Six Mile Creek campground, Tantawangalo NSW
For a serene and secluded bush camping experience in the beautiful high country of the Sapphire Coast hinterland, Six Mile Creek campground is a fantastic free destination. Located deep within the South East Forest National Park, this campground offers a genuine escape for the self-sufficient camper. The site is a beautiful, open, grassy clearing set right beside the crystal-clear Six Mile Creek, surrounded by towering eucalypt forest. Reaching the campground is part of the adventure, involving a drive along unsealed forest roads that immerse you in the remote and rugged landscape. The atmosphere is one of profound peace, where the only sounds are the gentle flow of the creek and the chorus of native birdlife.
This is a classic National Parks bush camp that champions a back-to-basics philosophy. The facilities are simple but functional, consisting of a non-flushing toilet and wood barbecue pits. Self-reliance is essential for a stay here; campers must bring all their own drinking water and firewood, and are required to adopt a ‘leave no trace’ ethic by taking all rubbish home. The campground itself is spacious, allowing tents, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans to find a private spot to relax. Evenings are often spent around a campfire, enjoying the tranquillity and the spectacular, unpolluted starry sky.
The location is an excellent base for exploring the vast wilderness of the national park. The surrounding forest is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats often seen in the area. It’s a fantastic starting point for bushwalking, birdwatching, and 4WD touring along the network of forest tracks. While it feels a world away, the charming villages of Candelo and Wyndham are the nearest points of civilisation. For a truly authentic, free, and peaceful high-country adventure, Six Mile Creek is an outstanding choice. Bookings are essential.
Site Information
- Location: In a remote part of the South East Forest National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, and small Off-road Caravans/Hybrids.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest roads (Tantawangalo Mountain Rd). A high-clearance 2WD may be suitable in dry weather, but a 4WD is recommended. Roads can be slippery and are subject to closure.
- Site Surface: Grass and dirt clearing.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free unpowered sites. Bookings via the NPWS website are mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking platform.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: A spacious, undefined camping area.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilet, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water or be prepared to treat creek water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device (PLB) is essential.
- 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: Permitted, with considerate use.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, warm clothing, and 4WD recovery gear.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Limited opportunities for small fish in the creek.
- Short Walks: Excellent for unmarked bushwalking and exploring the surrounding forest.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Candelo Hotel (approx. 30 km)
- The Bemboka Hotel (approx. 30 km)
- The Royal Willows Hotel, Pambula (approx. 35 km)
- Places to Eat: The nearest reliable options are in Candelo, Bemboka, or the larger towns of Bega and Merimbula.
- Local Attractions:
- The extensive 4WD network of the South East Forest National Park
- The charming villages of Candelo and Wyndham
- Myanba Gorge walking track
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Bega Caravan Park
- Pambula a a-van-village
- Next Free Camps: Nunnock Campground (bookings required).
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Bega and Pambula.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Candelo, Bemboka, or Wolumla.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bega.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Mild to warm days, but the weather can change rapidly in the high country. Nights are cool. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 10°C to 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time to visit, with crisp, clear air. Days are cool, and nights are cold. Temperatures average 4°C to 18°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Very cold. Days are often sunny but frigid. Nights are well below freezing with heavy frosts. Snowfall is possible. Alpine-rated gear is essential. Temperatures range from -3°C to 10°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the high country comes to life with wildflowers. Weather can be very variable, with cold snaps and even late snow still possible. Temperatures average 3°C to 17°C.