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Pooncarie Park
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Pooncarie Park Camping – Your Authentic Darling River Experience

Pooncarie Park Camping, Your Authentic Darling River Experience

Nestled on the banks of the legendary Darling River, Pooncarie Park offers travellers an authentic slice of the NSW outback. This community-run camping area is a quintessential stop for anyone tackling the iconic Darling River Run, providing a serene and welcoming place to rest and recharge. The park epitomises the spirit of the outback: it’s spacious, unpretentious, and offers the freedom to find your perfect spot along the river’s edge. Imagine setting up your caravan or camper with sweeping views of the slow-moving river, shaded by majestic river red gums, and being just a stone’s throw from one of the friendliest outback pubs you’ll ever find. This is what camping in Pooncarie is all about.

While the facilities are basic, they are clean and well-maintained, providing the essentials for a comfortable stay. The donation-based system ensures the grounds are looked after for all to enjoy. The real luxury here is the location. Pooncarie itself is a tiny, resilient township that serves as a vital hub between Menindee and Wentworth. The park’s proximity to the town means you can easily walk to the Telegraph Hotel for a cold beer and a hearty meal, sharing stories with locals and fellow travellers. It’s also an excellent base for fishing enthusiasts hoping to land a Murray Cod or for birdwatchers eager to spot the diverse birdlife that thrives along the river corridor. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the landscape, and the stars begin to dominate the clear outback sky, you’ll understand why Pooncarie Park is a cherished destination for those seeking genuine bush hospitality.

Campground Details

Pooncarie Park – NSW Location Map

  • Name: Pooncarie Park Camping
  • Address: Tarcoola St, Pooncarie NSW 2648
  • Website: Not applicable. This is a community-run, donation-based campground.
  • GPS Coordinates: -33.38184, 142.56317

  • Location: Set on the eastern bank of the Darling River within the Pooncarie township.
  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents. Suitable for big rigs.
  • Road Access: Sealed road access to Pooncarie. The park has dirt and grass internal roads.
  • Site Surface: Mix of dirt and grass. Can become boggy after significant rain.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, payment is by donation in the honesty box.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: Please check local signage for any restrictions.
  • Number of Powered Sites: None.
  • Number of Un-powered Sites: Unlimited, informal sites.

Facilities

  • Picnic Tables: Yes, scattered throughout the park.
  • Potable Water: Yes, a tap is available. It’s advisable to boil river water.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Telstra coverage is available in town, but can be patchy in the park.
  • TV Reception: Possible with a good antenna.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a clean toilet block is available.
  • Rubbish Bins: Yes, provided near the entrance.
  • Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits unless a total fire ban is in effect. Bring your own wood.
  • Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of your neighbours.

Activities & Important Information

  • Essentials to Bring: Food and fuel supplies (limited in town), firewood, insect repellent, and cash for donations and the pub.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
  • Fishing: Excellent fishing in the Darling River. A NSW fishing licence is required.
  • Short Walks: Enjoy a stroll along the river bank or walk through the historic township.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Places to Eat

  • The Telegraph Hotel: A classic and welcoming outback pub serving cold beer and great meals, located within walking distance.
  • Pooncarie Port Pit Stop: A cafe and general store for basic supplies and takeaway food.
  • Wentworth Hotel: The next closest pub option in a larger town, approx. 120 km south.

Local Attractions

  • Mungo National Park: The main visitor centre is approximately 110 km away via unsealed roads (check road conditions). A world heritage site with incredible landscapes.
  • The Darling River Run: Pooncarie is a key stop on this iconic outback touring route.
  • Old Pooncarie Wharf: Remnants of the historic river port era can be found in town.

Camping & Services

  • Nearest Caravan Parks: Commercial parks are available in Wentworth or Menindee.
  • Next Free Camps: Other riverside camps can be found along the Darling River, such as Polia Station.
  • Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Pooncarie.
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Fuel is available in Pooncarie (can be expensive).
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Available in the park.
  • Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in the park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: Pooncarie has a semi-arid, outback climate. Roads can become impassable after rain.

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. Travel during the middle of the day is not advised.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and milder nights make this an ideal time to visit.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Days are typically mild and sunny, but nights are cold, with frosts common.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): A great time to travel, with pleasant warm days before the intense summer heat sets in.

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