Cathedral Reserve Camping Grounds, Mount Wilson NSW
For a truly magical and atmospheric camping experience in the upper Blue Mountains, the Cathedral Reserve is a spectacular free campground steeped in natural beauty. Located just on the edge of the enchanting village of Mount Wilson, this campground is set within a grove of towering radiometric pines and deciduous trees, which give it its “cathedral” like feel. It is a stunning, back-to-nature destination, particularly famous during autumn when the entire area erupts into a breathtaking display of red, orange, and gold foliage. This is a classic bush camp for self-sufficient travellers who want to escape the city and immerse themselves in a serene forest environment.
The campground is a large, open, and gently sloping grassy area, providing numerous spots for tents, camper trailers, and small-to-medium caravans to find a space. The facilities are basic, in keeping with its rustic charm, and include non-flushing toilets and wood barbecue pits. There is no tap water or rubbish collection, so campers must bring all their own supplies, including drinking water, and adhere to a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy by taking all rubbish home. A major drawcard is that the reserve is pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to join the family adventure. Evenings here are particularly special, with campfires often dotting the clearing, creating a cosy and friendly atmosphere under the cool mountain sky.
The location of Cathedral Reserve is its greatest asset. It serves as the perfect base for exploring the unique attractions of Mount Wilson and Mount Irvine. Just a short walk or drive from the campground are some of Australia’s most magnificent cool-climate private gardens, which are open to the public during spring and autumn. The area is also a fantastic starting point for numerous bushwalks, including the stunning Wollangambe Canyon track. For a peaceful, free, and incredibly scenic mountain getaway, Cathedral Reserve is an unbeatable choice.
Site Information
- Location: In a reserve on the edge of the historic village of Mount Wilson, in the Blue Mountains.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, and small-to-medium Caravans/Motorhomes. Larger rigs may struggle with access and finding a level spot.
- Road Access: Sealed roads to Mount Wilson, then a short stretch of good-quality unsealed road to the reserve.
- Site Surface: Grass and dirt, on a gentle slope.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping. It can get very busy on long weekends and during autumn.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays are standard.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Large, undefined area with many informal sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. A signal may be found in higher parts of the village.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to total fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be very considerate of the quiet, natural environment.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, rubbish bags, firewood, warm clothing (even in summer), hiking boots.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Not applicable.
- Short Walks: Excellent for bushwalking, with many famous tracks starting in and around Mount Wilson.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The closest pubs are in Lithgow or the upper Blue Mountains towns like Blackheath.
- Royal Hotel, Mount Victoria (approx. 30 km)
- Gardners Inn Hotel, Blackheath (approx. 40 km)
- Places to Eat: There are a couple of small cafes in Mount Wilson with limited opening hours. The nearest reliable options are in Mount Victoria, Blackheath, or Lithgow.
- Local Attractions:
- The magnificent private gardens of Mount Wilson (e.g., Windyridge, Breenhold)
- Cathedral of Ferns walking track
- Wollangambe Canyon and other canyoning adventures
- The scenic Bells Line of Road
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Blackheath Glen Tourist Park
- Lithgow Tourist & Van Park
- Next Free Camps: Low-cost camping at Lake Wallace in Wallerawang. Other free camps are a significant distance away.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Lithgow and Katoomba.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Mount Victoria or Lithgow. It is essential to arrive with a full tank.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Mount Victoria or Lithgow.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Mild to warm, and generally much cooler than Sydney. A pleasant escape from the coastal heat. Temperatures average 12°C to 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): Spectacular. The entire area is famous for its incredible autumn colours. Days are cool and crisp, nights are cold. This is the peak season. Temperatures average 6°C to 18°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold to very cold. Days are often sunny but frigid. Nights are well below freezing with heavy frosts. Snowfall is common, which can make roads slippery or inaccessible. Temperatures range from -2°C to 10°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the magnificent cool-climate gardens burst into bloom. Weather can be variable, with cool days and cold nights. Temperatures average 5°C to 18°C.