George’s Junction Camping Ground, Macleay River

George’s Junction is the stuff of legend for 4WD enthusiasts and self-sufficient campers, offering one of the most spectacular and remote riverside experiences in New South Wales. This magnificent free campground is set in a vast, grassy valley right at the beautiful confluence of the George’s River and the mighty Macleay River. The journey to this hidden paradise is a serious adventure, requiring a high-clearance 4WD to navigate the steep, winding, and often challenging Macleay River Trail, which involves multiple river crossings. This demanding access ensures that George’s Junction remains an unspoiled and peaceful haven for those who are properly equipped to make the trip.

The campground itself is a massive, open flat, providing an almost limitless number of pristine sites to set up camp, from shady spots under the casuarinas to open areas with panoramic views of the surrounding rugged gorge country. This is a true ‘back-to-basics’ bush camp with basic facilities, so self-reliance is not just recommended, it’s essential. You must bring your own toilet, all your water, and take all your rubbish with you. The reward is an incredible natural playground. The rivers offer deep, crystal-clear swimming holes and are renowned for some of the best bass fishing in the country. It’s a paradise for paddlers, with endless kilometres of stunning river to explore by kayak. Being a Crown Land reserve, it’s also wonderfully pet-friendly. For a genuine, off-grid adventure in a breathtaking location, George’s Junction is a bucket-list destination for the serious adventurer.

• GPS Coordinates: -30.75235, 152.19102

Site Information

• Location: At the confluence of the Macleay and George’s Rivers, in the Macleay hinterland.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: 4WD with high clearance and low range is essential. The route involves numerous steep sections and river crossings that are impassable after rain.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy and dirt areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets.
• Picnic tables: Some available.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None. A PLB or satellite phone is essential.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for the peaceful environment.
• Number of sites available: Hundreds of unmarked sites in a massive reserve.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with a snorkel and full recovery gear.
• All drinking and washing water for your entire stay.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own fire pit and firewood.
• A personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: World-class bass fishing in the Macleay and George’s Rivers. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful and rugged riverbanks and surrounding hills.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The Bellbrook Hotel, Bellbrook (~60 km)
  • Numerous pubs and clubs in Kempsey (~110 km) or Armidale (~115 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The Bellbrook Hotel and a small store in Bellbrook (~60 km)
  • Extensive options in Kempsey (~110 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The scenic and challenging Macleay River Trail drive.
  • Carrai National Park and its lookouts.
  • The historic village of Bellbrook (~60 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Bellbrook Cabins & Camping (~60 km)
  • Numerous caravan parks in Kempsey (~110 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Blackbird Flat Reserve (~15 km, also 4WD)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Kempsey Showground (~110 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Bellbrook (~60 km, limited) or Kempsey (~110 km). It is essential to arrive with a full tank of fuel and carry spares.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Kempsey or Armidale. You must arrive at the camp fully supplied with water.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The nearest public toilets off-trail are in Bellbrook (~60 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Mid North Coast Hinterland / Gorge Country

• Summer (December – February): Hot and humid, perfect for swimming. High chance of thunderstorms, which can make access roads impassable. Average temperatures from 19°C to 30°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Ideal for camping and fishing. Temperatures range from 13°C to 26°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp, and often sunny days with cold nights. Frost is possible. Great for campfires. Temperatures range from 5°C to 19°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The landscape is lush and green. Temperatures range from 11°C to 25°C.