Lake Glenbawn Camping Area – Hunter Valley Lakeside Camping

Set against the backdrop of the rugged hills of the Upper Hunter, Lake Glenbawn is a vast aquatic playground and one of New South Wales’ premier destinations for freshwater fishing and camping. Managed by Reflections Holiday Parks, the camping areas here cater to every style of traveller, from families seeking a comfortable powered site to seasoned anglers looking for a classic bush camp right by the water’s edge. The sheer size of the park is astounding, offering an almost endless choice of powered and unpowered sites scattered along the scenic eastern foreshore. This means that even during peak season, it’s often possible to find a tranquil spot to call your own, with magnificent views across the expansive, shimmering waters of the dam.

Lake Glenbawn is world-famous for its Australian Bass fishing, attracting anglers from all over the country who come to test their skills against these legendary sportfish. However, the appeal extends far beyond fishing. The calm, open waters are perfect for a huge range of activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and sailing. Multiple boat ramps provide easy access to the water for all types of vessels. The park is exceptionally well-facilitated, with numerous amenity blocks offering hot showers and toilets, camp kitchens, barbecue areas, and even a small kiosk for essential supplies. Wildlife is abundant, with kangaroos grazing peacefully throughout the park, and the birdwatching is superb. Whether you’re planning a high-energy holiday filled with water sports or a quiet weekend of fishing and relaxation, Lake Glenbawn provides a spectacular natural setting with all the facilities needed for a memorable escape.

• Website: reflectionsholidayparks.com.au/parks/lake-glenbawn
• GPS Coordinates: -32.10779, 151.01618

Site Information

• Location: Lake Glenbawn State Park, near Scone and Aberdeen.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
• Road access: Sealed road access to and throughout the main park areas.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, bookings are essential, especially during holidays.
• Maximum overnight stays: Varies; check booking information.
• Number of powered sites: Over 100 powered sites available.
• Number of un-powered sites: Hundreds of unpowered sites available.
• Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, camp kitchens, electric/gas barbecues, boat ramps, fish cleaning tables, kiosk.
• Picnic tables: Yes, throughout the park.
• Potable water: Yes, available at various points.
• Mobile phone coverage: Good with Telstra near the main office; can be patchy in other areas of the park.
• TV reception: Variable.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes, multiple amenity blocks.
• Ullage: Yes, a dump point is available within the park.
• Drive through: Some drive-through sites are available.
• Rubbish bins: Yes.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire bans. Check park rules upon arrival.
• Generator use: Permitted in designated unpowered areas, with strict operating hours (check with park office).
• Number of sites available: Hundreds of sites across a vast area.

Essentials to Bring

• Fishing gear and a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence.
• Boat or kayak to make the most of the lake.
• Firewood if planning a campfire (check rules first).

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, but conditions apply. Pets are generally permitted on unpowered sites during off-peak periods. Check with the park directly before booking.
• Fishing: World-class bass and golden perch fishing.
• Short walks: Bushwalking tracks are available with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Local Amenities (in Scone & Aberdeen)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Belmore Hotel, Scone (~25 km)
  • The Thoroughbred Hotel, Scone (~25 km)
  • Commercial Hotel, Aberdeen (~15 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Scone (~25 km)
  • Pubs and takeaways in Aberdeen (~15 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Scone Race Club & Thoroughbred Horse Studs (~25 km)
  • Hunter Warbirds Aviation Museum, Scone (~30 km)
  • Burning Mountain Nature Reserve (~45 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Aberdeen Motel & Caravan Park (~15 km)
  • Scone Motor Inn & Caravan Park (~25 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Rest areas on the New England Highway.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Onsite at Lake Glenbawn.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Aberdeen (~15 km) and Scone (~25 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Upper Hunter Valley

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and often dry. Average temperatures from 18°C to 33°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Temperatures range from 10°C to 27°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold with frequent frosts, but typically clear, sunny days. Temperatures range from 3°C to 17°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. Temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C.