Picnic Point campground, Wapengo NSW
Picnic Point campground is a breathtakingly beautiful coastal retreat that offers one of the most scenic camping experiences on the entire Sapphire Coast. Located within the magnificent Mimosa Rocks National Park, this highly sought-after campground provides a classic back-to-nature escape, with campsites nestled in a sheltered clearing just steps away from the pristine sand and surf. The atmosphere is one of serene beauty and coastal wilderness, where you can fall asleep to the rhythmic sound of the waves. The campground is perfectly positioned for exploring the park’s rugged coastline, with its famous sea arch and fascinating rock formations right at your doorstep.
This is a fantastic bush camp for the self-sufficient camper. The facilities are basic but clean, consisting of non-flushing toilets and picnic tables, ensuring the focus remains on the stunning natural environment. Campers must be fully self-reliant, bringing their own drinking water and firewood, and are required to take all rubbish home to help preserve the park’s pristine condition. The campground itself is a series of grassy clearings amongst the coastal banksia and eucalypt forest, offering sites suitable for tents and camper trailers.
The location is an absolute paradise for beach lovers. The beach is perfect for surfing, swimming (with caution, as it is unpatrolled), and exceptional beach and rock fishing. The area is a haven for wildlife, and it’s common to see wallabies, goannas, and a huge variety of birdlife. The campground also serves as a fantastic base for bushwalking, with the popular Mimosa Rocks walking track passing through. Despite its wonderfully secluded feel, the vibrant towns of Bermagui and Tathra are just a short, scenic drive away, providing access to supplies, cafes, and pubs. For a truly memorable and picturesque coastal adventure, Picnic Point is an unbeatable choice. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In Mimosa Rocks National Park, between Bermagui and Tathra.
- Site Suitable For: Tents and Camper Trailers. Not suitable for caravans or large motorhomes.
- Road Access: Unsealed park roads. Generally 2WD accessible, but can be rough and slippery after rain.
- Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 15 un-designated sites available for booking.
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: Very limited to 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: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, surf gear, fishing rods, hiking boots.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent beach and rock fishing.
- Short Walks: Direct access to the Mimosa Rocks walking track and beautiful beach walks.
Local Amenities
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- Local Pubs:
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- Bermagui Beach Hotel (approx. 24 km)
* Tathra Hotel (approx. 40 km)
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- Local Pubs:
* The Bega Hotel (approx. 35 km)
- Places to Eat: A full range of supermarkets, bakeries, cafes, and pubs in Bermagui and Tathra.
- Local Attractions:
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- The iconic rock arch at Picnic Point
- Mimosa Rocks walking track
* The Blue Pool, Bermagui
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* The historic Tathra Wharf
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Regatta Point Holiday Park, Bermagui
- Tathra Beachside
- Gillards Campground (also in the park)
- Next Free Camps: Very limited. Low-cost camping at Panboola Wetlands in Pambula. Nearest free camp is Myrtle Creek Rest Area.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Bermagui and Tathra.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Bermagui and Tathra.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bermagui or Tathra.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot and can be humid. The peak season for swimming and beach holidays. Temperatures average 16°C to 25°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with warm, sunny days, lower humidity, and pleasant water temperatures. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures average 12°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): The whale watching season. Days are mild and often sunny, but can be cool and windy. Nights are cold. Temperatures range from 7°C to 17°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season with warming temperatures and coastal wildflowers in bloom. Excellent for walking. Temperatures average 10°C to 21°C.