Bendethera Valley Campground – Deua National Park

Bendethera Valley is a bucket-list destination for serious 4WD enthusiasts and self-sufficient campers, offering one of the most rewarding and spectacular wilderness experiences in New South Wales. Tucked away in a vast, remote valley deep within Deua National Park, this campground is a legendary prize for those who complete the challenging journey to get there. Access is strictly for high-clearance 4WD vehicles and involves a long, steep, and rugged track with up to nine crossings of the Deua River. This adventurous entry is a rite of passage that guarantees an unparalleled sense of isolation and a pristine natural environment.

The campground itself is a magnificent, enormous grassy flat that was once home to pioneer families, and you can still find historic stockyards and settler graves. The valley is surrounded by towering, forested mountains, creating a breathtaking natural amphitheatre. There is a huge amount of space for tents and off-road camper trailers to find a secluded spot. This is a classic, back-to-basics bush camp with facilities limited to non-flush toilets and fire pits. You must be completely self-reliant, bringing in all your own water, supplies, and taking all your rubbish with you. The rewards are immense: swimming in the crystal-clear river, exploring the famous Bendethera Caves, hiking the remote tracks, and enjoying a campfire under a sky filled with a dazzling display of stars. For a truly unforgettable, off-grid adventure in a stunning historical setting, Bendethera is the pinnacle of 4WD camping.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -35.95045, 149.74717

Site Information

• Location: Deua National Park, west of Moruya.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: 4WD with high clearance and a snorkel is essential. The track is very steep, rugged, and involves numerous deep river crossings. Impassable after rain.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings and park entry fees are essential via the NSW National Parks website.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details.
• Number of un-powered sites: 70 unmarked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets, wood barbecues/fire pits.
• Picnic tables: Some available.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None. A PLB or satellite phone is essential.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for the peaceful environment.
• Number of sites available: 70 sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with a snorkel and full recovery gear. Travelling in a convoy is highly recommended.
• All drinking water and food for your entire stay.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• A personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone is essential for this remote area.
• A good torch for exploring the caves.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Possible in the Deua River. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: The main attractions are exploring the Bendethera Caves and hiking the remote valley tracks.

Local Amenities (Nearest are in Moruya / Braidwood)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Air Raid Tavern, Moruya (~70 km)
  • The Monarch Hotel, Moruya (~70 km)
  • The Royal Mail Hotel, Braidwood (~75 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • An extensive range of pubs, clubs, cafes, and restaurants in Moruya (~70 km) or Braidwood (~75 km).
• Local Attractions:
  • Bendethera Caves (on site)
  • The historic towns of Moruya and Braidwood.
  • The beautiful beaches of the Eurobodalla coast.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • BIG4 Moruya Heads Easts Dolphin Beach Holiday Park (~75 km)
  • Braidwood Showground (~75 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Araluen Creek Campground (~60 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Moruya Showground (~70 km) or Braidwood Showground (~75 km).
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Moruya (~70 km) or Braidwood (~75 km). It is essential to arrive with full tanks and carry spares.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Moruya or Braidwood. You must arrive at the park fully supplied with water.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The next closest are in Moruya or Braidwood.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: NSW South Coast Hinterland / High Country

• Summer (December – February): Hot days with cool evenings, perfect for swimming. High risk of thunderstorms, which can make river crossings impossible. Average temperatures from 16°C to 30°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Ideal for hiking and 4WDing. Temperatures range from 7°C to 24°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with severe frosts and potentially freezing nights. Snow is possible on the highest peaks. Days are typically cool but clear. River crossings can be dangerously cold. Temperatures range from 0°C to 15°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is lush and green. Temperatures range from 6°C to 23°C.