Bakers Shaft Reserve Camping | Historic Goldfields Escape NSW

Step back in time and camp amongst the ghosts of the gold rush era at Bakers Shaft Reserve, a primitive bush camp located in the historic Burnt Yards goldfields of New South Wales. This secluded spot offers a truly authentic and tranquil escape for self-sufficient campers who appreciate history and nature over modern conveniences. The reserve is set in a classic Australian bush landscape, surrounded by rolling hills and scattered gum trees, providing a peaceful atmosphere that feels a world away from the nearest town. It’s a place where the main attractions are the profound quiet, the remnants of mining history, and the brilliant starry nights, unpolluted by city lights.

The charm of Bakers Shaft Reserve lies in its raw, undeveloped character. This is a destination for adventurous campers who are fully self-contained and prepared for a rustic experience. The surrounding area is ripe for exploration, with old mining shafts and relics from the 19th-century gold boom hidden in the landscape for those with a keen eye. The reserve is also a great base for visiting the beautifully preserved historic villages of Carcoar and Mandurama, both of which offer a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s colonial past. While facilities are minimal, the sense of connection to both history and the natural environment is immense. If you’re looking for a free, no-frills campsite where you can disconnect, enjoy the serenity of the bush, and touch a piece of Australian history, Bakers Shaft Reserve is an exceptional choice.

Campground Details

Bakers Shaft Reserve – NSW Map

• Name: Bakers Shaft Reserve
• Address: Junction of Park Road, Burnt Yards NSW 2792
• Website: Not applicable. This is a public reserve.
• GPS Coordinates: -33.60958, 149.0118

• Location: A remote bush reserve in the Central Tablelands, situated within the historic Burnt Yards goldfields.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans. Access can be tight and is not recommended for large rigs.
• Road Access: Access is via unsealed dirt roads. A 4WD or high-clearance 2WD is recommended. Check conditions after rain.
• Site Surface: Uneven grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays (1-3 nights) are recommended to preserve the area.
• Number of Powered Sites: None.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: A handful of informal sites are available.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes, a couple of basic tables may be available.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Extremely limited to non-existent. Do not rely on it.
• TV Reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a very basic long-drop toilet is usually on site.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strictly “leave no trace” site. You must take all rubbish out with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, but are subject to local fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the extremely quiet natural environment.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: All food and drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, portable shower, toilet paper, and a first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are generally welcome but must be kept under strict control due to wildlife and surrounding farmland.
• Fishing: Possible in nearby creeks, though water levels can be low.
• Short Walks: Excellent opportunities for bushwalking and exploring the historic goldfield remnants. Be cautious of old mine shafts.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Places to Eat

• Royal Hotel Mandurama: A classic, friendly country pub with great meals, approx. 20 km.
• Royal Hotel Carcoar: A beautifully preserved historic pub in a stunning village setting, approx. 30 km.
• Services in Blayney: The larger town of Blayney offers more dining options including clubs and cafes, approx. 35 km.

Local Attractions

• Historic Village of Carcoar: The entire village is classified by the National Trust. A must-visit.
• Historic Village of Mandurama: Features a charming main street and heritage buildings.
• Millthorpe Village: Another beautiful and well-preserved historic town with boutique shops and cafes, a little further afield.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Commercial parks are available in Blayney and Cowra.
• Next Free Camps: Basic rest areas can be found on the Mid-Western Highway.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available at the Blayney Showground.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Mandurama (check hours) or 24/7 in Blayney.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available in Blayney.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in the towns of Mandurama and Carcoar.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: The Central Tablelands experiences a climate of extremes. Be prepared for all conditions.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Can be very hot and dry during the day, with temperatures often in the 30s (°C).
• Autumn (Mar-May): A wonderful time to visit, with warm sunny days and cool, crisp nights.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Days are often cool and sunny, but nights are severely cold with heavy frosts. Temperatures will drop well below zero.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant weather, but can be windy. The landscape is often at its greenest.