Nymboida River Campground – Jackadgery, NSW

For a spectacular and wild riverside escape, the Nymboida River campground near Jackadgery is a top-tier destination for self-sufficient campers. This beautiful and remote free camping area is set on the banks of the mighty Nymboida River, renowned for its dramatic scenery and incredible opportunities for water-based adventure. The campground consists of several large, open, grassy clearings, providing plenty of space for campers to find their own private spot with stunning river views. The journey in via unsealed tracks means a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is the best choice, ensuring the campground remains a peaceful haven for those seeking a true bush experience.

This is a classic ‘back-to-basics’ campground with no facilities, so it is strictly for those who are fully self-contained. You must bring your own toilet, shower, and all drinking water, and commit to the ‘leave no trace’ ethos by taking all rubbish with you. The reward is a pristine natural environment and an unparalleled sense of freedom. The Nymboida River is the star of the show, famous for its white-water rapids in other sections, but here it offers beautiful, large, deep pools perfect for swimming and a refreshing escape on a hot day. It’s an absolute paradise for paddlers, with endless stretches of stunning river to explore by kayak or canoe. The campground is also pet-friendly, with plenty of space for dogs to run and swim. For a rugged, beautiful, and completely free riverside adventure, the Nymboida River campground is a fantastic choice for the well-prepared camper.

• Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• GPS Coordinates: -29.71274, 152.55859

Site Information

• Location: On the Nymboida River, west of Grafton.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: Unsealed roads. 4WD with high clearance is recommended. Can be impassable after rain.
• Site surface: Natural grass and dirt patches.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None.
• Picnic tables: No.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None. A PLB is highly recommended.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: No. Must be fully self-contained with a portable toilet.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for the peaceful environment.
• Number of sites available: Multiple unmarked sites along the river.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with recovery gear.
• Your own portable toilet and shower setup.
• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own fire pit and firewood.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, generally permitted as it is not in a National Park.
• Fishing: Yes, fishing for bass is popular. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful and rugged riverbanks.

Local Amenities (in Nymboida / Grafton)

• Local Pubs:
  • Nymboida Coaching Station Inn (~15 km)
  • Jacaranda Hotel, Grafton (~55 km)
  • The Crown Hotel, Grafton (~55 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Nymboida Coaching Station Inn (~15 km)
  • An extensive range of pubs, cafes, clubs, and restaurants in Grafton (~55 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Nymboida Canoe Centre (~15 km)
  • Washpool National Park (~30 km)
  • The historic city of Grafton (~55 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Nymboida River Retreat (~15 km)
  • BIG4 Big River Holiday Park, Grafton (~55 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Mann River Free Camping (Broadwater Bridge) (~30 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Grafton Showground (~55 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Nymboida (~15 km, limited) or multiple major stations in Grafton (~55 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Grafton. It is essential to arrive at the camp fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • The nearest public toilets are in Nymboida (~15 km) or Grafton (~55 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Northern Rivers Hinterland

• Summer (December – February): Hot and humid, perfect for swimming. High chance of thunderstorms. Average temperatures from 20°C to 32°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Ideal for camping and paddling. Temperatures range from 14°C to 28°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, crisp, and often sunny days with cold nights. Frost is possible. Great for campfires. Temperatures range from 6°C to 20°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm with pleasant weather. The landscape is lush and green. Temperatures range from 12°C to 27°C.