Blue Range Recreation Area, ACT
For a truly rustic and historic bush camping experience close to Canberra, the Blue Range Hut Camping Ground offers a peaceful and memorable escape. Located within the Uriarra Forest block, this low-cost, bookable campground is centred around the lovingly restored Blue Range Hut, which was originally built in the 1940s for forestry workers. Today, the hut serves as a communal shelter and a charming centrepiece for the campground, imbuing the area with a rich sense of history and high-country heritage. This is a back-to-basics campground, perfect for self-sufficient campers who want to disconnect from the city and enjoy the simple pleasures of the Australian bush.
The campground itself is a large, open, grassy area surrounded by pine forest and native bushland, offering a serene and picturesque setting. There are no designated sites, so campers have the freedom to choose their own spot. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, making it ideal for families and anyone seeking tranquillity. A major drawcard for many visitors is that, unlike the nearby Namadgi National Park, Blue Range is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your leashed dog along for the adventure. The facilities are basic, with non-flushing toilets and wood-fired barbecues, so campers must come fully prepared with their own drinking water and supplies.
The location is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding Brindabella Ranges. It’s a popular spot for trail runners, mountain bikers, and 4WD enthusiasts exploring the extensive network of forest tracks. It’s also just a short drive from the Cotter Recreation Area and the scenic drive along the Murrumbidgee River. Evenings are a highlight, with the opportunity for a campfire under the stars adding to the classic bush camping experience. For a simple, affordable, and dog-friendly getaway that’s rich in history and natural beauty, Blue Range Hut is an outstanding choice. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In the Uriarra Forest area, west of Canberra, off Brindabella Road.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, small Off-road Caravans/Hybrids.
- Road Access: Access is via unsealed forest roads (Blue Range Rd). A 2WD is suitable in dry weather, but a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is recommended. Roads can be closed after heavy rain or snow.
- Site Surface: Large, level grass area.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the booking website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Large, open, undefined camping area.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits, historic hut for shelter. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. Expect to be completely offline.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No dump point.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated wood BBQ pits only, subject to total fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All food and drinking water, rubbish bags, firewood, warm clothing (even in summer), hiking/biking gear.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Not applicable.
- Short Walks: Excellent area for bushwalking and exploring the surrounding forest tracks.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Weston Club, Weston (approx. 30 km)
- The Canberra Irish Club, Weston (approx. 30 km)
- The Statesman Hotel, Curtin (approx. 32 km)
- Places to Eat: Nearest options are in the Weston Creek suburbs of Canberra.
- Local Attractions:
- Mount Stromlo Observatory (approx. 20 km)
- Cotter Campground and Recreation Area (approx. 15 km)
- National Arboretum Canberra (approx. 25 km)
- The extensive Brindabella Ranges
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Cotter Campground (approx. 15 km)
- Alivio Tourist Park Canberra (approx. 30 km)
- Next Free Camps: This is a primary low-cost camp for the area. Other options are further afield in NSW state forests.
- Nearest Dump Points: Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC).
- Nearest Petrol Station: Western suburbs of Canberra (e.g., Weston Creek, Belconnen).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Nearest public taps are in Canberra.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Mild to warm days, but the forest environment keeps it cooler than the city. Nights are cool. Be prepared for rain and check bushfire warnings. Temperatures average 11°C to 26°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time for hiking with clear, crisp days and cool to cold nights. Temperatures average 5°C to 18°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Very cold. Days are often sunny but frigid. Nights are well below freezing. Snowfall is possible and can close access roads. Alpine-rated gear is essential. Temperatures range from -3°C to 10°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the bush comes alive with wildflowers. Days become warmer, but nights remain cold. Be prepared for variable weather. Temperatures average 4°C to 18°C.