Horton Falls Campground | Free Camping in Horton Falls National Park, NSW
The campground is a basic, no-frills bush camp, designed for those who appreciate solitude and are prepared to be fully self-contained. It features a number of unmarked sites in a cleared, grassy area suitable for tents, camper trailers, and small to medium-sized caravans. The charm of this location lies in its simplicity and its proximity to the park’s key features. A short stroll will take you to the main falls lookout, while the more adventurous can tackle the Horton Falls walking track. This challenging trail descends into the gorge, offering different perspectives of the falls and access to the river at the bottom—a perfect spot for a refreshing dip after the hike.
As a remote national park, there are minimal facilities, so campers must bring their own drinking water, firewood, and supplies. The ‘leave no trace’ philosophy is paramount, meaning all rubbish must be taken with you. The drive into the park, via unsealed roads, is part of the adventure, adding to the feeling of a true wilderness escape. While wonderfully isolated, the campground is within a reasonable distance of the service town of Barraba. For hikers, photographers, and campers seeking a genuine connection with nature, Horton Falls Campground provides a memorable and majestic setting.
Horton Falls campground
Horton Falls National Park, Lindesay NSW 2347
Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -30.33537, 150.33602
Site Details
- Location: Horton Falls National Park, New South Wales.
- Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, small caravans and motorhomes.
- Road access: Unsealed roads (Upper Horton Road and Derra Derra Road). Accessible by 2WD in dry conditions, but 4WD is recommended, especially after rain.
- Site surface: Grass and dirt.
- Camping permitted: Yes. Free camping, no bookings required. Sites are first-come, first-served.
- Maximum overnight stays: Not specified.
- Number of powered sites: 0
- Number of un-powered sites: Approximately 10 unmarked sites.
Facilities & Rules
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood barbecues.
- Picnic tables: Yes, at the nearby picnic area.
- Potable water: No. You must bring your own drinking and cooking water.
- Mobile phone coverage: Very limited to none.
- TV reception: Unlikely.
- Onsite public toilets: Yes, non-flushing toilets are available.
- Ullage / Dump Point: No. The nearest public dump point is in Barraba.
- Drive through sites: No.
- Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open fires: Permitted in provided wood barbecues only, unless a fire ban is in place. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator use: Not permitted.
- Number of sites available: Approximately 10 unmarked sites.
Activities & Notes
- Essentials to bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, and all camping supplies.
- Pet friendly: No. Pets and domestic animals are not permitted in Horton Falls National Park.
- Fishing: Limited opportunities in the river at the base of the falls.
- Short walks: Yes, the main attraction. The Horton Falls walking track (1.5km return) is a steep trail to the bottom of the gorge. An easier walk leads to the main lookout.
Local Amenities
The nearest service town is Barraba (approx. 45km away).
- Nearest Pubs:
- The Commercial Hotel Barraba (approx. 45 km)
- The Central Hotel Barraba (approx. 45 km)
- Barraba RSL & Recreation Club (approx. 46 km)
- Places to Eat: Cafes, bakeries, and hotel bistros are available in Barraba (approx. 45 km).
- Local Attractions:
- Barraba Silo Art (approx. 45 km)
- Split Rock Dam (approx. 65 km)
- Mount Kaputar National Park (via Bingara, approx. 100 km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Barraba Caravan Park (approx. 46 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Doctor’s Creek Reserve, Barraba (approx. 45 km)
- Rocky Miller Recreation Area, Bingara (approx. 60 km)
- Nearest Dump Points: Barraba Showground, 10 Rutherford Street, Barraba (approx. 46 km).
- Nearest Petrol Station: Service stations are located in Barraba (approx. 45 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Available at parks or service stations in Barraba (approx. 45 km).
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite): Alice Street, Barraba (approx. 45 km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Horton Falls is on the New England Tablelands, which experiences hot summers and cold winters. Always be prepared for variable conditions.
- Summer (December – February): Days are warm to hot, perfect for hiking in the early morning or late afternoon. Average maximums are around 28-31°C. Be aware of snake activity and high fire danger.
- Autumn (March – May): Typically clear, sunny days and cool nights make this an ideal time for camping and hiking. Average maximums range from 20-26°C.
- Winter (June – August): Days are cool and crisp, while nights are cold with heavy frosts common. Average maximums are 14-17°C. Warm gear is essential. The falls may be less impressive if rainfall is low.
- Spring (September – November): Mild and pleasant weather, with the landscape greening up after winter. A great time for wildflowers. Average maximums range from 20-26°C.