Best Camping and Caravanning Sites in Australia

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Bendeela Recreation Area Camping – Kangaroo Valley Riverside Gem

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Bendeela Recreation Area Camping | Kangaroo Valley Riverside Gem

Tucked away in a stunning bend of the Kangaroo River, the Bendeela Recreation Area is one of the most beloved and scenic camping destinations in New South Wales. Managed by Water NSW, this expansive, grassy campground offers a spectacular natural setting, framed by the dramatic sandstone escarpments of the Kangaroo Valley. It is famous for its large, open spaces, direct river access, and the incredible abundance of wildlife, most notably the resident population of bare-nosed wombats that graze peacefully throughout the grounds, especially at dawn and dusk. This makes Bendeela a truly special place for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a memorable bush camping experience.

The main drawcard of Bendeela is its unparalleled opportunity for water-based recreation. The calm waters of the Kangaroo River are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, with an easy-access launching area for all campers. It’s also a popular spot for fishing. The campground itself is a vast, unpowered area, allowing campers to find their own perfect spot, whether they are in a tent, camper trailer, or a large caravan. While the facilities are basic, they are well-maintained. Its proximity to the charming historic village of Kangaroo Valley means that cafes, pubs, and supplies are only a short drive away. It is essential to note that camping at Bendeela, while free, now requires online bookings to manage numbers, especially during peak periods. For a back-to-nature camping holiday filled with wildlife encounters and river adventures, Bendeela is an iconic and unforgettable destination.

Campground Details

Bendeela Recreation Area – NSW Map

  • Name: Bendeela Recreation Area
  • Address: Bendeela Road, Kangaroo Valley NSW 2577
  • Website: www.waternsw.com.au
  • GPS Coordinates: -34.73988, 150.47153

  • Location: On the banks of the Kangaroo River, just outside the main village of Kangaroo Valley.
  • Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
  • Road Access: Sealed road access, though the final section can be narrow.
  • Site Surface: Mostly level grass.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted but online bookings are essential.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: Varies. Check the Water NSW booking website for current restrictions.
  • Number of Powered Sites: None. This is strictly an unpowered campground.
  • Number of Un-powered Sites: Hundreds of informal sites are available across the vast area.

Facilities

  • Picnic Tables: Yes, some tables are available in day-use areas.
  • Potable Water: No. All water must be brought in. River water should be boiled or treated before use.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited and unreliable. Expect to be offline.
  • TV Reception: Poor to non-existent due to the valley location.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, multiple blocks of basic pit/vault toilets are available.
  • Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided. Please help keep the area clean.
  • Open Fires: Prohibited. Only gas and electric cooking appliances are permitted.
  • Generator Use: Strictly prohibited.

Activities & Important Information

  • Essentials to Bring: All drinking water, cooking equipment (gas/electric only), and a camera for the wombats.
  • Pet Friendly: Strictly NO PETS are allowed to protect the abundant native wildlife.
  • Fishing: Yes, popular for bass and other freshwater species. A NSW fishing licence is required.
  • Short Walks: Plenty of space for walking around the vast recreation area and along the riverbank.

Local Amenities (in Kangaroo Valley Village, approx. 8-10 km away)

Pubs & Places to Eat

  • The Friendly Inn Hotel: An iconic and historic pub with a massive beer garden and bistro meals.
  • The General Cafe: A popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and great coffee.
  • Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop: Famous for its wide variety of delicious pies.

Local Attractions

  • Hampden Bridge: A magnificent historic suspension bridge at the entrance to the village.
  • Kangaroo Valley Pioneer Village Museum: Explore the history of the valley with restored buildings and exhibits.
  • Fitzroy Falls: A spectacular waterfall with lookouts and walking tracks in Morton National Park, a short drive away.

Camping & Services

  • Nearest Caravan Parks: A commercial holiday park is located within the Kangaroo Valley village.
  • Next Free Camps: This is the primary free camp in the area. Other options are in surrounding state forests.
  • Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available at the Kangaroo Valley Showground.
  • Nearest Petrol Station: A service station is available in Kangaroo Valley village.
  • Drinking Water Resupply: The nearest reliable source is in Kangaroo Valley or Nowra.
  • Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in the Kangaroo Valley village park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Kangaroo Valley is in a temperate climate zone, but its valley location can create unique conditions.

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, perfect for river activities. Can be humid, with a chance of thunderstorms.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): A beautiful season with mild, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Morning fog in the valley is common.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold. Days can be clear and sunny, but nights are cold with heavy frosts. It can be a very peaceful time to visit.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): The valley is lush and green. Weather is typically mild and sunny, ideal for camping and kayaking.

 

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