Middle Beach campground, Tanja NSW
Please Note: This is a basic, walk-in only campground. It is not accessible by vehicle directly to the campsites.
For those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with the wild Sapphire Coast, Middle Beach Campground is a pristine and secluded paradise. Tucked away in the magnificent Mimosa Rocks National Park, this is a primitive campground designed for self-sufficient hikers and nature lovers. Reaching the campground is part of the adventure, involving a 500-metre walk from the carpark, carrying all your gear through beautiful coastal forest. This effort ensures the campground remains a peaceful sanctuary, far removed from the sounds of traffic and crowds. The campground itself is a collection of small, sheltered clearings nestled in the bushland, just behind the dunes of the stunning and often deserted Middle Beach.
This is the essence of back-to-basics bush camping. The only facility is a non-flushing toilet, meaning campers must be completely self-reliant. You must bring in everything you need—food, shelter, and especially all your drinking water—and strictly adhere to a ‘leave no trace’ policy by packing out all rubbish. Open fires are prohibited, so fuel stoves are essential for cooking. The reward for this self-sufficiency is an incredibly intimate and immersive nature experience. You’ll fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake to a symphony of native birdlife.
The location is spectacular. The campground provides direct access to Middle Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for fishing, beachcombing, and exploring the fascinating rock formations at either end. It’s also right next to the beautiful Tanja Lagoon, which is ideal for a calm swim or a paddle in a kayak. The campground is a perfect stop for those undertaking the Mimosa Rocks walking track. While feeling a world away, it’s only a short drive from the charming towns of Tathra and Bermagui. For a rugged, peaceful, and truly memorable coastal wilderness escape, Middle Beach is an exceptional choice. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In Mimosa Rocks National Park, between Tathra and Bermagui.
- Site Suitable For: Tents and swags only.
- Road Access: Unsealed park roads to the carpark. The campground is a 500m walk from the carpark.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass clearings.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 10 designated walk-in sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilet. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to none.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Strictly prohibited at all times. Fuel stoves only.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, rubbish bags, hiking gear, fuel stove, fishing rod, kayak.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent beach and rock fishing.
- Short Walks: Direct access to the Mimosa Rocks walking track and beautiful beach walks.
Local Amenities
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- Local Pubs:
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- Tathra Hotel (approx. 28 km)
* Bermagui Beach Hotel (approx. 28 km)
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- Local Pubs:
* The Bega Hotel (approx. 43 km)
- Places to Eat: A full range of supermarkets, bakeries, cafes, and pubs in Tathra and Bermagui.
- Local Attractions:
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- Mimosa Rocks walking track
- Tanja Lagoon
* The historic Tathra Wharf
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* The Blue Pool, Bermagui
- Nearest Caravan Parks (Vehicle Accessible):
- Gillards Campground (also in the park)
- Tathra Beachside
- Regatta Point Holiday Park, Bermagui
- Next Free Camps: Very limited. Low-cost camping at Panboola Wetlands in Pambula. Nearest free camp is Myrtle Creek Rest Area.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Tathra and Bermagui.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Tathra and Bermagui.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Tathra or Bermagui.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot and can be humid. The peak season for swimming and beach holidays. Temperatures average 16°C to 25°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with warm, sunny days, lower humidity, and pleasant water temperatures. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures average 12°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): The whale watching season. Days are mild and often sunny, but can be cool and windy. Nights are cold. Temperatures range from 7°C to 17°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season with warming temperatures and coastal wildflowers in bloom. Excellent for walking. Temperatures average 10°C to 21°C.