Thredbo Diggings campground, Bullocks Flat NSW
Nestled in a beautiful alpine valley on the iconic Thredbo River, the Thredbo Diggings campground is one of the most popular and accessible bush camping experiences in Kosciuszko National Park. This fantastic campground offers a perfect blend of serene natural beauty and convenient access to the main attractions of the Snowy Mountains. The sites are spread out amongst the snow gums, with many offering direct access to the crystal-clear waters of the river. It’s a place steeped in the history of the gold rush era, but today it’s a haven for anglers, hikers, mountain bikers, and families looking for an authentic high-country adventure.
This is a classic National Parks campground where the stunning alpine environment is the main feature. The Thredbo River, famous for its world-class trout fishing, flows gently past the campground, its clear waters making it perfect for a summer splash or for casting a line in search of a prized catch. The facilities are basic but clean and well-maintained, with pit toilets and wood barbecues/fire pits, ensuring a comfortable stay for self-sufficient campers. Evenings here are magical, with the sound of the river and the warmth of a campfire under a sky filled with brilliant stars creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
The location of Thredbo Diggings is superb. It is conveniently situated on the Alpine Way between Jindabyne and Thredbo, making it an ideal base for exploring both. The campground provides direct access to the Thredbo Valley Track, a must-do for mountain bikers and walkers. It’s also just a short drive to the ski resorts for summer activities like chairlift rides and alpine hikes, or to Lake Crackenback Resort for dining options. For a spectacular, convenient, and truly memorable alpine getaway, Thredbo Diggings is a top-tier choice. Bookings are absolutely essential, especially during holidays.
Site Information
- Location: In Kosciuszko National Park, on the banks of the Thredbo River, off the Alpine Way.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, and small-to-medium Caravans/Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Sealed road (Alpine Way) to the turn-off, then a short, good quality unsealed access road.
- Site Surface: Level grass and dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking website.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 25 designated bookable sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water or be prepared to boil/treat river water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy. Telstra provides the best chance of a signal.
- TV Reception: Poor to non-existent.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes, but taking rubbish with you is encouraged.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits 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, alpine-rated clothing, fishing gear, hiking boots, mountain bike.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Thredbo River (NSW fishing licence required).
- Short Walks: Direct access to the Thredbo Valley Track for walking and cycling.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Banjo Paterson Inn, Jindabyne (approx. 15 km)
- The Lake Jindabyne Hotel (approx. 15 km)
- The Alpine Hotel, Thredbo (approx. 20 km)
- Places to Eat: A huge range of supermarkets, pubs, cafes, and restaurants in Jindabyne and Thredbo.
- Local Attractions:
- The Thredbo Valley Track
- Thredbo Alpine Village (chairlift, bobsled, restaurants)
- Lake Crackenback Resort
- The town of Jindabyne and Lake Jindabyne
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Discovery Parks – Jindabyne
- NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park
- Next Free Camps: Very limited. Other NPWS campgrounds in the area have fees (e.g., Island Bend).
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Jindabyne.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Jindabyne and Thredbo.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Jindabyne Visitor Centre.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Mild to warm days, perfect for hiking, biking, and fishing. Nights are cool. Alpine weather can change rapidly. Temperatures average 6°C to 21°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful season with clear, crisp days and cold nights. The autumn colours are a highlight. Temperatures average 1°C to 15°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Very cold with heavy snow. The campground is generally inaccessible due to snow and road closures. This is ski season. Temperatures range from -8°C to 6°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the snow melts and the alpine wildflowers bloom. Weather is very variable, with cold nights and the chance of late snowfalls. Temperatures average -1°C to 14°C.