oxford Hotel (~6km), Post Office Hotel (~6km).
• Places to Eat: Pubs, cafes, and bakeries in Bourke (~6km). “Poetry on a Plate” dinner available seasonally at the camp.
• Local Attractions: Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre, PV Jandra Paddleboat cruises, Mount Oxley, historic Bourke cemetery.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Mitchell Caravan Park (~8km).
• Next Free Camps: Mays Bend (~10km), North Bourke Boat Ramp area (~2km).
• Nearest Dump Points: Onsite for guests. A public dump point is located in Bourke.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Several options available in Bourke (~6km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Central Park, Bourke (~6km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot. Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C. The park’s swimming pool is essential.
• Autumn (Mar-May): The start of the peak tourist season. Warm, sunny days and cool, pleasant nights. Ideal for exploring.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild and sunny days with cold nights. Clear skies are common. A very popular time to visit.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Warming up again. Pleasant weather continues, perfect for outdoor activities before the summer heat arrives.