Tin Mines Campground, Woomargama NP – Free 4WD Bush Camping

For the self-sufficient camper with a capable 4WD, the Tin Mines campground in Woomargama National Park offers a truly remote and historic bush escape. Located deep within the largest protected forest west of the Great Dividing Range, this campground is a secluded clearing set alongside the tranquil Basin Creek. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect from the world and immerse themselves in nature, history, and rugged adventure.

Access is a key part of the experience. The campground is reached via Tin Mines Trail, an unsealed track that is strictly for four-wheel drives. The route can be challenging, especially after rain, and is not suitable for 2WD vehicles, large caravans, or big motorhomes. This adventurous journey ensures that those who make it are rewarded with unparalleled peace and solitude. Once there, campers will find a beautiful grassy clearing shaded by tall swamp gums, with unmarked sites allowing for a flexible setup.

As the name suggests, the area is rich in history. The land was once mined for tin, and remnants of this past are scattered throughout the neighbouring bush. Campers can explore on foot to discover old sluice holes, dredge holes, water races, and discarded pieces of equipment, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s pioneering days. The famous Hume and Hovell Walking Track, a 440km trail from Yass to Albury, passes directly through the area, making the campground a perfect base or overnight stop for serious hikers.

Wildlife is abundant, with wallabies, wombats, and echidnas often seen in the early morning or late afternoon. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, who might spot colourful superb parrots, gang-gang cockatoos, or even hear the deep hoots of the endangered powerful owl at night. While the site is free to camp, a $6 booking fee applies via the NSW National Parks website. Campers must be fully self-sufficient, bringing their own firewood and taking all rubbish home. Note that pets are strictly forbidden to protect the native wildlife.

Tin Mines campground – NSW Map

Location & Contact

• Name: Tin Mines campground
• Address: Tin Mines Trail, Wantagong NSW 2644 (located within Woomargama National Park)
• GPS Coordinates: -35.8597, 147.4774
• Website: NSW National Parks – Tin Mines Campground

Map

Site Features & Facilities

• Location: Remote bush campground in a grassy clearing on Basin Creek, within Woomargama National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and 4WDs with rooftop tents.
• Road Access: 4WD ONLY. Unsealed, rough track (Tin Mines Trail). Not suitable for 2WD, caravans, or large RVs.
• Site Surface: Natural ground / grass. Sites are unmarked.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping. Bookings are required (a $6 booking fee applies via the NSWNPWS website).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NSWNPWS booking website for details.
• Picnic Tables: Yes.
• Potable Water: Yes, (listed as “drinking water” by NSWNPWS, but bringing your own is highly recommended as a backup).
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Highly variable and unreliable. Do not depend on it.
• TV Reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes (non-flush pit toilets).
• Ullage (Dump Point): No.
• Drive Through: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in provided fireplaces, subject to seasonal fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but use should be minimised to be considerate of other campers and wildlife.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked sites. Online bookings cater for up to 20 people or 5 sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Rubbish bags, firewood, 4WD recovery gear, drinking water, warm clothing, and all food supplies.
• Pet Friendly: **No.** Pets are not permitted in Woomargama National Park.
• Fishing: Not a primary feature at this creek.
• Short Walks: Yes, part of the Hume and Hovell Walking Track. Excellent for exploring the historic mining ruins.

Local Amenities (in nearby Holbrook, approx. 40-50 min drive)

• Local Pubs:
  • Riverina Hotel Holbrook (approx. 30km)
  • Holbrook Hotel (approx. 30km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The Ten Mile (approx. 30km)
  • Submarine Cafe (approx. 30km)
  • Holbrook Chinese Restaurant (approx. 30km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Holbrook Submarine Museum (approx. 30km)
  • Hume and Hovell Walking Track (on-site)
  • Woomargama National Park (on-site)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Holbrook Motor Village (approx. 30km)
  • Holbrook Hume Park (approx. 30km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Samual Bollard campground (also 4WD access, nearby)
  • Woomargama Rest Area (2WD accessible, on Old Hume Hwy)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Holbrook Motor Village (free, ask at reception, approx. 30km)
  • Holbrook Public Dump Point
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Caltex and Ampol stations available in Holbrook (approx. 30km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at service stations or public taps in Holbrook (approx. 30km)
• Public Toilets (Town):
  • Ten Mile Creek Gardens, Holbrook (approx. 30km)
  • Caltex Service Station, Holbrook (approx. 30km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast (Based on Holbrook Averages)

• Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot days. Average maximums are around 30-31°C, with mild nights around 16°C.
• Autumn (Mar – May): Mild days and cool nights. March averages a 27°C max, cooling to a 17°C max by May. Nights drop from 13°C to 6°C.
• Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Average maximums are 12-14°C. Nights are very cold, averaging 3-4°C with frequent frosts.
• Spring (Sep – Nov): Mild and becoming warmer. Average maximums rise from 17°C in September to 25°C in November. Nights remain cool.