Apsley Falls Campground – Gorge Camping Walcha NSW

Prepare for breathtaking views and a memorable stay at Apsley Falls Campground, one of the most accessible and spectacular camping destinations in the New England high country. Located in the World Heritage-listed Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, this campground puts you right on the doorstep of the magnificent Apsley Gorge. Imagine waking up, stepping out of your caravan or tent, and taking a short stroll to a lookout where a powerful waterfall plunges into the vast, ancient chasm below. The campground itself is a pleasant, grassy area with marked sites suitable for everything from small tents to large motorhomes, making it a popular and convenient base for exploring this stunning part of Australia.

The main attraction is undoubtedly the network of walking tracks that trace the rim of the gorge. The easy, paved Gorge Rim Walk offers multiple viewing platforms, each providing a different, awe-inspiring perspective of the two main waterfalls and the sheer, rugged cliffs. For the more energetic, the Oxley Walk descends into the gorge for an immersive experience. The campground is well-equipped with clean, non-flush toilets, picnic tables, and free gas barbecues, offering a comfortable camping experience. However, fires are not permitted, and campers must bring their own drinking water and take all rubbish with them. The accessibility is a major drawcard; being just 20km from the charming town of Walcha along a sealed road, it’s easy to pop into town for supplies or a pub meal. For an unforgettable blend of dramatic scenery, excellent facilities, and easy access, Apsley Falls Campground is a top choice for any traveller.

• Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• GPS Coordinates: -31.05404, 151.76213

Site Information

• Location: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, near Walcha, NSW.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road access: Sealed road access suitable for all 2WD vehicles.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings are essential via the NSW National Parks website.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details on the NPWS website.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, gas/electric barbecues.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water supplies.
• Mobile phone coverage: Limited. Telstra service is most likely at the main lookouts.
• TV reception: No.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open fires: Prohibited. Use the provided gas barbecues.
• Generator use: Not permitted.
• Number of sites available: Approximately 20 marked sites.

Essentials to Bring

• Sufficient drinking and washing water for your entire stay.
• Rubbish bags to carry out all waste.
• Gas cooking equipment as a backup to the communal BBQs.
• Warm clothing, as the high altitude means nights can be very cold.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No, pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Not permitted in this area.
• Short walks: Superb walking tracks, including the Gorge Rim Walk and Oxley Walk.

Local Amenities (in Walcha)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Apsley Arms Hotel, Walcha (~20 km)
  • Walcha Royal Cafe & Accommodation (~20 km)
  • Commercial Hotel Walcha (~20 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A good selection of cafes, bakeries, and hotel restaurants in Walcha (~20 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Walcha Open Air Gallery of Sculptures (~20 km)
  • Tia Falls (~40 km)
  • New England High Country scenic drives.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Walcha Caravan Park (~20 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Woolloms Rest Area, Oxley Hwy (~45 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Walcha Showground (~21 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Walcha (~20 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Walcha Visitor Information Centre or Showground (~20 km)
• Public Toilets:
  • McHattan Park, Walcha (~20 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Northern Tablelands

• Summer (December – February): Warm days and cool evenings. Average temperatures range from 13°C to 27°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. Temperatures range from 6°C to 21°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold and often frosty, with crisp, clear days. Temperatures range from 1°C to 13°C.
• Spring (September – November): Cool to mild weather that can be windy and changeable. Temperatures range from 5°C to 21°C.