Experience the majestic beauty of the New South Wales Central West at John Oxley Caravan Park. Ideally located in Coonabarabran—the town celebrated as the “Astronomy Capital of Australia”—this park serves as the ultimate base for travellers, nature enthusiasts, and stargazers alike. Situated on the southern approach to the town and bordered by the tranquil Castlereagh River, the park offers a peaceful sanctuary where the rugged skyline of the Warrumbungle Mountains provides a constant, spectacular backdrop. Whether you are passing through on the Newell Highway or settling in for an extended exploration of the region’s unique volcanic landscapes, John Oxley Caravan Park delivers an authentic regional experience.
The park’s location is its greatest asset, offering effortless access to the Warrumbungle National Park, Australia’s first International Dark Sky Park. This proximity makes Coonabarabran a world-class destination for astronomy, where the lack of light pollution reveals the Milky Way in staggering detail. Guests can spend their days hiking the iconic Breadknife and Grand High Tops trails, and their nights peering through high-powered telescopes at nearby observatories. The town itself is steeped in pioneer history and scientific discovery, featuring the fascinating Diprotodon exhibition at the local Visitor Information Centre and a variety of boutique shops and cafes that reflect the warm hospitality of the district.
Nature lovers will find themselves in a true wonderland. The Castlereagh River, which flows adjacent to the park, provides a serene environment for morning strolls and birdwatching, where sightings of kookaburras, cockatoos, and the occasional emu are commonplace. For those seeking adventure, the surrounding region offers a spectacular array of geological wonders, from the ancient volcanic spires of the Warrumbungles to the high-altitude forests of the Coolah Tops. The park provides a quiet, shaded haven where you can relax after a day of discovery, watching the sunset paint the mountain range in hues of gold and crimson before the stars take over the sky.
Accommodation at John Oxley Caravan Park is meticulously designed to cater to the practical needs of the modern traveller. The park is renowned for its spacious, level sites that provide plenty of room for even the largest caravans and motorhomes, including easy-access drive-through options. With a commitment to maintaining impeccably clean facilities and providing a friendly, personal touch, the park ensures that every guest feels like a welcomed member of the Coonabarabran community. Whether you are here to marvel at the rings of Saturn, conquer the mountain peaks, or simply enjoy a quiet night by the river, John Oxley Caravan Park provides the perfect setting for your next adventure.
John Oxley Caravan Park – NSW Location Map
John Oxley Caravan Park
- Address: Newell Hwy, Coonabarabran NSW 2357
- Website: www.johnoxleycaravanpark.com
- GPS Coordinates: -31.26746, 149.27771
Site Specifications & Information
- Location: Southern edge of Coonabarabran on the Newell Highway, adjacent to the Castlereagh River.
- Site Suitable For: Big rigs, fifth-wheelers, caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents.
- Road Access: Sealed highway access; wide entrance designed for easy navigation of large vehicles.
- Site Surface: Level grassy sites and stable gravel hard-stand areas with mature shade trees.
- Available Facilities:
- Modern Self-Contained Cabins (Standard to Family size)
- Powered and Unpowered Sites (Drive-through available)
- Swimming Pool (Seasonal)
- Camp Kitchen with full cooking facilities & BBQ Areas
- Amenities Blocks with hot showers and disabled access
- Guest Laundry with washers and dryers
- Free Wi-Fi (Limits apply)
- Sullage and town water to sites
- Dump Point for guest use
- Walking tracks along the river
- Essentials to Bring: Binoculars for wildlife, telescope or star-chart for night viewing, hiking boots for the national park, and sun protection.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pet-friendly year-round on sites (subject to park rules and leash requirements).
- Fishing: Fresh water fishing in the Castlereagh River (seasonal) and nearby farm dams with permission.
- Short Walks:
- Castlereagh River Walk (Direct access)
- Coonabarabran Town Centre Stroll (1.5km)
- Visitor Information Centre & Diprotodon Exhibit (1.2km)
Local Amenities
Local Pubs
- The Imperial Hotel (1.6km) – Historic main street pub with popular bistro.
- Coonabarabran Bowling Club (1.8km) – Family-friendly club with bar, dining, and greens.
- The Royal Hotel (1.7km) – Classic country pub with a friendly atmosphere.
Places to Eat
- Coonabarabran Bakery (1.5km) – Famous for fresh bread and traditional meat pies.
- Feathers Cafe (1.6km) – Popular local spot for specialty coffee and breakfast.
- Acacia Motor Inn Restaurant (0.8km) – Reliable dining options nearby.
Local Attractions
- Warrumbungle National Park Entrance (2km to turnoff / 35km to main trails) – Iconic volcanic landscape.
- Siding Spring Observatory (28km) – Australia’s premier optical telescope facility.
- Crystal Kingdom (1.3km) – World-class collection of local minerals and fossils.
- Pilliga Pottery (23km) – Unique clay works, cafe, and bushland trails.
- Milroy Observatory (10km) – Evening sky tours and deep space viewing.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Coonabarabran Valley Patch (1.8km) – Located north on the highway.
- Warrumbungle Mountain Motel & Park (9km) – Closer to the national park entrance.
Nearest Free/Low-Cost Camps
- Coonabarabran Showground (2.5km) – Limited short-term low-cost parking.
- Hickey Falls Rest Area (28km south) – Basic overnight transit stop.
Nearest Dump Points
- On-site Dump Point (0km) – Available for park guests.
- Coonabarabran Public Dump Point (1.4km) – Located at the Visitor Information Centre.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Shell Coonabarabran (0.9km) – High-flow diesel and easy big-rig access.
- Ampol Foodary (1.3km) – Full service fuel and convenience.
Drinking Water Resupply
- On-site Taps (0km) – Potable town water available throughout the park.
- Coonabarabran Visitor Information Centre (1.4km) – Public water access.
Public Toilets
- Neilson Park (1.4km) – Accessible public facilities in the town centre.
- Coonabarabran Town Hall (1.6km) – Accessible public facilities.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Coonabarabran
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days with very clear, dry nights. Daytime highs 29°C–34°C. Perfect for stargazing.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and crisp, cold nights. Daytime average 18°C–23°C. Spectacular for national park hiking.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold mornings and bright, sunny days. Daytime average 11°C–15°C. Frost common; peak astronomical clarity.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Fresh and vibrant. Daytime average 19°C–25°C. Native wildflowers and emus are most active.