Dangars Gorge Campground – Armidale Gorge Camping NSW

Experience the raw power and breathtaking scale of Australia’s gorge country with a stay at Dangars Gorge Campground. Situated within the World Heritage-listed Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, this campground offers a front-row seat to one of the most spectacular landscapes in the New England region. Just a 20-minute drive from the city of Armidale, it strikes the perfect balance between a remote bush escape and easy access to amenities. The main attraction, Dangars Falls, is a magnificent 120-metre waterfall that plummets into the depths of the gorge, and the campground is the ideal starting point for a series of walks that showcase this natural wonder from various jaw-dropping perspectives.

The campground itself is a peaceful, rustic clearing suitable for tents, camper trailers, and small caravans. It’s a place for self-sufficient campers who appreciate nature over extensive facilities. While basic amenities like non-flush toilets, picnic tables, and wood-fired barbecues are provided, you will need to bring your own water and firewood, and pack out all of your rubbish. The real magic lies in the walking tracks. The McDirtys Walk is a popular choice, offering incredible views, while the Salisbury Waters track is a more challenging hike for experienced bushwalkers. The area is also a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and diverse birdlife frequently spotted. Whether you’re a keen hiker, a budding photographer, or simply seeking a tranquil spot to unwind, Dangars Gorge Campground delivers an authentic and unforgettable Australian bush camping experience.

• Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• GPS Coordinates: -30.67233, 151.72629

Site Information

• Location: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, near Armidale, NSW.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, small caravans.
• Road access: Unsealed road, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings via the NSW National Parks website are recommended.
• Maximum overnight stays: Refer to NPWS booking information.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, wood barbecues.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all required water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• Mobile phone coverage: Limited and unreliable. Some service may be found at lookouts.
• TV reception: No.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated wood barbecues/fire pits, unless a total fire ban is in place.
• Generator use: Generally discouraged; check specific NPWS park regulations.
• Number of sites available: Several unmarked sites in a designated area.

Essentials to Bring

• Sufficient water for your entire stay.
• Your own firewood for barbecues.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Sturdy walking shoes for exploring the gorge tracks.
• Binoculars for bird and wildlife watching.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No, pets are not allowed in National Parks.
• Fishing: Not a suitable location for fishing.
• Short walks: Multiple excellent walking tracks with stunning lookout points.

Local Amenities (in Armidale)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Welder’s Dog, Armidale (~22 km)
  • The Whitebull Hotel, Armidale (~23 km)
  • Tattersalls Hotel, Armidale (~23 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A wide variety of pubs, restaurants, cafes, and takeaway shops in Armidale (~22 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) (~21 km)
  • Wollomombi Falls (further into the National Park) (~50 km)
  • Saumarez Homestead (~25 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Armidale Tourist Park (~20 km)
  • Highlander Van Village (~24 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • DUMARESQ Dam Rest Area (~35 km)
  • Wollomombi campground (fees apply) (~50 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Armidale Showground (~24 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Numerous service stations on the outskirts and centre of Armidale (~21 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Armidale Visitor Information Centre (~23 km)
• Public Toilets:
  • Curtis Park, Armidale (~23 km)
  • Central Park, Armidale (~23 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Armidale & New England Region

• Summer (December – February): Warm to hot days with cool nights, often with afternoon thunderstorms. Average temperatures from 14°C to 28°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Famous for its beautiful autumn colours. Mild, sunny days and crisp, cool nights. Temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with frosty mornings and cool, clear days. Occasional snow. Temperatures range from 1°C to 14°C.
• Spring (September – November): Cool to mild days that can be windy. Temperatures range from 6°C to 22°C.