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Olive Downs Campground | Free Camping near Tibooburra, NSW

Escape to the heart of the Australian outback at Olive Downs Campground, a remarkable free camping destination nestled within the rugged beauty of Sturt National Park. Located near the iconic outback town of Tibooburra in New South Wales, this campground offers a genuine, self-sufficient bush experience for adventurous travellers. Surrounded by the unique flora of the Olive Grove Walking Loop, the site provides a tranquil base to explore one of Australia’s most remote and captivating landscapes. The vast, open plains, striking red sand dunes, and resilient wildlife create a photographer’s paradise and a nature lover’s dream.Olive Downs is tailored for those who come fully prepared to immerse themselves in nature. As an unserviced campground, it encourages a ‘leave no trace’ philosophy, preserving the pristine environment for future visitors. The journey here is part of the adventure, with access via unsealed roads that demand careful driving but reward you with unparalleled scenery and solitude. The campground itself offers basic facilities, including public toilets and picnic tables, allowing you to enjoy a meal amidst the sights and sounds of the bush. The clear outback skies provide a spectacular nightly show, with a brilliant canopy of stars untouched by city lights, making it a perfect spot for stargazing.From here, the wonders of Sturt National Park are at your doorstep. Embark on the Jump-Up Loop Road to witness ancient mesas rising from the plains, explore the historic outdoor museum at Mount Wood, or venture further to the famous Cameron Corner where New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia meet. Whether you’re setting up a tent, a camper trailer, or a caravan, Olive Downs provides a spacious, natural setting to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the timeless spirit of the Australian wilderness. Remember to pack all your essentials, including water, food, and fuel, to ensure a safe and unforgettable outback adventure.

Olive Downs campground – NSW Map

★★★★☆ (4.8 stars)

Olive Downs Campground
Olive Grove Walking Loop, Tibooburra NSW 2880
Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -29.059, 141.86316

Campground Features

Location: Olive Downs campground, Olive Grove Walking Loop, Tibooburra NSW 2880
Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, off-road caravans, and swags.
Road access: Unsealed gravel road, suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. 4WD recommended after rain.
Site surface: Natural dirt and gravel.
Camping permitted: Yes
Maximum overnight stays: 14 nights.
Number of un-powered sites: Multiple unmarked sites, first-come, first-served.
Facilities:
- Picnic tables
- Potable water: Not available. You must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile phone coverage: Very limited to none. Expect no reception.
- TV reception: Not available.
- Onsite public toilets: Yes, non-flushing (long-drop) toilets.
- Rubbish bins: No. This is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out site. Please take all rubbish with you.
- Open fires: Permitted in designated areas, subject to local fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator use: Permitted between 8am and 8pm.
Number of sites available: Approximately 10-15 unmarked spots.

Essentials to Bring

Sufficient drinking water for your entire stay.
All food and cooking supplies.
Firewood if you plan on having a campfire.
Rubbish bags to carry out all your waste.
A well-stocked first-aid kit.
Navigation tools (maps or offline GPS) as phone service is unreliable.
Insect repellent.

Activities

Pet friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Not available at this location.
Short walks: Yes, the Olive Grove Walking Loop is accessible directly from the campground.

Local Amenities (in Tibooburra)

Pubs

Family Hotel: Approximately 30 km
Tibooburra Hotel (Two Storey Hotel): Approximately 30 km

Places to Eat

Both local hotels in Tibooburra offer meals.
TJ’s Roadhouse: Basic takeaway food, approximately 30 km.

Local Attractions

Sturt National Park Drives: Accessible from the campground.
Tibooburra Keeping Place (Aboriginal Cultural Centre): Approximately 30 km.
Cameron Corner: Approximately 160 km.

Nearest Caravan Parks

Tibooburra Caravan Park: Approximately 30 km.

Next Free Camps

Dead Horse Gully Campground: Further north in Sturt National Park.
Various roadside rest areas along the Silver City Highway.

Nearest Dump Points

Tibooburra Public Dump Point: Approximately 30 km.

Nearest Petrol Station

Tibooburra: Multiple service stations available, approximately 30 km.

Drinking Water Resupply

Tibooburra: Public taps available in town, approximately 30 km.

Nearest Public Toilets

Tibooburra: Public facilities available in town, approximately 30 km.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The climate in the Tibooburra region is typical of the arid outback, with distinct seasonal variations. Visitors should plan accordingly.

Summer (December – February): Very hot, with average daily temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C. Travel during this time requires careful planning, extra water, and avoiding strenuous activity during the middle of the day.
Autumn (March – May): Warm to mild days with cooler nights. This is a popular and comfortable time to visit.
Winter (June – August): Mild, sunny days with cold nights. Temperatures can drop close to freezing overnight, so warm clothing and bedding are essential.
Spring (September – November): Pleasant, warm weather, often accompanied by wildflowers after good winter rains. Temperatures begin to climb towards the end of the season.

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Olive Downs Campground – Free Camping near Tibooburra, NSW