Gum Bend Lake Free Camping, Condobolin NSW

Just five kilometres west of Condobolin in Central West NSW lies Gum Bend Lake, a man-made oasis that has become a legendary stop for travellers seeking recreation and relaxation. This purpose-built lake and its surrounding reserve provide an exceptional free camping experience, operating on a welcome donation system to help maintain the fantastic facilities. An ideal destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, Gum Bend Lake offers a spacious and picturesque setting for caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs. The site is renowned for its vast, open areas, ensuring plenty of room for everyone to find their perfect spot with a view of the water. Its reputation for cleanliness, safety, and a friendly atmosphere makes it one of the most highly recommended camping areas in the region.

The main attraction is undoubtedly the lake itself, a hub of activity for water enthusiasts. It’s the perfect place for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and even water-skiing, with a dedicated boat ramp providing easy access. For those who prefer to stay on land, a walking track encircles the lake, offering a scenic route for a morning jog or an evening stroll. Anglers can try their luck fishing from the banks, while birdwatchers will be delighted by the local avian life. The amenities at Gum Bend Lake are a standout feature for a free camp. Visitors have access to clean flushing toilets, cold-water showers, a public dump point, and numerous picnic tables and rubbish bins. This level of convenience allows for a comfortable and extended stay, making it a perfect base to explore Condobolin and its unique attractions, such as the famous “Utes in the Paddock” outdoor gallery. Gum Bend Lake truly offers the best of both worlds: a tranquil natural retreat with all the essential services right at your fingertips.

Gum Bend Lake Camping Area – NSW Map

Campsite Details

• Location: Gum Bend Lake, Gum Bend Rd, Condobolin NSW 2877
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed road from town, then good quality unsealed road into camping area.
• Site Surface: Gravel, dirt, grassed areas.
• Camping Permitted: Yes (Donation requested).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 72 Hours recommended.
• Number of Powered Sites: None available.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Large open area with numerous sites.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes.
• Potable Water: Yes (reported to be available, advisable to boil).
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, patchy for others.
• TV Reception: Yes.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Yes, onsite.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated areas (subject to local fire bans).
• Generator Use: Permitted (please be considerate of other campers).
• Number of Sites Available: Large informal camping area.

Essentials & Activities

• Essentials to Bring: Insect repellent, firewood, drinking water filter.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be under control.
• Fishing: Yes. A NSW fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Yes, a track circumnavigates the lake.
• Water Sports: Swimming, kayaking, and water-skiing are popular.

Local Amenities (in Condobolin, approx. 5km away)

Pubs

• Condobolin Hotel-Motel: Approx. 5km
• Royal Hotel Condobolin: Approx. 5km
• Condobolin RSL Club: Approx. 5.5km

Places to Eat

• Happy Corner Cafe: Approx. 5km
• Condo Bakery: Approx. 5km
• Various Takeaway Shops: Approx. 5km

Local Attractions

• Utes In The Paddock: Approx. 28km
• Condobolin Railway Museum: Approx. 5.5km
• The Lachlan River: Approx. 4km

Camping & Caravan Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Riverview Caravan Park (Approx. 4.5km).
• Next Free Camps: Humbug Creek Rest Area (Approx. 45km).
• Nearest Dump Points: Onsite at Gum Bend Lake.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple options in Condobolin (Approx. 5km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Onsite at Gum Bend Lake.
• Public Toilets: Onsite at Gum Bend Lake.

Seasonal Weather Forecast for Condobolin

Condobolin has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cool winters. Plan your visit accordingly:

• Summer (December – February): Very hot and mostly dry. Average temperatures range from 19°C to 35°C, with frequent days over 40°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm and pleasant with mild nights. A great time for visiting. Average temperatures are between 11°C and 27°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool to cold with chilly nights. Frosts are common. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 16°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild days that warm up progressively. Generally sunny and pleasant. Average temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C.