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Woods Reserve Camping | Cotter River & Canberra Bush Escape

Escape the city and immerse yourself in a pristine bushland setting at Woods Reserve, one of Canberra’s most popular and scenic campgrounds. Located on the picturesque banks of the Cotter River, this beautiful reserve offers a classic Australian bush camping experience just a short drive from the nation’s capital. The campground features large, open, grassy areas dotted with native trees, providing plenty of space for tents, camper trailers, and small to medium-sized caravans. It’s a favourite getaway for Canberra locals and a fantastic destination for tourists seeking a nature-based holiday with easy access to world-class attractions.

The major appeal of Woods Reserve is its stunning natural environment and recreational opportunities. The crystal-clear Cotter River is perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot summer’s day, and it’s also a great spot for fishing and kayaking. The reserve is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and a rich variety of birdlife frequently seen. It’s also perfectly positioned as a base for exploring the wider region. The famous Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, the Deep Space Communication Complex, and the impressive Cotter Dam precinct are all just a stone’s throw away. The campground is well-equipped with modern amenities, including flushing toilets and hot showers, making for a comfortable stay. As this is a very popular spot, especially on weekends and holidays, online bookings are essential. For a memorable bush escape that combines riverside relaxation with adventure and education, Woods Reserve is an outstanding choice.

Campground Details

Woods Reserve – NSW Map

Name: Woods Reserve
Address: Corin Road, Australian Capital Territory 2620
Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -35.48085, 148.94039

Location: In the Cotter River precinct, southwest of Canberra’s main city centre.
Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and small to medium caravans/motorhomes. Access roads can be narrow.
Road Access: Sealed road access all the way to the reserve.
Site Surface: Mostly level grass and dirt sites.
Camping Permitted: Yes, paid camping is available. Bookings are essential.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the ACT Parks booking website for current limits.
Number of Powered Sites: None. This is an unpowered campground.
Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous designated sites are available.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes, numerous tables are available.
Potable Water: Yes, tap water is available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. Do not rely on it.
TV Reception: Unlikely.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, amenity blocks with flushing toilets and hot showers are available.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
Open Fires: Permitted in designated wood-fired BBQs and fire pits only, subject to daily fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
Generator Use: Strictly prohibited to maintain the peaceful atmosphere.

Activities & Important Information

Essentials to Bring: Booking confirmation, firewood, all food supplies, and a torch.
Pet Friendly: Strictly NO PETS are allowed in the reserve.
Fishing: Fishing for trout is popular in the Cotter River. An ACT fishing licence may be required.
Short Walks: Excellent walking trails are available around the reserve and at the nearby Cotter Dam and Tidbinbilla.

Local Amenities (Nearest services are in Canberra suburbs, approx. 20-25 km away)

Pubs & Places to Eat

The Weston Club (Weston): A large licensed club with a bistro and cafe.
The Austrian Australian Club (Mawson): Offers a well-regarded restaurant with European cuisine.
Kambah Inn (Kambah): A popular local pub with a bistro and sports bar.

Local Attractions

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: A must-visit for guaranteed wildlife sightings, including koalas, platypus, and emus.
Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex: A fascinating NASA tracking station with a visitor centre.
Cotter Dam Discovery Trail & Cotter Avenue: A fantastic recreation area with a large playground, picnic spots, and a walk to a lookout over the dam wall.
Mount Stromlo Observatory: Explore the observatory and enjoy panoramic views of Canberra.

Camping & Services

Nearest Caravan Parks: Major commercial caravan parks are located in the main part of Canberra.
Next Free Camps: Very limited. Some basic options are available in nearby NSW state forests.
Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC).
Nearest Petrol Station: The nearest service stations are in the southern Canberra suburbs like Weston or Kambah.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available on-site.
Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available on-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Woods Reserve is at a higher altitude and experiences Canberra’s distinct four seasons, often with cooler temperatures than the city.

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, perfect for swimming in the river, but nights can still be cool.
Autumn (Mar-May): A beautiful season with mild, sunny days and crisp, cool nights. The deciduous trees in the area provide great colour.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold. Days are chilly, and nights are very frosty, with temperatures regularly dropping well below zero. Snow on the nearby Brindabella ranges is common.
Spring (Sep-Nov): The bushland comes alive with wildflowers. Weather is typically mild and sunny.