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Bendemeer Camping Ground
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Bendemeer Camping Ground – Free Riverside Camping NSW

Bendemeer Camping Ground – Free Riverside Camping NSW

Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Macdonald River, the Bendemeer Camping Ground is a shining example of country hospitality and a beloved stopover for travellers on the New England Highway. This spacious, grassy reserve in the heart of the historic village of Bendemeer offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for all types of campers. Whether you’re in a big rig, a caravan, a campervan, or a tent, you’ll find a welcoming spot to pull up and relax. Maintained by the local community, the campground operates on a donation basis, with proceeds going towards the upkeep of the excellent facilities, which remarkably include clean toilets and coin-operated hot showers—a rare luxury for a free camp.

The riverside location is the main drawcard, providing a beautiful backdrop and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or simply watching the platypus play at dawn and dusk. The large, open area means there’s plenty of room to spread out, and it’s exceptionally pet-friendly, making it a perfect spot for those travelling with their furry companions. The campground’s convenience is unparalleled; it’s just a short stroll across the historic Bendemeer Bridge to the local pub for a hearty meal and a cold drink. While it’s a popular spot, its size ensures it rarely feels overcrowded. For a comfortable, convenient, and genuinely charming riverside stay that won’t break the budget, the Bendemeer Camping Ground is one of the best free camps in New South Wales.

Bendemeer Camping Ground – NSW Location Map

Bendemeer Camping Ground
Selina St, Bendemeer NSW 2355
GPS Coordinates: -30.886, 151.15758

Site Information

  • Location: On the Macdonald River, in the town of Bendemeer.
  • Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs.
  • Road access: Sealed road, 2WD accessible.
  • Site surface: Large, flat grassy areas with some gravel.
  • Camping permitted: Yes, donation requested to support upkeep.
  • Maximum overnight stays: 24 hours.
  • Facilities: Toilets, coin-operated hot showers ($1 or $2 coins).
  • Picnic tables: Yes, scattered throughout the reserve.
  • Potable water: Yes, a tap is available.
  • Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage with Telstra and other major carriers.
  • TV reception: Good.
  • Onsite public toilets: Yes.
  • Drive through: Yes, plenty of large, open spaces.
  • Rubbish bins: Yes, provided.
  • Open fires: Permitted in existing fire pits or your own brazier, subject to local fire bans.
  • Generator use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers.
  • Number of sites available: Numerous unmarked sites across a large area.

Essentials to Bring

  • Donation cash to place in the donation box.
  • $1 or $2 coins for the hot showers.
  • Fishing gear or a kayak for the river.

Activities

  • Pet friendly: Yes, this is a very popular spot for campers with pets.
  • Fishing: Good opportunities for fishing in the Macdonald River.
  • Short walks: Pleasant walks along the river and through the historic village.

Local Amenities

  • Local Pubs:
    • Bendemeer Hotel (~500 m)
  • Places to Eat:
    • Bendemeer Hotel (~500 m)
    • Bendemeer General Store & Cafe (~400 m)
  • Local Attractions:
    • Historic Bendemeer Bridge (adjacent to campground)
    • The village of Uralla (~45 km north)
    • Tamworth, Australia’s Country Music Capital (~45 km south)
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Kootingal Kourt Caravan Park (~30 km)
    • Paradise Tourist Park, Tamworth (~45 km)
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Moonbi Recreation Ground (~20 km)
    • Woolloms Rest Area, Oxley Hwy (~80 km)
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Tamworth Regional Council Waste Management Facility (~48 km)
    • Some service stations in Tamworth may have facilities.
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Service stations in Moonbi (~20 km) and Tamworth (~45 km)
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Onsite tap available.
  • Public Toilets:
    • Onsite at the campground.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Bendemeer Region

  • Summer (December – February): Hot days and mild to warm nights. Average temperatures from 17°C to 32°C.
  • Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days with cool to cold nights. Temperatures range from 8°C to 26°C.
  • Winter (June – August): Cold, with frosty mornings and cool but often sunny days. Temperatures range from 2°C to 16°C.
  • Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days, with cool nights. Temperatures range from 8°C to 25°C.

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