Jugiong Recreational Grounds Camping | Murrumbidgee River Stopover

Nestled on the picturesque banks of the Murrumbidgee River, the Jugiong Recreational Grounds offer a truly delightful camping experience for travellers on the Hume Highway. This beautiful, community-run campground is located in the heart of the historic and charming village of Jugiong, providing a perfect blend of natural scenery, colonial heritage, and modern gourmet delights. The grounds are spacious and shaded by magnificent river gums, with plenty of flat, grassy areas suitable for all camping setups, from large motorhomes and caravans to tents. It’s a beloved stopover for those journeying between Sydney and Melbourne, offering a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere that feels a world away from the busy highway just minutes away.

The magic of Jugiong lies in its vibrant village life, all within easy walking distance of the campground. The town is a renowned foodie destination, famously home to the Long Track Pantry, a gourmet cafe and providore that attracts visitors from far and wide. Just down the road, the Sir George Hotel stands as a magnificent, restored colonial inn, offering an award-winning restaurant, bar, and boutique accommodation. The campground itself is the perfect base for enjoying the simple pleasures of the region. You can launch a kayak into the river, try your luck fishing for Murray Cod, or simply relax and watch the river flow by. With excellent facilities, including powered sites, hot showers, and toilets, the Jugiong Recreational Grounds provide a comfortable and memorable stay. For a stopover that combines relaxation, history, and exceptional food and wine, Jugiong is an unmissable gem.

Campground Details

Jugiong Recreational grounds – NSW Map

• Name: Jugiong Recreational Grounds
• Address: Old Hume Highway, Jugiong NSW 2726
• Website: Managed by the local community. Camping operates on a paid/honesty system.
• GPS Coordinates: -34.82335, 148.32712

• Location: In the historic village of Jugiong, on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, just off the Hume Highway.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including big rigs, caravans, motorhomes, and tents.
• Road Access: Sealed road access to the camping area.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, paid camping is available. Payment is typically made to a caretaker or via an honesty box.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check for signage, but generally suitable for short-term stays.
• Number of Powered Sites: Yes, a good number of powered sites are available for a fee.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Yes, extensive unpowered camping space is available.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes, numerous tables and shelters are available.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra; other carriers may be patchy in the valley.
• TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, an amenity block with toilets and hot showers is available.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to local fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted during respectful hours, away from other campers.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Cash for payment, kayak or canoe, fishing gear.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times and cleaned up after.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray Cod and Yellowbelly in the Murrumbidgee River. A NSW fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: A wonderful heritage walk through the charming village of Jugiong.

Local Amenities (in Jugiong)

Pubs & Places to Eat

• Sir George Hotel: A stunningly restored historic pub with a restaurant, bar, and artisan bakery, approx. 500m.
• The Long Track Pantry: A famous cafe and gourmet food store, an absolute must-visit, approx. 400m.
• Jugiong Wine Cellar: Showcasing local cool-climate wines, located next to the Long Track Pantry, approx. 400m.

Local Attractions

• Jugiong Village: Explore the heritage buildings, boutique shops, and galleries.
• Murrumbidgee River: The main attraction for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and relaxing.
• Sgt Parry Memorial: A monument to a police sergeant killed by bushranger John Gilbert of the Ben Hall gang.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: This is the main camping ground in town. The next closest are in Gundagai or Yass.
• Next Free Camps: Basic rest areas are available along the Hume Highway.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available on site at the recreational grounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station: A service station is available in Jugiong.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available on-site.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available on-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Jugiong is on the South West Slopes and experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and generally dry, perfect for enjoying the river.
• Autumn (Mar-May): A beautiful season with mild, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. The autumn colours are a feature.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold. Days are often chilly and can be grey, while nights are frosty, with temperatures regularly dropping below zero.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): The countryside is green and vibrant. Weather is typically mild and sunny.