Gilgandra Showground Camping | Orana & Warrumbungles Gateway

Strategically located at the junction of the Newell, Oxley, and Castlereagh Highways, the Gilgandra Showground is a classic and highly convenient stopover for travellers exploring the Orana region of NSW. Known as the “Town of Windmills” and the starting point of the historic “Coo-ee March,” Gilgandra offers a friendly welcome, and its showground provides a spacious and practical base for all campers. The grounds feature vast, flat, grassy areas perfect for every type of setup, from the largest motorhomes and big rigs to caravans and tents. It’s an excellent, value-for-money choice for breaking up a long journey or for settling in to explore the surprising attractions of the surrounding area.

The showground’s prime location is its greatest asset. It provides a relaxed, open environment while being just a short drive from the town centre, with its supermarkets, pubs, clubs, and all essential services. This makes it an incredibly easy place to restock and prepare for the next leg of your outback adventure. Gilgandra is also the perfect gateway to the spectacular Warrumbungle National Park, Australia’s first Dark Sky Park. The showground is an ideal base for a day trip to explore the park’s dramatic volcanic landscape and walking trails. Back in town, you can delve into local history at the Rural Museum and learn about the famous 1915 recruitment march to Sydney. With clean facilities, including powered sites and hot showers, the Gilgandra Showground is a fantastic, no-fuss option for a comfortable stay in a true Aussie country town.

Campground Details

Gilgandra Showground – NSW Map

• Name: Gilgandra Showground
• Address: Warren Road, Gilgandra NSW 2827
• Website: Managed by the local showground trust. It’s best to call the caretaker for information.
• GPS Coordinates: -31.71149, 148.64886

• Location: In the regional town of Gilgandra, at the junction of three major highways.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including large motorhomes, caravans, and tents.
• Road Access: Sealed road access to the showground entrance.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass with some dirt/gravel areas.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, paid camping is available. Contact the on-site caretaker on arrival.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Flexible. Please check with the caretaker for specific policies.
• Number of Powered Sites: Yes, a large number of powered sites are available.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Yes, extensive unpowered camping space is available.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Limited. Self-sufficiency is recommended.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Excellent digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, an amenity block with toilets and hot showers is available.
• Drive Through: Yes, many sites can be used as drive-through sites.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided for campers.
• Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
• Generator Use: Permitted during respectful hours.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Cash for payment, long power lead, and water hose.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
• Fishing: Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby Castlereagh River.
• Short Walks: Easy walks around the town and along the river.

Local Amenities (in Gilgandra)

Pubs & Places to Eat

• Gilgandra Services Club: A large, modern club with a popular bistro, approx. 2 km.
• Royal Hotel Gilgandra: A classic country pub on the main street with a friendly atmosphere, approx. 1.5 km.
• Gilgandra Bowling Club: Offers bistro meals and a welcoming environment, approx. 2 km.

Local Attractions

• Warrumbungle National Park: A spectacular park for hiking, scenery, and stargazing (Australia’s only Dark Sky Park), approx. 95 km.
• Coo-ee March History: Explore the memorials and information boards around town detailing the famous 1915 recruitment drive.
• Gilgandra Rural Museum: Showcases the agricultural and social history of the district.
• The Hitchen House and Wiradjuri Garden: A local cultural centre and garden.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: This is the main camping ground. A commercial caravan park is also located in town.
• Next Free Camps: Basic rest areas are available along the Newell, Oxley, and Castlereagh Highways.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is located at the Gilgandra Rest Area on the Newell Highway.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Several 24/7 service stations are located in Gilgandra.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available on-site.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available on-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Gilgandra has a hot, semi-arid climate, typical of the Central West Slopes and Plains.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot and sunny, with temperatures often in the high 30s (°C).
• Autumn (Mar-May): A pleasant season for travel, with warm days and mild to cool nights.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Days are often cool, crisp, and sunny, but nights are cold with frequent frosts.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Weather warms up quickly, with hot and sunny days becoming common.