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Dry Creek Campground | Deua NP Camping on Araluen Road, NSW

For those seeking a genuine escape into the wild heart of the NSW South Coast hinterland, Dry Creek campground in Deua National Park is a hidden gem. Tucked away on the banks of the pristine Deua River, this remote campsite offers a tranquil retreat for self-sufficient campers with a sense of adventure. Access via the winding, unsealed Araluen Road is part of the experience, requiring a 4WD vehicle to confidently navigate the journey, which rewards you with a stunning riverside setting surrounded by towering gums and rugged mountains. This is a place to truly disconnect, with no mobile reception to interrupt the sounds of the flowing river and the chorus of native birdlife.The campground itself is a spacious, grassy flat, providing plenty of room to spread out and find your own secluded spot. It’s an idyllic location for those whose perfect day involves swimming in crystal-clear river pools, fishing for bass, or simply relaxing with a book under the shade of a she-oak. The river is the main attraction, offering a cool respite on hot summer days and a beautiful centrepiece to the rugged landscape. As dusk settles, kangaroos and wallabies often emerge from the surrounding forest to graze, adding to the authentic Australian bush experience.

While camping is free, bookings are essential through the NSW National Parks website to ensure the site remains uncrowded and its peaceful character is preserved. It’s strictly a back-to-basics campground with pit toilets and picnic tables being the only facilities. Visitors must bring all their own supplies, including drinking water, firewood, and rubbish bags, as you must take everything out with you. For the prepared camper, Dry Creek is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Deua National Park and create lasting memories far from the beaten track.

Dry Creek Campground – NSW Map

★★★★★ (4.2 stars)

Dry Creek campground
Araluen Rd, Deua NSW 2537

Website: NSW National Parks – Dry Creek
Phone number: 1300 072 757 (National Parks Contact Centre)
GPS Coordinates: -35.75868, 149.92347

Site Details

Location: In Deua National Park, on the Deua River, accessible from the Araluen Road between Moruya and Araluen.
Site suitable for: Tents, swags, and robust off-road camper trailers.
Road access: 4WD is required. Access is via Araluen Road, which is unsealed, steep, and winding in sections. Not suitable for 2WD vehicles, caravans or large motorhomes.
Site surface: Grass and natural earth.
Camping permitted: Yes. Camping is free, but bookings must be made on the NSW NPWS website beforehand.
Maximum overnight stays: Subject to NSW NPWS booking rules.
Number of powered sites: 0
Number of un-powered sites: Multiple unmarked sites in a large grassy area.

Facilities & Rules

Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, picnic tables.
Picnic tables: Yes.
Potable water: No. You must bring all your own drinking and cooking water. River water should be treated before use.
Mobile phone coverage: No. There is no mobile phone reception. A PLB or satellite communicator is recommended.
TV reception: No.
Onsite public toilets: Yes, pit toilets.
Ullage / Dump Point: No. The nearest public dump point is in Moruya.
Drive through sites: No.
Rubbish bins: No. This is a remote park. All rubbish must be taken out with you.
Open fires: Permitted in existing fireplaces, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood. Do not collect wood from the park.
Generator use: Not permitted.
Number of sites available: 15 unmarked sites are available for booking.

Activities & Notes

Essentials to bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, first-aid kit, insect repellent, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
Pet friendly: No, pets are strictly not allowed in Deua National Park.
Fishing: Yes, Australian Bass can be caught in the Deua River. A NSW fishing license is required.
Short walks: Explore up and down the riverbanks and enjoy the remote bush setting.

Local Amenities

The nearest town with full services is Moruya (approx. 40 km away on a slow, unsealed road).

Nearest Pubs:
- Adelaide Hotel, Moruya (approx. 40 km)
- Monarch Hotel, Moruya (approx. 40 km)
- Araluen Hotel (approx. 25 km north, check for opening hours)
Places to Eat: A wide range of cafes, clubs, and restaurants in Moruya.
Local Attractions:
- Deua River swimming and fishing
- 4WD touring on Araluen Road
- The historic village of Araluen
Nearest Caravan Parks:
- BIG4 Moruya Heads East’s Dolphin Beach Holiday Park (approx. 45 km)
- Moruya Riverside Tourist Park (approx. 40 km)
Next Free Camps:
- Berlang Campground (further north, also in Deua NP).
- Various State Forest campsites closer to the coast.
Nearest Dump Points: Moruya Showground.
Nearest Petrol Station: Several service stations are available in Moruya (approx. 40 km).
Drinking Water Resupply: Available in Moruya.
Nearest Public Toilets (offsite): Available in public parks in Moruya (approx. 40 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The area’s climate is influenced by its elevation and proximity to the coast. Be prepared for variable conditions.

Summer (December – February): Days are typically warm to hot, making the river perfect for a swim. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.
Autumn (March – May): Mild, clear days and cool nights provide excellent conditions for camping and exploring.
Winter (June – August): Days are cool and crisp, but nights are cold with heavy frosts. A great time for campfires.
Spring (September – November): The weather warms up, and the bushland comes to life. A beautiful time to visit, though rain can impact road conditions.

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Dry Creek Campground – Deua NP Camping on Araluen Road, NSW