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Big River campgrounds
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Big River Campgrounds – Goulburn River National Park Camping

Big River Campgrounds – Goulburn River National Park Camping

For 4WD enthusiasts and self-sufficient campers seeking a true wilderness escape, Big River Campground in Goulburn River National Park is a premier destination. As the name suggests, this campground is idyllically situated on a large, sandy bend of the Goulburn River, offering a stunningly remote and peaceful environment. Access is strictly for high-clearance 4WD vehicles, and the challenging track in, which includes several river crossings, is a thrilling part of the adventure that guarantees seclusion from the crowds. Once you arrive, you’re rewarded with a spacious, shady campground set amongst tall gums, with direct access to the river’s clear waters and sandy banks.

This is classic, unsupported bush camping at its best. The facilities are minimal—just non-flush toilets and basic wood barbecues—so campers must bring everything they need for their stay, including ample drinking water, firewood, and robust rubbish bags to pack everything out. The river is the focal point of life at the campground; its inviting pools are perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day, and it offers good opportunities for kayaking and liloing. The tranquil setting, surrounded by the park’s dramatic sandstone cliffs and rugged bushland, makes it a fantastic spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. At night, with no light pollution, the stargazing is simply phenomenal. Big River Campground isn’t about luxury; it’s about the luxury of space, silence, and an unfiltered connection to the Australian bush. It’s an unforgettable experience for those properly equipped to handle the journey.

Big River campgrounds – NSW Location Map

Big River campgrounds
Big River Rd, Mogo NSW 2850
Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -32.23754, 150.05597

Site Information

  • Location: Goulburn River National Park, between Mudgee and Merriwa.
  • Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers. Strictly not suitable for 2WD or low-clearance vehicles.
  • Road access: 4WD required, with high clearance essential. Involves river crossings which can be impassable after rain.
  • Site surface: Dirt, sand, and grass.
  • Camping permitted: Yes, bookings via the NPWS website are recommended.
  • Maximum overnight stays: Check NPWS guidelines.
  • Facilities: Non-flush toilets, wood barbecues/fire pits.
  • Picnic tables: Yes.
  • Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
  • Mobile phone coverage: None.
  • TV reception: None.
  • Onsite public toilets: Yes.
  • Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
  • Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, unless a fire ban is in place. Bring your own firewood.
  • Generator use: Not permitted.
  • Number of sites available: Several unmarked sites in a large area.

Essentials to Bring

  • A well-prepared 4WD with recovery gear.
  • All drinking water and food supplies.
  • Rubbish bags.
  • Your own firewood.
  • A personal locator beacon (PLB) is highly recommended due to the remote location.

Activities

  • Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Goulburn River National Park.
  • Fishing: Yes, fishing in the Goulburn River.
  • Short walks: Explore along the riverbank and nearby 4WD tracks.

Local Amenities

  • Local Pubs:
    • Numerous pubs in Mudgee (~75 km)
    • Royal Hotel, Merriwa (~60 km)
  • Places to Eat:
    • Extensive options in Mudgee (~75 km)
    • Cafes, bakeries, and pubs in Merriwa (~60 km)
  • Local Attractions:
    • 4WDriving the park’s tracks
    • Lees Pinch Lookout
    • Mudgee Wine Region
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Merriwa Caravan Park (~60 km)
    • Multiple caravan parks in Mudgee (~75 km)
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Spring Gully Campground (Goulburn River NP, also 4WD)
    • Rest areas on major highways.
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Merriwa Caravan Park (~60 km)
    • Mudgee Showground (~75 km)
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Merriwa (~60 km) or Mudgee (~75 km)
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Visitor Information Centre in Merriwa or Mudgee.
  • Public Toilets:
    • Onsite. The next closest are in Merriwa or Mudgee.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central Tablelands / Upper Hunter

  • Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and generally dry. Average temperatures from 17°C to 33°C.
  • Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Temperatures range from 8°C to 27°C.
  • Winter (June – August): Cold, with heavy frosts common. Days are often clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 1°C to 16°C.
  • Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights, can be windy. Temperatures range from 8°C to 25°C.

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