Bungendore Showground Camping | Canberra & Southern Tablelands Base

Discover the perfect fusion of historic village charm and capital city convenience at the Bungendore Showground. Located in the heart of one of the Southern Tablelands’ most beautifully preserved colonial towns, this campground offers a peaceful, spacious, and affordable base for travellers. The showground features expansive, level, grassy sites that are ideal for all types of camping setups, from the largest motorhomes to caravans and tents. It’s a highly sought-after location for visitors wanting to explore the galleries, wineries, and antique stores of the local region, or for those seeking a quiet and cost-effective alternative to staying in Canberra.

The showground’s prime location is its most significant advantage. It’s just a short, pleasant walk to Bungendore’s vibrant main street, which is famous for the world-class Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, numerous cafes, classic country pubs, and boutique shops. You can enjoy the relaxed pace of country life while being only a 30-minute drive from the national attractions of Canberra, including Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Gallery of Australia. This makes it an incredibly practical launchpad for exploring the nation’s capital without the hassle and expense of city accommodation. The facilities are well-maintained, offering all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including powered sites, hot showers, and toilets. For a unique stay that combines history, art, and easy access to Canberra, the Bungendore Showground is an exceptional choice.

Campground Details

Bungendore Showground and camping/caravanning park – NSW Map

• Name: Bungendore Showground and Camping Park
• Address: 71 Mathews Lane, Bungendore NSW 2621
• Website: www.bungendoreshowground.com.au
• GPS Coordinates: -35.24284, 149.41364

• Location: In the historic town of Bungendore, an easy drive from Canberra and Queanbeyan.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including big rigs, caravans, and tents.
• Road Access: Sealed road access to the showground entrance.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, paid camping is available. Contact the caretaker on arrival.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please check with the caretaker for specific policies.
• Number of Powered Sites: Yes, a good number of powered sites are available.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Yes, ample unpowered camping space is also available.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Limited. Self-sufficiency is recommended.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Excellent digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, an amenity block with toilets and hot showers is available.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided for campers.
• Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
• Generator Use: Permitted during respectful hours, but check with the caretaker first.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Warm clothing is essential for the cold Tablelands winters. Cash for payment, long power lead.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are generally welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
• Fishing: Fishing opportunities for trout and native species in the nearby Lake George (when it has water) and local rivers.
• Short Walks: A fantastic walk through the historic village of Bungendore is a highlight.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Places to Eat

• The Carrington Inn: An iconic, historic pub with a popular restaurant and beer garden, approx. 2 km.
• The Royal Hotel Bungendore (The George): A beautifully restored pub with multiple dining spaces, approx. 1.5 km.
• Le Tres Bon: An acclaimed French restaurant for a special occasion, approx. 1.5 km.

Local Attractions

• Bungendore Wood Works Gallery: A world-class gallery showcasing incredible sculpture and furniture from Australian artists.
• Canberra’s National Attractions: Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Museum, Questacon etc., are all within a 30-40 minute drive.
• Canberra District Wineries: Explore the many cool-climate cellar doors, particularly around Lake George.
• Lake George Lookout: A scenic stop with expansive views over the mysterious and often-dry Lake George.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: This is the main camping ground in town. Numerous large commercial parks are in nearby Queanbeyan and Canberra.
• Next Free Camps: Very limited in the immediate area. Some rest areas are on the surrounding highways.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Bungendore.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Service stations are available in Bungendore.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available on-site.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available on-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Bungendore is on the Southern Tablelands and experiences four distinct seasons with very cold winters.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Generally warm to hot and can be dry. Nights are usually pleasant.
• Autumn (Mar-May): A beautiful season with mild, sunny days and crisp, cool nights. The autumn colours in the region are stunning.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold. Days are often chilly, and nights are very frosty, with temperatures regularly dropping well below zero.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): The countryside is green and vibrant. Weather is typically mild and sunny.