Butlers Falls Reserve – Free Macquarie River Camping Dubbo

Butlers Falls Reserve is a fantastic and highly sought-after free campground that offers the perfect combination of a serene riverside setting and close proximity to a major regional city. Located on a scenic stretch of the Macquarie River just south of Dubbo, this spacious reserve is a haven for self-sufficient campers. The campground is a large, flat, grassy area shaded by magnificent gum trees, providing an abundance of picturesque spots for all types of setups, from tents to the largest of big rigs. Its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful natural environment make it hard to believe that the famous attractions of Dubbo are just a short drive away.

The Macquarie River is the heart of the experience at Butlers Falls. It’s a popular spot for local and travelling anglers hoping to catch the legendary Murray cod or yellowbelly. The easy access to the water also makes it ideal for launching a kayak or canoe for a relaxing paddle. The campground is proudly pet-friendly, with plenty of open space for dogs to enjoy a run and a swim. This is a classic council-run bush camp with basic facilities, including non-flush toilets, so campers need to be self-reliant with their own drinking water and power. The freedom to find a private spot, enjoy a campfire under the stars, and wake up to the sound of the river and local birdlife is what makes this place so special. For a budget-friendly and convenient base to explore everything the Dubbo region has to offer, Butlers Falls Reserve is an outstanding choice.

• GPS Coordinates: -32.31513, 148.6217

Site Information

• Location: On the Macquarie River, south of Dubbo.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs.
• Road access: Unsealed access road, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans with care in dry weather.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy and dirt areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: Generally 24-48 hours. Check local signage.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets.
• Picnic tables: Some available.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Good for all major carriers.
• TV reception: Good.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of sites available: Numerous unmarked sites in a large reserve.

Essentials to Bring

• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own fire pit and firewood.
• Fishing gear and a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence.
• Kayak or canoe.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray cod and yellowbelly.
• Short walks: Pleasant walks along the extensive riverbank.

Local Amenities (in Dubbo)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Milestone Hotel, Dubbo (~10 km)
  • The Commercial Hotel, Dubbo (~12 km)
  • The Pastoral Hotel, Dubbo (~12 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • An extensive range of pubs, clubs, cafes, and restaurants in Dubbo (~12 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Taronga Western Plains Zoo (~15 km)
  • Old Dubbo Gaol (~12 km)
  • Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience (~15 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Discovery Parks – Dubbo (~10 km)
  • BIG4 Dubbo Parklands (~12 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Terramungamine Reserve, Dubbo (~25 km)
  • Ponto Falls Reserve (~50 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Dubbo Showgrounds (~14 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations on the southern edge of Dubbo (~10 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Dubbo Visitor Information Centre (~12 km). Arrive at the camp fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. Numerous public toilets in parks throughout Dubbo (~12 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central West Slopes / Dubbo Region

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and often dry. Average temperatures from 19°C to 33°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for fishing and camping. Temperatures range from 10°C to 27°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with heavy frosts common. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 3°C to 16°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and vibrant. Temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C.