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Chaelundi Campground – Guy Fawkes River National Park NSW

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Chaelundi Campground | Guy Fawkes River National Park NSW

Immerse yourself in the ancient beauty of the Gondwana Rainforest at Chaelundi Campground, a remote and peaceful haven tucked away in the eastern precinct of Guy Fawkes River National Park. This secluded bush camp is a paradise for nature lovers and self-sufficient campers seeking to escape the crowds and reconnect with the wild. Set in a grassy clearing surrounded by towering old-growth forest, the campground offers a genuine sense of solitude and tranquillity. Wildlife is abundant here; you’re likely to share the space with inquisitive wallabies, pademelons, and a symphony of native birdlife. The facilities are basic but well-maintained, including non-flush toilets, picnic tables, and wood barbecues, ensuring a comfortable base for your adventures. From the campground, you have direct access to some of the park’s most spectacular walking trails. The Chaelundi Bluff walking track is a must-do, leading you through magnificent stands of coachwood and crabapple to the breathtaking Chaelundi Lookout, which offers awe-inspiring panoramic views over the rugged Guy Fawkes River valley. For more experienced hikers, the two-day Escarpment walk provides an unforgettable journey along the river gorge. Due to its remote location, campers must be completely self-sufficient, bringing all their own water, food, and supplies. Access via Misty Creek Road involves unsealed surfaces and can be challenging for 2WD vehicles, especially after rain, so a 4WD is highly recommended. The journey is part of the adventure, taking you deep into a World Heritage-listed landscape. For those prepared to go the extra mile, Chaelundi Campground rewards with pristine natural beauty, profound quiet, and an authentic Australian bush camping experience.

★★★★★ (4.7 Stars)

Chaelundi campground
Misty Creek Road, The Gulf NSW 2365

Campsite Information

  • Location: Guy Fawkes River National Park. Remote eastern section.
  • Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers. Caravans and large motorhomes not recommended due to access.
  • Road Access: Unsealed roads (Misty Creek Rd). 4WD recommended, especially in wet weather. Check NPWS alerts before travel.
  • Site Surface: Grass, natural ground.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings essential via NPWS website. Park entry fees may apply.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: As per booking.
  • Number of Powered Sites: None.
  • Number of Un-powered Sites: 10 undefined sites.
  • Facilities: Non-flush (pit/long-drop) toilets, wood barbecues.
  • Picnic Tables: Yes.
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water for drinking and cooking.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: None. Be prepared for no reception.
  • TV Reception: None.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets.
  • Ullage / Dump Point: No.
  • Drive Through Sites: No.
  • Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you (Leave No Trace).
  • Open Fires: Permitted in provided barbecues, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
  • Generator Use: Not permitted.
  • Number of Sites Available: 10 sites available for booking.
  • Essentials to Bring: All water and food supplies, booking confirmation, firewood, rubbish bags, first-aid kit.
  • Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in National Parks.
  • Fishing: No.
  • Short Walks: Yes, Chaelundi Bluff walking track and Lucifer’s Thumb walking track start from the campground.

Local Amenities (Nearest services are in Dorrigo, ~65-70km)

  • Local Pubs:
    • The Dorrigo Hotel (The Top Pub): Approx. 68km
  • Places to Eat:
    • Cafes, bakeries, and hotel bistro in Dorrigo: Approx. 68km
  • Local Attractions:
    • Dorrigo Rainforest Centre & Skywalk: Approx. 65km
    • Dangar Falls: Approx. 70km
    • Cathedral Rock National Park: Approx. 90km
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Dorrigo Mountain Holiday Park: Approx. 66km
  • Next Free Camps:
    • The Platypus Flat campground (Nymboi-Binderay NP, requires further travel): Approx. 60km
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Dorrigo Showground, Dorrigo: Approx. 67km
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Service stations in Dorrigo: Approx. 68km
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Dorrigo Showground or ask at service stations in Dorrigo.
  • Public Toilets:
    • Located in the main street of Dorrigo: Approx. 68km

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Chaelundi Area

The campground is at a high elevation, leading to a cooler, wetter climate than the coast. Weather can change rapidly.

  • Summer (December – February): Warm and humid with a high chance of rain and thunderstorms. Days are pleasant but nights can be cool.
  • Autumn (March – May): Mild, clear days and cool nights. A very popular time to visit.
  • Winter (June – August): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but nights are very cold with frequent frosts. Snow is possible but rare.
  • Spring (September – November): Cool to mild. Wildflowers are a feature, but weather can be variable.

 

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