Best Camping and Caravanning Sites in Australia

A great place to start your adventure

Spring Gully campground
by: Posted on:

Spring Gully Campground – Goulburn River National Park Camping

Spring Gully Campground, Goulburn River National Park Camping

For those who believe the journey is part of the adventure, Spring Gully Campground in the Goulburn River National Park is a destination that delivers in spades. This is a remote, authentic bush camp for the truly self-sufficient traveller, accessible only by high-clearance 4WD vehicles. The trip in along unsealed park trails sets the scene for the seclusion that awaits. Nestled in a peaceful gully surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and native forest, this small campground offers a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s a place to switch off—literally, as there is no mobile reception—and reconnect with the natural world.

The campground itself is basic, providing a clearing with a handful of unmarked sites perfect for tents or rugged off-road camper trailers. Facilities are limited to non-flush toilets and wood barbecues, reinforcing the need for campers to bring everything they need, including water, firewood, and rubbish bags to pack everything out. The reward for this preparedness is immense tranquility and a spectacular natural setting. The area is a haven for wildlife; kangaroos, wallabies, and goannas are common visitors, and the birdlife is prolific. One of the highlights is its proximity to the Lees Pinch Lookout walking track, which offers breathtaking panoramic views over the vast expanse of the Goulburn River valley. This is not a campground for those seeking creature comforts; it’s for adventurers who want to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Australian bush and enjoy the profound peace that comes with it.

Spring Gully campground – NSW Location Map

Spring Gully campground
Spring Gully Road, Mogo NSW 2850
Website: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -32.24393, 150.04766

Site Information

  • Location: Goulburn River National Park, between Mudgee and Merriwa.
  • Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers. Not suitable for caravans or 2WD vehicles.
  • Road access: Unsealed road, 4WD with high clearance is required. Roads can be closed after rain.
  • Site surface: Dirt and grass.
  • Camping permitted: Yes, bookings may be required via the NPWS website.
  • Maximum overnight stays: Check NPWS guidelines.
  • Facilities: Non-flush (pit/composting) toilets, wood barbecues.
  • Picnic tables: Yes.
  • Potable water: No. You must bring all your own drinking and washing water.
  • Mobile phone coverage: None.
  • TV reception: None.
  • Onsite public toilets: Yes.
  • Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
  • Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
  • Generator use: Not permitted in this park.
  • Number of sites available: A small number of unmarked sites.

Essentials to Bring

  • All drinking water and supplies.
  • Rubbish bags to carry out all waste.
  • Your own firewood.
  • A well-stocked first-aid kit and vehicle recovery gear.
  • Sturdy hiking boots.

Activities

  • Pet friendly: No. Pets are not allowed in National Parks.
  • Fishing: Possible in the Goulburn River, though access may be difficult.
  • Short walks: The Lees Pinch Lookout track is a must-do for incredible views.

Local Amenities

  • Local Pubs:
    • Numerous pubs in Mudgee (~70 km)
    • Royal Hotel, Merriwa (~65 km)
  • Places to Eat:
    • A wide variety of cafes, restaurants, and takeaways in Mudgee (~70 km)
    • Options in Merriwa (~65 km)
  • Local Attractions:
    • Lees Pinch Lookout
    • The Drip Gorge (near Mudgee)
    • Mudgee Wine Region
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Multiple caravan parks in Mudgee (~70 km)
    • Merriwa Caravan Park (~65 km)
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Big River Campground (Goulburn River NP, also 4WD)
    • Various rest areas on major highways.
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Mudgee Showground (~70 km)
    • Merriwa Caravan Park (~65 km)
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Mudgee (~70 km) or Merriwa (~65 km)
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Visitor Information Centre in Mudgee or Merriwa.
  • Public Toilets:
    • Onsite. The next closest are in Mudgee or Merriwa.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Central Tablelands / Upper Hunter

  • Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and generally dry. Average temperatures from 17°C to 33°C.
  • Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Temperatures range from 8°C to 27°C.
  • Winter (June – August): Cold, with heavy frosts common. Days are often clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 1°C to 16°C.
  • Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights, can be windy. Temperatures range from 8°C to 25°C.

Leave a Reply