Riverside Campground – Apsley River, Walcha

For adventurous campers with a capable 4WD, the aptly named Riverside campground is a remote paradise nestled deep within the rugged beauty of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. This magnificent, free campground offers a truly secluded escape for self-sufficient travellers. The journey in is a key part of the experience, requiring a high-clearance 4WD to navigate the steep and challenging Apsley River Trail, which includes a thrilling river crossing. This adventurous access guarantees a peaceful and uncrowded stay in a pristine natural environment. The campground itself is a beautiful, large grassy flat that stretches along the banks of the Apsley River, offering plenty of serene spots for tents and off-road camper trailers.

This is a haven for anglers and those who love the water. The river here is stunning, with deep, clear pools perfect for swimming and a healthy population of trout and other freshwater species, making it a premier fishing destination. The campground is a classic back-to-basics bush experience, with facilities limited to non-flush toilets and wood fire pits. Campers must be completely self-reliant, bringing in all their own drinking water and firewood, and must strictly follow the ‘leave no trace’ principle by taking all rubbish with them. The profound sense of isolation, the beauty of the surrounding gorge country, and the simple pleasure of a campfire by the river under a star-filled sky make this an unforgettable destination. For a rugged, rewarding, and truly off-grid adventure, Riverside campground is a top-tier choice.

• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
• Phone Number: 1300 072 757 (NPWS Bookings)
• GPS Coordinates: -30.97139, 152.01015

Site Information

• Location: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, east of Walcha.
• Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers.
• Road access: 4WD with high clearance and low range is essential. The track is steep and includes a river crossing that is impassable after rain.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes, this is a free campground, but bookings are essential via the NSW National Parks website.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check booking details.
• Number of un-powered sites: 15 unmarked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets, wood barbecues/fire pits, picnic tables.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile phone coverage: None. A PLB is essential.
• TV reception: None.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator use: Not permitted.
• Number of sites available: 15 sites.

Essentials to Bring

• A well-prepared 4WD with a snorkel and recovery gear.
• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.
• Your own firewood and an axe.
• A personal locator beacon (PLB) is essential for this remote area.

Activities

• Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in National Parks.
• Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Apsley River. A NSW Recreational Fishing Licence is required.
• Short walks: Explore the beautiful riverbanks and rugged surrounding country.

Local Amenities (in Walcha)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Apsley Arms Hotel, Walcha (~45 km)
  • Walcha Royal Cafe & Accommodation (~45 km)
  • Commercial Hotel Walcha (~45 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • A good selection of cafes, bakeries, and hotel restaurants in Walcha (~45 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The spectacular Apsley Falls (different park entrance) (~30 km)
  • Walcha Open Air Gallery of Sculptures (~45 km)
  • Tia Falls (~65 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Walcha Caravan Park (~45 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Woolloms Rest Area, Oxley Hwy (~55 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Walcha Showground (~46 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Walcha (~45 km). Arrive with a full tank.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Walcha. It is essential to arrive at the park fully supplied.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite. The next closest are in Walcha (~45 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: New England High Country / Gorge Country

• Summer (December – February): Warm to hot days with cool nights, often with afternoon thunderstorms. Perfect for swimming. Average temperatures from 15°C to 28°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Mild, sunny days and crisp, cold nights. Ideal for hiking and fishing. Temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C.
• Winter (June – August): Very cold, with severe frosts and occasional snow. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. River crossings can be icy. Temperatures range from 0°C to 14°C.
• Spring (September – November): Cool to mild days that can be windy. The landscape is covered in wildflowers. Temperatures range from 6°C to 22°C.