Old Ford Reserve – Free Megalong Valley Camping

For one of the most scenically spectacular free camps in New South Wales, it is impossible to go past Old Ford Reserve in the magnificent Megalong Valley. This huge and hugely popular campground offers a breathtaking experience, set on a vast, grassy flat on the banks of the Coxs River, completely encircled by the towering sandstone escarpments of the Blue Mountains. The drive into the valley is an adventure in itself, descending from the high plateau near Blackheath down a winding road that reveals ever-more-stunning views. The reserve itself is a paradise for self-sufficient campers, offering an almost limitless number of sites suitable for every setup, from tents to the largest of big rigs.

The atmosphere at Old Ford Reserve is one of relaxed, classic Aussie bush camping. The Coxs River provides a beautiful focal point, with its clear, cool waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing for trout. The campground is extremely pet-friendly, with acres of space for dogs to run and play. As a free, back-to-basics camp, the facilities are limited to non-flush toilets, so you must arrive fully self-contained with your own water and power. The freedom to find your own secluded spot by the river, enjoy a campfire under a sky filled with stars (far from the city lights), and wake up to the incredible sight of the mist-shrouded cliffs is what makes this place so magical. Its proximity to the attractions of the upper Blue Mountains, like the charming town of Blackheath and its stunning lookouts, makes it a perfect, budget-friendly base for a longer stay. For a truly unforgettable high-country escape, Old Ford Reserve is a bucket-list destination.

• GPS Coordinates: -33.73129, 150.23513

Site Information

• Location: In the Megalong Valley, on the Coxs River.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs.
• Road access: Sealed road most of the way, with a short, well-maintained unsealed section to the reserve. 2WD accessible with care.
• Site surface: Large, flat grassy and dirt areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge.
• Maximum overnight stays: Generally up to 4 weeks, check local signage.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets.
• Picnic tables: Some available.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Very limited to none in the valley.
• TV reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to local 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

• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own fire pit and firewood.
• Fishing gear and a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence.
• Warm clothing, as nights in the valley are cold year-round.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: Yes, trout fishing in the Coxs River is popular.
• Short walks: Explore the Six Foot Track which passes through the reserve, or walk along the riverbanks.

Local Amenities (in Blackheath)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Gardners Inn Hotel, Blackheath (~18 km)
  • The New Ivanhoe Hotel, Blackheath (~18 km)
  • Blackheath Golf and Community Club (~19 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Megalong Valley Tea Rooms (~5 km)
  • An excellent selection of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Blackheath (~18 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The Six Foot Track (passes through the reserve)
  • Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout, Blackheath (~20 km)
  • The historic village of Blackheath (~18 km)
  • Horse riding in the Megalong Valley.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Blackheath Glen Tourist Park (~19 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • There are no designated free camps in the immediate upper Blue Mountains area.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • At Katoomba Waste Management Facility (~28 km).
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Blackheath (~18 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Blackheath. It is essential to arrive at the camp fully supplied with water.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. Public toilets are also available in Blackheath (~18 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Blue Mountains (Megalong Valley)

• Summer (December – February): Hot days with cooler evenings. High chance of thunderstorms. Average temperatures from 15°C to 29°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. The valley colours are stunning. Temperatures range from 8°C to 23°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with severe frosts common in the valley. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 1°C to 14°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is lush and green. Temperatures range from 8°C to 22°C.