Best Camping and Caravanning Sites in Australia

A great place to start your adventure

Bombala Caravan Park – Riverside Serenity in the Heart of Platypus Country

Located on the banks of the pristine Bombala River, Bombala Caravan Park offers a unique high-country experience in the snowy Monaro region of New South Wales. Known globally as ‘Platypus Country,’ this charming town serves as the perfect midpoint between the sapphire coast and the rugged snowy mountains. The park provides a tranquil sanctuary where visitors can wake up to the sounds of the flowing river and, if they are quiet and patient, catch a glimpse of the elusive platypus playing in the waters just metres from their campsite.

The town of Bombala is steeped in history, and the caravan park is situated just a short, level stroll from the main street. This proximity allows guests to easily explore the historic buildings, local boutiques, and friendly country pubs that define the Monaro spirit. For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding South East Forest National Park offers a treasure trove of old-growth forests, breathtaking lookouts, and hidden waterfalls. The altitude of nearly 700 metres ensures crisp, clean air and distinct seasonal changes, from the vibrant gold and red leaves of autumn to the occasional winter dusting of snow.

Accommodation at Bombala Caravan Park is designed to be functional and welcoming for all types of travellers. Whether you are driving a large motorhome, towing a caravan, or prefer the simplicity of a tent, the park features spacious, well-maintained sites. For those looking for a bit more comfort after a long day on the road, self-contained cabins are also available. The park prides itself on its traditional hospitality, featuring a modern amenities block, a clean camp kitchen, and communal BBQ areas that often serve as the social hub for guests sharing stories of their travels across the Monaro Plains.

Fishing is one of the premier activities in the area, with the local rivers renowned for trout. Adventurous spirits can use the park as a base for day trips to the nearby town of Delegate to see the historic Early Settlers Hut, or head north to Nimmitabel to see the famous elephant statue. With its central location, affordable rates, and unmatched natural setting, Bombala Caravan Park is an essential stop for any traveller exploring the diverse landscapes of south-eastern New South Wales.

Bombala Caravan Park – NSW Location Map

Bombala Caravan Park

Site Specifications & Information

  • Location: Riverside location on the southern end of Bombala, beside the Monaro Highway.
  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, tents, and big rigs.
  • Road Access: Sealed highway access; easy entry for long vehicles.
  • Site Surface: Grassed sites and some concrete pads.
  • Available Facilities:
    • 3 x Self-contained Cabins
    • Powered and Unpowered Sites
    • Modern Amenities Block with Showers
    • Camp Kitchen with appliances
    • Undercover BBQ Area
    • Guest Laundry
    • Dump Point
    • Disabled Access Facilities
  • Essentials to Bring: Warm clothing (even in summer), fishing license, binoculars for platypus spotting, and local area maps.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes, pet-friendly for site bookings (check policy for cabin stays).
  • Fishing: Direct river access for trout fishing; famous local river systems nearby.
  • Short Walks:
    • Bombala River Walk (2.2km loop along the river)
    • Main Street Heritage Walk (0.5km)
    • Bombala Railway Park Stroll

Local Amenities

Local Pubs

  • Globe Hotel (0.2km) – Historic pub with meals and cold beer.
  • Imperial Hotel Bombala (0.3km) – Famous for stone-grill steaks and gourmet pizzas.
  • Robbie Burns Hotel Wyndham (36km) – A scenic drive for a classic country pub experience.

Places to Eat

  • Kitchen Eightyate (0.4km) – Popular cafe for breakfast and coffee.
  • Cosmo Cafe (0.4km) – Casual dining and takeaway.
  • Club Bombala (0.1km) – RSL style club with bistro dining right next door.

Local Attractions

  • Bombala Platypus Reserve (4.5km) – Best place for early morning platypus viewing.
  • Historic Bombala Railway Station (1.2km) – Preserved rail heritage and museum.
  • Lavender House (1.1km) – Gift shop and museum in an old convent.
  • Burnima Homestead (6.5km) – A stunning 19th-century Victorian Gothic mansion.
  • South East Forest National Park (15km) – National park with trails and waterfalls.

Nearest Caravan Parks

  • Delegate Caravan Park (34km) – Quiet park on the Delegate River.
  • Nimmitabel Caravan Park (51km) – High-altitude park in the village of Nimmitabel.

Nearest Free/Low-Cost Camps

  • Bombala Riverside Park (0.1km) – Day use area, overnight camping occasionally permitted (check signs).
  • Waratah Gully Campground (22km) – Free bush camping in the South East Forest National Park.

Nearest Dump Points

  • On-site Dump Point (0km) – Located within the park grounds.
  • Bombala Public Dump Point (0.1km) – Just outside the park entrance.

Nearest Petrol Stations

  • Ampol Bombala (0.2km) – Full service fuel and convenience store.
  • BP Nimmitabel Roadhouse (51km) – Major stop on the Monaro Highway north.

Drinking Water Resupply

  • On-site Taps (0km) – Town water supplied to powered sites.
  • Bombala Rest Area (0.2km) – Public water access.

Public Toilets

  • Bombala Rest Area (0.2km) – Located on the highway.
  • Maybe Street Public Toilets (0.4km) – Central town facilities.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Bombala

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days with cool evenings. Daytime average 24°C–26°C. High UV levels.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Crisp mornings and stunning foliage. Daytime average 15°C–22°C. Cold nights start in May.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold and frost-prone. Daytime average 11°C–13°C. Nightly lows often drop below 0°C.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and windy. Daytime average 16°C–21°C. Occasional spring rains and blooming gardens.

 

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