For adventurous campers seeking a rugged, remote, and truly spectacular riverside escape, Cangai campground on the mighty Clarence River is an absolute gem. This beautiful, free camping area offers a genuine off-the-grid experience for self-sufficient travellers. The journey in is part of the adventure, involving long stretches of unsealed road and several creek crossings, making a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle the best choice for access. The reward is a collection of stunning, secluded campsites spread out along a magnificent bend in the river, surrounded by dramatic hills and pristine bushland. It’s a place to find your own private piece of paradise, far from any crowds.

This is a true back-to-basics bush camp, with absolutely no facilities provided. Campers must be completely self-reliant, bringing their own toilet, shower, and all drinking water, and must strictly adhere to the ‘leave no trace’ philosophy by taking all rubbish with them. The Clarence River is the star of the show; its crystal-clear waters and deep pools are perfect for swimming, while the gentle rapids are fun to explore in a kayak. The area is renowned for its fantastic bass fishing. The reserve is pet-friendly, offering endless space for dogs to run and swim. Evenings here are magical, with the opportunity to enjoy a campfire under an incredibly vast and starry sky, with the sound of the river as your only companion. For a genuine, pet-friendly, and unforgettable wilderness adventure, Cangai is a top-tier destination for the well-prepared camper.

• GPS Coordinates: -29.49031, 152.4671

Site Information

• Location: On the Clarence River, north-west of Grafton.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: Long stretches of unsealed road with causeways. 4WD with good clearance is highly recommended. Can be impassable after rain.
• Site surface: Natural grass, dirt, and rocky patches.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None.
• Picnic tables: No.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None. A PLB is highly recommended.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: No. Must be fully self-contained with a portable toilet.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for the peaceful environment.
• Number of sites available: Multiple unmarked sites along the river.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with recovery gear.
• Your own portable toilet and shower setup.
• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own fire pit and firewood.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, generally permitted as it is not in a National Park.
• Fishing: Excellent bass fishing in the Clarence River. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful and rugged riverbanks.

Local Amenities (in Copmanhurst / Grafton)

• Local Pubs:
  • Copmanhurst Hotel (~45 km)
  • Jacaranda Hotel, Grafton (~70 km)
  • The Crown Hotel, Grafton (~70 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Copmanhurst Hotel and local store (~45 km)
  • An extensive range of pubs, cafes, clubs, and restaurants in Grafton (~70 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The scenic Clarence River drive.
  • Washpool National Park (~50 km)
  • The historic city of Grafton (~70 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • BIG4 Big River Holiday Park, Grafton (~70 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Mann River Free Camping (Broadwater Bridge) (~35 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Grafton Showground (~70 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Copmanhurst (~45 km, limited) or multiple major stations in Grafton (~70 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Grafton. It is essential to arrive at the camp fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • The nearest public toilets are in Copmanhurst (~45 km) or Grafton (~70 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Northern Rivers Hinterland

• Summer (December – February): Hot and humid, perfect for swimming. High chance of thunderstorms. Average temperatures from 20°C to 32°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Ideal for camping and paddling. Temperatures range from 14°C to 28°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp, and often sunny days with cold nights. Frost is possible. Great for campfires. Temperatures range from 6°C to 20°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The landscape is lush and green. Temperatures range from 12°C to 27°C.