Mount Oxley, Rossmore Station Campsite, Bourke

Mount Oxley is a dramatic and historically significant flat-topped mesa that rises abruptly from the vast, red-soil plains of the outback, approximately 35 kilometres south-east of Bourke in New South Wales. This iconic landmark offers what are arguably the most spectacular 360-degree panoramic views in the entire region, making it an unmissable destination for anyone travelling to ‘the back of Bourke’. The mountain holds deep significance for the local Ngemba people and was a vital navigation point for early European explorers like Charles Sturt and Sir Thomas Mitchell, who climbed it in the 1820s and 1830s to survey the surrounding landscape.

Camping at the base of Mount Oxley is a true outback experience, offering unparalleled solitude under a canopy of breathtakingly clear, starry skies. The site is located on private property (Rossmore Station), and access requires obtaining a key and paying a small fee in Bourke, which helps maintain the access road. This is a primitive bush camp, strictly for fully self-contained travellers. There are no facilities whatsoever – no toilets, no water, no power, and no bins. Visitors must bring everything they need and adhere to a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy. The drive to the summit is a steep and rugged track, requiring a 4WD vehicle, but the reward is one of Australia’s great outback vistas, especially at sunrise or sunset when the colours of the landscape are at their most vibrant. It’s a place to disconnect, absorb the immense scale of the outback, and connect with the deep history of the land.

Mount Oxley, Rossmore Station – NSW Map

Site Information

• Location: On Rossmore Station, approx. 35km south-east of Bourke.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained 4WDs, off-road camper trailers, and tents.
• Road Access: Unsealed station tracks. 4WD is essential to reach the summit.
• Site Surface: Red dirt and stony ground.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, primitive bush camping is permitted at the base (fee applies).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: As per arrangement when collecting the key.
• Picnic Tables: Not available.
• Potable Water: Not available. You must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Non-existent at the base. Patchy Telstra service may be available at the summit.
• TV Reception: Not available.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Not available. A portable chemical toilet is mandatory.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
• Drive Through: No, it is a large open area at the base.
• Rubbish Bins: Not available. All rubbish must be taken out with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated areas, subject to local fire restrictions and total fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the natural silence.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked sites at the base of the mountain.
• Essentials to Bring: All water, power, food, portable toilet, rubbish bags, firewood, and emergency communication device (e.g., satellite phone or PLB).
• Pet Friendly: Check with the property owners/Visitor Centre when collecting the key.
• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short Walks: The main activity is the rugged walk/drive to the summit for the incredible views.

Local Amenities (in Bourke, approx. 35km away)

Pubs & Eateries

• The Port of Bourke Hotel: A classic outback pub with a rich history and cold beer.
• The Oxford Hotel Bourke: A friendly local pub offering meals in its bistro.
• Bourke Bowling Club: Features a large bistro and is a hub for the local community.
• Bourke has several cafes, bakeries, supermarkets, and takeaway food shops.

Local Attractions

• The Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre: A world-class facility detailing the history of the Australian outback.
• PV Jandra Paddleboat: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the historic Darling River.
• Crossley Engine: A remarkable piece of restored industrial heritage from the early shearing days.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Several options are available in Bourke, such as Kidman’s Camp and Mitchell Caravan Park.
• Next Free Camps: May’s Bend, on the Darling River just north of Bourke.
• Nearest Dump Points: A free public dump point is located in Bourke.
• Nearest Petrol Station: All fuel types are available in Bourke.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available at service stations and parks in Bourke.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available in Bourke.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Bourke has a hot, semi-arid climate. Summers are extremely hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C, and travel during the middle of the day is not recommended. It is essential to carry abundant water. Winters are the most popular time to visit, featuring mild, sunny days and cold, clear nights with a chance of frost. Autumn and spring are transitional seasons, offering warm days and cool nights, and are also excellent times for travel. Rainfall is low and unreliable year-round.