Randwick Hole Reserve, Bruinbun NSW
For the intrepid 4WD explorer, Randwick Hole Reserve is another magnificent free camping destination along the legendary Bridle Track. Like its neighbours, this remote campground offers a true wilderness experience for the fully self-sufficient traveller. Set in a beautiful, secluded clearing on the banks of the historic Turon River, it’s a place of profound peace and rugged beauty. The journey to the reserve is a significant part of the adventure, requiring a high-clearance 4WD to conquer the steep, narrow, and challenging sections of the Bridle Track. This demanding access ensures that the campground remains an untouched sanctuary for those equipped for a genuine off-road experience.
This is the epitome of primitive bush camping, where self-reliance is not just a virtue but a necessity. There are absolutely no facilities at Randwick Hole—no toilets, no bins, no tables, and no water. Visitors must arrive with everything they need to be self-contained and must strictly adhere to a ‘leave no trace’ philosophy by packing out all their rubbish. A portable toilet is mandatory. The reward for this preparation is an unparalleled sense of solitude. The campground is wonderfully pet-friendly, allowing dogs the freedom to enjoy the riverside setting. The Turon River itself, once the heart of a frantic gold rush, is now a tranquil haven for swimming, fishing for trout, and gold fossicking.
The campground’s location on the Bridle Track immerses visitors in the rich history of the 1850s goldfields. The surrounding landscape is dotted with the ghosts of old mining operations and settlements. Evenings here are magical, perfect for a campfire by the river under a sky full of brilliant stars. For a free, rugged, and historically rich adventure, Randwick Hole Reserve is an exceptional choice for the experienced and well-prepared explorer.
Site Information
- Location: In a remote valley on the Turon River, accessed via the Bridle Track.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Tents, Swags, and rugged Off-road Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: High-clearance 4WD access only via the steep, narrow, and challenging Bridle Track. Not suitable for caravans. Roads are impassable in the wet. Multiple river crossings required.
- Site Surface: Natural grass and dirt clearings.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free, informal camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays are standard practice.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: A number of small, undefined spots.
Facilities
- Facilities: None. This is a completely primitive bush camp.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device is essential.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own toilet and take all waste with you.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and total fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be very considerate of the quiet environment.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Absolutely everything, including water, toilet, shower, power, food, rubbish bags, firewood, and 4WD recovery gear.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be under control.
- Fishing: Good fishing for trout and other species in the Turon River.
- Short Walks: Excellent for unmarked bushwalking and exploring along the river and old gold mining areas.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Royal Hotel, Hill End (approx. 15 km via 4WD track)
- The Royal Hotel, Sofala (approx. 30 km via 4WD track)
- Places to Eat: The nearest reliable options are the pubs in Hill End or Sofala. Major supermarkets are in Bathurst.
- Local Attractions:
- The historic, living museum town of Hill End
- The Bridle Track 4WD route
- Gold fossicking in the Turon River
- The extensive gold rush history of the region
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Hill End Ranch (Glendora)
- Village campground, Hill End (NPWS)
- Next Free Camps: Other remote sites along the Bridle Track such as Mary Flynn and Turon Crossing.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Bathurst.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Hill End (check hours). The nearest reliable fuel is in Bathurst. Essential to carry spare fuel.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bathurst.
- Public Toilets: The nearest are in Hill End.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot. The river is perfect for cooling off. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 12°C to 28°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime time to visit, with stunning autumn colours. Days are mild and sunny, nights are cool. Ideal for 4WDing. Temperatures average 5°C to 21°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Snow is possible on the higher peaks. Tracks can be very slippery and dangerous. Temperatures range from -1°C to 12°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the countryside is green and vibrant. Weather can be variable. River levels can be high. Temperatures average 4°C to 21°C.