For a spectacular free camping experience at the northern gateway to the Snowy Mountains, Denison Campground is an absolute paradise for water lovers and self-sufficient campers. Set on the beautiful western shores of Blowering Dam within Kosciuszko National Park, this campground offers a stunning lakeside setting with breathtaking views across the water to the surrounding forested hills. It is a vast, open, and grassy area, providing an incredible amount of space for campers to spread out, find their own perfect spot, and enjoy a true sense of freedom. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, keen anglers, and anyone looking for a scenic and peaceful bush retreat.
This is a classic National Park bush camp, where the focus is firmly on the magnificent natural environment. The facilities are basic, consisting of non-flushing toilets and wood barbecues, which is perfect for campers who are fully self-reliant. A ‘leave no trace’ philosophy is essential, and visitors must bring all their own drinking water and take all rubbish home with them. The highlight of a stay here is undoubtedly the access to Blowering Dam. The vast expanse of water is a playground for water skiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing, while its quieter coves are perfect for kayaking and fishing, with Murray Cod and Redfin being the prized catches.
The campground is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and emus frequently seen grazing on the grassy foreshore, and wombats often making an appearance at dusk. While it feels wonderfully remote, it’s easily accessible from the Snowy Mountains Highway, making it a convenient base for exploring the northern end of Kosciuszko National Park, including the magnificent Yarrangobilly Caves and the historic town of Tumut. For a free, scenic, and action-packed lakeside adventure, Denison Campground is one of the best in NSW.
Site Information
- Location: On the western shore of Blowering Dam in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, Caravans, and Motorhomes of all sizes.
- Road Access: Unsealed road access from the highway. Generally 2WD accessible, but can be corrugated.
- Site Surface: Large, level grass and dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping. No bookings taken, first-in, best-dressed.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with NPWS, but generally flexible for short stays.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Very large, open, undefined camping area.
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.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in provided BBQs only, subject to fire bans. Check NPWS alerts. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use regarding timing and neighbours.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water, food, rubbish bags, firewood, boat, fishing gear, and warm clothing.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and Redfin in Blowering Dam.
- Short Walks: Pleasant walks along the foreshore and through the surrounding bushland.
Local Amenities
-
- Local Pubs:
-
- Talbingo Country Club (approx. 40 km)
* Royal Hotel, Tumut (approx. 60 km)
-
- Local Pubs:
* The Oriental Hotel, Tumut (approx. 60 km)
- Places to Eat: Full range of supermarkets, pubs, cafes, and bakeries in Tumut.
- Local Attractions:
- Blowering Dam
- Yarrangobilly Caves and Thermal Pool
- The historic gold rush town of Adelong
- Tumut River Brewing Co
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Log Bridge Creek Campground (another NP camp on the dam)
- Talbingo Tourist Park
- Multiple caravan parks in Tumut.
- Next Free Camps: Humes Crossing Campground, Jones Bridge Rest Area.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Tumut and Talbingo.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Talbingo or Tumut.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Tumut Visitor Information Centre.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot days, perfect for water sports. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms and check fire warnings. Temperatures average 12°C to 28°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A stunning time to visit with beautiful autumn colours in the region. Days are mild and sunny, nights are cool. Temperatures average 6°C to 21°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny but can be foggy. Nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Snow can fall on the surrounding peaks. Temperatures range from -1°C to 12°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the landscape is green and vibrant. The weather can be very variable. Temperatures average 5°C to 20°C.