Cod Hole Campground | Free Camping in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest

Escape to the lush, subtropical paradise of Cod Hole Campground, a stunning free camping area hidden deep within the Wild Cattle Creek State Forest. Nestled on the banks of the crystal-clear Little Nymboida River, this remote campsite is the perfect destination for self-sufficient travellers looking to get off the beaten track. The journey to Cod Hole is an adventure in itself, navigating unsealed forestry roads that wind through dense eucalypt and rainforest landscapes, making a 4WD vehicle highly recommended, especially after rain. Your reward is a tranquil, grassy clearing surrounded by towering trees, with the gentle sounds of the river providing a constant, soothing soundtrack. This is a back-to-basics camping experience at its finest. The large, open area provides ample space for tents, camper trailers, and off-road vans, ensuring you can find a private spot to call your own. The pristine river is the campground’s main attraction, offering idyllic swimming holes to cool off in on a warm day and promising opportunities for fishing. Spend your days exploring the surrounding forest, relaxing by the water with a book, or simply soaking in the profound peace and quiet of this untouched location. While facilities are minimal, the site does provide the convenience of long-drop toilets and a few picnic tables. Campers must be fully self-contained, bringing all their own drinking water and supplies, and are required to take all rubbish with them to preserve the area’s natural beauty. As evening falls, gather around a campfire under a blanket of stars, far from any city lights. Being a State Forest, Cod Hole is also pet-friendly, making it an ideal getaway for the entire family. For a truly rejuvenating bush escape, Cod Hole campground delivers an unforgettable experience.

Campsite Information

• Location: Wild Cattle Creek State Forest, beside the Little Nymboida River.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed forestry roads. 4WD is strongly recommended. Roads can be closed in wet weather.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 4 weeks.
• Number of Powered Sites: None.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Large open area with numerous undefined sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets, picnic tables.
• Picnic Tables: Yes.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all your own water. River water is not suitable for drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. Expect no reception.
• TV Reception: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets.
• Ullage / Dump Point: No. The nearest is in Dorrigo.
• Drive Through Sites: The area is open, allowing for easy maneuvering.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you (Leave No Trace).
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: No set number.
• Essentials to Bring: All food and drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome in NSW State Forests but must be under control.
• Fishing: Yes, in the river (NSW fishing licence required).
• Short Walks: Yes, informal walks along the river and through the forest.