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Carinya Station Farm Stay – Lightning Ridge Camping & Bore Baths, NSW

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Carinya Station Farm Stay | Lightning Ridge Camping & Bore Baths, NSW

Step into a quintessential outback landscape and experience the unique magic of Carinya Station, an iconic farm stay located just a short drive from the world-famous opal town of Lightning Ridge. This is more than just a place to camp; it’s an immersive outback adventure that combines the rustic charm of a working station with one of the region’s most sought-after experiences: private artesian bore baths. Set amidst the vast, open plains of North West NSW, Carinya Station offers a genuine escape where the horizons are endless, the sunsets are breathtaking, and the stars are unbelievably bright.The station provides a range of accommodation options, from spacious unpowered campsites for the fully self-sufficient traveller to comfortable cabins for those seeking extra amenities. The campsites are spread out, ensuring privacy and a sense of being truly alone in the vast landscape. However, the undisputed highlight of any stay is the artesian bore baths. Sinking into the naturally hot, mineral-rich water while gazing out at the expansive outback scenery is a deeply relaxing and therapeutic experience. Watching the vibrant colours of the sunset paint the sky from the comfort of a hot tub is a memory that will last a lifetime.

Beyond the bore baths, Carinya Station is a fantastic base for exploring the quirky and fascinating town of Lightning Ridge. Delve into the world of opal mining, discover unique underground art galleries, and meet the colourful characters that call this corner of the world home. Back at the station, you can enjoy birdwatching, bushwalking, or simply relaxing and soaking up the profound peace and quiet. The pet-friendly policy allows your furry companions to join you on your outback journey. For a truly authentic Australian experience that combines rugged beauty with rustic comfort, a stay at Carinya Station is an essential part of any trip to Lightning Ridge.

 

★★★★★ (4.9 stars)

Carinya Station Farm Stay
1432 Ridge Rd, Lightning Ridge NSW 2834

Website: carinyastation.com.au
GPS Coordinates: -29.4256, 148.09324

Site Details

  • Location: Private working station on the outskirts of Lightning Ridge, North West NSW.
  • Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes. Cabins are also available.
  • Road access: Access is via the sealed Ridge Road, with a short, well-maintained unsealed driveway. Suitable for all 2WD vehicles and caravans.
  • Site surface: Natural earth and grass.
  • Camping permitted: Yes. Bookings are essential.
  • Maximum overnight stays: As per booking terms.
  • Number of powered sites: 0 (Power may be available near shearer’s quarters, check with host).
  • Number of un-powered sites: Numerous spacious, unpowered sites.

Facilities & Rules

  • Facilities: Excellent amenities including flushing toilets, hot showers, and a camp kitchen. The main attraction is the artesian bore baths.
  • Picnic tables: Yes, available in communal areas.
  • Potable water: Yes, drinking water is available.
  • Mobile phone coverage: Generally good with Telstra.
  • TV reception: Possible.
  • Onsite public toilets: Yes, guest amenities are provided.
  • Ullage / Dump Point: A dump point is available on site for guests.
  • Drive through sites: Not designated, but the area is open and easily accessible.
  • Rubbish bins: Yes, bins are provided.
  • Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire bans. Firewood often for sale.
  • Generator use: Permitted, but must be used with consideration for other guests (check for specific hours).
  • Number of sites available: Large capacity, but booking is highly recommended, especially for the bore bath timeslots.

Activities & Notes

  • Essentials to bring: Swimmers for the bore baths, fly net (seasonal), and a camera for the sunsets.
  • Pet friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and under control.
  • Fishing: No, not on site.
  • Short walks: Enjoy walks around the station property to appreciate the vast outback landscape and birdlife.

Local Amenities

All services are located in the nearby town of Lightning Ridge (approx. 20 km).

  • Nearest Pubs:
    • The Lightning Ridge District Bowling Club
    • The Grawin Club in the Scrub (Grawin Opal Fields – a unique experience)
    • Sheepyard Inn (Grawin Opal Fields)
  • Places to Eat: Numerous cafes, clubs, and bakeries in Lightning Ridge. Bruno’s Italian Restaurant is a local favourite.
  • Local Attractions:
    • Australian Opal Centre
    • Chambers of the Black Hand underground gallery
    • Public Artesian Bore Baths in town
    • The various self-drive Car Door Tours
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Lightning Ridge Holiday Park
    • Opal Caravan Park
    • Crocodile Caravan Park
  • Next Free Camps: Some rest areas on the Castlereagh Highway.
  • Nearest Dump Points: Available on site at Carinya Station, and also in Lightning Ridge.
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Several options in Lightning Ridge.
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Available on site and in town.
  • Nearest Public Toilets (offsite): Various locations in Lightning Ridge.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Lightning Ridge has a hot, semi-arid climate with extreme temperature ranges.

  • Summer (December – February): Very hot. Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, and can be uncomfortable for camping. High number of flies.
  • Autumn (March – May): The prime season to visit. Warm, sunny days and cool, pleasant nights are perfect for exploring and bathing.
  • Winter (June – August): Days are often mild and sunny, but nights are very cold and frequently drop below freezing. Perfect weather for the hot baths.
  • Spring (September – November): Pleasant, warm to hot days. A great time for wildflowers if there have been winter rains.

 

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