Lake Arragan and Red Cliff Campgrounds – Yuraygir National Park

The Lake Arragan and Red Cliff precinct is a jewel in the crown of Yuraygir National Park, offering campers a spectacular choice of settings in one magnificent location. This hugely popular area allows you to tailor your coastal escape perfectly, whether you prefer the calm, protected waters of a coastal lagoon or the dramatic beauty of an ocean surf beach. The Lake Arragan campground is nestled on the shores of a beautiful tea-tree-stained lagoon, making it a paradise for families with young children, as well as keen kayakers and anglers. Just a short walk or drive away, the Red Cliff campgrounds are spread out behind the dunes of a stunning beach, famous for its magnificent red headland that glows at sunrise and sunset.

Both areas offer a classic, self-sufficient Australian bush camping experience, with spacious, grassy sites suitable for tents, camper trailers, and caravans. The whole area is a haven for wildlife; it’s almost guaranteed you’ll be sharing your campsite with friendly kangaroos and goannas, while coastal emus often patrol the beaches and heathland. The ocean beach is perfect for surfing and fishing, while the headlands provide a world-class vantage point for whale watching during migration season. The campgrounds are also a key access point for the famous Yuraygir Coastal Walk. Facilities are basic but well-maintained, with non-flush toilets and wood barbecues. Campers must book in advance and be fully self-reliant, bringing their own water and firewood. For an unforgettable coastal holiday that offers something for everyone, the combined beauty of Lake Arragan and Red Cliff is simply unbeatable.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -29.56662, 153.33615

Site Information

• Location: Yuraygir National Park, south of Brooms Head.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road access: Long, unsealed road access. Generally 2WD accessible with care in dry weather.
• Site surface: Grass, sand, and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings and park entry fees are essential via the NSW National Parks website.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details.
• Number of un-powered sites: Over 100 sites combined across the two areas.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables, wood barbecues/fire pits.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Very limited. Some Telstra service may be found on the headland.
• TV reception: Unlikely.
• 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: 100+ sites.

Essentials to Bring

• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own firewood.
• Beach and lake gear: kayaks, surfboards, fishing equipment.
• Sturdy shoes for coastal walks.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Excellent beach, rock, and lake fishing. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: A key stop on the multi-day Yuraygir Coastal Walk, with beautiful sections accessible from the camp.

Local Amenities (in Brooms Head / Maclean)

• Local Pubs:
  • Brooms Head Bowling Club (~12 km)
  • Maclean Hotel, Maclean (~35 km)
  • The Argyle Hotel, Maclean (~35 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Brooms Head General Store & Cafe (~12 km)
  • A wide selection of cafes, bakeries, and pubs in Maclean (~35 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Yuraygir Coastal Walk (on site)
  • The coastal village of Brooms Head and its famous lookout (~12 km)
  • The Scottish town of Maclean (~35 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Brooms Head Holiday Park (~12 km)
  • Maclean Riverside Caravan Park (~35 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • There are no designated free camps in the immediate area.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Maclean Showground (~35 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Brooms Head (~12 km, limited hours) or multiple stations in Maclean (~35 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Maclean or Grafton. It is essential to arrive at the park fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. Public toilets also available in Brooms Head (~12 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: North Coast NSW

• Summer (December – February): Hot and very humid, with a high chance of thunderstorms. Perfect for swimming. Average temperatures from 21°C to 29°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, often sunny days and mild, pleasant evenings. Ideal for hiking and fishing. Temperatures range from 16°C to 26°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp, and often sunny days with cool nights. The prime time for whale watching. Temperatures range from 9°C to 20°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The bush is vibrant with wildflowers. Temperatures range from 14°C to 25°C.