Jacobs River – Tongaroo Campground, Snowy Mountains

For those seeking a true high-country adventure, the Tongaroo campground on the Jacobs River is a legendary destination. Located in a remote southern precinct of Kosciuszko National Park, this spectacular free campground is set on the banks of one of the main headwaters of the iconic Snowy River. The journey to get here is a key part of the experience, following the famous and often challenging unsealed Barry Way south from Jindabyne. A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended, and this adventurous access ensures the campground remains a peaceful sanctuary for self-sufficient campers. The campground itself is a beautiful, large, open grassy flat, providing plenty of space for tents and off-road camper trailers to find a prime spot beside the crystal-clear alpine river.

This is a paradise for trout anglers. The Jacobs River is renowned for its healthy population of rainbow and brown trout, and the easy access to the water from the campground makes it a premier fishing destination. Beyond the fishing, the pristine river is perfect for a bracing swim on a summer’s day or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. This is a classic, back-to-basics bush camp, with facilities limited to non-flush toilets and fire pits. You must be completely self-reliant, bringing in all your own water and supplies, and taking all your rubbish with you. The high altitude means nights are cold year-round, making a campfire an essential and magical part of the experience. For a rugged, beautiful, and unforgettable fishing and camping adventure in the heart of the Snowy Mountains, Tongaroo is a top-tier choice for the well-prepared explorer.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -36.74906, 148.44632

Site Information

• Location: Kosciuszko National Park, on the Barry Way south of Jindabyne.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: Long, unsealed, and often narrow and winding road (Barry Way). 2WD accessible with extreme care in dry weather, but high-clearance 4WD is strongly recommended.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, this is a free campground, but bookings are essential via the NSW National Parks website. Park entry fees apply.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details.
• Number of un-powered sites: 20 unmarked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets, wood barbecues/fire pits, picnic tables.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• 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 designated fire pits, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator use: Not permitted.
• Number of sites available: 20 sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared vehicle (4WD recommended) with a full tank of fuel.
• All drinking and washing water for your entire stay.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own firewood and an axe.
• A personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone is essential for this remote area.
• Alpine-rated warm clothing and sleeping gear, regardless of the season.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Kosciuszko National Park.
• Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Jacobs River. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful riverbanks and rugged mountain scenery.

Local Amenities (Nearest are in Jindabyne)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Banjo Paterson Inn, Jindabyne (~65 km)
  • Lake Jindabyne Hotel, Jindabyne (~65 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • An extensive range of pubs, clubs, cafes, and restaurants in Jindabyne (~65 km).
• Local Attractions:
  • The scenic Barry Way drive.
  • Lake Jindabyne (~65 km)
  • Snowy Region Visitor Centre, Jindabyne (~65 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park (~65 km)
  • Discovery Parks – Jindabyne (~65 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Other campgrounds along the Barry Way (fees apply).
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Jindabyne (~65 km).
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Jindabyne (~65 km). It is essential to arrive with a full tank of fuel.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Jindabyne. You must arrive at the park fully supplied with water.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The next closest are in Jindabyne (~65 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Snowy Mountains High Country (Alpine)

• Summer (December – February): Mild to warm days with cool to cold nights. Perfect for fishing and hiking. Average temperatures from 10°C to 24°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Cool, crisp days and cold nights. The autumn colours are spectacular. Temperatures range from 2°C to 18°C.
• Winter (June – August): Very cold, with severe frosts, ice, and frequent heavy snowfall. The Barry Way is often closed. Temperatures range from -5°C to 7°C.
• Spring (September – November): Cold to cool days that can be windy and changeable. Snow is still common. Temperatures range from 2°C to 17°C.