The Rock Recreation Ground Camping | Riverina Stopover & Nature Reserve

Nestled in the heart of the Riverina plains, The Rock Recreation Ground offers travellers a peaceful, friendly, and incredibly scenic camping experience. Located in the charming country town of the same name, this community-run ground provides a perfect base for exploring the region’s unique landscape, dominated by the dramatic granite outcrop of ‘The Rock’ itself. The campground features spacious, flat, and well-maintained grassy areas, making it ideal for all types of campers, from those in large motorhomes and caravans to tents and camper trailers. Run on an honesty system, it’s a wonderful example of country hospitality and a popular stop for those travelling between Wagga Wagga and Albury.

The standout feature of camping here is the proximity to The Rock Nature Reserve – Kengal Aboriginal Place. A short drive from the campground will take you to the base of this significant landmark, which offers a challenging but immensely rewarding walk to the summit. From the top, you are greeted with breathtaking 360-degree views across the vast Riverina landscape. Back at the recreation ground, the atmosphere is quiet and relaxed. Its location within the town makes it easy to walk to the local pub for a classic counter meal or visit the shops for supplies. The facilities are clean and provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including powered sites, hot showers, and toilets. For a truly authentic Australian country town stopover that combines natural beauty, outdoor activity, and community spirit, The Rock Recreation Ground is an unmissable destination.

Campground Details

The Rock Recreation Ground – NSW Map

• Name: The Rock Recreation Ground
• Address: 60 Wilson Street, The Rock NSW 2655
• Website: This is a community facility. Camping is managed by the local council or a community trust.
• GPS Coordinates: -35.26652, 147.11049

• Location: In the quiet country town of The Rock, south of Wagga Wagga.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including large motorhomes, caravans, and tents.
• Road Access: Sealed road access to the recreation ground.
• Site Surface: Level grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, paid camping is available via an honesty box system.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally limited to a few nights to ensure availability for all travellers.
• Number of Powered Sites: Yes, a good number of powered sites are available.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Yes, ample unpowered space is also available.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Yes, some tables are available.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra; other carriers may be less reliable.
• TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, an amenity block with hot showers is available.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
• Open Fires: Generally not permitted. Please use contained cooking appliances.
• Generator Use: Permitted during respectful hours, but check with other campers.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Cash for the honesty box, sturdy walking shoes for the nature reserve.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome at the recreation ground but must be on a leash. Pets are not permitted in the nature reserve.
• Fishing: Limited opportunities in the immediate town. Better options in the Murrumbidgee River near Wagga Wagga.
• Short Walks: The main attraction is the summit walk at The Rock Nature Reserve. Pleasant walks can also be had around the town.

Local Amenities (in The Rock)

Pubs & Places to Eat

• The Rock Hotel: A classic country pub with a friendly atmosphere and bistro meals, approx. 1 km.
• The Rock Bowling Club: Often offers meals and a welcoming environment for visitors, approx. 1.5 km.
• Local cafes and takeaways are also available in the town’s main street.

Local Attractions

• The Rock Nature Reserve (Kengal Aboriginal Place): Features the popular summit walk with spectacular panoramic views.
• The Rock Heritage Trail: A self-guided walk around the town exploring its history.
• Wagga Wagga: A major regional city with numerous attractions including the Botanic Gardens and Murrumbidgee River, approx. 30 km north.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: This is the main camping in town. Major commercial parks are in Wagga Wagga.
• Next Free Camps: Basic rest areas are available on the Olympic Highway.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in the town of The Rock.
• Nearest Petrol Station: A service station is available in The Rock.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available on-site.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available on-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: The Rock is in the Riverina region, which has hot, dry summers and cool winters.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching the mid-to-high 30s (°C).
• Autumn (Mar-May): A very pleasant season for walking and exploring, with warm days and mild nights.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Days are cool and often sunny, but nights are cold with frequent heavy frosts.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Weather becomes mild and pleasant, with the landscape at its greenest after winter rains.