Pooncarie Park Camping | Your Authentic Darling River Experience

Nestled on the banks of the legendary Darling River, Pooncarie Park offers travellers an authentic slice of the NSW outback. This community-run camping area is a quintessential stop for anyone tackling the iconic Darling River Run, providing a serene and welcoming place to rest and recharge. The park epitomises the spirit of the outback: it’s spacious, unpretentious, and offers the freedom to find your perfect spot along the river’s edge. Imagine setting up your caravan or camper with sweeping views of the slow-moving river, shaded by majestic river red gums, and being just a stone’s throw from one of the friendliest outback pubs you’ll ever find. This is what camping in Pooncarie is all about.

While the facilities are basic, they are clean and well-maintained, providing the essentials for a comfortable stay. The donation-based system ensures the grounds are looked after for all to enjoy. The real luxury here is the location. Pooncarie itself is a tiny, resilient township that serves as a vital hub between Menindee and Wentworth. The park’s proximity to the town means you can easily walk to the Telegraph Hotel for a cold beer and a hearty meal, sharing stories with locals and fellow travellers. It’s also an excellent base for fishing enthusiasts hoping to land a Murray Cod or for birdwatchers eager to spot the diverse birdlife that thrives along the river corridor. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the landscape, and the stars begin to dominate the clear outback sky, you’ll understand why Pooncarie Park is a cherished destination for those seeking genuine bush hospitality.

Campground Details

Pooncarie Park – NSW Map

• Name: Pooncarie Park Camping
• Address: Tarcoola St, Pooncarie NSW 2648
• Website: Not applicable. This is a community-run, donation-based campground.
• GPS Coordinates: -33.38184, 142.56317

• Location: Set on the eastern bank of the Darling River within the Pooncarie township.
• Site Suitable For: Caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents. Suitable for big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road access to Pooncarie. The park has dirt and grass internal roads.
• Site Surface: Mix of dirt and grass. Can become boggy after significant rain.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, payment is by donation in the honesty box.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please check local signage for any restrictions.
• Number of Powered Sites: None.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Unlimited, informal sites.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes, scattered throughout the park.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available. It’s advisable to boil river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Telstra coverage is available in town, but can be patchy in the park.
• TV Reception: Possible with a good antenna.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a clean toilet block is available.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, provided near the entrance.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits unless a total fire ban is in effect. Bring your own wood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of your neighbours.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Food and fuel supplies (limited in town), firewood, insect repellent, and cash for donations and the pub.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing in the Darling River. A NSW fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Enjoy a stroll along the river bank or walk through the historic township.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Places to Eat

• The Telegraph Hotel: A classic and welcoming outback pub serving cold beer and great meals, located within walking distance.
• Pooncarie Port Pit Stop: A cafe and general store for basic supplies and takeaway food.
• Wentworth Hotel: The next closest pub option in a larger town, approx. 120 km south.

Local Attractions

• Mungo National Park: The main visitor centre is approximately 110 km away via unsealed roads (check road conditions). A world heritage site with incredible landscapes.
• The Darling River Run: Pooncarie is a key stop on this iconic outback touring route.
• Old Pooncarie Wharf: Remnants of the historic river port era can be found in town.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Commercial parks are available in Wentworth or Menindee.
• Next Free Camps: Other riverside camps can be found along the Darling River, such as Polia Station.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Pooncarie.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Fuel is available in Pooncarie (can be expensive).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available in the park.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in the park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Pooncarie has a semi-arid, outback climate. Roads can become impassable after rain.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. Travel during the middle of the day is not advised.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and milder nights make this an ideal time to visit.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Days are typically mild and sunny, but nights are cold, with frosts common.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): A great time to travel, with pleasant warm days before the intense summer heat sets in.