Nunnock Campground, South East Forest National Park NSW
Escape to the serene high country of the Sapphire Coast hinterland at Nunnock Campground, a beautiful and historic free camp nestled within the South East Forest National Park. This picturesque campground offers a genuine bush retreat, set on the grassy flats of a former grazing property, surrounded by tall ribbon gum and peppermint forest. The site is steeped in history, with the restored Nunnock Swamp and Grasslands walking track starting from the campground, guiding visitors through the area’s rich Aboriginal and pastoral heritage. It’s a place of immense peace and natural beauty, perfect for self-sufficient campers looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in a tranquil forest environment.
This is a classic National Parks campground, where the focus is on the magnificent natural surroundings. The campground is a spacious, open area, providing plenty of room for tents, camper trailers, and small-to-medium caravans to find a private spot. The facilities are basic but well-maintained, consisting of pit toilets, picnic tables, and wood barbecues. Self-reliance is key to a stay here; campers must bring their own drinking water and firewood, and are required to take all rubbish home with them. The area is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats frequently seen grazing in the clearings, and the forest is alive with the sound of bell miners and other native birds.
The campground’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the national park, from the grassy plains and swamps to the rugged mountain terrain. It’s a fantastic starting point for bushwalking, birdwatching, and 4WD touring. While it feels wonderfully remote, it’s only a scenic drive from the charming country towns of Candelo and Bemboka, and the larger centres of Bega and Bombala. For a peaceful, free, and historically rich high-country escape, Nunnock Campground is a truly special destination. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In the South East Forest National Park, between Bega and Bombala.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, and small-to-medium Caravans/Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Unsealed road access (Packers Swamp Rd). Generally 2WD accessible in dry weather, but a 4WD is recommended as roads can be slippery after rain.
- Site Surface: Large, level grass and dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free unpowered sites. Bookings via the NPWS website are mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking platform.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Spacious, undefined area with many informal sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in provided BBQs only, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, warm clothing, hiking boots.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Fishing opportunities in nearby creeks and rivers.
- Short Walks: The Nunnock Swamp and Grasslands walking track starts from the campground.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Candelo Hotel (approx. 30 km)
- The Bemboka Hotel (approx. 35 km)
- The Imperial Hotel, Bombala (approx. 50 km)
- Places to Eat: Cafes and pubs in Candelo and Bemboka. Full range of supermarkets in Bega and Bombala.
- Local Attractions:
- The historic village of Candelo
- The Six-Foot Track to the Bemboka River
- The scenic Monaro Highway drive
- Pipers Lookout
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Bega Caravan Park
- Bombala Caravan Park
- Next Free Camps: Six Mile Creek campground (further in the park), various rest areas on the highways.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Bega and Bombala.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Candelo, Bemboka, Bega, or Bombala.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bega or Bombala.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Mild to warm days, but the weather can change rapidly in the high country. Nights are cool. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 10°C to 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time to visit, with crisp, clear air and beautiful autumn colours. Days are cool, and nights are cold. Temperatures average 4°C to 18°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Very cold. Days are often sunny but frigid. Nights are well below freezing with heavy frosts. Snowfall is common. Alpine conditions prevail. Temperatures range from -3°C to 10°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the high country comes to life with wildflowers. Weather can be very variable, with cold snaps and even late snow still possible. Temperatures average 3°C to 17°C.