Gooloogong Camping Area – Free Riverside Camping NSW

In the heart of the Lachlan Valley, the Gooloogong Camping Area stands out as a premier free camping destination, showcasing country hospitality at its finest. Located on a spacious, grassy reserve right on the banks of the Lachlan River, this community-run campground is a favourite among travellers for its peaceful atmosphere and surprisingly excellent facilities. The large, open area provides ample room for all types of setups, from big rigs and large caravans to smaller campervans, ensuring you can find a comfortable spot to settle in. Maintained with pride by the local community, the camp operates on a donation basis, allowing visitors to contribute to the upkeep of the grounds and the clean amenity block, which includes the much-appreciated luxury of hot showers.

The riverside setting is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind. It’s an ideal spot to cast a line in for a chance at catching a Murray cod or yellowbelly, or to simply sit back and enjoy the tranquil views and abundant birdlife. The campground is proudly pet-friendly, with plenty of space for dogs to stretch their legs. Its location is incredibly convenient, with the Gooloogong Hotel just a short walk away, offering hearty meals, cold drinks, and a chance to chat with friendly locals. This symbiotic relationship is key to the camp’s success; travellers enjoy the fantastic free facilities and in return, support the small town’s local businesses. For a comfortable, scenic, and budget-friendly stopover between Cowra and Forbes, the Gooloogong Camping Area is a shining example of a community and travellers working together, making it a must-visit spot in the NSW Central West.

• GPS Coordinates: -33.61309, 148.43466

Site Information

• Location: On the banks of the Lachlan River, in the town of Gooloogong.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs.
• Road access: Sealed road, 2WD accessible.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, a donation is requested to help with upkeep.
• Maximum overnight stays: Generally 72 hours.
• Facilities: Toilets, coin-operated hot showers.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: Yes, a tap is available.
• Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage with Telstra; may be patchy with other carriers.
• TV reception: Good.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: Yes, provided.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own brazier/fire pit, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, but be considerate of fellow campers.
• Number of sites available: Numerous unmarked sites across a large reserve.

Essentials to Bring

• Donation cash for the honesty box.
• Coins for the hot showers.
• Your own fire pit if you wish to have a campfire.
• Fishing gear.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, this is a very pet-friendly campground.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing in the Lachlan River.
• Short walks: Pleasant walks along the river and into the village.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Gooloogong Hotel (~500 m)
• Places to Eat:
  • Gooloogong Hotel (~500 m)
  • Gooloogong Log Cabin (~400 m)
• Local Attractions:
  • The historic village of Gooloogong.
  • The Age of Fishes Museum, Canowindra (~30 km)
  • Japanese Garden & Cultural Centre, Cowra (~45 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Canowindra Riverview Caravan Park (~30 km)
  • Cowra Van Park (~45 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Gum Swamp Reserve, Forbes (~50 km)
  • Terarra Creek Campground, Nangar NP (~40 km, 4WD rec)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Canowindra Showground (~30 km)
  • Cowra Showground (~45 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Gooloogong (check availability) or Canowindra (~30 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Tap available onsite.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the campground.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central West Slopes

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and often dry. Average temperatures from 18°C to 34°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for camping. Temperatures range from 9°C to 28°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with frequent frosts in the mornings. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 2°C to 17°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The countryside is green and vibrant. Temperatures range from 8°C to 26°C.