Micalong Creek Reserve – Wee Jasper Camping NSW

Nestled in the breathtaking Wee Jasper valley, Micalong Creek Reserve is a jewel of the NSW Southern Tablelands and one of the most popular low-cost campgrounds in the state. This beautiful and expansive reserve offers a classic Australian bush camping experience with the added bonus of excellent facilities. The campground is set on vast, grassy flats that run alongside the crystal-clear Micalong Creek, surrounded by rolling hills and towering pine and eucalypt forests. Its size and accessibility make it a huge favourite with families, groups, and anyone travelling with their pets, as the reserve is proudly dog-friendly.

The main attraction is the creek itself, which features a series of stunning rock pools and gentle cascades, providing the perfect place for a refreshing swim on a hot day. It’s also a fantastic spot to launch a kayak or try your luck fishing for trout. For hikers, the campground provides direct access to a section of the famous Hume and Hovell Walking Track, which follows the creek through beautiful scenery. What truly sets Micalong Creek apart from other bush camps is the quality of its amenities. The well-maintained toilet blocks feature the rare luxury of hot showers and flush toilets, making for a very comfortable stay. The campground operates on a low-cost, per-person fee, which goes directly towards the upkeep of this magnificent community-run facility. For a scenic, activity-filled, and comfortable bush getaway that offers incredible value, Micalong Creek Reserve is a top-tier destination.

• Website: weejasperreserves.com.au
• GPS Coordinates: -35.18831, 148.68734

Site Information

• Location: Wee Jasper valley, on Micalong Creek.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes.
• Road access: Long, winding, and unsealed Nottingham Road. Generally 2WD accessible with care, but can be slippery after rain.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, low-cost fees apply (per person, per night).
• Maximum overnight stays: Check with Wee Jasper Reserves management.
• Facilities: Hot showers (coin-operated), flush toilets, wood barbecues/fire pits, picnic tables.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: Yes, taps are available but it’s often recommended to boil before drinking.
• Mobile phone coverage: Very limited to none. A public payphone is available.
• TV reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: Yes.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of sites available: Hundreds of unmarked sites in a massive reserve.

Essentials to Bring

• Cash or card for camping fees.
• Coins for the hot showers.
• Your own firewood is recommended.
• Fishing gear and a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence.
• Sturdy shoes for the Hume and Hovell track.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: Yes, trout fishing in Micalong Creek.
• Short walks: Direct access to the Hume and Hovell Walking Track.

Local Amenities (in Wee Jasper / Yass)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Sir George, Jugiong (~65 km)
  • The Royal Hotel, Yass (~70 km)
  • The Australian Hotel, Yass (~70 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Duck ‘n’ Fishes Cafe at the Stables, Wee Jasper (~10 km)
  • A wide range of pubs, clubs, cafes, and bakeries in Yass (~70 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Careys Cave (~5 km)
  • The other beautiful Wee Jasper Reserves (Fitzpatrick Trackhead, Swinging Bridge)
  • The historic town of Yass (~70 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Billy Grace Reserve, Wee Jasper (~12 km)
  • Yass Valley Caravan Park (~70 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • The Wee Jasper reserves are all low-cost, not free.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Yass Showground (~70 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • The nearest reliable petrol is in Yass (~70 km). It is essential to arrive with a full tank of fuel.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite (boil first). Otherwise, Yass (~70 km).
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the campground.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Southern Tablelands / Snowy Foothills

• Summer (December – February): Hot and often dry, perfect for swimming in the creek. Average temperatures from 16°C to 31°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. The valley colours are beautiful. Temperatures range from 7°C to 25°C.
• Winter (June – August): Very cold, with severe frosts and potentially freezing nights. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 0°C to 14°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and lush. Temperatures range from 6°C to 24°C.