Bylong Community Sports Ground Camping | Scenic Valley Stopover

Nestled amidst the spectacular sandstone escarpments and lush farming country of the Bylong Valley, the Bylong Community Sports Ground offers travellers a peaceful and welcoming place to rest. This donation-based campground is a fantastic example of country hospitality, providing a low-cost option for those journeying along the iconic Bylong Valley Way. The spacious, flat, grassy area is perfect for all types of setups, from big rigs and caravans to camper trailers and tents. The ground’s location in the heart of the tiny, historic village of Bylong provides a genuine sense of being part of a small rural community, a feeling often missed when staying in larger commercial parks.

The main appeal of this campsite is its serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. The Bylong Valley is often cited as one of the most scenic drives in New South Wales, and camping here allows you to fully immerse yourself in its beauty. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and enjoy your morning coffee while gazing at the dramatic surrounding cliffs. The sports ground itself provides basic but well-maintained facilities, including toilets and the welcome availability of powered sites for a very reasonable fee. It’s an ideal base for exploring the local area, whether you’re interested in photography, history, or simply enjoying a scenic drive. The nearby towns of Rylstone and Kandos offer further opportunities for exploration and supply runs. For a true country camping experience that combines affordability, scenery, and a friendly community feel, the Bylong Community Sports Ground is a must-stop destination for any traveller on the Bylong Valley Way.

Campground Details

Bylong Community Sports Ground – NSW Map

• Name: Bylong Community Sports Ground
• Address: 7690 Bylong Valley Way, Bylong NSW 2849
• Website: Not applicable. This is a community-run facility.
• GPS Coordinates: -32.41613, 150.11414

• Location: Located in the small village of Bylong, directly on the scenic Bylong Valley Way.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road access directly off the main touring route.
• Site Surface: Level grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, camping is permitted. Payment is via a donation box or honesty system for power.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Typically 72 hours. Please be respectful of the community spirit.
• Number of Powered Sites: A limited number of powered sites are available.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Ample unpowered space is available.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes, some tables are available.
• Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available. It’s always wise to have your own filter.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited. Telstra coverage may be patchy; other carriers are unlikely to have service.
• TV Reception: Possible, but may be unreliable due to the valley location.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a clean toilet block is on site.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided. Please use them correctly.
• Open Fires: Generally not permitted. Use contained cooking appliances.
• Generator Use: Permitted during respectful hours (e.g., 8 am – 8 pm).

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Cash for donations, levelling blocks if needed, and supplies as local options are limited.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Fishing: Possible in nearby creeks and rivers for those willing to explore.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walks around the small village and along the quiet country roads.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Places to Eat

• Bylong Valley General Store: Historic building across the road, check for current operating hours as they can vary.
• The Globe Hotel Rylstone: A classic country pub with great food, approx. 50 km.
• Kandos Hotel / RSL Club: Multiple dining options in the town of Kandos, approx. 60 km.

Local Attractions

• Bylong Valley Way: The drive itself is the main attraction, with stunning scenery.
• ‘The Drip’ Gorge: A beautiful walking track to a unique dripping rock wall, located towards Mudgee (check access).
• Ferntree Gully Reserve: A rare patch of rainforest ecosystem near Rylstone.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Commercial parks are available in Rylstone and Kandos.
• Next Free Camps: Phipps Cutting Rest Area towards Mudgee.
• Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Rylstone and Kandos.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Rylstone or Kandos.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the sports ground.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available on-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Bylong is located in a valley within the Central Tablelands, which experiences distinct seasons.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Can be very hot, with temperatures often reaching the mid-to-high 30s (°C).
• Autumn (Mar-May): A beautiful time to visit with warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. The valley colours are stunning.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Days are often cool and sunny, but nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): The valley comes to life with wildflowers. Weather is generally mild and pleasant.