Red Cliff Campground: Where Kangaroos and Campers Meet the Sea

Perched atop the striking red cliffs that give it its name, Red Cliff Campground is one of the crown jewels of Yuraygir National Park. This spectacular campsite offers an unbeatable combination of panoramic ocean views, direct beach access, and a famously friendly population of resident kangaroos. The large, open, grassy sites are spread out behind the dunes, providing some protection from the coastal winds while still being just a stone’s throw from the sand and surf. It’s a place where you can wake up to the sound of crashing waves, watch dolphins play in the surf from your camp chair, and share your morning coffee with a mob of eastern grey kangaroos grazing peacefully nearby.

The campground is a paradise for beach lovers. A short track leads down to the vast, unspoiled beach, which is perfect for swimming, surfing, and building sandcastles. Anglers will relish the opportunity to cast a line from the beach or the rocky headlands, with jewfish, tailor, and bream being common catches. Red Cliff is also a key access point for the magnificent Yuraygir Coastal Walk, the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in NSW. You can tackle a challenging section of the track or enjoy a more leisurely stroll to the Red Cliff Lookout for breathtaking views up and down the coast. With well-maintained facilities and clearly marked sites, it’s an ideal spot for families and anyone looking for a classic Aussie beach camping holiday, surrounded by incredible scenery and abundant wildlife.

Site Information

• Location: Yuraygir National Park, near Brooms Head.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and campervans.
• Road Access: Unsealed road. Generally suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans when dry, but can become slippery after rain.
• Site Surface: Grass / dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings are essential, especially during peak periods.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with NSW National Parks at the time of booking.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous marked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (pit/composting) toilets, cold showers.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, available in some areas.
• Potable Water: Not available. You must bring all your own water for drinking and cooking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited. A weak signal (mainly Telstra) may be found at the lookout.
• TV Reception: Not available.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Not available on site.
• Drive Through Sites: Some sites may be suitable for drive-through setups.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you when you leave.
• Open Fires: Not permitted. Gas and electric barbecues are allowed (bring your own).
• Generator Use: Not permitted.
• Number of Sites Available: Bookings must be made online via the NSW NPWS website.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, cooking supplies, insect repellent, sun protection, firewood alternative (gas stove).
• Pet Friendly: No, pets and domestic animals are not permitted in Yuraygir National Park.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent beach and rock fishing (NSW fishing licence required).
• Short Walks: Yes, direct access to the Yuraygir Coastal Walk and beach walks.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: Brooms Head Bowling Club (~15km), Maclean Hotel (~35km), Sanford Hotel, Maclean (~35km).
• Places to Eat: A small shop and snack bar at Brooms Head (~15km), full range of pubs, cafes and restaurants in Maclean (~35km).
• Local Attractions: Yuraygir Coastal Walk, Brooms Head, Sandon River, Angourie Blue and Green Pools (~45km).
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Brooms Head Holiday Park (~15km).
• Next Free Camps: Very limited options; most nearby camps are within National Parks and require fees.
• Nearest Dump Points: Maclean Showground (~35km). Check with Clarence Valley Council for public access.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Brooms Head (basic supplies, may have limited hours) or Maclean (~35km) for major services.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Brooms Head (~15km) or Maclean (~35km).
• Nearest Public Toilets: Brooms Head (~15km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and humid with cooling sea breezes. Ideal for swimming and water activities. High chance of afternoon showers.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and mild nights. Water is still warm. A perfect time for hiking and camping.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild, sunny days with cool nights. Great weather for hiking. Prime whale watching season from the headlands.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Pleasant, mild to warm weather. A beautiful time for wildflowers in the coastal heath.