Bretti Reserve: Popular Free Camping near Gloucester NSW

Bretti Reserve is one of the most renowned free campgrounds in the Barrington Coast region, and for good reason. Situated at the picturesque junction of the Manning and Barnard Rivers, this vast, open, and grassy reserve offers an idyllic setting for campers of all kinds. Its sheer size means that even during popular holiday periods, there’s generally enough room to find your own private spot. The reserve is accessible to all vehicles, from tents and swags right up to the largest big-rig caravans, making it a truly inclusive destination for the travelling community. The stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains and the gentle sound of the two rivers converging create a peaceful atmosphere that captivates visitors.

The rivers are the heart of the Bretti experience. On a warm day, the waterholes provide a perfect, refreshing escape for swimming, floating on a lilo, or launching a kayak to explore upstream. The riverbanks are a popular spot for fishing, where patient anglers can try their hand at catching bass and other freshwater species. For families, the wide-open spaces are a natural playground for kids to run, play games, and ride bikes safely away from busy roads. The pet-friendly policy is another major drawcard, allowing travellers to bring their four-legged companions along for the adventure.

As a primitive campground, visitors need to be largely self-sufficient. While there are well-maintained pit toilets and some picnic tables, you must bring your own drinking water, power, and cooking supplies. A key principle of camping at Bretti is to ‘leave no trace’, and all campers are required to take their rubbish with them, ensuring the reserve remains pristine for future visitors. This shared responsibility fosters a wonderful sense of community. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, a peaceful spot to relax with a book, or a social campfire under the stars, Bretti Reserve offers a classic and unforgettable Australian bush camping experience.

Bretti Reserve

Bretti Trail, Bretti NSW 2422

Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -31.79114, 151.91598

Campground Details

• Location: Bretti Reserve, Bretti Trail, Bretti NSW 2422
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Graded gravel road (Bretti Trail) off Thunderbolts Way. Generally 2WD accessible, but check conditions after rain.
• Site Surface: Large, flat, and open grass fields.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a free camping reserve managed by Mid-Coast Council.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally limited to 14 days.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Hundreds of un-marked sites available across the reserve.

Facilities & Features

• Facilities: Pit toilets, some picnic tables.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, a limited number are available.
• Potable Water: No, you must bring your own drinking water. River water is not suitable for drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Extremely limited to non-existent.
• TV Reception: Non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes (long-drop pit toilets).
• Rubbish Bins: No, this is a ‘leave no trace’ site. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits, subject to local fire bans. Please bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers with regards to noise and operating hours.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, cooking equipment.

Activities

• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash or under control at all times.
• Fishing: Yes, popular spot for freshwater fishing in the Manning and Barnard Rivers (NSW fishing license required).
• Short Walks: Yes, plenty of space for informal walks along the extensive riverbanks and around the reserve.

Local Amenities (Distances from Campground)

The nearest town for supplies is Gloucester, located to the south of the reserve.

• Local Pubs: The Roundabout Inn (approx. 35km), Avon Valley Inn (approx. 35km) in Gloucester.
• Places to Eat: Numerous cafes, bakeries, and take-away shops in Gloucester (approx. 35km).
• Local Attractions: Barrington Tops National Park (via Gloucester), Woko National Park (approx. 20km).
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Gloucester Holiday Park (approx. 35km).
• Next Free Camps: Rocks Crossing Reserve (approx. 15km north).
• Nearest Dump Points: Gloucester Holiday Park (a fee may apply for non-guests) (approx. 35km).
• Nearest Petrol Station: Various options in Gloucester (approx. 35km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Billabong Park in Gloucester has a public water tap (approx. 35km).
• Nearest Public Toilets (offsite): Billabong Park in Gloucester (approx. 35km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Bretti Reserve is located in a valley and can experience varied weather conditions. It’s always best to check the local Gloucester forecast before visiting.

• • Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are typically warm to hot, perfect for swimming. Evenings are generally mild. Be prepared for potential thunderstorms.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Often considered the best time to visit, with warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable nights. The weather is generally stable.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Can be very cold, especially overnight, with temperatures often dropping to low single digits or below freezing. Days are usually crisp, clear, and sunny.

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• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild days with increasing warmth as summer approaches. A lovely time of year as the landscape becomes green and lush.