Hay Showground Camping | Perfect Riverina Stopover on the Sturt Highway
Positioned on the vast, open plains of the Riverina, the Hay Showground offers a quintessential outback stopover for travellers navigating the iconic Sturt and Cobb Highways. As a vital hub between major cities, Hay is a welcome sight, and its showground provides a spacious, affordable, and highly convenient base for self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs. This type of camping is a cherished tradition in rural Australia, offering ample space and essential amenities without the confines of a traditional caravan park. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, reflecting the warm hospitality of this proud pastoral community. Whether you’re breaking the long journey between Sydney and Adelaide or exploring the rich history of the Riverina, the Hay Showground is an ideal place to unhitch and unwind.
The grounds feature extensive level, grassy sites, with plenty of room to find a comfortable spot. Access to power and water caters to the needs of modern travellers, while the well-maintained toilet and shower facilities ensure a comfortable stay. A key drawcard is its proximity to the town centre and the magnificent Murrumbidgee River. A short drive connects you to supermarkets for restocking, classic country pubs for a hearty meal, and unique local attractions. Hay is steeped in history, from its role in the wool industry to its past as a major WWII detention camp centre. Visitors can explore this heritage at the acclaimed Shear Outback museum, the Hay Gaol Museum, and Bishop’s Lodge. The showground’s location also makes it easy to enjoy a stroll along the river, a spot of fishing, or simply to marvel at the legendary Hay Plains sunset. For its combination of practicality, value, and access to authentic outback Australian culture, the Hay Showground is an unbeatable choice.
Campground Details
- Name: Hay Showground Camping
- Address: 75 Showground Rd, Hay NSW 2711
- Website: Hay Showground
- GPS Coordinates: -34.49818, 144.8405
- Location: On the edge of the Hay township, easily accessible from the Sturt Highway.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained RVs, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
- Road Access: Excellent, sealed road to the entrance with good internal gravel/dirt roads.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass and dirt. Can be affected by weather.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check local signage, but typically allows for multi-night stays.
- Number of Powered Sites: A good number of powered sites are available.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Extensive unpowered areas.
Facilities
- Picnic Tables: Limited availability.
- Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for major carriers like Telstra.
- TV Reception: Good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, toilet and shower facilities are available.
- Ullage (Dump Point): Yes, a public dump point is available in Hay, often located near the showground.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes, available on site.
- Open Fires: Generally not permitted, especially during fire ban season.
- Generator Use: Permitted during considerate hours.
Activities & Important Information
- Essentials to Bring: Long power leads and water hoses, levelling blocks.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and managed responsibly.
- Fishing: Excellent opportunities for Murray Cod and Yellowbelly in the nearby Murrumbidgee River.
- Short Walks: Enjoy the Hay Heritage Walk or a scenic walk along the river.
Local Amenities
Pubs & Places to Eat
- Commercial Hotel Hay: A classic country pub with a bistro, approx. 2 km.
- Crown Hotel Hay: Offers meals and a friendly atmosphere, approx. 2 km.
- Riverina Hotel: Another great option for a pub feed and cold beer, approx. 2 km.
Local Attractions
- Shear Outback – The Australian Shearers Hall of Fame: An award-winning museum dedicated to the wool industry.
- Hay Gaol Museum: Explore the beautifully preserved 19th-century gaol.
- Bishop’s Lodge Historic House and Heritage Rose Garden: A unique iron-lace house with beautiful gardens.
Camping & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Several commercial caravan parks are located in Hay.
- Next Free Camps: Various rest areas along the Sturt and Cobb Highways.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Hay.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations, including 24-hour options, are available in town.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the showground.
- Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available at the showground and in parks around town.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Note: Hay has a semi-arid climate known for hot summers and cool winters.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot and dry. Temperatures frequently exceed 40°C. Travel should be planned carefully.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Warm and sunny days with mild nights. A very popular and pleasant time to visit.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold. Days are often clear and crisp, but nights are cold with heavy frosts common.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant with warming temperatures, though it can be windy.